Plaza Dos de Mayo, Lima - Lima Cathedral🇵🇪
1 / 10

Plaza Dos de Mayo Lima

3.8
·19k reviews·Lima, Peru

A historic Lima plaza buzzing with musical instrument shops, retro treasures, and vibrant art galleries, all centered around a monument of national pr...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Plaza Dos de Mayo, Lima - Lima Cathedral🇵🇪

Plaza Dos de Mayo Lima

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Lima plaza buzzing with musical instrument shops, retro treasures, and vibrant art galleries, all centered around a monument of national pride.

3.8
(19k reviews)

"A vibrant historical square offering a blend of cultural significance and modern life."

Vertical photo
TIP

Be Street Smart 🚨

This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Explore the Galleries 🎨

Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monument to the Battle of Dos de Mayo

Monument to the Battle of Dos de Mayo

Center of the Plaza

A striking obelisk commemorating Peru's 1802 victory against Spain. A key historical landmark.

Musical Instrument Shops

Musical Instrument Shops

Surrounding streets

Discover a wide array of guitars, drums, and other instruments. Great for musicians and collectors alike.

Retro & Art Galleries

Retro & Art Galleries

Around the Plaza

Explore unique art exhibitions, retro video game stores, and collectible toy shops. A haven for enthusiasts.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Plaza

Plaza Dos de Mayo is a bustling hub in Lima's historic center. While vibrant, be mindful of your surroundings, especially during peak hours. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your environment. It's a great starting point for exploring nearby attractions.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Beyond the central monument, Plaza Dos de Mayo is known for its surrounding galleries and shops, particularly for musical instruments and retro items. Explore the side streets to uncover unique finds and local businesses.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, street vendors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⚠️ te dejo la ruta en Google Maps en mi Instagram! #casa #fernandini #delariva #museo #convento #santodomingo #ignaciomerino #pinacoteca #expo #planes #centro #lima #centrodelima
@pavlogger
138.6K likes • 1.6M views

Be Street Smart 🚨

This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Explore the Galleries 🎨

Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza. TikTokInstagram

Visité la tienda Que Tal Vicio! #videojuegosretro #consolas #consolasretro #otaku #otakuperu #weeb #lima #peru
@cemi_esqualo
30.1K likes • 514.1K views
🎸 ¿Estás por el Centro de Lima y buscas instrumentos de calidad? ¡VEN A HUAMAN MUSIC! 🥁🔥 Estamos a un paso de ti con 4 tiendas ubicadas alrededor de Plaza Dos de Mayo 🎯 ¡No hay excusa! Pasa, prueba, pregunta y llévate lo mejor. 📍Horario: Lunes a sábado, de 9:30 a.m. a 7:30 p.m. ¡Te esperamos con todo el power musical! 💥🎶 #HuamanMusic #CentroDeLima #InstrumentosMusicales #Guitarras #Baterías #v...
huamanmusicantigua
30 likes • 2.2K views

Instrument Hunter's Paradise 🎶

If you're a musician, you'll find great deals on instruments here. InstagramReddit

Free Art Exhibitions 🎨

Check out local galleries for free art shows and exhibitions. TikTok+1

No l@ llames! 👀 Mejor ven a la expo de Quinto Mural en @lima247artgallery 🫂 📍Plaza Dos de Mayo, 70 - Centro de Lima Arte de @mendizabal_jota 😼💛 #centrodelima #quintomural #galerialima247 #musica #feria #plazadosdemayo #reel #josejose
quintomural.peru
203 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Be Street Smart 🚨

This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Explore the Galleries 🎨

Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza. TikTokInstagram

Instrument Hunter's Paradise 🎶

If you're a musician, you'll find great deals on instruments here. InstagramReddit

Free Art Exhibitions 🎨

Check out local galleries for free art shows and exhibitions. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

3.8
(19k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Plaza Dos de Mayo is a vibrant historical square in Lima, praised for its unique shops, especially for musical instruments and retro items. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the lively atmosphere, though some caution is advised due to its busy nature and occasional dirtiness. It's a great spot for niche interests and exploring local culture.

"It was a wonderful experience where I could find a seven string. The only other place I could find a seven string was in Miraflores, but they charged much more than it’s worth; in the shop I stopped at, it was a honest price."

Sorin botezatu

"I love going here even know how I haven’t been to Peru before"

Heather Byelich

"Plaza Dos de Mayo is a vibrant historical square in the heart of Lima, offering a blend of cultural significance and modern life. Named after the Battle of Dos de Mayo, which was a key event in Peru’s fight for independence, the square is surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and a prominent obelisk at its center, commemorating the battle. The area is a lively hub with cafes, shops, and street vendors, attracting both locals and visitors. Its central location and historical importance make Plaza Dos de Mayo a perfect starting point to explore the rich history of Lima while enjoying the local atmosphere."

Pramod Indranarayan Dubey

What People Like

Great for musical instruments
Retro game shops
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be dirty
Requires caution

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plaza Dos de Mayo is located in the historic center of Lima. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps (like Uber or Cabify), or public buses that frequent the downtown area. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for exploring the historic center. TikTok

Parking in the historic center of Lima can be challenging. It's often easier to use public transport or ride-sharing services. If you do drive, look for paid parking lots in the vicinity, but be prepared for potential traffic. Reddit

Yes, Plaza Dos de Mayo is centrally located within Lima's historic center. It's within walking distance of many other key sites like the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima, making it a great spot to include in a walking tour. TikTok

Walking is highly recommended for exploring the historic center from Plaza Dos de Mayo. The streets are relatively compact, and you can discover many hidden gems on foot. Taxis and ride-sharing are also readily available. TikTok

Numerous bus routes serve the historic center of Lima, and many will pass near or stop at Plaza Dos de Mayo. It's advisable to use a local transit app or ask a local for the most current routes, as they can change. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Plaza Dos de Mayo itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, individual shops, galleries, and museums located around the plaza may have their own admission fees. TikTok+1

As a public square, Plaza Dos de Mayo is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and galleries have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening. TikTok

Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for most of the shops and smaller art galleries around Plaza Dos de Mayo. Some special exhibitions might require advance booking, so it's good to check their individual social media or websites. TikTokInstagram

Plaza Dos de Mayo frequently hosts various events, including art exhibitions, retro fairs, and street art tributes. It's best to check local event listings or the social media of galleries like Lima 247 Art Gallery for current happenings. TikTok+1

The retro video game store, 'Que Tal Vicio,' located in Plaza Dos de Mayo, typically does not charge an entrance fee. You can browse their collection of retro games and consoles freely. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Plaza Dos de Mayo features a central monument, surrounded by numerous shops selling musical instruments, retro video games, and art. You can also find art galleries and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Lima's historic center. TikTokInstagram+1

While Plaza Dos de Mayo is a lively area, it's important to be cautious. Like many busy urban centers, it can attract pickpockets. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid displaying expensive items. Reddit

The area is particularly known for its musical instrument stores, offering a wide selection for musicians. You'll also find shops specializing in retro video games, collectibles, and art galleries. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos at Plaza Dos de Mayo. The monument and the surrounding colonial architecture offer great photo opportunities. Some galleries might have restrictions on photography inside. TikTok

The plaza is named after the Battle of Dos de Mayo in 1866, a significant victory for Peru against Spanish forces during the Chincha Islands War. The monument in the center commemorates this event. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Plaza Dos de Mayo itself is more focused on shops and galleries, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors in the surrounding streets of Lima's historic center. Explore nearby blocks for diverse dining options. Reddit

You can find a variety of Peruvian cuisine, from traditional dishes to more contemporary options, in the restaurants near Plaza Dos de Mayo. Street food vendors also offer local snacks and quick bites. Reddit

Eating street food can be a great way to experience local flavors, but it's always wise to choose vendors that appear clean and popular. If you have a sensitive stomach, opt for established restaurants. Reddit

Many restaurants in Lima's historic center offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff directly, as traditional Peruvian cuisine often features meat and fish. Reddit

Popular local snacks might include anticuchos (grilled skewers), picarones (doughnuts), and various empanadas. Look for vendors with a steady stream of customers for the freshest options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The central monument offers a grand focal point. The surrounding colonial architecture, street art, and the vibrant activity of the plaza itself provide numerous photographic opportunities. TikTok

As with any busy public space, be mindful of your surroundings when using your camera. Keep it secure and avoid leaving it unattended. During daylight hours, it's generally safe. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in the public square. However, some private galleries or shops might have their own policies regarding interior photography. Always check signage or ask permission. TikTok

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for the monument and architecture. Midday can be harsh, but it's also when the plaza is most active, offering great street photography opportunities. TikTok

Yes, the area around Plaza Dos de Mayo is known for its street art, including murals. These make for vibrant and dynamic photographic subjects. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza Dos de Mayo can be an interesting stop for families, especially if your children are interested in retro video games or collectible toys. The shops around the plaza offer a fun browsing experience, and some exhibitions might appeal to younger audiences. TikTok+1 Keep in mind that the area is a busy urban center, so supervision is key. Consider visiting during daylight hours and focusing on specific shops or galleries that seem particularly engaging for children. The central monument can also be a point of interest for discussing Peruvian history in a simplified way. Reddit

🎵 Musicians and Music Lovers

For musicians, Plaza Dos de Mayo is practically a pilgrimage site. The concentration of musical instrument stores is unparalleled in Lima. Instagram You can find everything from beginner guitars to professional-grade equipment, often at competitive prices. Reddit Take your time to explore the different shops, try out instruments, and perhaps even find a unique souvenir. The knowledgeable staff can offer valuable advice, making it a rewarding experience for any music enthusiast. Instagram

🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find plenty to explore around Plaza Dos de Mayo. The area is home to various art galleries that often host free exhibitions showcasing local talent, street art, and retro-themed art. TikTokInstagram+1 Keep an eye out for events and temporary shows, as they offer a dynamic and evolving cultural experience. The blend of historical context and contemporary artistic expression makes this plaza a rich destination for cultural exploration. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Musical Heart of Lima

Plaza Dos de Mayo is renowned as a significant hub for musical instrument shops in Lima. Several stores, like Huaman Music, have multiple locations surrounding the plaza, offering an extensive selection of guitars, drums, keyboards, and accessories. Instagram Musicians and collectors often travel to this area specifically to find unique instruments or parts, sometimes at more competitive prices than other parts of the city. Reddit The sheer variety and concentration of music stores make it a must-visit for anyone interested in music, whether you're a professional or a hobbyist looking for a souvenir.

Beyond just sales, these shops contribute to the lively atmosphere of the plaza. You might hear impromptu jam sessions or see musicians testing out instruments. It’s a place where the passion for music is palpable. The accessibility of these stores, with many located just steps from the main plaza, makes it easy to browse and compare options. Instagram Remember to haggle respectfully if you feel the price is negotiable, as is common in some local markets. Reddit

When exploring the musical offerings, don't hesitate to ask the shop owners or staff for recommendations. They are often knowledgeable about different instrument types and brands, and can help you find exactly what you're looking for. This personal touch adds to the unique shopping experience at Plaza Dos de Mayo. Instagram

Retro Treasures and Artistic Expressions

The area surrounding Plaza Dos de Mayo is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of retro culture and art. You can find specialized shops dedicated to retro video games and consoles, offering a nostalgic trip back in time. TikTok These stores often import items from Japan, making them a prime spot for collectors seeking rare finds. The excitement of discovering classic games and consoles is a major draw for many visitors. TikTok

In addition to gaming, the plaza is a canvas for street art and contemporary exhibitions. Galleries like Lima 247 Art Gallery frequently host free exhibitions, paying homage to local artists and art movements. TikTokInstagram+1 These exhibitions can range from tributes to graffiti artists like 'Poet' to showcases of modern Peruvian art. The dynamic nature of these displays means there's often something new and exciting to see, making repeat visits worthwhile. TikTok

Exploring these galleries and shops offers a glimpse into Lima's vibrant subcultures and artistic community. It’s a chance to find unique souvenirs, connect with local artists, and experience a different side of the city beyond its historical monuments. TikTokInstagram The combination of retro nostalgia and modern art creates a unique and engaging environment around Plaza Dos de Mayo.

Historical Significance and Urban Vibe

Plaza Dos de Mayo is more than just a public space; it's a site steeped in Peruvian history. The plaza is named after the Battle of Dos de Mayo in 1866, a pivotal moment in Peru's struggle for independence where Peruvian forces successfully defended Callao against a Spanish fleet. Reddit The prominent obelisk at the center of the plaza stands as a testament to this victory, serving as a constant reminder of the nation's resilience. Reddit

Today, the plaza blends its historical importance with a lively urban atmosphere. It's a busy intersection where locals and tourists converge. The surrounding colonial-era buildings add to the charm, offering a picturesque backdrop for the daily hustle and bustle. Reddit While vibrant, visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings due to the area's popularity and potential for petty crime. Reddit

The plaza serves as a gateway to further exploration of Lima's historic center, with many other significant landmarks within walking distance. It’s a place where history meets contemporary life, offering a rich experience for those who visit. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2