Known as the cultural capital of Chile, Valparaiso is a charming warren of steep cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Valparaiso’s historic claims to fame include Latin America’s oldest stock exchange and first volunteer fire department, Chile’s first public library, and the oldest continuously published Spanish language newspaper in the world. Valparaiso has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As an important port city, Valparaiso attracted waves of immigrants from England, Germany, and Italy. The different nationalities brought their traditional architecture with them, creating distinct hillside neighborhoods known as the “Zonas Típicas.”
You can explore the various neighborhoods of Valparaiso via a network of historic “acensores” or funiculars, which clatter their way up and down the steep hillsides, providing excellent views of the harbor and city.
Two must-see places in Valparaiso are the Cerro Concepción and the Cerro Bellavista. Cerro Concepción is a great place to go for lunch or to enjoy all the quintessential sights of Valparaiso: quirky old houses, winding streets, and lovely ocean views, all accessible via a ride on the acensor. Cerro Bellavista is home to the Museo a Cielo Abierto, an outdoor art museum filled with mosaics and murals.
Other attractions in Valparaiso include Pablo Neruda’s home, the Palacio Barburizza Fine Arts Museum, the historic seaport, and the Turri clock tower.