Valparaíso, Chile, is a coastal city that sits on hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Travelers often find inspiration in its artistic spirit, colorful neighborhoods, and rich maritime history. Known as the cultural capital of Chile, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a bohemian charm with eclectic street art and amazing South American cuisine. Visitors can ride one of the city's iconic funiculars, explore alleys painted with murals, or savor fresh seafood at a local market. Valparaíso has magnetic energy for those looking for an offbeat destination with authentic local character. There are so many things to do including wine tasting in Casablanca Valley, beach hopping, tracing poet Pablo Neruda’s footsteps, and taking photos at the perfect sunset over the port in Valparaíso.

• Best time to travel: December to February (peak season); June to August (off-season); March to May and September to November (shoulder season) 
• Time zone: Chile Standard Time (CLT) 
• Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
• Language(s): Spanish, English, Mapudungun (Indigenous Mapuche communities)
• Noteworthy: Festival de las Artes de Valparaíso (January), Pablo Neruda’s Birthday Celebration at La Sebastiana (July), Valparaíso International Film Festival, FICVAL (October), Carnaval Cultural de Valparaíso (December), New Year’s Fireworks Over the Bay (December)
• Best for: South American History Buffs, Art and Literature Tours, Budget Travelers, LGBTQ+ Travelers, Wine and Food Lovers

Get Away: Getting To And Around Valparaíso, Chile

By Air 

Valparaíso doesn’t have its own airport, but the closest major hub is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago, which is about an hour and a half away by car or bus. Flights to Santiago are frequent from major cities across the Americas and Europe. From the airport, travelers can book a shuttle, private transfer, or bus directly to Valparaíso. It’s best to plan arrivals during daylight hours to better enjoy the scenic drive and ease into the city’s layout.

By Car

Driving to Valparaíso from Santiago is fairly straightforward via Route 68, which takes around 1.5 hours. Renting a car is ideal when planning to explore the surrounding coast or wine country. However, navigating Valparaíso’s narrow, hilly streets and limited parking can be tricky. Consider parking on the outskirts or in designated lots, and then walking or using public transport within the city.

By Public Transit

Public buses (micros) and shared taxis (colectivos) are popular ways to move around the city affordably. There’s also the Metro Valparaíso line that connects the city to nearby towns like Viña del Mar. Intercity buses from Santiago are frequent, reliable, and budget-friendly as well, usually arriving at the Terminal Rodoviario. Once in Valparaíso, local buses and funiculars are the best options for navigating the hills.

Explore Valparaíso, Chile On Foot

Valparaíso deserves to be seen on foot, especially in the historic hills like Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción. Walking is the best way to see the many street art murals, small cafes, and artisan shops tucked into colorful alleyways. Bring comfortable shoes to be prepared for the steep inclines and uneven cobblestone streets. For safety, avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark and take guided tours when possible to see the best of Valparaíso, Chile.