Lima: Catacombs, San Francisco & Historic Center Tour Pickup

Summary

Walk Lima’s layered history from sunlit plazas to shadowy catacombs

You’ll step into Lima’s living history with visits to San Martin Square, stroll along lively Jirón de la Unión, stand in Main Square’s sunlight, then descend into the quiet shadows of San Francisco’s catacombs with a local guide leading every step. Expect moments that linger long after you leave—especially underground.

What’s the experience like?

We almost missed our pickup because I couldn’t find my other sneaker — so there was a bit of running around before we even left the hotel. Our guide, Rosa, just grinned when I apologized. “No rush,” she said, “Lima waits for you.” The van smelled faintly of eucalyptus from someone’s hand sanitizer, and outside the window, the city was already humming — horns, vendors calling out in Spanish, that sort of everyday chaos that makes me feel both lost and at home.

First stop was San Martin Square. There were students sitting on the steps and a guy selling little bags of cancha (the crunchy corn snack) — I bought some and immediately spilled half down my shirt. Rosa told us about José de San Martín and pointed out how people always gather here to protest or celebrate. It felt like the kind of place where history isn’t just in books but still happening right in front of you. Walking down Jirón de la Unión after that, we passed old facades next to shoe shops blasting reggaeton — it’s not fancy anymore but you can feel the stories under the surface. Someone had painted a mural of a woman with bright blue hair; Rosa said it was new, part of a project by local artists.

The Main Square looked almost too perfect in the sunlight — yellow buildings, palm trees swaying, police standing around looking bored. The Government Palace is right there but honestly I was more interested in watching an old man feed pigeons near the cathedral steps. Then came the part I didn’t expect: stepping down into the catacombs under the Church and Convent of Saint Francis. The air changed — colder, mustier — and our footsteps echoed on stone. Stacks of bones arranged in patterns (I’m still not sure how I feel about that), flickering light from someone’s phone flashlight when we lost sight of Rosa for a second. She called out quietly: “Por aquí!” We followed her voice through those low arches — it felt strange but also weirdly peaceful down there.

Back above ground everything seemed brighter than before. Maybe it was relief or maybe just Lima’s afternoon sun bouncing off all that yellow paint. We ended up back at street level with sticky hands (cancha again) and a head full of old stories. I keep thinking about those bones under the city and Rosa’s laugh echoing off stone walls — Lima gets under your skin like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Lima's historic center and catacombs

• Visit San Martin Square
• Walk along Jiron de la Union
• See Nuestra Señora de la Merced church
• Explore Main Square and Government Palace
• Tour Church and Convent of Saint Francis catacombs

Top questions

How long does this Lima catacombs tour last?

This is a half-day tour starting with hotel pickup and covering several key sites in central Lima.

Is transportation included on this Lima historic center tour?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup is included for your convenience.

What are the main stops on this Lima city tour?

You’ll visit San Martin Square, Jirón de la Unión, Main Square (Plaza Mayor), and the Church & Convent of Saint Francis including its catacombs.

Are entry fees included for the catacombs?

All entry fees and taxes are covered as part of your booking.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s designed for all physical fitness levels though there are stairs in the catacombs.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide throughout your visit.

Can I join this tour if staying outside central Lima?

The tour includes hotel pickup; check if your accommodation is within their pickup area when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in private transport, entry to all sites including San Francisco’s catacombs, plus guidance from a local expert who brings each plaza and street to life as you go—no extra fees or hidden costs along the way.