I knew from the moment I first arrived in Valparaíso that this would be no ordinary trip. Built into the hillsides, this port city is steeped in color, art, and history, and I decided to get to know it in a special way: by experiencing a variety of hotels, each with its own unique style.
People often view hotels merely as places to sleep, but for me, they serve as vital windows into the soul of a city. This is especially true in a place as distinctive as Valparaíso, where every hotel seems to have a story of its own.
During this trip, I stayed at five hotels, each with a completely different character. From a boutique hotel housed in a century-old building and a seaside hotel overlooking the Pacific to an artsy design hotel, every stay became an unforgettable memory.
First Stop: Hotel Palacio Astoreca—Staying Within a Century of History
On my first night in Valparaíso, I checked into Hotel Palacio Astoreca.
Located in the famous Cerro Alegre district, the hotel occupies a private mansion originally built in the early 20th century. From a distance, its exterior exudes the elegance of a European aristocratic estate.
Stepping through the entrance felt like traveling back in time. High ceilings, wooden staircases, classic chandeliers, and intricate carvings all spoke to the building’s rich historical heritage.
My room faced the bay; opening the window revealed the distant port and the Pacific Ocean. At dusk, sunlight bathed the water, turning the entire bay a golden hue. I sat by the window with a coffee, watching ships slowly enter and leave the harbor. The quiet, elegant atmosphere allowed me to completely unwind.
The hotel breakfast was equally impressive, featuring a spread of fresh fruit, oven-fresh bread, and local jams. Through the dining room windows, I could enjoy the view of the sea while I ate.
It was, without a doubt, the perfect start to the morning.
Second Stop: Hotel Fauna—A Perfect Blend of Art and Ocean Views
For the second leg of my trip, I moved to Hotel Fauna—a popular choice among the artsy crowd and photography enthusiasts.
Perched high on the hillside, the hotel boasts a prime vantage point for taking in the scenery. Upon check-in, the front desk staff enthusiastically recommended the nearby graffiti-covered streets and observation decks.
The room featured a minimalist design. Natural wood furniture paired with expansive glass windows made the space feel bright and cozy. What captivated me most, however, was the hotel’s rooftop terrace; I found myself visiting it every evening.
Looking out over the city from this vantage point—with colorful houses cascading down the hillside toward the sea—the view was breathtaking. One evening, I sat on the terrace with a glass of local wine, watching the sun slowly dip into the Pacific Ocean as the city lights began to twinkle and the harbor lights shimmered in the distance.
In that moment, I felt I was witnessing the most enchanting side of Valparaíso.
Stop 3: Casa Higueras—A Luxurious and Serene Experience
If I had to choose the most comfortable hotel of the trip, I would pick Casa Higueras without hesitation.
Tucked away on a quiet street, this boutique hotel is unassuming from the outside but reveals a hidden gem within. Its intimate size ensures a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. The staff remembered every guest’s name; such attentive service made me feel truly at home.
The room design blended modern style with historic architectural features. I was delighted by the wooden floors, comfortable bedding, and spacious balcony. My favorite spot was the pool area, which faced the harbor; it was perfect for sunbathing and gazing at the sea by day, and for watching the sunset over the city in the evening.
One afternoon, I lay by the pool reading a travel book, with nothing but the sound of the sea breeze and seagulls around me. That sense of tranquility made me lose track of time, and all the fatigue from my travels seemed to vanish in that moment.
Stop 4: Hotel Brighton—The Classic Hotel with a View
After arriving in Valparaíso, almost every local I met recommended Hotel Brighton.
So, I decided to experience it for myself. Located near a famous scenic area, the hotel—while modest in size—boasts one of the city’s most iconic views.
My room faced the bay. Waking up each morning, the first thing I saw was the azure sea. Drawing back the curtains allowed sunlight to flood the room, lifting my spirits instantly.
The hotel terrace is a true paradise for photography enthusiasts. I captured many photos there that I was truly pleased with. Whether it was the soft light of early morning or the golden glow of dusk, the entire city took on a captivating charm.
One evening, I sat on the terrace admiring the night view. The colorful houses dotting the hillside were illuminated with twinkling lights. In the distance, ships glided slowly across the harbor, accompanied by a gentle sea breeze. The romantic atmosphere made me reluctant to leave.
Stop Five: Zero Hotel—A Haven for Artistic Travelers
For the final leg of my journey, I stayed at Zero Hotel. Compared to the previous hotels, this one boasted a more youthful and artistic vibe.
The hotel was created by transforming a historic building; it retained much of the original structure while incorporating modern design elements. Upon entering the lobby, I was immediately drawn to the artwork on the walls; every corner seemed to have been thoughtfully curated.
It was more than just a hotel; it felt like a small art space. Although my room was compact, it was cozy and inviting. Outside the window lay Valparaíso’s famous colorful streetscape. Waking up each morning to sunlight streaming over the vibrant houses put me in a wonderful mood.
The hotel’s communal lounge was also a popular spot where travelers from around the world gathered to chat and connect. I met a photographer from France and a backpacker from Argentina; sharing our travel stories added many delightful memories to my own journey.
Staying Within the City’s Soul
Years from now, when I look back on my trip to Valparaíso, I don’t think I’ll remember only the colorful murals and magnificent sea views. I will also cherish the sunsets from the hotel balcony, the morning sea breeze drifting through the window, and the moments spent gazing out at the harbor lights at night.
These accommodations were more than just places to rest; they were a vital way to understand the city. Valparaíso is a city rich in stories, and these hotels were like chapters in a book, allowing me to read and experience the city from various perspectives.
If I ever have the chance to return, I would still choose to stay among the hillside—in a place where opening the window reveals colorful houses and a vast bay. For there, I didn’t just stay in a hotel; it felt as though I was staying within the very soul of Valparaíso.
