Valparaíso, the legendary “Pearl of the Pacific” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its vibrant graffiti. However, as someone without an artistic eye, I found it challenging to fully appreciate the city’s charm. What left a more lasting impression were the slightly pungent, weathered streets and the tangled, obstructive wires that seemed to dominate the urban landscape.
🧡 Ways to Visit:
If you’re short on time or not particularly enthralled by street art, booking a day tour through apps like GetYourGuide can be a convenient way to explore. For instance, the one-day tour we booked included pick-up and drop-off in Santiago, with stops at Casablanca Valley, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar.
Here’s a breakdown of the highlights:
1️⃣ Casablanca Valley: This spot is primarily a market for wine and crafts, with a vineyard at the entrance. While it’s picturesque, there isn’t much else to see.
2️⃣ Valparaíso: The centerpiece of the trip, featuring a ride on a century-old cable car up the hill.
Despite the city’s rich history, the overall ambiance is quite run-down, with a faint odor in the air. The graffiti, while abundant, didn’t quite live up to the colorful expectations set by filtered photos.
3️⃣ Viña del Mar: This part of the tour includes a visit to the famous flower clock (which, to be honest, is rather unremarkable) and a replica of a Moai statue at the entrance of the Museo Fonck.
We also had lunch at a designated restaurant, which was a pleasant break from the day’s activities.
💚 Personal Feelings:
Valparaíso is one of those places where you might feel a twinge of regret for not visiting, but also a sense of disappointment once you have. I recommend setting your expectations low and being mindful of safety concerns. On the bright side, its proximity to Santiago makes it a feasible weekend escape, perfect for a quick getaway.
