Excursion Valparaiso and viña del mar tour at Valparaiso
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the splendid art, culture and history of Chile during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.
Viña del Mar, Scenic Drive, Walking Tour
Leave the pier and drive approximately 30 minutes along the coastal road to reach the city and resort of Viña del Mar. Pass by the Santa Maria Technical University, the Recreo Yachting Club and Portales Cove. Once in Viña del Mar, drive by the "Wolf Castle", the "flower clock" and the lovely gardens of the 1930s-style Casino and residential areas.
Stop for a gentle walk along Peru Avenue.
Fonck Museum, Moai Statue and Artefacts
Proceed for a visit to the historical and archaeological Fonck Museum, which holds an original Moai statue brought over from Easter Island. On the first floor is an interesting collection of Chilean, Pre-Columbian cultural artefacts; the second floor features an exhibition of flora and fauna.
Valparaiso, Cerro Alegre Hill, Cable Car
Return drive to Valparaiso and to Cerro Alegre hill to reach Plazuela San Luis. Here, leave the bus to walk some 5 blocks down hill along nice streets and colorful houses until you reach Paseo Yugoslavo. This place is a lovely terrace crowning the cliff and surrounded by charming old houses from the early decades of past century. Next to the Paseo is Palacio Baburriza, an Art Nouveau palace built in 1916 that today houses the Fine Arts Museum (inside visit is not included), walk to the end of the terrace to ride one of the old and traditional funiculars of Valparaíso, El Peral. In about 60 seconds ride it will get you to Plaza Sotomayor.
Plaza Sotomayor, Heroes of Iquique Monument and Intendencia
At Plaza Sotomayor, see the monument to the Heroes of Iquique, unveiled in 1886. Beneath this monument is the crypt containing the remains of the heroes who fell heroically during the Battle of Iquique. Facing the shore is the former Intendencia. Built in 1919, it now houses the Commanding Headquarters of the Naval Zone. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Fonck Museums, Moai Statue, Cultural Artefacts, Bay Views, Plaza Sotomayor, Heroes of Iquique Monument, Intendencia, Valparaiso, Cable Car.
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1 km with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Flash photography is not permitted in the museum. The tour sequence and duration may vary.