The city of Viña del Mar is one of the most important and popular destinations in Chile, lying in a lovely spot on the Pacific Coast of the country, just an hour’s drive away from the capital Santiago.

It is fair to say that the majority of visitors are drawn here because of the quality of its beaches. However, there is a reasonable amount of attractions and activities to explore during your trip. Planning your first visit to a new destination can leave you feeling uncertain in terms of accommodation and entertainment options, so here’s some inspiration to get you started.

The Beaches of Viña Del Mar

The golden sand stretches of Viña del Mar are among the most popular in the country. During weekends, especially from December to February, this area can get quite busy.

The sandy beaches extend for miles in each direction from the city, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. At the northern end of the beach, there’s an interesting naval museum worth visiting. Nevertheless, it’s important to be cautious of strong currents if you’re considering swimming in the ocean.

Sites to Visit During Your Trip

While in Viña del Mar, visiting the gardens of La Quinta Vergara is a must. This beautiful area features a variety of plants sourced from different regions around the globe. Another captivating site, just steps from the beach, is the Parque Reloj de Flores—a vast flower bed with a clock at its center, making it one of the most unique spots in the city.

Don’t miss the quirky Castillo Wulff, a castle perched on a rocky outcrop by the beach, showcasing striking European architecture that contrasts with its surroundings.

What to Do

Castillo Wulff also houses one of the many casinos found in Viña del Mar. Numerous visitors travel from Santiago to enjoy the vibrant gaming scene in the city.

Moreover, La Quinta Vergara is known for hosting one of the city’s most celebrated festivals at the end of February every year. This musical event marks the conclusion of summer and attracts a diverse crowd.

The city boasts various excellent bakeries as well, so be sure to sample ‘alfajores’, a delightful biscuit filled with fruit preserves or dulce de leche.

Where to Stay

As expected in such a popular destination, there is no shortage of accommodations, with many large hotels offering stunning views of the Pacific along the waterfront.

For luxury travel, well-known international brands like Sheraton provide upscale options, while the unique Hotel Boutique Castillo Medieval offers a cozy alternative. Budget travelers can find a good selection of hostels and affordable B&Bs, such as Valparaiso Villa and Hotel Genross, which are both worth considering.

How to Get Around

The introduction of a metro system and an extensive bus network around Viña del Mar has greatly improved accessibility for visitors in the last decade. Consequently, buses are an inexpensive and typically convenient means of transportation.

If you prefer a more comfortable and quicker option, numerous ‘Colectivo’ stops are available throughout the city. These shared taxis are often faster than buses and provide a cost-effective alternative.