Despite Valparaiso’s title of ‘Capital cultural’ and the load of cultural events and artists, Valparaiso has only a few quality museums.

La Sebastiana

(CALLE FERARI 692)

This lovely, well organized museum reflects the life and living of Pablo Neruda, Chile’s Nobel Prize winning poet. The museum used to be one of Neruda’s houses and the architecture and interior design are as unique and surprising as the city of Valparaiso itself. La Sebastiana also has a cultural center that organizes avant-garde as well as clasical events. Even if you do not speak or understand Spanish well we still recommend a visit.

To get there, hop on the 0 microbus (la ooh) and ask the driver to drop you at La Sebastiana. Or get a colectivo ride from Plazuela Ecuador. The entrance fee is CLP2.500 (apx. US$4,50)

Consejo National de Cultura (FREE)

(PLAZA SOTOMAYOR, BARRIO PUERTO)

Located on the very central Plaza Sotomayor you will enjoy at least one ongoing exposition. Standing on Plaza Sotomayor you cannot miss the white beautiful building. You will be friendly informed of what is going on, so don’t be shy and give it a try.

Sala El Farol (FREE)

(BLANCO 1113)

El Farol is the place to pick up a free contemporary art exhibition. The University of Valparaiso invites national and international artists at its gallery, located on a couple of blocks of Plaza Anibal Pinto, walking towards the ocean.

Open Air Museum (FREE)

(BARRIO BELLAVISTA)

Valparaio’s Open Air Museum originates in the late sixties of the past century. It shows a colection of about 20 murals all spread over the Bellavista neighbourhood (Barrio Bellavista). The folowing link will take you to a website with an overview of the art work (just click the numbers on the map)