Sightseeing in Valparaíso - what to see. Complete travel guide

Valparaiso is a charming port city on the coast of Chile. The city’s name literally means “the Paradise valley” if translate it from Spanish. Numerous travelers know this city because of high-class beaches and multiple historic landmarks. Valparaiso is an incredibly hospitable place that helps to make every vacation an unforgettable one.

In this city, travelers can comfortable combine sunbathing on picturesque beaches and visiting interesting museums. From the long list of popular museums, it’s important to mention Museum of Natural History, Lord Cochrane naval museum with its diversified and multifaceted exhibition, and several outstanding art galleries. The city is also famous for its unique architecture. In the central part of Valparaiso, there are landmarks of different styles and epochs. Plaza Sotomayor is the starting point of the majority of excursions. The central square is also the location of one of the main symbols of Valparaiso - Arturo Pratt Monument.

According to scientists, first settlements in the territory of the modern city appeared yet during the prehistoric era. Numerous archaeological findings only prove this theory. Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro was the European “discoverer” of fertile lands of the region. He and his crew stepped on the coast of modern Valparaiso in 1536. In the middle of the 16th century, the city often suffered from pirates who were visiting that place frequently as they were attracted by rich gold mines. In the end of the 16th century, after a series of large robberies, the country’s government decided to build protective facilities along the coast. Closer to the beginning of the 18th century, more than a hundred houses and several churches were built in the territory of modern Valparaiso. The young port city slowly turned into an important center of trade. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

During several centuries, Valparaiso was a Spain’s colony. Even nowadays, long after the proclamation of independence, the influence of Spanish culture is visible everywhere. Old restaurants are one of the main peculiarities of the national culture. Many of them have been serving guests for more than a century. These restaurants are perfect for tourists who want to try signature national dishes with seafood. Cooked in the Spanish style, many dishes have fragrant Chilean spices added. Delicious food is not the only reason why tourists like old restaurants in Valparaiso so much. As a rule, hospitable owners are always glad to meet foreign guests and tell much interesting about the history of the city and the lifestyle of local people.

Colorful markets are one more drawing point for all visitors of the wonderful port city. The largest market is open on Muela Prat. Here fans of shopping have an opportunity to walk in interesting shopping pavilions. In Valparaiso, there are many exclusive shops that offer handmade goods. Travelers, who enjoy walking and are fond of outdoor activities, will like Parque Cultural Ex-Carcel. Without a doubt, it’s the center of the cultural life of the city. For many years, the park has been the regular venue for various colorful festivals and national celebrations. When there are no special events in the park, numerous musicians and painters come there. For a modest pay, the latter are ready to draw a beautiful portrait.

Valparaiso also has an unusual transport infrastructure. Funiculars remain one of the most sought-after and unusual types of the city’s transport. There are more than ten cable roads in Valparaiso. Naturally, tourists love them as it’s a great way to see the city and admire its breath-taking panorama.

Viña del Mar and Zapallar remain the most popular beaches in Valparaiso. These are incredibly beautiful coastal areas with a wide range of entertainment for vacationers. There are comfortable volleyball areas or tourists can rent a boat and explore the nearby coastal landmarks. Local beaches are sandy, and this fact cannot fail to attract vacationers with children. Tourists, who wish to spend their free time in a comfortable and secluded atmosphere, will find Cartagena and Hanga Roa Beaches perfectly suitable for their needs. Located at some distance from the central part of the resort, these beaches are very calm and peaceful.

The picturesque Muelle Prat is also very popular with vacationers because it is the location of the biggest market at the resort. The choice of items for sale is simply striking and ranges from inexpensive clothes and beach accessories to unique antiquity items. Tourists often come to this market to buy various handmade souvenirs, quality bags and hats, and inexpensive home décor items. Collectors can always find old artworks and other unusual antiquities carefully preserved by local sellers.