Historic Center of Lima Tour with Private Transportation and Guide
About
The Historic Center of Lima Tour with Private Transportation and Guide invites you to explore the cultural and architectural heart of Peru’s capital, where colonial history and contemporary life meet in a unique urban landscape. This carefully designed experience combines history, culture, and comfort with private transportation and a professional guide throughout the journey.
During the Historic Center of Lima Tour with Private Transportation and Guide, you will walk through centuries of history while discovering emblematic squares, historic streets, and iconic monuments that shaped the city since its foundation in 1535. Your guide will provide detailed explanations, historical context, and engaging stories at each stop along the route.
Lima’s Historic Center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional collection of colonial buildings, grand plazas, and historic landmarks that represent more than four centuries of Peruvian heritage. This tour allows visitors to appreciate its cultural value while comfortably moving between key locations with private transportation. Learn more about its importance at UNESCO.
This private tour is ideal for travelers looking for flexibility, personalized attention, and a knowledgeable guide who adapts the pace of the visit to your interests. If you would like to explore other experiences in the city, visit our Lima tours section.
San Martín Square
The tour begins at San Martín Square, one of Lima’s most important public spaces. The square honors General José de San Martín, a key figure in Peru’s independence. At its center stands his monumental equestrian statue, symbolizing freedom and national identity.
Surrounded by elegant neocolonial buildings, including the historic Gran Hotel Bolívar, the square serves as a cultural and social landmark in the city. Here, your guide will explain its historical relevance and its role in Lima’s civic life over time.
Jirón de la Unión
From San Martín Square, we will walk along Jirón de la Unión , a historic pedestrian street that connects to Lima’s Main Square. In the past, it was the most prestigious avenue in the city, frequented by Lima’s elite.
Today, Jirón de la Unión blends colonial architecture with modern commerce, traditional cafés, and vibrant street life. During the walk, your guide will highlight historic balconies, façades, and architectural details that tell the story of Lima’s transformation through time.
Peru's Main Square
The next stop is the Plaza Mayor of Lima, also known as the Plaza de Armas, considered the historical and cultural heart of the city. From here, Lima’s political and social life has been organized since its foundation.
The square is surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Government Palace, the Lima Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace of Lima. At its center stands a 17th-century bronze fountain, which adds a monumental and symbolic character to the architectural ensemble.
This space continues to be a meeting point for both locals and visitors, reflecting the historical continuity between the colonial past and the contemporary life of the capital.
Convent of San Francisco
We continue to the Convent of San Francisco, one of the most important religious complexes from the colonial era. Built in the 17th century, it is a remarkable example of Spanish Baroque architecture.
Inside, visitors can admire intricately carved wooden ceilings, a historic library, and beautifully preserved cloisters. Beneath the convent lies an extensive network of catacombs that once served as a burial site for early inhabitants of Lima.
This stop provides deep insight into Lima’s religious traditions, colonial history, and cultural heritage, making it an essential part of the Historic Center of Lima Tour with Private Transportation and Guide.
Aliaga's house
The final stop of the itinerary is Aliaga House, recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited house in the Americas. It was built in 1535 on land granted by Francisco Pizarro.
The mansion has remained in the Aliaga family for over 17 generations, making it a living testimony of Lima’s colonial past. Its interior features antique furniture, finely crafted woodwork, and preserved decorative details.
During the visit, your guide will explain the historical significance of the Aliaga family and how the house has maintained its original character for nearly five centuries.
- San Borja, Surco and Callao: Additional charge of 10 USD per person.
- Other locations: Please, ask for the additional fee.
Historic Centre of Lima
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