Lima Walking Tour: Historic Center, Market & Monastery

Lima , Peru

Lima Walking Tour: Historic Center, Market & Monastery

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About this experience

Step into the rhythm of local life on this immersive Lima Discovery! Wander through historic streets adorned with stunning colonial balconies and explore the fascinating San Francisco Convent and its mysterious Catacombs. Dive into the vibrant energy of a bustling local market, where a kaleidoscope of fresh fruits and vegetables showcases Peru's incredible biodiversity. This tour isn’t just a glimpse of Lima—it’s your doorway to the heart of Peruvian culture and everyday life.

Available options

Small Group Tour

Private Tour

What's included

Visit the vibrant Central Market and learn about Peru’s diverse food culture

Learn essential Spanish phrases to enrich your Peru travels

Join a friendly, English-speaking local guide in Lima

Tour the San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs (entrance included)

Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks on a guided walking tour

Explore Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Martín, and Jirón de la Unión

Ride the public bus from Miraflores to the Historic Center (ticket included)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Skip the history books and dive into Lima’s vibrant soul on this dynamic walking tour led by a passionate local guide. Start in Miraflores, ride the local bus downtown, and learn a few handy Spanish phrases along the way. Explore colonial landmarks, stroll Jirón de la Unión, and uncover hidden gems between Plaza San Martín and Plaza de Armas. It’s the real Lima—lived, tasted, and told by locals.

Next, dive into Lima’s colorful Central Market with your local guide. Navigate vibrant stalls, discover fresh produce, and learn how Peru’s diverse regions—from jungle to high plains—shape its rich food culture. Think Peru lacks a food scene? This market will change your mind.

Stop 3

Continue your journey at the stunning San Francisco Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its colonial architecture and eerie underground catacombs. As you explore, your local guide will share fascinating stories that bring Lima’s rich history to life.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

64 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

32 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Is this tour child-friendly? Yes, children are welcome on this tour. Kids under 6 years old can join free of charge. Just let us know in advance if you’ll be bringing a little one so we can make sure everything’s set up for a smooth experience.

Can I get help returning to my hotel after the tour? Absolutely. If you need a ride back, your guide will be happy to help you arrange a taxi to your hotel at the end of the tour.

Why do we use public transportation on this tour? Lima is a bustling city with over 10 million residents, and traffic can be a real challenge. That’s why we take a public bus that runs on natural gas and uses a dedicated lane—saving time and reducing our environmental impact. It’s a smart, efficient, and eco-friendly way to explore the city, just like the locals do.

Will we try any local fruits during the tour? Yes! At Lima’s Central Market, you’ll have the chance to sample the best seasonal fruits—fresh from local producers. It’s a delicious way to experience Peru’s natural flavors and learn about regional produce from the people who grow it.

Meeting point

Main gate of the Cathedral of Lima in Plaza de Armas – dowtown. address: Jirón Carabaya) s/n Centro de Lima

Important notes

Latin Americans can be very conscious of appearance so try to be casual but conservative in your dress. Outside of beach areas halter tops and very short shorts should not be worn. When visiting churches or religious sites shoulders and knees should be covered.

Local Impact: How you will help the local community by joining this tour:
* Here in Lima, a city of more than 10 million inhabitants, traffic becomes a big problem. But on this tour, you'll be riding public transportation that runs on natural gas and has a dedicated lane. This saves a lot of time while helping the environment in a city with as much pollution as Lima.
* You will visit the local Central Market where you can try the best seasonal fruits in the area, right from local producers.
* You finish the tour with a pisco sour, Peru's national drink, at a local bar that has the reputation of preparing one of the best pisco sours in the city. The bar is eco-friendly and they don't sell plastic bottles or use straws.

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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