2 Best Sights in The Central Coast, Chile

Either walk up from Plaza Aníbal Pinto or ride the Ascensor Concepción (due to reopen in 2024) to one of the most popular of Valparaíso's famous cerros (hills). The greatest attraction is the view, which is best appreciated from Paseo Gervasoni, a wide promenade to the right when you exit the ascensor, and Paseo Atkinson, one block to the east. Over the balustrades that line the promenades are amazing vistas of the city and bay. Nearly as fascinating are the narrow streets above them, some of which are quite steep. Continue uphill to Cerro Alegre, which has a bit of a bohemian flair.

Ascensor Artillería pulls you uphill to Paseo 21 de Mayo, a wide promenade lined by a long row of booths selling crafts and souvenirs and surrounded by well-tended gardens and stately trees. From here you can survey the working port and much of the city through coin-operated binoculars. A gazebo—a good place to escape the sun—seems to be hanging in midair. Paseo 21 de Mayo is located in the middle of Cerro Playa Ancha, one of the city's more colorful and less touristy neighborhoods.