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Plaza Mayor, Lima

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Plaza Mayor, Lima

Overview

Plaza Mayor is the central square of Lima's historic center, established on the site where Francisco Pizarro founded the city in 1535. Travellers visit to observe the political and civic heart of the capital, flanked by major governmental and religious institutions.

Getting There

The square sits directly in the historic center and is accessible on foot for those staying in the central district. From elsewhere in the city, taxis or public transport lines such as the Metropolitano bus take approximately 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Time to Spend

Allow about 45 minutes to an hour to walk the plaza, view the central fountain, and observe the surrounding architecture.

When to Visit

The area gets crowded during midday and on weekends. Visiting in the early morning offers a quieter walk. Lima experiences clearer, sunnier weather during the summer months from December to April, while the rest of the year is predominantly overcast.

Nearby Attractions

You can easily combine a walk around the square with visits to these neighboring sites:

  • Cathedral of Lima (0.1km)
  • Archbishop's Palace of Lima (0.1km)
  • Government Palace (0.1km)
  • Sagrario Metropolitano de Lima (0.1km)

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

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Plaza Mayor, Lima

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Itineraries including this place

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Callao 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

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Good to visit alongside

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
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
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
Government Palace

Castles & palaces

Government Palace

Peru's government palace, originally built as the presidential residence. It is also known as "Casa de Pizarro," named after Pizarro, who was involved in its design.

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
Museo del Banco Central de Reserva del Perú

Museums & galleries

Museo del Banco Central de Reserva del Perú

A museum at the intersection of Lampa and Ucayali streets in Lima's historic center, operated by the Central Reserve Bank of Peru. It houses archaeological artifacts, currency, and artworks under one roof.

0.3 km away