Lima Walking Tour: Historic Center, Market & Monastery

Lima, PE
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (96 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Explore Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Martín, and Jirón de la Unión
  • inclusion
    Visit the vibrant Central Market and learn about Peru’s diverse food culture
  • inclusion
    Tour the San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs (entrance included)
  • inclusion
    Join a friendly, English-speaking local guide in Lima
  • inclusion
    Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks on a guided walking tour
  • inclusion
    Learn essential Spanish phrases to enrich your Peru travels
  • inclusion
    Ride the public bus from Miraflores to the Historic Center (ticket included)

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop off
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Main gate of the Cathedral of Lima in Plaza de Armas – dowtown. address: Jirón Carabaya) s/n Centro de Lima

Meeting point

Jirón Carabaya, Lima 15001 , Peru

End point

End Point

Plaza de Armas or Main Square of Lima

Meeting point

Lima 15594 , Peru

End point

What to expect

1

Lima Main Square

<nil>

This fun and dynamic tour of Lima is more than a history lesson, it connects you with the heart and soul of this fascinating Peruvian city, from the people that really know what it's like to live there – the locals. Ditch the history books, this Lima walking tour will give you everything you need to know! You'll meet your local guide at the main gate of the Virgen Milagrosa Church in Mitraflores, and start the tour by taking the local bus to dowtown, just as locals do. On the way, you'll learn a few words of Spanish, something that will come in handy for the rest of your Lima travel experience! Here you'll also get some insider info on the colonial times in Perú, before heading out on your adventure through the City of Kings. Our walk continue along part of the Jirón de la Union, a pedestrian avenue linking Plaza San Martin to Plaza de Armas. Along the way, your local guide will be pointing out the sights along this street, from the hidden gems to the Lima's classic must-sees.

Duration 100 minutes
2
Mercado Central

Next on this Lima city tour, you'll go to the colourfull the Central Market. With your local guide, you'll navigate your way through the various stalls, checking out the fresh produce and learning about the eating habits of the locals. From jungle, to coast, to 'altiplano', or high plains, Peru has a rich and diverse food culture, and you'll find examples of dishes from all over the country at the market, and learn about them from a local. Thought Peru didn't have much of a food scene? You can think again!

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
3

Jr. Lampa

Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima As you move ahead on this historical Lima tour you will visit the breath-taking Monasterio San Francisco, home to huge underground catacombs and a building so rich in history that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 1991. As you take in the views of the building and this square, your local guide will be filling you with knowledge about everything you see.

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima

<nil>

After all that learning, it's time to rest your body and give yourself a break, and the only way to do that in Lima is with a Pisco Sour in hand! Your local guide will take you to the place where this iconic drink is the best in town, or so they claim…This Lima tour will come to an end here, where you can continue your own exploration of the city, or your local guide will be able to point you in the direction of your accommodation. As a city so important to Peru's history and culture, it can be hard to know what to do in Lima to really tap into what it is to be a Limeño. With a local by your side on our Lima Discovery tour, you'll get to know the classic stories and local tales of this fascinating Peruvian city.

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Can I get help returning to my hotel after the tour? Absolutely. If you need a ride back, your guide will be happy to help you arrange a taxi to your hotel at the end of the tour.
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Is this tour child-friendly? Yes, children are welcome on this tour. Kids under 6 years old can join free of charge. Just let us know in advance if you’ll be bringing a little one so we can make sure everything’s set up for a smooth experience.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Why do we use public transportation on this tour? Lima is a bustling city with over 10 million residents, and traffic can be a real challenge. That’s why we take a public bus that runs on natural gas and uses a dedicated lane—saving time and reducing our environmental impact. It’s a smart, efficient, and eco-friendly way to explore the city, just like the locals do.
  • Additional information
    Will we try any local fruits during the tour? Yes! At Lima’s Central Market, you’ll have the chance to sample the best seasonal fruits—fresh from local producers. It’s a delicious way to experience Peru’s natural flavors and learn about regional produce from the people who grow it.
Provided by Intrepid Urban Adventures - Latin America

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try fresh fruit at the Central Market.
  • icon
    Ask your guide for local dining tips.
  • icon
    Check out nearby parks for a stroll.
  • icon
    Learn basic Spanish phrases on the bus.
  • icon
    Consider visiting nearby Plaza de Armas.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience Lima like never before with the captivating "Experience Lima like a local: Highlights Discovery Tour." This tour takes you on an immersive journey through the vibrant city of Lima, allowing you to delve into the heart and soul of Peruvian life. Say goodbye to the history books and hello to the authentic experiences that only a local guide can provide. From the colonial balconies to the bustling local market and the iconic San Francisco Convent and Catacombs, this tour introduces you to the rich biodiversity of Peru and its famous Pisco Sour.

What to expect?

During this 225-minute tour, you can expect to be enlightened, entertained, and enchanted by the hidden gems and must-sees of Lima. With a local guide by your side, you'll explore the city by taking the local bus, just like the locals do. Learn a few words of Spanish as you navigate through the different landmarks and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Peru. Taste the flavors of Peru at the Central Market, where you'll discover diverse dishes from the jungle, coast, and high plains. Marvel at the breathtaking Monasterio San Francisco and its underground catacombs. Lastly, treat yourself to a refreshing Pisco Sour, the national drink of Peru, in the best local bar in town.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for adventurous travelers who want to experience Lima like a true local. Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into Peru's fascinating past, a food lover looking to sample the diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine, or a curious soul seeking authentic cultural experiences, this tour has something for everyone. The tour is open to all ages and is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to explore the real essence of Lima.

Why book this?

Unlock the secrets of Lima with this tour that goes beyond the typical tourist spots. By choosing the "Experience Lima like a local: Highlights Discovery Tour," you'll gain access to insider knowledge and local tips that can't be found in guidebooks. Your experienced local guide will share fascinating stories and anecdotes, giving you a deeper understanding of the city's hidden treasures. Whether it's riding the local bus or sipping an authentic Pisco Sour, this tour offers an immersive and authentic experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Lima.

Good to know

It is important to note that this tour has a duration of 225 minutes and includes various steps, such as meeting at the Virgen Milagrosa Church, visiting the Central Market, exploring the San Francisco Convent, and ending at a local bar in Plaza de Armas or the Main Square of Lima. The tour is inclusive of several activities and amenities, but be sure to bring some extra cash for personal expenses and any additional purchases you may wish to make during the tour.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the "Experience Lima like a local: Highlights Discovery Tour" have raved about the immersive and engaging experience it offers. They praise the knowledgeable and friendly local guides who provide fascinating insights and share personal stories, making the tour both educational and entertaining. Many visitors especially love the visit to the Central Market, where they have the opportunity to discover Peru's diverse food culture firsthand. Overall, participants have expressed their satisfaction and appreciation for this tour, stating that it truly allows them to discover Lima like a local.

Select Currency