What is included in the tour price?

The 4-hour private half-day tour includes guided visits to Palacio Torre Tagle, Casona Garcilaso, Church of San Pedro, the Convent of San Francisco, its catacombs, and a food and beverage tasting at Cordano Bar. Transport and a knowledgeable guide are included.

Are the catacombs accessible if I have mobility issues?

The catacombs involve descending underground and navigating narrow passages. If you have mobility concerns, discuss with your operator—they may be able to modify the itinerary or advise on accessibility beforehand.

Can I take photos inside the churches and catacombs?

Photography is generally permitted in most spaces, but the Sacristy may have restrictions due to its religious significance. Always ask your guide before photographing inside active chapels or designated sacred areas.

What makes the Convent of San Francisco special?

Built in 1546, it is a masterpiece of colonial architecture featuring a main cloister decorated with 17th-century Sevillian tiles, a Sacristy with paintings by Renaissance masters Rivera and Zurbarán, and beneath it, extensive colonial-era catacombs that once served as burial chambers.

What will I eat and drink at Cordano Bar?

You'll sample the bar's famous house sandwich and a traditional Peruvian beverage. Cordano is one of Lima's oldest bars and has hosted presidents, poets, and artists throughout its history.

How long is the tour and what time should I expect to finish?

The tour lasts 4 hours. A typical morning start at 8–9 am means you'll finish by midday; afternoon departures around 2 pm conclude by early evening.

Most Popular1 / 6

Churches, Old Houses and Balconies of Lima Private Half Day Tour

(3)

Lima, Peru

Cultural ToursBus & Minivan ToursWalking ToursArts & CultureMini Cruises

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Explore Lima's architectural and spiritual heritage across four hours, visiting colonial mansions, Jesuit churches, and underground catacombs while discovering the city's distinctive mudéjar-style balconies. Conclude with a tasting at the legendary Cordano Bar, a historic gathering spot for Peru's cultural elite since the colonial era.

Experience the best panoramic views of Lima landmarks like Palacio Torre Tagle and Casona Garcilaso before head to historic sites like the Church of San Pedro and Lima’s Catacombs. Cap off the trip with an included food tasting at Lima’s famous Cordano Bar.

The Historic Center of Lima is very highlighted by its colonial houses and balconies of mudejar style, therefore we began this journey appreciating the most prominent. Then we will go to the Church of San Pedro, temple of the Jesuits and the Convent of San Francisco, gem of colonial architecture dating from 1546; we revisit its main cloister decorated with Sevillian tiles of the XVII century, the Sacristy with canvases of Rivera and Zurbarán and the Catacombs (underground crypts of the colonial time).

This tour does not complete without a visit to the bar Cordano, one of the oldest and most traditional of the historic center of Lima, has hosted many personalities of our country as presidents, poets, writers and artists, here we will try its famous sandwich the house more traditional drink.

Highlights

✓Panoramic views of Palacio Torre Tagle and Casona Garcilaso colonial facades
✓Church of San Pedro, an ornate Jesuit temple with 17th-century Sevillian tile work
✓Convent of San Francisco (1546) with Rivera and Zurbarán paintings in the Sacristy
✓Underground colonial catacombs beneath the convent
✓Signature house sandwich and traditional beverage at Cordano Bar
✓Guided appreciation of Lima's iconic mudéjar-style balconies

Insider tips

★The catacombs are cool and dimly lit—wear comfortable shoes and a light layer even in warm weather
★Cordano Bar gets crowded mid-afternoon; the guide typically times this visit to avoid peak crowds
★Ask your guide about the historical figures (presidents, poets, writers) who frequented Cordano—it adds context to Peru's cultural legacy
★Photography is permitted in most areas, but ask before shooting inside the Sacristy due to religious protocols

Good to know

•Private tour with small group or individual customization available
•Mostly walking on uneven historic streets; sturdy footwear essential
•The Historic Center can be crowded; early morning departure recommended
•Food and beverage tasting included at Cordano Bar; confirm any dietary restrictions when booking

Who it's for

History and architecture enthusiasts seeking deep colonial-era contextCultural travelers interested in Peru's religious and artistic heritageFood and beverage explorers wanting to sample iconic Lima institutionsPhotography-focused visitors drawn to colonial facades and historic interiors

Best time to visit

Early morning (8–9 am) offers quieter streets, better light for photography, and fewer crowds at the catacombs and churches. Avoid midday heat; afternoon tours work but may coincide with crowds at Cordano Bar.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Tom S.

Jan 2026

our guide Andrei was brilliant and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight, and ideal with kids (ours are 6 and 9), and covered 3 sites in one go.

Yuki C.

Nov 2025

our guide Yuki couldnt do enough for us and the view from the old fort ramparts was the highlight. Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. Went last tuesday, and perfect for first-timers, and covered 3 sites in one go. Would book again no question, def recommend

Greg W.

Aug 2025

our guide Marco sorted everything for us and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight, and mid-week so it was quiet.

from€191.74€191.05/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

Instant ConfirmationBest priceMobile voucher