Things to do in  Valparaíso

Yes, Valparaíso is definitely worth visiting. It is arguably Chile’s most interesting city, with a long maritime history and diverse cultural heritage. There are few stand-alone, must-see attractions in Valparaíso, but it’s a place where many visitors enjoy simply soaking up the atmosphere and wandering the colorful streets.

Valparaíso is known as the "Jewel of the Pacific." Its strategic location on Chile's central coast makes it one of the country's most important ports, although its importance has faded since the days before the Panama Canal was built in 1914 when Valparaíso was a major port of call.

You could see all of Valparaíso in just a day or two, but a 3-day trip allows the more leisurely exploration that the city demands. With four or five days, you would have enough time to explore Valparaíso's highlights, visit the beaches of the neighboring city of Viña del Mar, and make a side trip to Isla Negra, another of Pablo Neruda's homes.

Santiago and Valparaíso are two very different Chilean cities that offer different experiences. Santiago has the big attractions, museums, and nightlife you’d expect of a capital city, but Valparaíso has a charming, laid-back atmosphere and a creative spirit. As the two cities are just a 2-hour bus ride from one another, there’s no reason to choose.

Yes, Valparaíso is generally safe to visit, but it does have a high crime rate by Chilean standards. There is a moderate risk of pickpocketing and bag snatching, so keep valuables concealed. Well-trafficked neighborhoods such as Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre are typically safe, but you should practice vigilance elsewhere, especially after dark.