Valparaiso 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Valparaíso and check-in at La Casa de las Letras, a cozy boutique hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café con Gracia, a charming café serving traditional Chilean dishes.

Afternoon

  • Explore the colorful streets of Valparaíso, including Calle Bellavista and Paseo 21 de Mayo. Admire the vibrant street art and take in the views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Visit the Museo Nacional Bellas Artes, which features an impressive collection of Chilean art.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant El Punto, known for its creative seafood dishes and stunning ocean views.
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront, where you can admire the city’s unique architecture and lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit the Mercado Cardonal, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Stop by the Iglesia de la Matriz, a beautiful church built in the 19th century.

Afternoon

  • Attend a street art workshop at the Valparaíso Street Art initiative, where you can learn about the city’s vibrant street art scene and create your own piece.
  • Explore the Barrio Bellavista, a charming neighborhood filled with colorful houses, quaint shops, and trendy bars.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Chilean dinner at Restaurante Doña Elena, known for its hearty dishes and cozy atmosphere.
  • Catch a live music or theater performance at the Teatro Municipal de Valparaíso.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Take a funicular ride to the top of Cerro Carcel, offering breathtaking views of the city and ocean.
  • Hike down to the Playa Ancha, a popular beach where you can relax and soak up the sun.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Jardín Botánico Nacional, a beautiful botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plants and flowers.
  • Go on a bike tour around the city, exploring hidden corners and scenic viewpoints.

Evening

  • Enjoy seafood at Restaurante El Chorrillo, located near the beach.
  • Watch the sunset at Mirador Diego Portales, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Day 4: Wine Country

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the Casablanca Valley, one of Chile’s premier wine regions (approximately 1-hour drive).
  • Visit Viña Undurraga, a family-owned winery offering wine tastings and tours.

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming town of Casablanca, known for its picturesque streets, quaint shops, and delicious food.
  • Return to Valparaíso in the evening and enjoy dinner at Restaurante El Mesón Nerudiano.

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Depart from Valparaíso, bringing back memories of this vibrant and colorful city.

Things to Know

  • Valparaíso is a hilly city, so be prepared for some uphill walking.
  • The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums and art galleries to explore.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak season (December to March) if you can, as the city can get very crowded.

Transportation

  • Fly into Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and take a bus or taxi to Valparaíso (approximately 1.5 hours).
  • Use taxis or colectivos (shared taxis) to get around the city.
  • Consider renting a car for your day trip to the Casablanca Valley.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate the city.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the many miradores (viewpoints) around the city.

Other Interests

  • Visit the Cementerio de Disidentes, a historic cemetery with fascinating stories.
  • Take a yoga class or massage at one of the many wellness centers in the city.
  • Explore the nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Valparaíso!