Planning Your Trujillo Colonial City Tour

The historic center of Trujillo is easy to navigate on foot. Most of the mansions are located within a few blocks of each other. This makes a historical walking tour of Trujillo Plaza de Armas very efficient. You can see several sights in one morning.

Many mansions are now owned by banks or cultural groups. They are usually well-preserved and open to the public during business hours. Some offer guided tours in Spanish. You should check opening times at the front desk of each house. Here are some quick picks to help you plan:

• Best Overall: Casa Urquiaga
• Best for Architecture: Casa Iturregui
• Best Free Visit: Casa de la Emancipación
• Best for Families: Casa Ganoza Chopitea

Best colonial mansions to visit in Trujillo Peru

This list highlights the most impressive homes in the city center. Each site offers a unique look at colonial life. You will notice high ceilings and open courtyards designed for the warm climate. Please remember to respect the rules as some houses are still offices.

1. Name: Casa Urquiaga (Casa Calonge)
   Type: Mansion
   Why go: It houses many artifacts from the Republican era. You can see Simon Bolivar's gold desk here.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: Plaza de Armas.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Free (registration required).
   Tip: You must bring your passport or ID to enter.
2. Name: Casa Iturregui
   Type: Mansion
   Why go: Known as the most beautiful mansion in the city. It features neoclassic style and marble floors.
   Best for: Luxury lovers.
   Where: Jr. Pizarro 668.
   Time: 40 minutes.
   Cost: Small entry fee for non-members.
   Tip: This building now houses the Club Central social club.
3. Name: Casa de la Emancipación
   Type: Experience
   Why go: This is where the city's independence was planned. It has beautiful interiors and rotating art exhibits.
   Best for: Art lovers.
   Where: Jr. Pizarro 610.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: Check the back rooms for historical maps of the city.
4. Name: Casa Ganoza Chopitea
   Type: Sight
   Why go: It is famous for its ornate "mudejar" style front door. The yellow facade is highly photogenic.
   Best for: Photographers.
   Where: Jr. Independencia 630.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Often free to view the patio.
   Tip: Look for the two lions carved above the main entrance.
5. Name: Casa Bracamonte
   Type: Mansion
   Why go: It showcases a perfect blend of colonial and republican architecture. The large iron windows are iconic.
   Best for: Architecture students.
   Where: Jr. Independencia 441.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Usually free.
   Tip: Visit in the morning to see the sunlight hit the courtyard.
6. Name: Casa Risco (Museo de Arqueología)
   Type: Experience
   Why go: The house itself is a treasure with colorful murals. It hosts artifacts from the Moche and Chimu cultures.
   Best for: Archaeology fans.
   Where: Jr. Junin 682.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Moderate fee.
   Tip: Check out the UNESCO info on the nearby ruins first.
7. Name: Casa de Mayorazgo de Facalá
   Type: Sight
   Why go: It features a stunning blue facade and an old patio with a well. It represents the town's nobility perfectly.
   Best for: General tourists.
   Where: Jr. Pizarro 314.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: This site is very close to the main cathedral.
8. Name: Casa Aranda
   Type: Mansion
   Why go: It is one of the oldest standing mansions in Trujillo. You can see original wooden balconies here.
   Best for: History enthusiasts.
   Where: Corner of Jr. Bolivar and Jr. Gamarra.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: It is often less crowded than the Plaza de Armas houses.
9. Name: Casa Baanante
   Type: Sight
   Why go: Known for its intricate woodwork and local history. It offers a more quiet and intimate experience.
   Best for: Peaceful explorers.
   Where: Near Jr. Ayacucho.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: Ask the guard about the history of the families who lived there.

Experience More on Your Historical Walking Tour

While exploring these mansions, take time to see other top attractions near Trujillo as well. Many of these historic homes are only a short distance from the Cathedral of Trujillo. The colorful streets are perfect for a slow walk. You will find many cafes inside these old buildings. They serve excellent local coffee and sweets. Enjoying a snack in a colonial courtyard is a great experience.

For more travel ideas, visit the Peru Travel official site for current events. If you want to see even older history, look at the Chan Chan ruins guide Trujillo for your next day trip. Most mansions are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Always be polite to the staff. Some buildings are still active banks or private offices. Photography is usually allowed unless signs say otherwise.