Valparaiso’s Discount Hotels: A Seaside Getaway

Day 1: Arrival in Valparaiso
As I descended from the airplane at Santiago International Airport, a wave of excitement washed over me. I had been eagerly awaiting this journey to Valparaíso, Chile’s coastal gem, for months. The anticipation of exploring a city with such a rich history and breathtaking vistas was palpable.

My flight had landed smoothly, and the process of clearing immigration and customs at Santiago International Airport was efficient. The airport itself was modern and well-organized, making the arrival process a breeze. I had chosen to arrive in Santiago first, as it serves as the major international gateway to Valparaíso.To reach Valparaíso from the airport, I had pre-booked a seat on one of the comfortable and cost-effective buses that run between the airport and Valparaíso. The journey took around two hours, during which I was treated to stunning views of the Chilean countryside.

Upon arriving at Valparaíso’s bus terminal, I was immediately struck by the city’s vibrant and bohemian ambiance. The terminal itself was bustling with activity, and I could already see the colorful street art that Valparaíso is famous for. After doing some research, I had decided to stay at “Hotel Pacifico,” a charming boutique hotel conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Hotel 1: Hotel Pacifico

• Location: Plaza Victoria, Valparaíso
• Discount: 10% off regular rates for advance bookings
• Room Rate: $80 per night (after discount)
• Recommendation Rating: 8/10

Hotel Pacifico, with its history dating back to the early 20th century, was an ideal choice. Its central location made it a convenient base for exploring Valparaíso. The hotel staff were welcoming and spoke English, which was a relief for me as my Spanish skills were limited. The room itself was cozy and clean, and the advance booking discount was an added bonus.

Day 2: Exploring Cerro Alegre
Cerro Alegre, renowned for its colorful houses and artistic atmosphere, was my destination for the day. After indulging in a hearty Chilean breakfast at a nearby café, I set out to explore this iconic hill.

One of the highlights of Cerro Alegre was “Paseo Atkinson,” a picturesque viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Valparaíso’s captivating chaos. The view from there, with its colorful houses clinging to steep hillsides and the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean, was nothing short of mesmerizing—a perfect start to the day.

Hotel 2: Casa Higueras

• Location: Higuera 133, Cerro Alegre, Valparaíso
• Discount: None (higher-end hotel)
• Room Rate: $180 per night
• Recommendation Rating: 9/10

For my second night in Valparaíso, I had chosen the upscale “Casa Higueras,” located right on Cerro Alegre. This boutique hotel offered stunning views of the city and the ocean. The service was impeccable, and the staff were attentive to every detail. Although it was on the pricier side, the experience and luxury it provided were well worth it.

In the afternoon, I visited “La Sebastiana,” Pablo Neruda’s former residence, now a museum dedicated to the poet’s life and work. The quirky architecture and unique decor provided a fascinating glimpse into Neruda’s eccentric personality. Each room seemed to have its own story to tell, and I was particularly enchanted by the panoramic views of the city from the top-floor terrace.

Day 3: Valparaíso’s Historic Center
Today, I decided to delve into the historic center of Valparaíso, starting at Plaza Sotomayor. The square was surrounded by impressive buildings, including Palacio Baburizza, which housed the Municipal Fine Arts Museum. The museum’s collection showcased Chile’s rich artistic heritage, with works spanning various styles and eras.

Hotel 3: Hostal Acuarela

• Location: Cochrane 271, Valparaíso
• Discount: 15% off for stays of 3 nights or more
• Room Rate: $60 per night (after discount)
• Recommendation Rating: 7/10

For my third night, I opted for the budget-friendly “Hostal Acuarela,” conveniently situated near the city center. The discount for a longer stay made it an affordable choice. The room was simple but comfortable, and the staff were helpful in providing local tips.

From Plaza Sotomayor, I meandered through the streets of the “Plan,” known for its vibrant street art and colorful graffiti. Every corner seemed to unveil a new piece of art, and I was captivated by the creativity that adorned the walls.

Lunchtime brought me to Mercado El Cardonal, a lively seafood market that offered an array of culinary delights. I couldn’t resist trying mariscal, a Chilean seafood cocktail bursting with flavors.

In the afternoon, I visited “La Matriz Church,” Valparaíso’s oldest church, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. The wooden altarpiece was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, and I marveled at its intricate details.

Day 4: A Boat Tour of Valparaíso Bay
To gain a fresh perspective of Valparaíso, I had arranged for a boat tour of Valparaíso Bay. Departing from the city’s harbor, the two-hour excursion promised both educational insights and stunning views.

Hotel 4: Hotel Ultramar

• Location: Paseo Atkinson 151, Cerro Alegre, Valparaíso
• Discount: None (mid-range hotel)
• Room Rate: $120 per night
• Recommendation Rating: 8/10

For my fourth night, I chose “Hotel Ultramar,” a mid-range hotel located on Cerro Alegre. The location provided easy access to the city’s attractions, and the room was comfortable. Although it didn’t offer a discount, the price was reasonable for the quality and location.

The boat tour proved to be a memorable experience. The guide provided insights into the bay’s maritime history and pointed out landmarks along the coast. Passing by “Isla de los Lobos,” inhabited by sea lions, was a highlight. Watching these playful creatures in their natural habitat was a remarkable sight.

The boat also took us to “La Portada,” a stunning natural rock arch formation that marked the entrance to Valparaíso Bay. The arch’s geological history added depth to the experience, and I was in awe of its beauty.

Upon returning to the harbor, I treated myself to a seafood feast at a local waterfront restaurant. Grilled fish paired with Chilean white wine was the perfect way to end the day.

Day 5: A Day Trip to Vina del Mar
For a change of scenery, I decided to take a day trip to Viña del Mar, a nearby coastal city known as the “Garden City.”

Hotel 5: Hotel Del Mar

• Location: Av. San Martín 199, Viña del Mar
• Discount: 10% off regular rates for advance bookings
• Room Rate: $130 per night (after discount)
• Recommendation Rating: 8/10

I opted to stay at “Hotel Del Mar” in Viña del Mar, which offered a discount for booking in advance. The hotel was located near the city’s attractions, and the room was spacious and comfortable. The discount made it an excellent value.

My first stop in Viña del Mar was “Quinta Vergara Park,” home to the Quinta Vergara Amphitheater. The park’s manicured gardens were a tranquil oasis, and I took my time exploring the lush greenery.

Strolling along Viña del Mar’s coastline, I reached “Playa Caleta Abarca,” a clean and well-maintained beach where I relaxed, enjoying the sound of the waves and the feel of the sand beneath my feet.

Lunchtime led me to Mercado El Cardonal, a bustling seafood market that offered a variety of culinary delights. I couldn’t resist trying mariscal, a Chilean seafood cocktail that was bursting with flavor.

In the afternoon, I visited “Casino Municipal,” an elegant and historic building with opulent interiors. While I didn’t try my luck at gambling, I appreciated the architecture and ambiance of the place. The ocean-facing terrace was a perfect spot for a coffee break.

Day 6: Farewell to Valparaíso
As my time in Valparaíso neared its end, I took one last walk through Cerro Alegre, savoring the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the street art once more.

Before departing for Santiago to catch my flight home, I made a final stop at “Ascensor Concepción,” one of Valparaíso’s iconic funiculars. The short ride provided a final panoramic view of the city, leaving me with lasting memories of Valparaíso’s unique charm.

Hotel 6: Hostal La Colombina

• Location: Almirante Montt 372, Valparaíso
• Discount: None (budget-friendly)
• Room Rate: $50 per night
• Recommendation Rating: 7/10

For my last night in Valparaíso, I opted for the budget-friendly “Hostal La Colombina.” While it didn’t offer a discount, the affordable rate made it a practical choice for my final night. The room was simple but clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful.

My journey to Valparaíso had been a truly enriching experience, made all the more enjoyable by the range of accommodation options available. Valparaíso’s colorful streets, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking coastal views had left a lasting impression on me. While there were occasional language barriers and crowded streets, the warmth and friendliness of the locals more than made up for it.

In terms of booking platforms and services, I found that a combination of popular travel websites and local recommendations worked best for me. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offered a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets. Additionally, I relied on Google Maps for navigation and TripAdvisor for restaurant recommendations.

Valparaíso received a resounding recommendation from me, with a rating of 9/10. The city’s unique character, stunning vistas, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic and unforgettable Chilean experience. It was a journey filled with incredible memories and unforgettable moments, and I couldn’t wait to share my Valparaíso stories with friends and fellow adventurers.