Lima Historic Center Travel Guide
Lima
Visit Lima Historic Center
Popular places to visit
Plaza de Armas de Lima
Visit the birthplace of Lima. It has an antique fountain at its center surrounded by a majestic cathedral, a palace and colonial buildings.
Plaza San Martin
Visit one of the most important parts of the city with a poignant statue of Peru’s liberator surrounded by elegant buildings.
Jiron de La Union
Wander down one of the city’s most historic boulevards to get a sense of the local culture and see the churches and plazas that surround it.
Church and Convent of San Francisco
Visit this 17th-century monastery complex with a temple and an eerie underground cemetery. It is also home to a convent, an illustrious library and two churches, in Lima’s historic center.
Government Palace
This was Lima’s first official palace when the city went under Spanish rule. Now, it holds government meetings and is home to the country’s president.
Basilica Cathedral of Lima
The twin towers of this 16th-century basilica are a constant presence in the backdrop of views from anywhere in the city center.
Things to do
From Lima: Day trip to Paracas, Ica and Oasis Huacachina
Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Lima Miraflores
Lima Half-Day City Walking Tour (Small Groups)
Visit the Sea Lions in Palomino Islands, in Lima Peru
Lima City Tour: Historic Center, Love Park & Catacombs
Top hotels in Lima Historic Center
Hotel Diamond Lima
"Breakfast was great, egg order on demand, fresh fruit juice."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
GRAN HOTEL BOLIVAR
"If you want to experience a bit of the history of Lima, there is no better place to stay. The hotel is beautiful and you feel like you’re stepping back in time being there. I imagined all the people who stayed there over the past 100 yrs. Since it is historic, be prepared for some cracks and creaks ..."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Wyndham Costa Del Sol Lima Airport
Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport
"We found the room to tastefully decorated and supplied with towels and washcloths ( which was welcomed) and coffee and tea. One doesn’t usually get teabags. Breakfast buffet was awesome. Enjoyed emmensely."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Holiday Inn Lima Airport by IHG
"All the staff were very welcoming and friendly. The hotel seemed very well maintained and secure. The breakfast was plentiful and delicious. The breakfast staff were particularly gracious. Overall a very pleasant stay."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Holiday Inn Lima Miraflores by IHG
"M"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Lima Historic Center
Cercado de Lima
Unique features of Cercado de Lima include the shopping and historical sites. Make a stop by Plaza San Martin or Jiron de La Union while you're exploring the area.
Jesus Maria
You'll enjoy the live music and monuments in Jesus Maria. You might want to make time for a stop at Real Plaza Salaverry or Peruvian Japanese Cultural Center.
Lince
Travellers enjoy Lince for its restaurants and shopping. Consider checking out Risso Commercial Center while you're in the area.
Pueblo Libre
Pueblo Libre is noteworthy for its museums, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Larco Herrera Museum and National Museum of the Archaeology Anthropology and History of Peru.
San Isidro Centro Financiero
San Isidro Centro Financiero is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Camino Real Mall and Avenue Los Conquistadores while in the area.
San Isidro
San Isidro is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Camino Real Mall and Lima Golf Club while in the area.
