Top modern and religious art museums in Trujillo center

The heart of Trujillo is packed with colonial mansions and sacred spaces. Many of these buildings now house private and public art collections. You can spend an entire day hopping between galleries in the downtown area. Most sites are within walking distance of the central Plaza de Armas. Here are our top picks for art and history lovers.

1. Name: Museo Catedralicio de Trujillo
   Type: Religious Art Museum
   Why go: It houses one of Peru's finest collections of Viceregal art and colonial oil paintings.
   Best for: History buffs and fans of sacred art.
   Where: Corner of Plaza de Armas.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Approx. 10 PEN.
   Getting there: Walk to the main cathedral in the city center.
   Tip: Look for the impressive silver-plated altars and religious relics.
2. Name: Museo de Arte Moderno Gerardo Chávez
   Type: Modern Art Museum
   Why go: This is arguably the premier modern art space in northern Peru, founded by a famous local artist.
   Best for: Contemporary art lovers and creative minds.
   Where: Near the Laredo exit (short taxi from center).
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 15-20 PEN.
   Getting there: Take a 10-minute taxi from the city center.
   Tip: Visit the University National of Trujillo website for temporary exhibition updates.
3. Name: Museo del Juguete
   Type: Unique Contemporary Experience
   Why go: This quirky museum shows how modern childhood and design have evolved over centuries through toys.
   Best for: Families and fans of nostalgic pop-culture.
   Where: Jiron Independencia in the city center.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Approx. 5 PEN.
   Getting there: Walking distance from most central hotels.
   Tip: Check out the pre-Columbian clay toys on the first floor.
4. Name: Museo de Arqueología de Trujillo
   Type: Indoor Museum
   Why go: Essential for understanding the artistic styles of the Moche and Chimú cultures.
   Best for: Serious history students and culture seekers.
   Where: Casa Risco on Jiron Junin.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 10 PEN.
   Getting there: Two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.
   Tip: Follow our guide to the Museo de Arqueologia de Trujillo to not miss the hidden murals.
5. Name: Monasterio de Santa Clara
   Type: Religious Art Sight
   Why go: This colonial monastery features rare high-altar pieces and intricate gold leaf work and sculpture.
   Best for: Architecture lovers and religious pilgrims.
   Where: Jiron Independencia.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Variable (donations welcome).
   Getting there: Easily reached by foot in the historic core.
   Tip: Visit during early morning masses to see the interior in natural light.
6. Name: Plaza de Armas de Trujillo
   Type: Iconic Sight
   Why go: It is the focal point of the city's religious and civic architecture.
   Best for: Everyone and photography enthusiasts.
   Where: The exact center of the city.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: All city center roads lead here.
   Tip: Sit on a bench at dusk to see the monuments illuminated.
7. Name: Mercado Central de Trujillo
   Type: Local Experience
   Why go: It offers an informal look at local crafts and the "art" of Peruvian food culture.
   Best for: Foodies and budget travelers.
   Where: Corner of Gamarra and Ayacucho.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free to enter.
   Getting there: Walk three blocks south of the main square.
   Tip: Try the local "alfajores" or "shambar" soup if visiting on a Monday.
8. Name: Chan Chan Site Museum
   Type: Archaeological Day Trip
   Why go: It contextualizes the massive mud-brick city with artistic pottery and textiles.
   Best for: Adventure seekers.
   Where: 5km west of the city.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: 10 PEN (multi-site ticket).
   Getting there: Use our Chan Chan ruins guide Trujillo for transport tips.
   Tip: Bring plenty of water and a wide-brimmed hat for the desert sun.
9. Name: Huaca del Sol y de la Luna
   Type: Archaeological Sight
   Why go: Features some of the best-preserved pre-Inca murals and religious paintings in the world.
   Best for: Photography and anthropology fans.
   Where: 15 minutes south of the center.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 10 PEN.
   Getting there: Take a local "combi" bus or taxi.
   Tip: The on-site museum is modern and very well-organized.

Planning your visit to Trujillo museums

Museums in Trujillo generally follow standard Peruvian schedules. Most open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Many smaller sites close for a two-hour lunch break around noon. You should check the Peru Travel website for seasonal changes. Always carry small change in soles for entrance fees.

Walking is the best way to see the city center. The grid layout makes it very easy to find your way. Safety is generally good in the historic district during daylight. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like the market. Most museum staff speak Spanish, so a few basic phrases will help.