Museums & galleries
Museum of Italian Art
Overview
Opened in 1923, this public art museum is the only institution in Lima dedicated specifically to European art. Travellers visit to view its collection of Italian paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects housed in a Renaissance-style building.
Getting There
Located at the southern edge of central Lima, the building is easily reached from the historic downtown. Walking south from the main centre takes 15 to 20 minutes, while a taxi or bus ride takes 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.
Time to Spend
Plan for 45 to 90 minutes to view the indoor exhibits and the building exterior.
When to Visit
The galleries are generally uncrowded, making it a calm stop at almost any time of day. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon allows for convenient daylight walking in the surrounding area.
What to Combine It With
Its central location makes it easy to combine with nearby points of interest on foot:
- Lima Art Museum (0.2km): Displays a wide range of Peruvian art across historical periods.
- Park of the Exhibition (0.3km): Public green space containing landscaped paths and pavilions.
- Basílica María Auxiliadora (0.7km): Large Catholic church known for its distinct architecture.
- Plaza San Martín (0.8km): Major historic square connecting to downtown walking streets.
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors