Quick Picks for Visiting Plaza de Armas

Planning a trip to the historic center can feel overwhelming. There are many sights packed into a small area. We have narrowed down the best options for your visit. Use these quick picks to prioritize your limited time.

• Best Overall: The Cathedral of Lima
• Best for Families: Changing of the Guard at Government Palace
• Best Rainy Day: Archbishop's Palace Museum
• Best Free Activity: Walking the Portals (Yellow Arches)

If you are staying in the modern districts, you can easily reach the center. Many tourists choose to join a walking tour in Lima for expert context. This helps you understand the complex history of each site. Always check the weather before you head out for the day.

Most Important Historic Buildings in Plaza de Armas Lima

These nine buildings represent the political and spiritual heart of Peru. Each one features unique colonial or neoclassical architecture. You can see most of them from the center of the square. Be sure to carry your camera for the stunning yellow facades.

1. Name: Cathedral of Lima
   Type: Sight
   Why go: It houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro. The interior features stunning wood-carved choir stalls.
   Best for: Religious history fans.
   Where: East side of the Plaza.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Approxly $10 USD.
   Getting there: Walk from the square center.
   Tip: Visit the museum of religious art inside.
2. Name: Government Palace
   Type: Sight
   Why go: This is the official home of the President. It sits on the site of Pizarro's original palace.
   Best for: Watching the Changing of the Guard.
   Where: North side of the Plaza.
   Time: 45 minutes for the ceremony.
   Cost: Free to view from outside.
   Getting there: North end of the main square.
   Tip: The guard change typically starts at 11:45 AM daily.
3. Name: Archbishop's Palace
   Type: Sight
   Why go: It features the most beautiful carved wooden balconies in Lima. The facade is a masterpiece of neo-colonial style.
   Best for: Architecture lovers.
   Where: Next to the Cathedral.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Shared ticket with the Cathedral.
   Getting there: Right next to the Cathedral.
   Tip: Look closely at the intricate cedar wood carvings on the balconies.
4. Name: Municipal Palace (Town Hall)
   Type: Sight
   Why go: The bright yellow facade with arched portals is iconic. It serves as the mayor's office today.
   Best for: Photos of the square.
   Where: West side of the Plaza.
   Time: 15 minutes (exterior).
   Cost: Free (exterior).
   Getting there: Walk across the square.
   Tip: Visit the library inside if you can find an open tour.
5. Name: Club de la Unión
   Type: Sight
   Why go: This historic social club has a very grand balcony. It blends in perfectly with the yellow colonial style.
   Best for: Seeing urban social history.
   Where: On the corner near Portal de Escribanos.
   Time: 10 minutes (exterior).
   Cost: Private club (view from outside).
   Getting there: Southwest corner of the square.
   Tip: Look for the crest on the building front.
6. Name: Basílica y Convento de San Francisco
   Type: Experience
   Why go: Famous for its massive catacombs beneath the church. It is a short walk from the main square.
   Best for: Unique underground exploration.
   Where: Two blocks from the Plaza.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Approxly $7 USD.
   Getting there: Walk down Ancash street.
   Tip: No photos are allowed inside the catacombs.
7. Name: Portal de Escribanos
   Type: Sight
   Why go: These yellow arched walkways provided shade for scribes in the past. Today they house shops and cafes.
   Best for: Feeling the colonial atmosphere.
   Where: South side of the square.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Perimeter of the Plaza.
   Tip: A good place to find local souvenirs or a snack.
8. Name: Church of El Sagrario
   Type: Sight
   Why go: One of the oldest churches in the city. It is often missed as it is between the Cathedral and the Palace.
   Best for: Quiet reflection.
   Where: Between Cathedral and Archbishop's Palace.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Small donation suggested.
   Getting there: East side of square.
   Tip: Note the intricate silver work on the altar.
9. Name: Casa de Aliaga
   Type: Experience
   Why go: It is the oldest colonial house in the Americas. The same family has lived there for 17 generations.
   Best for: Interior colonial decor.
   Where: One block behind the Government Palace.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Entry by tour only, about $15 USD.
   Getting there: Walk north past the Palace.
   Tip: You must book this tour in advance.

Essential Tips for Your Walking Tour

Exploring the city of Lima requires some planning. The historic center is busy and crowded during the week. Try to visit early in the morning for better photos. Most people spend about three to four hours in this specific area. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven stone paths. Most of the most important historic buildings in Plaza de Armas Lima are close together.

While the center is safe during the day, stay alert. Keep your bag in front of you in crowded areas. After visiting the Plaza, you might want to look for other attractions near Lima. There are many museums within a 15-minute taxi ride. Always agree on a taxi price before you start the trip. This prevents confusion at your destination.