ShoreTrips says...

This tour is a great introduction to Peru's capital city.

Your tour begins in the Plaza Mayor, designated as the center of the city by Lima's founder, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, in 1535. Although city planning was uncommon then, he laid out 117 blocks in neat rectangles on the south bank of the Rimac River, a plan that is still in place today. As you stroll around this attractive square with your guide, you'll see the Government Palace and City Hall.

Visit the Cathedral, the main church and one of the main symbols of the city. Construction on the Cathedral was started the same year the city was founded, 1535, and its cold and rather gloomy interior bears witness to the building's trials and tribulations. Enter and view the gold casket bearing Pizarro's remains.

You'll also see the Archbishop's Palace and visit the striking 17th century Monastery of San Francisco. As you travel along, your guide will point out the impressive architecture of this colonial city, including beautiful wooden balconies. Continue through the fashionable residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, and make a brief stop at Parque del Amor before returning to your hotel.