Overwhelmingly packed with rich history and beautiful buildings, Valparaíso was once known as "The Jewel of South America". So it's definitely a no-brainer to explore the remarkable attractions in Valparaiso!
The city's youthful revival over the last 20 years has truly brought the area to life, making it a must-visit destination when touring Chile at these top attractions in Valparaiso.
Whether getting lost in the artsy alleyways, sipping on craft beers and cocktails, or just looking to escape the heat of Santiago for a day,
The attractions in Valparaiso are a perfect way to enjoy Chile as one of the cheapest South American countries.
Pasaje Bavestrello
Exploring Valparaiso’s rolling hills is an absolute must for many visitors. The breathtaking Pasaje Bavestrello is definitely worth stopping by for its colorful street art and bright murals.
The passage sits on top of Cerro Alegre, and the hilly neighborhood is perfect to stroll through with its bohemian vibe and artsy residents.
Its many bars and restaurants often host music and poetry performances where a lively atmosphere permeates the air .
A favorite among locals and foreigners alike, Pasaje Bavestrello is the perfect stop in Valparaiso and its fascinating hilltop neighborhoods.
Renaca Beach
Renaca Beach is one of the best attractions in Valparaiso, attracting surfers and beach-bums alike.
The city of Renaca is located only 20 minutes away from Valparaiso's main avenue in Vina del Mar. Both of these spots are connected to a long Chilean coastal road known as Avenida Borgono which offers both pedestrian and bike paths.
Renaca has both a residential area for Chile's upper-middle class and spots for a Valparaiso weekend getaway for Santiago residents.
With Renaca Beach being on of the top local attractions near Valparaiso, you can easily spend a nice day at the beach enjoying the scenic views or participating in the countless watersports.
If you are visiting in the summer, make sure to participate in the activities on Renaca Beach including surfing, rugby, beauty contests, and beach volleyball.
Ascensor Artilleria
With over forty hills found across Valparaiso, visitors will quickly discover that the best way to traverse this hilly city is by funicular; Ascensor Artilleria is just one of sixteen scattered around town.
As the third ascensor to be built in the city, it was constructed all the way back in 1892 and is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors and locals alike use it to get to the top of Artilleria hill.
As the only funicular in Valparaiso with four tracks, Ascensor Artilleria offers visitors fantastic views from high up, and riding it is a magnificent experience.
Although it may look a bit run down, this only adds to the funicular’s charm. Its enduring popularity means there are often lines to get onboard and ride on it.
Palacio Baburizza
Built all the way back in 1916, Palacio Baburizza is now a charming and historic monument as one of the top attractions in Valparaiso, named after the Croatian businessman Pascual Baburizza who used to live here.
The palace boasts a very bold style and wouldn’t look out of place in the Alps with its wonderful woodwork, balconies, and small turrets.
Inside is equally distinct; the palace now hosts the Fine Arts Museum and the collection is absolutely stunning for exploration and learning about. The galleries are home to some of the great artworks by Chilean and European artists.
La Sebastiana
Nestled at the top of a hill that overlooks Valparaiso’s beautiful bay, La Sebastiana was once the home of Chile’s most famous poet – Pablo Neruda. Now La Sebastiana is a fascinating museum that is dedicated to his life and numerous works.
While walking to the top of the hill is certainly steep and quite hard going, the views from the top and from within the five-story house are awe-inspiring.
Neruda’s former home is beautiful and the architecture is eclectic to behold, with its colorful stories that jut out one above the other. It is this very home where he won his Nobel Prize for Literature.
The museum houses memorabilia, furniture, and art, and the audio guide will tell you all about Neruda’s life and La Sebastiana itself.
As a extremely fascinating place, it is well worth visiting to gain a greater appreciation for the poet’s life and to see Valparaiso through the eyes of a poet.