A Journey Through Time: Lima's Historic Center & Catacombs Tour

Lima , Peru

A Journey Through Time: Lima's Historic Center & Catacombs Tour

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(253 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Lima is a magical and ancient city that has an impressive cultural, gastronomic and religious heritage. In this tour you will discover the best of the city in just 4 hours visiting the three historical periods of our capital: pre-Hispanic, modern and colonial Lima.

Available options

Private Tour of Lima

This is a private and exclusive experience that includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro.

With meeting point

This price is only valid with the meeting point option at Parque del Amor in Miraflores.

With pick-up from hotels

This option includes pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro.

From Lima Airport.

For this City Tour, we offer pick-up service directly from Lima International Airport.

From Callao Port.

If you're arriving on a cruise, we’ll pick you up directly from Callao Port.

What's included

Entrance to San Francisco Museum & Catacombs

Guided tour of Lima’s Historic Center.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Pick-up from your hotel, airport, or meeting point, based on your selected booking option.

Oficial Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We start our tour by picking up each traveler from their selected location. Depending on the option you choose at the time of booking, your pick-up time will be assigned accordingly. We offer pick-up from a designated meeting point, hotels in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, or directly from Jorge Chávez International Airport. Please note that prices vary based on the selected pick-up option, so make sure to review this information carefully before completing your reservation.

First of all, you will visit one of the 50 most romantic parks in the world, located in the Miraflores neighborhood, known as the Parque del Amor, this park is a small and colorful refuge for couples in love, From here you have a magnificent view of the sea. It is inspired by the Park Güell in Barcelona and has in the central part a sculpture called "El Beso" by the Peruvian sculptor Víctor Delfín.

Stop 2

Continuing with our tour, you will visit the Huaca Pucllana Archaeological Site in a panoramic way, a sacred site belonging to the Lima culture.

Stop 3

Then we will visit the historic center of Lima and walk through its main squares, streets, churches and shreds of the ancient city of the Kings.

Likewise, we will walk through the main square of Lima where our experienced guide will narrate the historical background of the old viceroyalty of Peru, we will appreciate the architectural monuments that surround the square, such as the cathedral of Lima, archiepiscopal palace, government palace.

As soon as we finish our walk through the historic center, you will visit the chocomuseum, a museum store where it shows us the history of chocolate and cocoa in Peru, we can also taste its typical liquors and jams made from chocolate and cocoa.

Continuing our walk we will observe the old abandoned station today converted into the house of Peruvian Literature, we will also be able to appreciate artisan shops and we will give you time so you can buy Peruvian crafts, after that you will visit an old colonial house today converted into a small traditional bar and In this place we will learn how to prepare the flagship drink of Peru “El pisco Sour”.

Stop 5

Finally we will enter the Convent, Museum of San Francisco and its catacombs, here we will have a guided tour for 30 minutes and we will visit some of the oldest cemeteries in the city located below the San Francisco convent, finally we will proceed to take you to your hotel and in If you want to stay for lunch or dinner in the center, the return is on your own account.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

234 reviews

5★

214

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Clients who choose the meeting point option for this tour will be picked up at Parque del Amor in Miraflores. One day before the tour, our team will contact you to confirm the exact pick-up time and share the details of your assigned guide, ensuring a smooth and well-organized experience.

About Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a vibrant city where colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers. Known for its rich history, diverse cuisine, and stunning coastal views, Lima offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its well-preserved colonial buildings and museums.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Lima

The Historic Center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the city's colonial architecture and rich history. It's home to numerous churches, museums, and plazas.

Historical Half day to full day Free to $10 (for museum entries)

Miraflores

Miraflores is a upscale district known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. It's also home to the Parque del Amor and the Larcomar shopping center.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $50 (for shopping and dining)

Barranco

Barranco is a bohemian district known for its art galleries, street art, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great place to experience Lima's creative side.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $30 (for dining and drinks)

Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is an ancient pyramidd built by the Lima Culture around 200 AD. It's a fascinating archaeological site located in the heart of Miraflores.

Historical 1-2 hours $5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

A dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, spiced with ají or chili peppers, and served with side dishes such as sweet potato, corn on the cob, and lettuce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, citrus, and chili peppers. Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free.

Lomo Saltado

A Peruvian dish consisting of marinated beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and fries, served with rice. It's a fusion dish that combines Peruvian and Chinese flavors.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries. Can be made gluten-free with modifications.

Aji de Gallina

A Peruvian dish consisting of a creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) sauce, garlic, and walnuts, served with rice and potatoes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains chicken, dairy, and nuts. Can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Surfing Paragliding Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Hot springs Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the summer season in Lima, characterized by warm temperatures and sunny days. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Jorge Chávez International Airport • 11 km from city center

By bus

Plaza Norte, Plaza Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and affordable, but can be crowded during peak hours. It's a good option for getting around quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Miraflores Barranco San Isidro

Day trips

Pachacamac

40 km from Lima • Half day

Pachacamac is an ancient archaeological site located south of Lima. It was an important religious center for the Inca civilization and features several temples, pyramids, and museums.

Paracas and Ballestas Islands

250 km from Lima • Full day

Paracas is a coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'poor man's Galapagos', are home to a variety of seabirds, sea lions, and other marine life.

Huaral

80 km from Lima • Full day

Huaral is a small town located north of Lima, known for its colonial architecture, hot springs, and traditional festivals. It's a great place to experience authentic Peruvian culture and hospitality.

Festivals

Fiesta de la Candelaria • February 2 Festival Internacional de Cine de Lima • August Inti Raymi • June 24

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Try a ceviche-making class to learn about Peruvian cuisine and culture
Visit the Larco Museum to see the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru
Explore the street art and murals in Barranco for a unique cultural experience
Take a day trip to Pachacamac to learn about Inca history and explore ancient ruins