Valparaiso is a cultural destination known for Cerro Concepción, Plaza Sotomayor, and Cerro Alegre. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Valparaiso?
A typical traveler spends $82 (CL$78,779) per day on a trip to Valparaiso. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Valparaiso based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $38 (CL$36,725) on meals
- $4.83 (CL$4,611) on local transportation
- $71 (CL$68,028) on hotels
A one-week trip to Valparaiso for two people costs, on average, $1,155 (CL$1,102,906). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$577
CL$551,453
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,155
CL$1,102,906
-
One Month
Per person
$2,474
CL$2,363,370
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,155
CL$1,102,906
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,309
CL$2,205,812
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,949
CL$4,726,740
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Valparaiso cost?
A one week trip to Valparaiso usually costs around $577 (CL$551,453) for one person and $1,155 (CL$1,102,906) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Valparaiso on average costs around $1,155 (CL$1,102,906) for one person and $2,309 (CL$2,205,812) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Valparaiso will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Valparaiso on average costs around $2,474 (CL$2,363,370) for one person and $4,949 (CL$4,726,740) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Valparaiso expensive to visit?
In Valparaiso, budget travelers spend $31 (CL$30,429) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $82 (CL$78,779) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $217 (CL$209,343) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Valparaiso.
Valparaiso is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Valparaiso can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.
Within South America, Valparaiso is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Fortaleza or Asuncion.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Valparaiso Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Valparaiso?
The average Valparaiso trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Valparaiso travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Valparaiso cost?
Valparaiso on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$14
(CL$13,677)
|
$36
(CL$34,014)
|
$86
(CL$82,528)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$2
(CL$1,599)
|
$5
(CL$4,611)
|
$16
(CL$14,903)
|
|
Food2
|
$14
(CL$13,817)
|
$38
(CL$36,725)
|
$108
(CL$102,964)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$6
(CL$6,112)
|
$18
(CL$17,350)
|
$57
(CL$54,695)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-5
(CL$1,504-4,512)
|
$4-12
(CL$3,717-11,152)
|
$9-28
(CL$8,886-26,657)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Valparaiso with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $31 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Valparaiso, like Casa Volante Hostal, Casa Verde Limon, and La Joya Hostel. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most visitors to Valparaiso will want to visit Cerro Concepción, Plaza Sotomayor, or Cerro Alegre. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $82 per person, per day.
Valparaiso boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Casa Galos Hotel & Lofts is an excellent family-friendly option, while Somerscales Hotel Boutique is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Valparaiso here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $217 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the destination with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Valparaiso : Private Custom Tour with A Guide - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Valparaiso
The cost of hotels in Valparaiso can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $60, but the demand in peak season pushes that average to around $112. Budget hotels range from $25 to $237, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Valparaiso for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $71 (CL$68,028). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $36 (CL$34,014) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Valparaiso? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Valparaiso include:
- Palacio Astoreca starting at $156
- En Casa de Patricia starting at $129
- Hostal Faro Azul starting at $118
- Casa Galos Hotel & Lofts starting at $103
- Hostal Miramar Valparaiso starting at $43
Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in ) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.
Transportation Budget in Valparaiso
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $4.83 (CL$4,611) per person, per day, on local transportation in Valparaiso. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Valparaiso is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$4.83
CL$4,611
There are a handful of ways to travel around Valparaiso. A convenient option is colectivos, which are taxis that run along set routes. They are colored black with yellow roofs. Alternatively, micros are operated by Transporte Metropolitano Valparaiso and follow set routes around town and into the surrounding areas. More recently, Valparaiso has added a light-rail system that runs parallel to the coastline. It begins at the port and travels past some of the more interesting sights around town. While it is more expensive than colectivos and buses, it is a convenient and efficient alternative.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private transfer from Valparaiso or Viña del Mar to San Antonio for $133 details
- Private Valparaiso Visit William Cole Winery & Transfer to Hotel for $270 details
- Small group transfer from Valparaiso/S.Antonio+Tour in Santiago for $140 details
How much does it cost to go to Valparaiso? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Valparaiso will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Typical prices for transit in Valparaiso are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Valparaiso. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
Food Budget in Valparaiso
Food is a major attraction for travelers, so make sure you don't miss out on the local culinary delights.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Valparaiso can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Valparaiso is $38 (CL$36,725) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$38
CL$36,725
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Valparaiso is around $38 (CL$36725) per person, with previous travelers spending from $14 to $107. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Valparaiso are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $11
- Lunch: $6 to $15
- Dinner: $11 to $27
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
There are a variety of local specialties in Valparaiso. You shouldn't leave town without trying the chorrillana, which is made with french fries that are covered with steak, onion and fried eggs. The most famous place to try it is J Cruz.
If you're looking for fresh seafood, it can be found in many places around town, but the most popular area is near the muelle, or wharf. For international food, head to Vina del Mar where you'll find Thai, Mexcian, and Argentine restaurants.
For a quick and cheap snack you can pick up bread at any of the countless bakeries, or grab an empanada almost anywhere.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Valparaiso, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Cooking Classes in Viña del Mar Learn to Make Tapas and Desserts for $65 details
- Learn to Cook Like a Local: Private Cooking Class in a Viña del Mar Home for $102 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Valparaiso, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Valparaiso
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Valparaiso typically cost an average of $18 (CL$17,350) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$18
CL$17,350
A few of the most popular sights are:
- Cerro Concepción (Free)
- Plaza Sotomayor (Free)
- Cerro Alegre (Free)
- Muelle Prat (Free)
- Paseo Gervasoni (Free)
- Ascensor Artillería for CLP 400
- La Sebastiana for CLP 7000
- Iglesia La Matriz (Free)
- Mercado Cardonal (Free)
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Valparaíso for CLP 1000
While the city itself does not actually have a lot of specific sights, the true appeal of Valparaiso comes from wandering through the hilly streets and enjoying this beautiful city's atmosphere. With its popular bohemian culture, you will also find no shortage of art events and a lively nightlife.
While you don't really go to Valparaiso for the specific sights, there are a few places that are worth checking out. Particularly noteworthy are Cerro Cordillera, Cerros Alegre and Concepcion, and La Matriz Church as well as the surrounding neighborhoods.
A must-do while you're in Valparaiso is to go on the ascensores (inclines). They cost less than a US dollar and are a unique and fun part of the city's character.
Another fun activity in Valparaiso is the annual carnival, which is held the last week of the year. It's usually themed around a different country every year and there are performers, musicians and artists that represent the culture of that country. It's a cheap event to attend, as most activities are outdoors and free. The end of the celebration is on new years and the festivities are concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display. If you do plan to be in town during carnival, you must realize that most hotels and facilities will be at capacity. It is essential that you make reservations well in advance and you will likely pay a marked up price.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Valparaiso. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Valpo in 1 day: Authentic + Famous! Semi-private walking tour & public transport for $80 details
- The Tour of Valparaiso in French on foot and in a small group for $18 details
- Full-Day Tour of Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, Reñaca & Concón for $180 details
Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Valparaiso, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.
Nightlife Budget in Valparaiso
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $7.78 (CL$7,435) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Valparaiso per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$7.78
CL$7,435
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Valparaiso. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Private Wine Tour in Valparaiso for $250 details
- Santiago: Valparaíso Walking Tour & Casablanca Wine Tasting for $320 details
Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Valparaiso, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 13, 2025
Traveling in Valparaiso
Valparaiso, Chile
Valparaiso, often referred to as Valpo, is an attractive city on the Pacific Coast in Chile. The city has a population of about 300,000 and is only 120 kilometers west of Santiago. The city's main industries aside from tourism include shipping and petroleum refining.
Valparaiso is popular with travelers because of its bohemian culture and brightly colored homes. It also offers some wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. Although the city is short on specific sights, the atmosphere and beautiful setting make it a wonderful place to visit.
Valparaiso has a mild Mediterranean climate that is comparable to San Francisco or Santa Barbara. The summer is dry but fog is common year around. Rain can be heavy during the winter season and snow falls occasionally in the highest parts of the city. Winds can also be strong during the winter months.
Neighborhoods & Around
Valparaiso is a major city and seaport in Chile. It's the second largest metropolitan area in the country. There are many hills to the city which create many of its neighborhoods. One of the most notable neighborhoods in the city is Cerro Concepcion. This neighborhood is 500 years old and has narrow cobblestone streets with many shops and restaurants. Cerro Bellavista is a residential and artistic area with many beautiful murals. Cerro Aritlleria has museums and monuments worth visiting. Cerro Santo Domingo is best visited on Sunday mornings when there is a Mass at the 16th century chapel. Cerro Cordillera is the site of Chile's first astronomical observatory. Cerro Alegre is a beautiful neighborhood that once was used as the backdrop for a Chilean soap opera. It's also one of the best areas to walk around town. Cerro Paneon has three ridgetop cemeteries. Cerro Bellavista has the open air museum, and Cerro Baron is where you'll find Iglesia San Francisco.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.