[1] The agglomeration is composed of several communes (Spanish: comunas), and each is governed by its respective municipality: These communes have the following characteristics: Gran Valparaíso also has the third largest concentration of universities in Chile.

There is a rapid transit light rail system which serves most of the communes in the conurbation: The Valparaíso Metro.

Bus routes almost always span multiple communes and are organized via the Transporte Metropolitano de Valparaíso [es].

The area is a major tourist draw due to the internationally important Viña del Mar International Song Festival, its balnearios (beaches and resorts), and the world's largest pool San Alfonso del Mar in Algarrobo.

The Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance.