Half-Day Valparaiso City Highlights Tour

Valparaíso , Chile

Half-Day Valparaiso City Highlights Tour

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(9 reviews)

If you cancel at least 2 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Valparaíso on this 4-hour sightseeing tour and discover the picturesque architecture that led to this vibrant port city being declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002. See countless multi-colored houses spread over 40 hills in chaotic harmony and visit the most famous landmarks of the city, including Plaza Sotomayor, Cerro Concepción, and Cerro Alegre. Travel with a small group of no more than 10 in a comfortable air-conditioned van and ride in one of the city's 16 'ascensores,' (funiculars).

Available options

Half-Day Valparaiso City Highlights Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation Insurance

Bilingual Guide (English & Spanish)

Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar

What you'll see

In the morning, get picked up at one of the select hotels in Valparaíso or Viña del Mar. Meet your local guide, board the comfortable air-conditioned van and head out on your 4-hour tour of Valparaíso, considered among the most interesting cities in South America, thanks to its picturesque multi-colored houses and narrow streets, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Make a first stop in Cerro Florida to admire La Sebastiana, the home of Nobel Prize for Literature winner, Pablo Neruda (admission not included). Continue along a scenic road through the hills, enjoying views of the city and the ocean, then climb up to Cerro Concepción and walk through the famous Paseo Atkinson and Gervasoni while your guide tells you about the history of immigrants who came to Valparaíso during its golden age before the opening of the Panama Canal, when it still was the main port in South America.

Then, descend to Muelle Prat and see Plaza Sotomayor, one of Valparaiso´s main squares. These squares host some of the most traditional landmarks of the city, including the Old Aduana (customs house), nowadays part of the naval zone of the Chilean army; the monument to Arturo Prat, considered a national hero for the Pacific War; and other French-style buildings dating back to the seventeenth century.

End your tour with a funicular ride to Paseo 21 de Mayo for a stunning view of the port. Your last stop is Cerro Playa Ancha to visit the Merchant Marine viewpoint, with its fabulous amphitheater facing the Pacific, before being dropped off back at selected hotels in Valparaíso or Viña del Mar.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Pickup and drop-off from Santiago and hotels outside of Viña del Mar & Valparaiso

Gratuities

Admission to Pablo Neruda House-Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

It's recommended to use sunscreen; sneakers or shoes without heel; a light jacket in summer and warm jacket in winter.

This tour doesn't operate the following days: September 18, December 25, and January 1

A maximum of 10 people per booking

Meeting point

Pickup from Viña del Mar: Sheraton Miramar Hotel, Panamericana Hotel O'Higgins, Gala and Enjoy Viña Del Mar. Pickup in Valparaíso from the following hotels: Ibis Valparaíso and Diego de Almagro Valparaíso. If your hotel is not included on the list, you should make your own way to the closest hotel.

Important notes

• It's recommended to use sunscreen, sneakers or shoes without heel, light jacket in summer and warm jacket in winter.
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• Please email us at chile@grayline.com or call (56 2) 2244 4141 at least 24 hours prior to the departure date of the tour to reconfirm date of travel, hotel, pickup time, and location for your tour. You can either print your voucher or show the e-voucher at the time of check-in.

About Valparaíso

Valparaíso is a vibrant coastal city known for its colorful hillside houses, bohemian culture, and historic port. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique urban landscape and rich artistic heritage. The city's steep hills, funiculars, and panoramic views make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Historic Quarter of Valparaíso

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Valparaíso, featuring colorful houses, historic funiculars, and a rich maritime history.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for specific attractions

Muelle Prat

A historic pier and waterfront area in Valparaíso, offering beautiful views of the harbor and the city's colorful hills.

Historical/Scenic 1-2 hours Free to explore

Paseo 21 de Mayo

A scenic walkway along the waterfront, offering panoramic views of the harbor and the city's hills.

Scenic/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Cerro Santa Lucía

One of the many hills in Valparaíso, offering panoramic views of the city and the harbor. It's home to historic buildings and lush gardens.

Scenic/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Museo Marítimo Nacional

A maritime museum showcasing the history of Chile's navy and Valparaíso's role as a major port city.

Museum/Historical 1-2 hours CLP 2,000 to CLP 3,000 (USD 3 to USD 4)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pescado Frito

Fried fish, typically served with rice, salad, and a squeeze of lime. A popular seafood dish in Valparaíso.

Dinner Contains gluten (if served with breadcrumbs)

Chorrillana

A hearty dish consisting of fried onions, French fries, and various types of meat, often topped with a fried egg.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy (if topped with cheese)

Empanadas de Pino

Baked or fried pastries filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, olives, and spices.

Snack Contains gluten and meat

Pastel de Choclo

A savory pie made with ground corn, chicken, beef, and spices. A traditional Chilean dish.

Dinner Contains gluten (if made with a crust) and meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding hills Parasailing and jet skiing at the beach Surfing at Reñaca Beach Beach activities in Viña del Mar Wine tasting in nearby vineyards Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting museums and art galleries Exploring historic neighborhoods

Best Time to Visit

November to March (summer)

This is the warmest and driest time of year, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the beaches. The city is lively with festivals and events.

18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

CLT (Chile Standard Time, UTC-4) or CLST (Chile Summer Time, UTC-3) depending on the season

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and at night

Valparaíso is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on fares beforehand
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport • 110 km (68 miles) from Valparaíso
Viña del Mar International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from Valparaíso

By train

Valparaíso Station

By bus

Valparaíso Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Merval bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Valparaíso. It's affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cerro Alegre Cerro Concepción El Plan Viña del Mar

Day trips

Viña del Mar

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

Viña del Mar is a popular coastal town adjacent to Valparaíso, known for its beautiful beaches, upscale resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

Isla Negra

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Isla Negra is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouse, and the former home of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda.

Santiago

120 km (75 miles) • Full day to overnight

Santiago is the capital of Chile and offers a variety of cultural, historical, and culinary attractions. It's a great destination for those interested in exploring Chile's vibrant capital city.

Festivals

Valparaíso International Film Festival (FICValparaíso) • November to December Festival de Viña del Mar • February

Pro tips

Explore the city's historic quarter on foot or by funicular to experience its unique urban landscape and vibrant culture
Visit Pablo Neruda's houses to gain insight into the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning poet and his connection to Valparaíso
Try local seafood dishes, such as Pescado Frito and Curanto, at the city's many seafood restaurants and markets
Take a boat tour or fishing excursion to experience Valparaíso's rich maritime history and stunning coastal scenery
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Valparaíso International Film Festival and the Festival de Viña del Mar, to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant cultural scene