View on Cityscape of Historical City Valparaiso, Chile
Where Culture Meets the Sea

Cruise from Valparaiso, Chile

When you visit Valparaíso on your cruise vacation, immerse yourself in the city's magic. If you've just spent time amid the concrete jungle of Santiago, devote your time in Valparaíso to discovering the city's coastal appeal. Dine waterside on seafood caught fresh from the Pacific, or lay out a towel on the sand and get some color to take with you on your cruise. Speaking of color, there's plenty of that in Valparaíso, whose kaleidoscopic streets are famous throughout Chile. Among the best things to do in Valparaíso are urban attractions such as Barrio la Concepción and the Pablo Neruda Museum, which are interesting for travelers who've just explored rural Patagonia. They're worth a visit too if you're inbound from Santiago International Airport and on your way to begin your cruise out of Valparaíso. As the time of your departure draws nearer, make your way toward the port, where rows of kiosks are your last, best opportunity to stock up on sundries and souvenirs before you embark. Turn around before you get on the ship, then take a deep breath — and a good look. Valparaíso might be your favorite dry-land memory to recall once you're out on the open sea.
National Language Spanish
Currency Accepted Chilean Peso ($)

Things To Do in Valparaiso

Poet Pablo Neruda House - Valparaiso - Chile

Visit a Poet's Haven

Poet Pablo Neruda House - Valparaiso - Chile

Poet Pablo Neruda House - Valparaiso - Chile

Visit a Poet's Haven

A visit to Valparaiso, Chile, is not complete without a stop at La Sebastiana, the home and museum of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Sitting on top of Bellavista Hill, the museum offers panoramic views of Valparaiso Bay and the vibrant homes that enliven the port. The four-story building holds Neruda's belongings, including items he collected from his travels.

View at the city of Valparaiso from the Ascensor Artilleria elevator, Valparaiso, Chile

Ride the Ruta de Ascensores

View at the city of Valparaiso from the Ascensor Artilleria elevator, Valparaiso, Chile

View at the city of Valparaiso from the Ascensor Artilleria elevator, Valparaiso, Chile

Ride the Ruta de Ascensores

The elevator route is an interesting collection of vintage funiculars scattered around the hills of Valparaiso that take you to and from the port. The ride with the best view is definitely the one from Artilleria Funicular to Paseo 21 de Mayo, offering a majestic view of the bay. Other great rides include Cordillera Funicular, which takes you straight to an observatory for some stargazing, and El Peral, taking you to the beloved Alegre Hill and Paseo Yugoslavo.

Variety of chilean typical food
Variety of chilean typical food

Go Local at Mercado Cardonal

For a glimpse into the daily lives of people who live in this port city, stop by the Mercado Cardonal in the El Almendral neighborhood. It's a busy and lively outdoor/indoor market and one of the best things to do in Valparaiso, Chile. You'll see fruit and vegetable stalls and kiosks selling everything from seafood to goat cheese.

Traditional food in Chile : clams and octopus
Traditional food in Chile : clams and octopus

LOCAL CUISINE

When it comes to dining, a cruise to Valparaiso offers the same Bohemian and eclectic vibe but on a plate. Marisquería La Granja is a local favorite, famous for the merluza (Hake) fish and the seafood empanadas. Another great spot is Café Turri, serving octopus carpaccio and scallops in a whiskey and herb sauce. If ceviche is on your mind, then head to Monte Alegre Restaurant.

Natural Lapis Lazuli Stone jewelry. blue natural stone
Natural Lapis Lazuli Stone jewelry. blue natural stone

SHOPPING

Take a piece of Valparaiso home by visiting shops like Art in Silver, where local artisan Victor Hugo sells his unusual jewelry made with silver and lapis lazuli. Or stop by Bahía Utópica for free-spirited art, postcards and books. And visit Espacio Rojo for ceramics and jewelry made by local artists.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 The best way to explore the city hills is by hopping on the vintage funiculars — walking these hills is time-consuming (and hard on the knees).
2 Street art is all around you! Take time to admire the impressive murals made by local artists.

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