Lima's historic Plaza Mayor with colonial cathedral

Historic Lima Centro & Plaza Mayor

Lima, Peru

HistoryArts Culture
Would you do this?
Duration3 hrs
EffortEasy
BudgetBudget
PriceUSD 8
StyleSelf-Guided
Best monthsJan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
StatusMust-See

About This Activity

Lima's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site centered on Plaza Mayor, flanked by the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral (begun 1535), and the Archbishop's Palace with its magnificent carved wooden balconies. The nearby San Francisco Monastery and Convent is the standout paid attraction (~$8 USD), with catacombs holding the remains of 70,000 people and a 17th-century library. The center is walkable and best explored in the morning before midday traffic builds.

Seasonal note: Year-round; Jun–Aug garúa season is overcast but doesn't prevent the visit. Morning is best for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

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