Posted on 01/08/2016

Once known as the as "The Jewel of the Pacific", Valparaiso is a lively city that will electrify you with its vibrancy and energy. If you are planning to visit Chile, the city of Valparaiso must be one of your stops.

One of the South Pacific's major seaports, Valparaiso is known for its magnificent seaside views, luminous colored houses and a bohemian culture which brought about artists who have made the city their home. In fact, the city is where you will find the best street art in Latin America. Valparaiso during its heyday, was the home of Chile’s wealthiest people which is evidenced by the crumbling mansions they left behind. Today, Valparaiso is the favorite haunt of writers, artists, vagabonds and backpack travellers who are lured by its artistic vibe and laid back atmosphere. Because the city does not have its own airport, you have to fly into the Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport which is located in the capital city of Santiago. It is serviced by two domestic carriers and many international carriers from Argentina, Mexico, France, Canada, and the United States.

There is so much to see in Valparaiso that it will take you days to be able to visit each one of them. If your appreciate art, you must visit the Galeria de Arte Bahia Utopica, Edificio Luis Cousino, Parque Cultural Cerro Carcel, Museo a Cielo Abierto and Paseo Gervason. Cerro Bellavistaa is a residential area with colourful murals. If you walk through its narrow streets and climb up some stairs, you will notice art work  painted on the steps and the walls. Valparaiso's  top attractions include the Villa Victoria, Museo Maritimo Nacional, Palacio Baburizza, Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaiso, Museo de Historia Natural de Valparaiso and Paseo 21 de Mayo. For a better view of the city, you must take a ride on the Ascensor Polanco, Ascensor Artilleria or the Ascensor Reina Victoria. Don’t forget to have coffee at the Melbroune Café which serves one of the best tasting coffees in Valparaiso.

Valpariaiso will charm its way into your heart. After all, it was once called  the "Little San Francisco”.  Consult with one of our Travel Consultants for more details about this great city.