Just north of Santiago lies the jumbled port city of Valparaíso. Chaotic yet charming, Valparaíso is one of Chile’s most intriguing and vibrant cities, rich in history, colonial charm, and character.

Once a bustling port town, it now serves as a haven for artists and artisans, making it a perfect addition to any Chile itinerary.

Valparaíso, Chile’s largest, oldest, and most colourful port, is less than two hours from Santiago. With a Mediterranean climate and sweeping views of an open bay, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features a historic downtown filled with beautiful architecture, clinging to its 19th-century faded grandeur. Ornate churches, Victorian-style houses, and narrow streets are nestled among undulating hills, dotted with multi-coloured houses placed at all angles. A maze of narrow twisting streets, steep stairways, and century-old wooden funiculars provides access to these hilly suburbs. Exploring the city’s chaotic layout reveals its gritty history and distinctive personality.

Valparaíso is filled with cafes, buzzing bars, quirky restaurants, and boutique hotels. The city also offers various look-out points, maritime museums, and a thriving art scene. Embracing graffiti as an art form, vibrant street art adorns the walls, making Valparaíso one of Latin America's most creative cities. A magnet for romanticism, it has inspired generations of poets, writers, and philosophers. A prime example is Pablo Neruda, Chile’s most revered poet. Exploring his former home, now a museum, provides insight into his life, quirks, and love affair with Valparaíso.