Valparaiso 2 Day Itinerary

Title: 2-Day Itinerary for Exploring Valparaíso, Chile

Day 1 - Discovering the Colorful Hills

Morning:

  1. Check-in at your accommodation (Recommended: Casa Higueras, a charming bed & breakfast in Cerro Concepción)
  2. Grab a traditional Chilean breakfast at La Estación. Try “mermelada con pan tostado” (jam with toasted bread).

Afternoon:

  1. Take the iconic Ascensor Concepción or Ascensor Yugo-Yugo to explore Cerro Concepción, one of Valparaíso’s many colorful hills. Don’t forget to visit Plaza Sotomayor.
  2. Head over to Cerro Alegre and enjoy the bohemian vibe in Paseo Yugo and Plaza Aníbal Pinto.
  3. Visit the Casa Chapa museum, a historical home showcasing Valparaíso’s past.
  4. Explore the vibrant street art by taking the Ascensor Reina Victoria up to Cerro Bellavista.
  5. Have lunch at La Viña, offering a delicious selection of seafood dishes with a view of the bay.

Evening:

  1. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, Paseo Gervasoni, for stunning sunset views.
  2. Dine at Casa Rubia, located in Cerro Alegre, offering a fusion of Mediterranean and local cuisine.
  3. Experience Valparaíso’s nightlife at La Sebastiana (by day, a Pablo Neruda museum; by night, a bar) or La Trastienda.

Day 2 - Exploring the Seaport and Surroundings

Morning:

  1. Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or try local pastries at Panifícicas in Cerro Concepción.
  2. Head to the seaport (Puerto de Valparaíso) and visit the Cerro Marítimo Lighthouse.
  3. Learn about Chile’s naval history at the Museo Naval.
  4. Take a ferry to nearby Isla Quiriquina for a day of relaxation, snorkeling, and exploring its beaches.

Afternoon:

  1. Return to Valparaíso and have lunch at Restaurante Tirso de Molina, known for its seafood dishes.
  2. Visit the Museo Solidario, focusing on human rights and social issues in Chile.
  3. Take a leisurely walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic quarter, appreciating its unique architecture and street art.
  4. Relax at one of Valparaíso’s many cafés, such as Café Turri or La Posa.

Evening:

  1. Dine at Restaurante La Vaca y la Liebre, offering a fusion of traditional Chilean and European dishes.
  2. End your day with a drink at the rooftop bar of Hotel Casas Balbín, overlooking the city lights.

Things to Know:

  • Valparaíso is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for lots of stairs!
  • English is not widely spoken, but many people in tourist areas understand basic English.
  • Exchange some Chilean pesos before arriving, as ATMs may run out of cash.

Transportation:

  • The best way to get around Valparaíso is by foot or using the funicular elevators (ascensores).
  • Taxis are also readily available, and Uber operates in the city.