Historic Center of Lima Tour – Explore Colonial Lima in 3 Hours

Day Trip

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Lima, Peru

Duration

3 Hours

Language

English

Group Size

10 Peopele

Tour Overview

Step back in time and explore Peru’s capital through its most historic and iconic landmarks on this 3-hour walking and sightseeing tour of the Historic Center of Lima. This experience is perfect for travelers who want to discover the city’s colonial heart, world-class architecture, and deep cultural roots with the guidance of a local expert.


The tour begins at Plaza San Martín, one of Lima’s grandest public spaces, surrounded by neoclassical buildings and rich in symbolism related to Peru’s independence. From there, stroll along the famous Jirón de la Unión, a pedestrian avenue that connects you to centuries of Lima’s social and commercial evolution.


You’ll visit the BCRP Museum (open Tuesday to Sunday), which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, gold pieces, and contemporary Peruvian art. Along the way, you’ll admire some of Lima’s most important churches, including La Merced, San Francisco with its eerie catacombs, and Santo Domingo, where the remains of Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima are preserved.


The tour also takes you through the fascinating Parque de la Muralla (The Wall Park), where remnants of the city’s original colonial walls still stand. This area offers a unique view of Lima’s layered past—blending pre-Hispanic heritage with modern urban life.


Before concluding, enjoy a tasting of traditional Peruvian pisco cocktails and browse local craft shops for handmade souvenirs. Your final stop is the majestic Plaza Mayor, the political and spiritual center of Lima, where you’ll see the Presidential Palace, Lima Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and City Hall—all key landmarks that define colonial Peru.


This immersive tour with Advontuur offers an in-depth introduction to Lima’s most historic district, perfect for history lovers, architecture fans, and curious travelers looking for a compact yet meaningful experience.


Why Choose This Tour?

  • Focuses exclusively on the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Includes visits to major colonial landmarks, churches, and historic plazas
  • Covers key streets and museums like Jirón de la Unión and the BCRP Museum
  • Offers an authentic pisco tasting experience in a cultural setting
  • Ideal for history buffs and first-time visitors who want to understand Lima’s past
  • Operates daily with flexible departure and professional local guidance

A great 3-hour option for cruise visitors or short-stay travelers in Lima

Tour highlights

  • Discover Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Center with a local expert
  • Visit Plaza San Martín, Jirón de la Unión, and Plaza Mayor in one tour
  • Explore colonial churches like La Merced, San Francisco, and Santo Domingo
  • See the Presidential Palace, Lima Cathedral, and Archbishop’s Palace
  • Visit the BCRP Museum to view archaeological and cultural artifacts (Tue–Sun)
  • Walk through Muralla Park and see remnants of Lima’s 17th-century wall
  • Enjoy a tasting of traditional pisco cocktails in a cultural setting
  • Ideal for history lovers and travelers interested in Lima’s colonial heritage

Compact 3-hour experience with flexible scheduling and private guidance

Whats Included

  • Private transportation to and from your hotel or accommodation (if required)
  • Bilingual professional guide with in-depth knowledge of Lima’s history
  • Entrance to the BCRP Museum (open Tuesday to Sunday)
  • Guided visits to major colonial landmarks and historic plazas
  • Pisco and cocktail tasting at a local venue
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Optional visit to craft shops for authentic Peruvian souvenirs

  • Any service not specifically listed in the tour description
  • VAT (IGV) applicable to Peruvian nationals or local businesses
  • Meals, snacks, or personal purchases not included in the program
  • Entrance fees to museums or attractions not explicitly mentioned
  • Gratuities for the guide or driver (optional)

Know before you go (faq's)

What does the Historic Center of Lima Tour include?

 The tour includes private transportation, a professional local guide, bottled water, entrance to the BCRP Museum (Tuesday to Sunday), and a tasting of pisco and cocktails. Optional visits to craft shops are also available.


How long is the tour and what areas are covered?

 The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and covers the main highlights of downtown Lima, including Plaza San Martín, Jirón de la Unión, Plaza Mayor, key colonial churches, museums, and Muralla Park.


Is this a walking tour or a driving tour?

 This is primarily a walking tour with some panoramic stops and optional transportation, depending on the starting point. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.


Is the Historic Center of Lima Tour offered every day?

 Yes, the tour runs daily and can be scheduled at your preferred time. The BCRP Museum is closed on Mondays, so that stop will be adjusted accordingly.


Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

 Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. The walking pace is moderate and there are frequent breaks. The route is mostly flat and includes opportunities to sit and rest.

Itiniray

Start at Plaza San Martín

  • Grand square with neoclassical architecture.
  • Learn about Peru’s independence and Lima’s elegant past.

Walk along Jirón de la Unión

  • Iconic pedestrian avenue linking historic sites.
  • See shops, old mansions, and vibrant city life.

Visit the BCRP Museum (Tuesday–Sunday)

  • Explore pre-Columbian gold artifacts and Peruvian art.
  • Learn about Peru’s rich archaeological heritage.

Admire Colonial Churches

  • La Merced: baroque façade and historic interior.
  • San Francisco: famous catacombs and colonial architecture.
  • Santo Domingo: resting place of Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima.

Explore Pre-Hispanic Museum

  • View Inca and pre-Inca ceramics, textiles, and artifacts.
  • Gain insights into Peru’s ancient civilizations.

Stroll through Muralla Park (Parque de la Muralla)

  • See remains of Lima’s 17th-century protective wall.
  • Enjoy panoramic views connecting colonial and modern Lima.

Taste Peruvian Pisco Cocktails

  • Enjoy a traditional pisco tasting in a local venue.
  • Option to browse local handicraft shops for unique souvenirs.

Finish at Plaza Mayor

  • See Lima Cathedral’s Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
  • View the Presidential Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, and City Hall.
  • Take in the heart of Lima’s colonial and political history.

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