Resting in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped Andes and the Chilean Coast Range, Chile’s vibrant, cosmopolitan, the capital city of Santiago is famous for its beautiful parks, a wealth of historical attractions, and exciting arts and music scenes. The Cerro San Cristobal Park, the largest green space in the city, lies on a hill and is reached by a funicular ride. It offers visitors stunning sweeping views of the city, as well as a picturesque botanical garden and two huge swimming pools. The colonial Plaza de Armas, in the old town centre, is a delight to explore with its numerous Neoclassical buildings and museums, most notably the home-turned-museum of renowned poet Pablo Neruda. Visitors can also look forward to wonderful live shows, concerts and exhibitions.
Resting just 1.5 hours from the capital city of Santiago, Valparaiso (or Valpo as it has been affectionately dubbed by locals) is one of a string of coastal resort towns on Chile’s magnificent central coast. What sets Valparaiso apart from its neighbours is its charming collection of ramshackle, colourful houses spilling chaotically down its 45 steep 'cerros' (hillsides). While Valparaiso lacks white-sand beaches, it certainly makes up for it with its endlessly charming quirky character, its thriving street art scene, its fantastic funicular railway system and its spectacular seaside views. To see Valparaiso at its bohemian best, visit at the end of December during its week-long carnival festivities which typically ends in a jaw-dropping New Year’s Eve spectacle of fireworks.
