Sightseeing in Arequipa: Churches and Views

October 30, 2026

Arequipa’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built from pale volcanic sillar, and its main sights sit within a few blocks of each other. The city is at about 2,335 m, so walk slowly and drink water. Prices are in soles (S/).

Plaza de Armas and the cathedral

The Basilica Catedral fills the north side of the Plaza de Armas in white sillar. Inside, look for the Belgian-built Loret organ in the nave. The cathedral museum and bell tower are open Monday to Saturday, from about 10:00 AM to between 4:15 and 5:00 PM, and the visit includes the roof terrace with views of the plaza and Misti. Ask the ticket desk about the current price, and check opening hours on the museum website .

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

This church stands at the corner of General Morán and Álvarez Thomas. Entry to the church is free, and hours differ between listings, so go in the morning and check the door. The Andean-Baroque sillar facade is carved with local plants and animals. The Capilla de San Ignacio, with a polychrome dome and murals of jungle fruit, charges a small fee. The adjoining cloisters now house shops.

Santa Catalina Monastery

The monastery at Santa Catalina 301 is the city’s best-known sight. It opens daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Tuesday and Wednesday extended to 8:00 PM, and a foreign adult ticket is S/50. See the official site for tickets.

Mirador de Yanahuara

Yanahuara is a separate district across the Chili river. The mirador has sillar arches carved with verses and open views to Misti and Chachani, and it costs nothing. The church of San Juan Bautista is on the plaza beside it. The monastery and the old quarter of San Lázaro are in the historic centre, not in Yanahuara.

San Lázaro and Mercado San Camilo

San Lázaro is the old quarter in the historic centre, with narrow sillar lanes that reward a slow wander. Mercado San Camilo, on Calle San Camilo near Calle Perú, is an iron-roofed market with stalls for juices, bread, cheese and herbs. A market is a good place to stop for a fresh juice.

Casa Tristán del Pozo

At San Francisco 108, the colonial Casa Tristán del Pozo is run by BBVA and has free exhibition space. Opening times change, so check at the door.

Museo Santuarios Andinos

The museum at Calle La Merced 110 holds Inca capacocha offerings found on southern peaks, including the mummy known as Juanita. Visits are by guided tour only. Juanita is not guaranteed to be on display. Cameras are off limits in the mummy room. Visit with respect, because the children were ritual offerings.

Tips

The sun is strong at this altitude, so bring a hat and sunscreen. Peru is Level 2 on the US scale and protests can disrupt transport. Use registered taxis from your hotel.

Book a guided option: Arequipa city tours on GetYourGuide .