My partner and I are ending a nine day trip to Argentina in Chile. We're spending five nights in BA, then two in Mendoza before taking a bus to Chile and spending a night there before flying out late the next night back to the States. So we will have a late afternoon, evening and all the next day in Chile and we're deciding between Santiago and Valparaiso. I know it would be ideal to have more time but unfortunately we can't swing it on this trip. I'd love to hear people's thoughts on what to do. I think I'm leaning toward Valparaiso as it sounds more unique and a day there sounds like enough time but am I making a mistake?

Thanks in advance!

I forgot to mention that we'll be there in November if that changes anything.

I loved Valparaiso and spent 4/5 days there last October and would go back in a shot. A busy day would allow you to see quite a lot and teh town itself is fascinaing and does lend itself just to wandering around but with only a day, I would consider using a guide to maximise the use of your time there.
The "graffiti trail" is a must IMHO. We really only passed through Santiago so I can't really comment but hopefully others will.

One thing you do need to consider is the transfer time to/from Santiago which is 1.5 - 2 hours by bus.

A link to our blog with some photos of the town.

http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog...9520/tpod.html
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If you take the earliest bus to Santiago from Mendoza you will not arrive until the afternoon. You can get on a bus direct to Valparaiso from whichever bus station you arrive at. To return, you need to get off the bus from Valparaiso to Santiago at the Pajaritos metro station on the outskirts of the city. The bus assistant asks where you are getting off. From there you can take an airport bus or a taxi the short distance to the airport. Allow plenty of time for this: 1.5 hrs for the bus trip, 30 from Pajaritos to airport, 2.5 hrs minimum check in. It does not leave you a lot of time to see Valparaiso. Sunday evening buses are more crowded and the pass can close due to bad weather any time except Jan and Feb, although November is probably alright.

Great advice. Thank you both so much. I think we may try Valparaiso but I'm still not 100% sure!

Crellston, I love your blog. I have read so much of it, and plan to read it again before my trip.

NYC, I can't advise you... it's such a choice. I will be there in Jan and have a hard time deciding , and I have 3 days.
What time will you arrive in Santiago? Could you spend an hour or two wandering around the down town area, just to see some of it? Then head to Valparaiso.

Have a great time.

I thought about spending a couple of hours there before leaving. Does anyone know if there are lockers, or luggage storage, at the main bus stations in Santiago? If so, we can certainly leave our things and walk around for a few hours.

All bus stations have a place to leave luggage. You look for "custodia".

Good to know! Thanks Huentetu.
And Crellston, I love your blog too!

Glad you liked it guys. Can't wait to start writing another one!!!

We can't say enough nice thngs about our hotel in Valaparaiso, Casa Higueres. Locaton, staff, food.

Thanks HappyTrvlr, we're thinking of staying at the same place. Thank you for the advice!