Known as Valpo, Valparaíso is Chile’s second largest city, located 1.5 hours north of Santiago on the Pacific coast. Bohemian and colorful, Valparaiso’s maze of its 45 hills and crazy architecture has long inspired poets and writers, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. It also has some of the best street art in Latin America.
People used to climb thousands of stairs to reach their homes on the hills. To ease travel, elevators (funicular) were built between but only a few are still in use (100 pesos one way).
The most popular hills are Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción. Stroll along its narrow streets, climb its endless staircases, ride its historic funicular elevators and enjoy panoramic views from its many lookout points. Have also a look at the port and Plaza Sotomayor.
The Museo a cielo abierto (open sky museum) was badly indicated, and the murals weren’t that impressive. I don’t recommend visiting it.
Other than that, I wouldn’t recommend much more. I was kind of disappointed in Valpo, to be honest. Sure, there are 2-3 nice streets but it’s quickly forgotten while seeing all the homeless people and drunks, leaving their empty bottles and cans all over the place. It’s really dirty and doesn’t feel very safe (I’ve heard a lot of thefts and mugging too).
Fauna was a good restaurant, a bit expensive but with a nice view and a sunny terrasse.
In conclusion, I’d say go for a day trip but then head to Viña del Mar or back to Santiago.
How to get there
From Santiago: take the metro 1 to Pajaritos. There, follow “bus transfer” and grab a bus to Valparaiso. There are 2 companies offering the direct trip (Pullman and Turbus) and leave every 15 min approximately so no need to buy the ticket in advance (around 4000 pesos one way).
At Valparaiso’s bus terminal, take a taxi or a bus for 280 pesos. Take any bus that says “Aduana”, they all go to the port and city center.
From and to Viña del Mar, go to the port of Valparaiso and buy a metro ticket (1500 pesos for the transport card and 600 pesos for the trip one way) and stop at Viña del Mar. The trip is around 20 min.
Just meets World 