Plaza Mayor de Lima
Lima's historic heart, a grand colonial plaza surrounded by stunning architecture and rich history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Plaza Mayor de Lima
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lima's historic heart, a grand colonial plaza surrounded by stunning architecture and rich history.
"A must-visit for its breathtaking colonial architecture and vibrant historical atmosphere."
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Center
Explore the surrounding streets for more colonial architecture and hidden gems.
⏰ Catch the Changing of the Guard
Witness this daily ceremony at the Government Palace for a glimpse of tradition.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cathedral of Lima
North side of Plaza Mayor
A stunning example of colonial architecture, housing historical artifacts and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.

Government Palace
West side of Plaza Mayor
The official residence of the President of Peru, known for its impressive facade and daily changing of the guard.

Archbishop's Palace
East side of Plaza Mayor
Admire its intricate wooden balconies, a quintessential feature of Lima's colonial mansions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Lima's Historic Heart
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Center
Explore the surrounding streets for more colonial architecture and hidden gems.
⏰ Catch the Changing of the Guard
Witness this daily ceremony at the Government Palace for a glimpse of tradition.
💳 Metropolitano Card Needed
If using public transport, ensure you have a Metropolitano card for fares.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Several restaurants offer views of the plaza, perfect for a meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Center
Explore the surrounding streets for more colonial architecture and hidden gems.
⏰ Catch the Changing of the Guard
Witness this daily ceremony at the Government Palace for a glimpse of tradition.
💳 Metropolitano Card Needed
If using public transport, ensure you have a Metropolitano card for fares.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Several restaurants offer views of the plaza, perfect for a meal.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The intricate details of the buildings are a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plaza Mayor de Lima for its stunning colonial architecture and historical significance, often describing it as the heart of the city. The surrounding buildings, like the Cathedral and Government Palace, are frequently highlighted as must-sees. Some find the area can get crowded, and navigating public transport requires a bit of planning.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Miraflores, you can take the Metropolitano bus system. The closest station to Plaza Mayor is Avenida Emancipación, from which it's a short walk. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps and taxis are readily available.
Some travelers also recommend the Mirabus panoramic tour for a scenic route.Yes, the 28 de Julio station is operational. You will need a Metropolitano re-charge card to use the service. If it's not accessible, you can walk a few blocks north to Benavides station.
The Metropolitano public transport system is a good alternative. Ensure you have a re-chargeable card. Moovit app can also help you plan your route.
Absolutely! The historic center is very walkable. If you're exploring areas like the San Francisco Convent, it's a pleasant stroll to Plaza Mayor.
Parking in the historic center can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Mayor itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, some surrounding attractions like the Cathedral or the Catacombs of San Francisco may have separate admission fees.
Plaza Mayor is accessible 24/7 as it's a public space. However, the surrounding buildings and attractions have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon.
Yes, numerous guided tours are available that cover Plaza Mayor and the surrounding historic center. These tours offer valuable historical insights.
Entry to the grounds of the Government Palace is generally free, but access to certain areas might require booking in advance or joining a guided tour.
The Cathedral of Lima is open to visitors, usually with a small entrance fee. It's recommended to check their official website for current hours and fees.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire plaza offers great photo opportunities. Focus on the Cathedral, Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, and the central fountain. The surrounding streets with colonial balconies are also highly photogenic.
Photography rules can vary inside the Cathedral. Often, flash photography is prohibited, and in some areas, photography might be restricted altogether. It's best to check signage or ask staff.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the architecture. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas, especially around historical sites and government buildings. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the plaza and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the buildings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Plaza Mayor is brimming with dining options, from traditional criolla cuisine to international fare. Many restaurants offer views of the plaza.
Look for dishes like Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, Ceviche, and Anticuchos. Many restaurants in the historic center specialize in authentic Peruvian cuisine.
While there are upscale restaurants, you can also find more budget-friendly options like 'menu del dia' (set lunch menus) in smaller eateries and markets in the historic center.
Yes, numerous cafes are scattered throughout the historic center, offering coffee and light snacks. Some offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching.
Restaurant Lima 141 is located directly across from the plaza and offers traditional Peruvian flavors.
Other establishments also provide plaza views.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, opt for mornings to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. Pack snacks and water, as options within the immediate plaza might be limited or pricier. Exploring the surrounding streets can also lead to discoveries like street performers or interesting statues that capture children's attention. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially in crowded areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some attractions like the Cathedral have a small fee, many of the historical buildings can be admired from the outside. Consider joining free walking tours (though tipping is expected) or focusing on exploring the architecture and atmosphere of the plaza and its surrounding streets, which costs nothing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through Lima's Colonial Past
Key landmarks include the Cathedral of Lima, a magnificent structure that houses the tomb of Pizarro, and the Government Palace, the official residence of the President of Peru. Don't miss the Archbishop's Palace, renowned for its intricate wooden balconies, a distinctive feature of Lima's colonial architecture. Many visitors find that taking a guided tour significantly enhances their understanding and appreciation of the historical significance of these sites.
Beyond the main buildings, the plaza itself is a lively space, often filled with locals and tourists alike. The central fountain is a popular spot for photos. Exploring the adjacent streets reveals more of the city's charm, with hidden courtyards and traditional shops. For a comprehensive experience, consider combining your visit to Plaza Mayor with nearby attractions like the Convento de San Francisco, famous for its catacombs.
Getting Around Lima's Historic Center
Ride-sharing apps and taxis are also abundant and convenient, offering door-to-door service. However, be mindful of potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. For a more scenic and informative journey, the Mirabus panoramic tour provides a guided route through various parts of Lima, including the historic center.
Walking is highly recommended once you are in the vicinity of Plaza Mayor. The historic center is compact and best explored on foot, allowing you to discover its architectural details and hidden gems at your own pace. Many visitors find that combining a short public transport ride with a walk is the most efficient and enjoyable way to experience the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit