Itineraries for Your Trip to Valparaíso
3 Days in Valparaíso for First Timers
The first time I visited Valparaíso was also on my first trip to Chile. I was in the country for work and ended up extending my stay so that I could visit both Valparaíso and the neighboring city of Viña del Mar. A canceled flight resulted in me staying in the country a bit longer, and I ended up lingering in lovely Valparaíso, enchanted by its colorful old town and its beautiful seaside views. This gave me plenty of time to slow down and take in the charming city, without feeling rushed. While many people visit on a day trip from Santiago, I suggest spending three days in Valparaíso to really get a feel for the city. Here’s how.
If you only have time for one thing, make it the Valparaíso Historic Quarter.
The weather in Valparaíso is pretty mild, but you'll still want a jacket, no matter when you visit.
Spend your first morning in town exploring the city's winding lanes and famously colorful street art. Visit highlights such as the Plaza Sotomayor (the city's main square) before riding up to the hilly old city aboard the Ascensor El Peral funicular.
After lunch, visit the nearby Casablanca Valley, one of the most famous wine-producing regions in Chile. A wine-tasting tour that includes transportation makes getting to the area easy and alleviates any concerns about appointing a designated driver.
Spend your second morning in the city exploring the local food scene. Rather than seek out restaurants yourself, join a culinary tour that will take you to tried-and-tasted restaurants that have been vetted by your guide.
In the afternoon, head over to the neighboring city of Viña del Mar to check out highlights, such as the Flower Clock (Reloj de Flores), and spend some time by the seaside. Join a tour so you won’t have to sort out your own transportation and learn about local history from your guide.
Devote your final day in the Valparaíso area to learning about the natural side of Chile. A great way to do this is by taking a tour to Papudo, known for its large population of resident Humboldt penguins. Many such tours also stop at the Concon Dunes, a famous spot for sandboarding and taking in sea views.
Head back to Valparaíso in the late afternoon so that you'll have time to meet a photographer for a sunset photo shoot. Opt for an ocean-facing shoot or choose a picturesque spot in the Historic Quarter as your background.
