Local Guides World
Top Tourist attractions in Lima, Peru
Top Rated Tourist attractions in Lima
Top Reviewed Tourist attractions in Lima
Lima Main Square
Plaza Dos de Mayo
Miguel Grau Square
Lima Cathedral
Plaza Italia
Lima Main Square
Church of La Merced
Parroquia de San Marcelo
Monumento a Alfredo Salazar
Monumento a Alfredo Salazar
Reviews
Lugar muy lindo y conservado para pasear
Great area to enjoy some outdoors time with the family
Excellent architectural design and buildings all around the square, plenty of shops, restaurants and museums close by. Definitely recommend having a local tour guide providing you with any information.
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Bellísima iglesia barroca administrada por los mercedarios, presentes en el Perú por más de cuatrocientos años. Sus capillas de madera tallada y pan de oro son reales obras de arte, que funden religión con estética. Aquí está presente la cruz del Padre Urraca, antigua devoción linense que acumula numerosos exvotos de fieles agradecidos.
The Lima Main Square, known as the Plaza Mayor, is an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the rich history and culture of Peru. This square is the heartbeat of Lima, surrounded by some of the most iconic and historically significant buildings in the city.
The architecture is breathtaking, with the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop's Palace dominating the square. The vibrant energy here is infectious, whether it's the local vendors selling traditional Peruvian crafts, the captivating street performances, or the constant buzz of both locals and tourists.
This place isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a journey through time. The stories held within these walls resonate with the heritage of Peru. Visiting this square is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner holds a piece of the city's past.
Additionally, the square's central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Lima. You can easily access other attractions, restaurants, and shops from here.
However, as it's a bustling tourist spot, it can get quite crowded during peak hours. Regardless, the vibrant atmosphere and the historical significance outweigh the crowds.
A visit to Lima isn't complete without immersing yourself in the beauty and history of the Lima Main Square. It's a definite highlight and an essential stop for any traveler.
Pro tip: Consider a guided tour to fully grasp the historical importance and stories behind the buildings and the square itself.
The architecture is breathtaking, with the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop's Palace dominating the square. The vibrant energy here is infectious, whether it's the local vendors selling traditional Peruvian crafts, the captivating street performances, or the constant buzz of both locals and tourists.
This place isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a journey through time. The stories held within these walls resonate with the heritage of Peru. Visiting this square is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner holds a piece of the city's past.
Additionally, the square's central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Lima. You can easily access other attractions, restaurants, and shops from here.
However, as it's a bustling tourist spot, it can get quite crowded during peak hours. Regardless, the vibrant atmosphere and the historical significance outweigh the crowds.
A visit to Lima isn't complete without immersing yourself in the beauty and history of the Lima Main Square. It's a definite highlight and an essential stop for any traveler.
Pro tip: Consider a guided tour to fully grasp the historical importance and stories behind the buildings and the square itself.
The one place that every tourist and local Peruvians visit. It's huge, spacey, but subject to random closures (anyone knows where to look up when and why the square is scheduled to close?) The buildings surrounding the square is beautifully architected and historical. The main square is neighbour to a lot of museums and churches that everyone ought to visit at least once in their lifetime. The square itself is free to visit, but the museums near by all are paid for entry.
Expect some to sell tourist packages or shoe cleaning services.
Expect some to sell tourist packages or shoe cleaning services.
Basílica y Convento de Nuestra señora de la Merced de Lima, de una imponente arquitectura con fachada barroca peruana que data de 1535.Ha sufrido algunas restauraciones debido a los terremotos. En el interior encontramos grandes retablos y altares de madera tallada con imágenes de importante valor patrimonial.
If you get a chance to visit Lima, make certain you get to the main square area. Filled with incredible architecture and cultural experiences. Statues of life from different areas, museums, and the palace are essential. Take in the local cuisine and tour the chocolate museum too.
La fachada es una obra de arte y por dentro es muy bonito.
It's a pleasant square/plaza, with many colonial historic buildings around it, including the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace of Lima, the Government Palace, the Municipal Palace and the ubiquitous Lima sign. I was lucky enough to arrive when it was closed momentarily, for presidential business and saw it empty. There's also a nice fountain in the centre and seating all through it.
Visited the main square on a short day trip in Lima and was surprised by how much we got to see and experience. It was a Sunday so the streets were busy with church ceremonies, and also a Latin American group was displaying cultural clothing.
The centre is busy, lively and we felt safe walking around. The couple of hours, although brief was an experience well worth it.
Do’s:
- plan your time if you are only going for a couple hours, the roads get busy so you don’t want to miss a flight / train.
- try going early in morning as you can take pictures with clearer streets, and church ceremonies seem to finish around 10- 11 am. So you might catch some celebrations.
The centre is busy, lively and we felt safe walking around. The couple of hours, although brief was an experience well worth it.
Do’s:
- plan your time if you are only going for a couple hours, the roads get busy so you don’t want to miss a flight / train.
- try going early in morning as you can take pictures with clearer streets, and church ceremonies seem to finish around 10- 11 am. So you might catch some celebrations.
Lovely large square with the impressive buildings to admire. It’s a shame that it’s still cordoned off with barriers so you can’t wander through the parks in the centre, instead being restricted to the perimeter, but fight to the front of the crowds and it’s still impressive. Plenty going on and to observe, with the services from the cathedral coming and going, and it’s a must visit for anyone’s first time in the city.
Had a wonderful experience here with our tour guide. It is an active spot with lots of tourists. Our guide explained the purposes of the buildings around the square, and we had interesting discussions with local Peruvians.
Beautiful cathedral in Lima. Free to enter and taking photos allowed inside.
Hermosa Iglesia colonial ubicada en el centro de Lima. Tiene una bellísima fachada y es parte del conjunto del Convento de la Merced, es decir de los religiosos mercedarios. Allí se ubicaba también el colegio primario y secundario hasta hace algunos años. Su nave interior invita al recogimiento y oración de los fieles católicos. Alberga en su interior los restos del famoso Padre Urraca, religioso mercedario al cual se le atribuyen muchos milagros. Los invito a visitar este hermoso monumento religioso.
Lima's Main Square, known as the Plaza de Armas, is the historical and cultural heart of the city, and it truly lives up to its reputation. Stepping into this magnificent square feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.
One of the standout features of the Plaza de Armas is its impressive Cathedral, a grand and imposing structure that dominates the square. The Cathedral is a marvel both inside and out, with its intricate facades and beautifully adorned interiors. It's worth taking a guided tour to learn about its rich history and see the priceless treasures it houses.
Surrounding the square, you'll find other historic buildings, including the Government Palace and the Archbishop's Palace. These structures are not only architecturally significant but also provide a glimpse into the political and religious history of Peru.
What truly makes the Plaza de Armas special, though, is the lively ambiance. The square is a gathering place for both locals and tourists, and it's common to see street performers, artisans, and vendors offering traditional snacks and crafts. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.
In the evenings, the Plaza de Armas comes alive with beautifully illuminated buildings, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the square offers an excellent opportunity for photography and capturing the essence of Lima.
One tip for visitors is to be cautious of your belongings, as the square can get crowded, attracting both tourists and opportunistic individuals. However, with reasonable precautions, you can thoroughly enjoy this iconic destination.
In summary, Lima's Main Square, the Plaza de Armas, is a must-visit attraction in the city. Its historical significance, stunning architecture, and lively ambiance make it a memorable and enriching experience for travelers. Don't miss the chance to explore this cultural gem at the heart of Lima.
One of the standout features of the Plaza de Armas is its impressive Cathedral, a grand and imposing structure that dominates the square. The Cathedral is a marvel both inside and out, with its intricate facades and beautifully adorned interiors. It's worth taking a guided tour to learn about its rich history and see the priceless treasures it houses.
Surrounding the square, you'll find other historic buildings, including the Government Palace and the Archbishop's Palace. These structures are not only architecturally significant but also provide a glimpse into the political and religious history of Peru.
What truly makes the Plaza de Armas special, though, is the lively ambiance. The square is a gathering place for both locals and tourists, and it's common to see street performers, artisans, and vendors offering traditional snacks and crafts. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.
In the evenings, the Plaza de Armas comes alive with beautifully illuminated buildings, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the square offers an excellent opportunity for photography and capturing the essence of Lima.
One tip for visitors is to be cautious of your belongings, as the square can get crowded, attracting both tourists and opportunistic individuals. However, with reasonable precautions, you can thoroughly enjoy this iconic destination.
In summary, Lima's Main Square, the Plaza de Armas, is a must-visit attraction in the city. Its historical significance, stunning architecture, and lively ambiance make it a memorable and enriching experience for travelers. Don't miss the chance to explore this cultural gem at the heart of Lima.
Beautiful. Love the attention to detail of the architecture. Reminds me a little of Europe. The chapel at the square had so much in it. Hard to take it all in
Definitely worth a visit. There are crypts with burials from the 16th century. Lots of art.
Bb
Exclente
Worth visiting. Surrounded by beautiful buildings. A nice place to take pictures. Has different of restaurants and coffee shops nearby. Many of chifa restaurants options. Lots of vultures flying around. Police are stationed around. Roads within the square are close to traffic
We were able to watch the changing of the guards in front of the Presidential Palace. Very neat to see!
Worth visiting. Beautiful architecture. Seems that the cathedral is no more used for worship unless for special occasions, and turned into a fulltime museum. Has a couple of crypts to visit. Here lies the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.The historic center of Lima can be a bit overwhelming due to the numbers of attractions to visit, and Lima Cathedral together with the San Francisco church and Sto. Domingo church are the ones you should not be missed - if you are a catholic and into church architecture and stuffs. Lots of vultures flying around
Stunning architecture. We were there on St. Peter and St. Paul's day on June 29. The street surrounding the square and the square itself was full of families having fun on this inpmrtant festival day.
Beautiful inside...be sure to go. I went on a Friday at 12:15 p.m. and there was nobody there but the doors were open.
This was definitely a highlight. The square has closed down the streets to walk through like a shopping centre. I would definitely recommend going at night time to see it lit up. It felt very safe as well as they have national and local police everywhere. There is also local guides that speak English to help you out if you need to get somewhere!
This is a must visit area when you get to Lima Peru. The colonial architecture is unique in its gender. There are also colossal churches that have decor back to colonial period.
Recommended to visit!
Ok
Ok
Templo para la oración, el reencuentro espiritual y para apreciar el arte y la religión. Cuenta con los retablos más imponentes que he visto. Quedé maravillado.
A very well kept Square with its beautiful historical buildings. Peru was occupied by Spanish for a good three hundreds years who built a lot of beautiful buildings in this desert area of Peru. Although the Spanish have gone a long time ago but Peruvian authorities have kept these buildings in tip top condition which draw a lot of locals as well as foreign tourists who bring in a lot of foreign exchange. 👍✌👌
Una plaza común, previa al ingreso del centro comercial. Algunos bancos para sentarse a ver el mar.. lindo, pero no mas que eso, destaco la limpieza.
La fachada es de estilo barroco churrigueresco limeño y en su parte central la imagen de la Virgen de las Mercedes aparece en una hornacina, alrededor de la cual se disponen otras.
Después del terremoto de 1746 la iglesia fue parcialmente restaurada; en esa época también se reconstruyó la notable portada, que adorna el frontis con sus columnas salomónicas, que es considerada como una reliquia histórica y artística de gran calidad estética. Fue fabricada en una calidad especial de granito original de Panamá, que traían como lastre, piedra usada como peso que se colocaba en el fondo del buque, para favorecer su equilibrio, los galeones que venían a cargar minerales en el Callao. Esta portada tan fina artísticamente tallada en tres cuerpos, se construyó utilizando piedras de color gris y rosadas, formando una combinación que no se encuentra en otros templos limeños.
Su única torre, iniciada en 1539, debía ser más alta pero fue rebajada a raíz del terremoto del 20 de octubre de 1687.
En el interior guarda retablos de diversos estilos, esculturas y pinturas consideradas joyas del arte virreinal. El altar mayor es menos recargado que los otros, completamente dorado al fuego. En la parte central destaca la efigie de Nuestra Señora de la Merced imagen que desde 1615 fue invocada como celestial protectora de la ciudad
Después del terremoto de 1746 la iglesia fue parcialmente restaurada; en esa época también se reconstruyó la notable portada, que adorna el frontis con sus columnas salomónicas, que es considerada como una reliquia histórica y artística de gran calidad estética. Fue fabricada en una calidad especial de granito original de Panamá, que traían como lastre, piedra usada como peso que se colocaba en el fondo del buque, para favorecer su equilibrio, los galeones que venían a cargar minerales en el Callao. Esta portada tan fina artísticamente tallada en tres cuerpos, se construyó utilizando piedras de color gris y rosadas, formando una combinación que no se encuentra en otros templos limeños.
Su única torre, iniciada en 1539, debía ser más alta pero fue rebajada a raíz del terremoto del 20 de octubre de 1687.
En el interior guarda retablos de diversos estilos, esculturas y pinturas consideradas joyas del arte virreinal. El altar mayor es menos recargado que los otros, completamente dorado al fuego. En la parte central destaca la efigie de Nuestra Señora de la Merced imagen que desde 1615 fue invocada como celestial protectora de la ciudad
Después de la iglesia de San Agustín, ésta es en mi opinión la más bella iglesia virreinal en Lima, por su fachada barroca tan ornamentada. Guarda en su interior varios altares cada uno más soberbio que el otro. Dentro de lo comercial y transitado que es el Jirón de la Unión, que bueno tener un espacio de calma, reposo y una oportunidad para los amantes del arte religioso peruano.
Muy recomendable.
Muy recomendable.
One of the oldest Cathedral in South America . The architecture , ornamentations are truly Colonial from the Virreinato del Peru since the 14th Century !
The center of Lima is often skipped by most tourist but this park is beautiful. It's not touristy at all and you can get there easily riding the "metro" which is not a train or subway. It's the only government operated bus line. Very easy just grab it to "estación central" and you are right there. We saw a few interesting birds including a huge group of green and yellow birds that looked like they should be in a jungle. There was also a great market that is promoting bio diversity and clean agriculture with added ancestral customs. You can buy directly from the grower and all stamped so you can take it to the US or Europe. We had a great time and felt very safe.
Very nice place and view. Most of the buildings are ancient.
A beautiful cathedral in the center of Lima. Recommend to get the double ticket that includes the museum next door. The cathedral itself is big, and the open area is way bigger than all the cathedral I have visited in Europe. Not just the main church, there are a lot of rooms displaying historical catholic religion items. Don’t miss the crypt downstairs. The door might be a bit small but there are plenty of space underneath.
It's a great place to find instruments of all kinds and parts. But it is a little dangerous and dirty. So you must be cautious around. If you go during day hours there shouldn't be any trouble.
This impressive cathedral was built between 1602 and 1797. It is dedicated to St John.
One of the major attractions in here are the remains of Francisco Pizarro, the conquerer of Peru. His bones are displayed openly in the side chapel when you come in on the right.
One of the major attractions in here are the remains of Francisco Pizarro, the conquerer of Peru. His bones are displayed openly in the side chapel when you come in on the right.
Nice place
Cathedral of Lima is the most beautiful cathedrals in Lima, and it’s just right in the corner of the main plaza of Lima. I enjoy the view of the cathedral itself as well as the view of the plaza when sitting in front of the cathedral. Buying the pan con chicharrón (pork sandwich) at El Chinito (right next to the cathedral) and sitting down in front of the cathedral to enjoy the food and view at the same time might be the best way to experience the atmosphere of the beautiful city. (Follow me on IG ➡️ miss_dawang)
Great, beautiful buildings, although hard to get an Uber there
Bonito parque junto al centro comercial Larcomar y frente al hermoso edificio del hotel Marriott, desde el parque tienes buena vista a diferentes lugares, puedes hacer buenas fotos y disfrutar de los diferentes espacios que tiene 🍃 los fines de semana es muy transitado ✨
I do not always like cathedrals but this one is cool. It has the remains of Francisco Pizarro along and it has a lot of really cool underground things you can walk and see. The admission price was ten Peruvian dollars. I spent about a good 40 minutes in there. Highly recommended!
We went close to closing time, but they weren't letting anyone in. There was also a lot of police presence in the area. I think some VIP was visiting, most likely.
The church looks pretty nice from the outside, but by then we had seen a lot of impressive churches in Cuzco, so wasn't as impressed.
The church is right by the plaza de armas. The plaza looked like a really nice area for people of Lima to congregate. Lot's of street vendors selling various toys and such. Looked like good times.
Next time I'm hoping to actually enter the church.
The church looks pretty nice from the outside, but by then we had seen a lot of impressive churches in Cuzco, so wasn't as impressed.
The church is right by the plaza de armas. The plaza looked like a really nice area for people of Lima to congregate. Lot's of street vendors selling various toys and such. Looked like good times.
Next time I'm hoping to actually enter the church.
One of the most beautiful monuments in Lima...Colosal...but you can't enjoy it.. too much traffic.. maybe Sundays.. Tourists don't usually go over there..
Monumental Roundabout Landmark, 19th century
It got a French-like (Haussmann style), music stores around.
The Bronze and Marble Monument is a Naval Nike made in France and the top Nike, by French sculptor Louis-Léon Cugnot.
In memory of the heroes and victory, of the naval bombardment on May 2, 1866, against Spanish forces.
It got a French-like (Haussmann style), music stores around.
The Bronze and Marble Monument is a Naval Nike made in France and the top Nike, by French sculptor Louis-Léon Cugnot.
In memory of the heroes and victory, of the naval bombardment on May 2, 1866, against Spanish forces.
You can find instruments. And it is grest if you are looking for a guitar. Used or new. There us a paint shop for them as well I was told.
This square is very busy, there are many people in its surroundings. Much commerce and also risks of being robbed, so be careful with your cell phone.
Es un bonito monumento sobre nuestro heroe. La zona alrededor es de primera. The place is a monument for Grau, Navy national heroe. The area shows the art school, Italian museum, Army museum and the Justice Palace, there is also a small boulevard in the name of Christofer Columbus.
I really like the structure only issue that I have is parking, also drivers don't really respect people so you always have to watch out for drivers when crossing streets, THEY WONT STOP
As with all of the plazas and parks, this one is situated in the middle of a high traffic area. While it's a good use of the land, but because it is in the center of a high traffic area, it's not exactly a tranquil area. So, ultimately it is not worth visiting unless you find yourself walking around and happen to be in the area.
Ok
The square was inaugurated on October 28, 1946, during the government of President José Luis Bustamante y Rivero. Towards the Paseo Colón a tribune was set up for the guests (officials, diplomats, etc.) who were received by a special commission chaired by Captain Arturo Jiménez Pacheco.
It is named in honor of the maximum Peruvian hero, Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario, who during the Pacific War was commander of Monitor Huáscar and participated in several battles against the Chilean Navy, dying in the combat of Angamos.
It is an important square that you will see when you are reaching the center of Lima. I suggest that you only pass by car as there is a lot of traffic in the area and it is difficult to take photos. Admiral Miguel Grau is very important to the history of Peru.
It is named in honor of the maximum Peruvian hero, Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario, who during the Pacific War was commander of Monitor Huáscar and participated in several battles against the Chilean Navy, dying in the combat of Angamos.
It is an important square that you will see when you are reaching the center of Lima. I suggest that you only pass by car as there is a lot of traffic in the area and it is difficult to take photos. Admiral Miguel Grau is very important to the history of Peru.
Beautiful small square where you can get a roasted guinea pig in Lima
It is my favorite plaza because of its old vide. I love the aged blue buildings.
It's very traditional and it has a beautiful buildings.
Execr
Bellisimo
This plaza is full of history. The church and nearby San Franciscan monastery were built in the 1600's. The residence of the Peruvian president is adjacent to the plaza. There are many things to see and do.
linda
As well as Parque Alfredo Salazar being named after him, this monument was erected there to honour the memory of the Peruvian aviator and celebrated national hero, Alfredo Salazar. Designed by the Hungarian sculptor, Lajos D'Ebneth, it's a 3 meters high stylized head of a condor, alert and ready, and made in travertine pink marble, atop a base of natural rocks. The marble was obtained from the central mountain range of Peru and was chosen because of its unalterable qualities to the conditions of the marine air, the sun and the heat.
In 1937 Alfredo Salazar managed to crash his damaged plane in an unpopulated area of Miraflores. His plane's entire fuselage burst into flames and the plane was falling rapidly and heading towards Miraflores. He commanded his co-pilot, Carlos Fajardo, to parachute out of the plan but rather than he himself abandoning the plane and parachuting to safety, which would have likely killed many people on impact, he remained in the plane and with great skill managed to keep the disintegrating plane under control and crash landed it in an unpopulated area just outside town, sacrificing his life in doing so.
In 1937 Alfredo Salazar managed to crash his damaged plane in an unpopulated area of Miraflores. His plane's entire fuselage burst into flames and the plane was falling rapidly and heading towards Miraflores. He commanded his co-pilot, Carlos Fajardo, to parachute out of the plan but rather than he himself abandoning the plane and parachuting to safety, which would have likely killed many people on impact, he remained in the plane and with great skill managed to keep the disintegrating plane under control and crash landed it in an unpopulated area just outside town, sacrificing his life in doing so.
Beautiful
A well known Plaza here in Lima downtown. Street food vendors will be found selling peruvian delicacy. Better careful when visiting, specially at night.
Great barroque church.
Looking for musical instruments to our orchestra. Very good. Plenty musical issues stores all about for Symphonic, band, drums, and Peruvian folkloric instruments.
Must go.
Must go.
The plaza is very long and big. Many beautiful buildings here maybe the Peru government hall among them.
Incredible