Valparaiso is a labyrinthine town of colourful houses tumbling down a series of hills facing the Pacific Ocean. Sometimes described as the San Francisco of Chile, this World Heritage Site has long inspired painters and poets, who flock to its narrow winding streets and picturesque fishing wharves. Our pick of the best places to stay in Valparaiso will ensure that you're right in the heart of this vibrant city. With its creaky historic elevator-cars running up and down the hills, steep, art-covered stairways, crumbling mansions, colourful street art and non-stop nightlife, this is a city of soul and passion.
Valpo, as the locals call it, is married to the sea. From the wharves of the port you get a real taste of marine life, with its population of sailors and dockworkers forever in flux; seafood markets abound, and in the early hours of the morning you can watch the fishermen landing their catch-of-the-day.
The city has few historic sites to visit, and while this can be a sign of a lack of culture, it is surely a blessing in Valparaiso, as the entire city is a kind of open-air art gallery, featuring some of the finest street murals in South America.
It is a city best explored on foot and getting lost. Follow stairways snaking around dilapidated mansions, alleyways decked with charmingly shabby chic restaurants, secluded art galleries and cute cafes. If you're hungry, be sure to wander around Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion, where some amazing new restaurants have opened in recent years.
You can't go to Valparaiso without riding in an Ascensores - a rickety old wooden tram-like car - that runs up and down the steep hillsides. It is the perfect way to see the city in all its gritty glory: up on the Mirador del Cerro Artilleria, you gain a spellbinding panoramic view of the city and coastline.
So whether you're partying into the early hours, riding an Ascensores or eating Chorrillana while watching the fishermen drag their wares to market, you will fall in love with this wonderful city. Use our pick of the best places to stay in Valparaiso below, and start planning your trip...
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Valparaiso (Cerro Alegre)
A contemporary eco hotel well located in Cerro Alegre Hill. Slick design throughout sees wood, metal and brick mixing to create a trendy industrial like feel. An international restaurant boasts a large terrace with epic views. Walking distance from many of the city's main attractions. City chic.
Valparaiso (Reñaca)
This chic seafront hotel is situated on the coastline between Viña del Mar and Reñaca in Valparaíso, Chile. Bright and spacious rooms boast wooden floors, comfortable beds and local textiles; book a luxury suite for sea views. Sample Chilean cuisine at the cosy restaurant; a charming seaside stay.
Valparaiso (2370949 )
A boutique property boasting one of the finest locations in Valparaíso. Stunning light rooms use plenty of natural materials giving a rural feel against the city views. Feast on indulgent breakfasts and step out of the property into the UNESCO heritage site of Alegre Hill. A fabulous city base.
Valparaiso (Cerro Alegre)
This boutique hotel offers accommodation in a Victorian-style house in Valparaíso, Chile. Guestrooms are bright and airy, with contemporary furnishings and cosy linens; book a luxury suite for sea views and living space. Unwind with a drink on the terrace overlooking the city. A charming city stay.
Valparaiso
A chic boutique hotel located in the heart of Valparaiso. A historic building, lovingly converted. Find smart rooms with parquet floors, feature wallpaper and the best have small terraces boasting spectacular city views. A contemporary spa and fine-dining restaurant make this a superb stay.
Valparaiso
A charming converted town house with epic views of Valparaíso bay. Quiet bougainvillaea filled terraces make for the perfect place to completely unwind. Rooms keep their original charm with wooden floors and sash windows. With easy access to the town's attractions this is a winning choice.
Valparaiso (Cerro Alegre)
An impressive hillside mansion now turned boutique hotel. Chic rooms feature parquet flooring, antique furniture and lovely city views. A smart infinity pool and spa will meet all pampering requirements. An atmospheric restaurant serves international fare, specialising in seafood. Superb.
