The Baburizza Palace is home to the Museum of Decorative Arts, which has a beautiful collection of European porcelain, chandeliers, paintings, sculptures, and much more. The palace itself is a gorgeous Neo-Gothic building dating back to the early 1900s and features some impressive architecture and decoration. Visitors can enjoy the guided tour to learn about the history of the palace and its collection.
The La Sebastiana is the former home of Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, turned into a museum after his death. The house is perched on one of Valparaíso’s many hills and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea. The house itself is full of colourful décor, interesting objects, and unique architecture. Visitors can explore the rooms and exhibitions, all while learning more about Pablo Neruda’s life and work.
The Ascensor Artillería is a funicular that takes visitors up to the top of Cerro Artillería Hill. It dates back to the early 1900s and offers stunning views of the city and the harbour. The funicular ride itself is an experience, with the vintage wooden cabins and the sound of the machinery. Once at the top, visitors can see the impressive Artillería Fortress and explore the surrounding area.
The Museo a Cielo Abierto is a unique open-air museum, featuring over 20 large murals painted by local artists on the walls of the surrounding buildings. The murals are a celebration of Valparaíso’s cultural and historical heritage and offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant street art scene. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the murals, stopping to appreciate the intricate details and striking colours.
If you have more time, consider visiting other hills in Valparaíso, such as Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre, which are known for their colourful architecture and street art. You can also take a boat tour of the harbour or visit the nearby Viña del Mar for some beach time.
If you have less time, consider skipping either the Museo de Artes Decorativas Palacio Baburizza or La Sebastiana. Both offer a similar experience of exploring a historic building and its collection, so pick based on your interests.