Centro Histórico★★★
★★★ Centro Histórico (UNESCO World Heritage)
Lima's old town is a colonial jewel reflecting the splendor of the former Viceroyalty. From the 16th to the 18th century, Lima was the richest city in South America and the seat of the Viceroy of Peru, who ruled over a territory from Colombia to Patagonia. The magnificent churches, palaces, and squares from this era are remarkably well-preserved.
★★★ Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)
The heart of Lima since its founding by Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Framed by the Cathedral (1625, with Pizarro's tomb), the Archbishop's Palace with its Moorish wooden balconies, the Government Palace (changing of the guard daily at 12 PM!), and the City Hall. The bronze fountain in the center dates back to 1651.
★★★ Monastery of San Francisco (Convento de San Francisco)
The most impressive monastery in Lima with a spectacular library (25,000 ancient books), blue-and-white tiles from Seville, and a cloister that ranks among the most beautiful colonial buildings in South America. The absolute highlight: the catacombs — underground passages with the bones of an estimated 70,000 people, artfully arranged in circular patterns.
Jr. Lampa con Ancash. Admission: 15 PEN. Daily 9:00–20:00. Only with guided tour (30 min, Spanish/English).
★★ Iglesia de Santo Domingo
The oldest church in Lima (1549) houses the relics of the three Peruvian saints: Santa Rosa de Lima (America's first saint), San Martín de Porres, and San Juan Macías. The cloister with its tile work is a quiet gem away from the tourist crowds.
★★ Casa de Aliaga
The oldest continuously inhabited house in the Americas — owned by the same family since 1535! Francisco Pizarro gifted the land to his lieutenant Jerónimo de Aliaga, and 17 generations later, the family still lives here. The interiors with colonial furniture and paintings are a journey through time.
Jr. de la Unión 224. By appointment only. 30 PEN.
★★ Chinatown (Barrio Chino)
Lima's Chinatown around Calle Capón is a reminder that Peru has the largest Chinese community in South America. Starting in 1849, hundreds of thousands of Chinese contract workers arrived — their descendants significantly shaped Peruvian cuisine. Here you'll find the best Chifas (Chinese-Peruvian restaurants).
