Shopping

Shopping in Valparaiso, Chile is a unique experience where you can find distinctive gifts for your friends and relatives or just find something irresistible for you. 

Local Shops

There are very few department stores and hardly any chain stores in Valparaiso, but most of the shops are owned by local people and some may even be small stalls placed out on the street.  Many of these little shops sell handicrafts made by the people in the area and you won’t find anything like them anywhere else.  Shops are generally colorful and even getting to them can be a lesson in Chilean art as the streets are filled to the brim with it.  You are sure to find a great deal of Valparaisian art and handcrafts to last you a life time in town. 

Jewlery

To find the best silver jewelry in town be sure to visit Art in Silver Workshop on Pasage Templeman.  Victor Hugo, a silversmith, makes his own pieces with lapis and silver.  Nearby is another place to purchase jewelry unique to the area at Taller Arte en Plata.  You will find silver necklaces, bracelets, and rings.  Aquamantos is on Almte Montt and you can find accessories including charming bags, sandal, hats, pins and hand made notebooks at inexpensive prices. 

Ripley’s

Ripley’s is the only department store in town and you can find it on Condell across from Plaza Victoria.  They sell clothing, housewares, and other items with a food court on the fifth floor. 

Feria de Antiguedades

There is an outdoor market called Feria de Antiguedades on Ave Argentina at Plaza O’Higgins.  This has a flea market atmosphere with a large quantity of antiques being sold. 

Casa Viejo

Casa Viejo is more like an art gallery but you can purchase crafts and art here.  The wares sold are unique to the area and are the delight of tourists.  It is on the corner of Urriola and Templeman.  Nearby is Artesano del Cerro owned by four local artists (Leonardo Alvarez, Hilda Osses, Astrid Ziniga, and Karin Ouiroga).  Clothing is sold here as well as glass, leather, and woven items.  The artists themselves make everything sold in the store.  Don’t miss the little shop that sells natural cosmetics, shampoo, soap and make up made in the store that is right around the corner. 

Valparaiso streets twist and turn like snakes and you are likely to get lost at some time or another.  Each little avenue takes you to a new and interesting little shop and getting lost can be fun.  The only thing is if you see something you like, don’t wait and think you can come back for it.  You many never find that same magical shop again once you leave.