Historic Center And Catacombs

Whether we pick you up from your hotel in Lima (optional) or meet at the starting point at the Hotel Gran Bolivar, this exceptional walking tour is designed to let you explore the historic center of Lima with an expert tour guide.

The Lima walking tour begins at Plaza San Martin, a stunning square recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. The central monument honors Don Jose de San Martin, the liberator of Peru’s independence.

Inaugurated on July 27^th, 1921, this square is encircled by remarkable historic buildings like the National Club, the Gran Bolivar Hotel, Theatre Colon, and Giacoletti, the latter having been damaged by fire in 2018.

The tour proceeds along Jirón de la Unión, established in 1535 by the Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro. This street was bustling for years, frequented by high society, writers, and politicians in its cafes and restaurants. As you stroll, you'll admire commercial edifices, traditional wooden balconies, and churches.

The journey takes you to the Plaza de Armas, the historical heart of old Lima. Here stands the Government Palace, where the Peruvian president resides. The Cathedral of Lima commenced construction in 1535 and concluded in 1649, boasting a magnificent Renaissance and neoclassical façade.

You'll also witness significant structures such as the City Hall, the De la Unión Club, the Sagrario Church, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the wooden balconies surrounding the breathtaking Plaza de Armas. Capture stunning photographs of this historical site for lasting memories.

During this walking tour of Lima, you'll get to savor a delightful traditional Peruvian treat known as Churros, which are fried dough sticks filled with dulce de leche or manjarblanco.

Next, you'll visit the Church of San Francisco to delve into the Convent of San Francisco and the catacombs. These underground tunnels are the largest and best-preserved in South America. This intriguing site served as the city’s main cemetery until 1810, where you'll observe vast pits containing the skeletal remains of over 25,000 individuals.

Many historic buildings have undergone various renovations due to damage from powerful earthquakes in Peru's capital.

The tour concludes at this point, though the sequence of visits may vary based on the tour's start time. Transportation back to your hotel is available (optional).