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Castles & palaces

Government Palace

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Government Palace

Overview

The Government Palace is the seat of Peru's executive branch and presidential residence. Known as "Casa de Pizarro," named after Pizarro who was involved in its design, it marks the historic center of governance. Travelers go to observe the architecture from the main plaza and watch the changing of the guard.

Getting There

Located in the historic center, it is accessible on foot within the district. From Callao or other districts, take a taxi or the Metropolitano bus to Jirón de la Unión station, then walk five minutes. The trip takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

Time to Allow

Allow 30 to 45 minutes to view the exterior and watch the guard change, or 15 minutes for a quick look and photos.

When to Go

Midday is the busiest time because of the guard ceremony, and crowds gather around the perimeter. December to April offers clear weather, while June to October is typically overcast. Official events can occasionally restrict perimeter access.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with these neighboring sites:

  • Plaza Mayor, Lima (0.1km): The central square facing the building.
  • Archbishop's Palace of Lima (0.1km): Historic building across the plaza.
  • Cathedral of Lima (0.1km): Main cathedral on the plaza's east side.
  • Sagrario Metropolitano de Lima (0.1km): Chapel adjacent to the cathedral.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Government Palace

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Government Palace Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Callao 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Callao grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Callao 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Callao grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Archbishop's Palace of Lima

Castles & palaces

Archbishop's Palace of Lima

The residence of the Archbishop of Lima and the seat of the archdiocese's administrative offices. Located in the historic district around the city's main square, it's easy to visit alongside other major sights.

0.1 km away
Plaza Mayor, Lima

Parks & gardens

Plaza Mayor, Lima

A plaza at the heart of Lima's historic center, built on the site where Pizarro founded the city in 1535. Surrounded by landmarks like the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral, it offers a vivid sense of the city's history.

0.1 km away
Sagrario Metropolitano de Lima

Temples & religious sites

Sagrario Metropolitano de Lima

This Catholic church stands between Lima Cathedral and the Archbishop's Palace, facing the main square. It holds baptism, marriage, and death records of figures who shaped the city's history, making it well worth a stop.

0.1 km away
Cathedral of Lima

Temples & religious sites

Cathedral of Lima

Construction of this Roman Catholic cathedral began in 1535 under Francisco Pizarro and was completed in its present form in 1797; it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Lima. Dedicated to the Apostle John, it's a place where visitors can experience both Peru's faith and history.

0.1 km away
Casa de Correos y Telégrafos

Museums & galleries

Casa de Correos y Telégrafos

This former central post office stands in the heart of Lima's historic center and was built in 1897 in the Beaux-Arts style. Today it also houses a stamp and postal museum, offering a look at the city's postal history.

0.2 km away
Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo

Temples & religious sites

Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo

A Catholic religious complex combining a basilica dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary with an adjoining convent. Visitors can explore both the historic church architecture and the convent's tranquil atmosphere.

0.3 km away