Get to know the sights of Valparaiso on a tour that shows you the highlights of the city. From the vividly colored houses to the funiculars grinding their way up its high, steep hills, you get a look at the vibrant spirit that defines the place known as the Jewel of the Pacific.
Once you meet your guide in Plaza Sotomayor, by the monument to Chilean sailors who fought in the War of the Pacific, set out on a walk that reveals the city’s past and its growth into the bustling commercial port of today. Walk by the old Valparaiso Custom House and get a look at the heritage buildings that surround the square, inspired by the architecture of the 17th-century French.
Next, ride one of the historic funiculars up to Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción for the best views of the city and the ocean. Check out the colorfully painted houses perched at crazy angles along the labyrinth of streets, staircases, and lookout points, creating a unique style that earned the city its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Once you’ve explored the boutique hotels, handicraft shops, bookstores, and restaurants, it’s time to ride the funicular down to explore the beautiful architecture and narrow streets of downtown. Complete the tour with a ride through the port area on a trolleybus that has been operating since 1952, which gives you a chance to experience the second-oldest transportation service in South America.