Published on May 14, 2024. Edited on December 11, 2024.
Over the last 12 years, working as a local tour guide, native from Valparaíso —and an avid traveler myself too— I have gained kind of a deep insight into what makes this colorful, natural harbor so unique.
So I decided to elaborate this guide about the unique things that you can do in Valparaíso, where you will learn why this Chilean city is absolutely worth visiting, and it should be on the must-visit list of your South America trip.
Now, you can keep reading this contextual guide about Valparaíso or jump straight to The Holy List to check out our top recommendations of things to do in Valparaíso, Chile.
Historical Outline
Built on a natural amphitheater, Valparaíso is packed with a selection of activities and tours, ready to please a wide range of travelers: from outdoor lovers to inquisitive explorers of all ages.
Valparaíso shot to fame during its golden age —from the late 1840s to the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914— a time when the city was the busiest seaport in the Pacific Ocean. During the next decades, Valparaíso's status as Chile's financial center —and a globally known port city!— went downhill, in a decline as steep as the city's landscape itself.
The 1990s saw a slummy Valparaíso trying to fit into one of the world's fastest growing economies, when a new watershed was about to reshape Valparaíso's future. In 2003 UNESCO listed the city as a World Heritage site, for its outstanding universal value, bringing new hope for the thrashed porteños —Valparaíso locals.
Known for its rich cultural heritage —including vibrant street art, diverse architectural styles, and picturesque landscapes— Valparaíso is nowadays an absolute must visit for your trip in Chile and South America.
We cover some of the top things to do during your Valparaíso Insider Private Walking Tour, though we can tailor your experience to fit your own, unique interests and needs.
The Holy List
A first-time visit to any city can be overwhelming. What to see? What to do? To help you navigate through our intricate Valparaíso, I've curated the perfect list of top things to do in Valparaíso, Chile:
- Watch an energizing sunrise from a scenic Valparaíso viewpoint
- Get fresh seafood at Caleta Portales wet market
- Explore La Sebastiana, Pablo Neruda's quirkiest house
- Climb to a panoramic lookout on a late 1800s funicular
- Walk around the colorful streets of Alegre and Concepción hills
- Discover the vibrant street art spread all over Valparaíso
- Get a sunset drink on a rooftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean
