Travel Guide
Historic Centre & Plaza Mayor
Everything you need to know — hours, tickets, tips, and how to make the most of your visit.
Overview
About Historic Centre & Plaza Mayor
Lima's UNESCO-listed colonial core, centred on Plaza Mayor and the 16th-century Cathedral of Lima, with balconied colonial buildings and the Monastery of San Francisco, known for its catacombs and ossuary.
Lima
Insider Knowledge
Travel Tips
The Changing of the Guard at the Government Palace runs around midday - check the current schedule.
Lima Cathedral, on the plaza, offers paid tours covering its crypts and art.
The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - plan time to also see nearby San Francisco Monastery.
Central Lima is generally safe by day in tourist areas, but stay alert, especially after dark.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it's a free public square.
Opening Hours
Plaza MayorAlways open, public square
Lima CathedralMonday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (hours vary Saturday/Sunday)
Government Palace guard change typically happens around midday - verify the current time.
Ticket Prices
Plaza entryFree
Lima CathedralApprox. PEN 30
Combined tickets for several historic centre sites may offer savings.
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limaHistoric Centre & Plaza Mayor
Lima's UNESCO-listed colonial core, centred on Plaza Mayor and the 16th-century Cathedral of Lima, with balconied colonial buildings and the Monastery of San Francisco, known for its catacombs and ossuary.
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limaHuaca Pucllana
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A private museum in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion holding one of the world's largest collections of pre-Columbian art, including an extensive gallery of ancient erotic pottery, set within landscaped gardens.
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A clifftop park path running along the Pacific coastline through the upscale Miraflores district, popular for paragliding launches and offering some of Lima's best sunset views.
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