What To Do In Arequipa Peru: Must-See Sights And Hidden Gems
Wondering what to do in Arequipa, Peru? This southern city took me by surprise and quickly became one of my favorite stops in the country.
Sunlit stone streets, towering volcanoes, and elegant white architecture carved from volcanic rock make Arequipa both unique and unforgettable.
With its rich colonial history, stunning views, and laid-back vibe, it deserves a spot on every Peru itinerary.
Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Arequipa to help you plan your visit.
When I planned my trip to Peru, my must-see list included Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and checking off a visit to the Amazon River.
Arequipa was simply a stop on the tour itinerary, and I honestly knew nothing about it.
Located at an altitude of 7,661 ft (2,335 m), I thought it was just a stop to help acclimate to height before reaching Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Even after I hit the road, I didn’t take the time to read up on the city’s history or significance.
But Arequipa completely surprised me in the best way.
It turned out to be one of my favorite cities in Peru, and it’s a place I wouldn’t hesitate to return to.
Nicknamed the White City, Arequipa stands out for its beautiful historic center and unique blend of baroque and colonial architecture.
This distinctive fusion, recognized as the “Arequipa School of Architectural Design,” showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Arequipa’s historical center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Surrounded by three volcanoes, the homes and buildings in the Historic Center of Arequipa were built using a volcanic stone known as sillar.
This soft, lightweight, and weatherproof white-colored stone is what gives the historic center its unique color.
Getting to Arequipa
Peru’s second most important city after Lima, and the second most popular among tourists after Cusco, there are many options for reaching Arequipa.
✈️ By Air
Arequipa’s Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) offers regular flights connecting to major Peruvian cities.
- Lima to Arequipa: Nonstop flights take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Cusco to Arequipa: Nonstop flights take about 1 hour.
Air travel is the fastest option and is ideal if you’re short on time.
🚌 By Bus
Overnight buses are a popular and budget-friendly choice.
Our tour arrived in Arequipa using a night bus from Nazca.
The bus had large reclinable chairs and our ticket included a light meal.
I found the trip more comfortable than overnight travel on a regular plane.
Even when I travel independently, I sometimes take advantage of overnight buses or trains to save on a night’s accommodation and make the most of travel time, it’s a great way to stretch your budget.
- From Lima: The journey takes approximately 16 hours.
- From Cusco: The trip lasts about 10 hours.
Reputable bus companies like Cruz del Sur and Peru Hop offer comfortable services.
🚂 By Train
If you’re traveling with friends or planning a special mother-daughter trip, consider treating yourselves to a ride on the famous Belmond Andean Explorer.
A scenic journey from Cusco to Arequipa, it’s a splurge, but an unforgettable experience.
This luxurious train provides an opulent travel experience, including gourmet dining and elegant accommodations.
🚗 By Car
Driving to Arequipa allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore at your own pace:
- From Lima: The drive covers approximately 1,000 km and takes about 17 hours via the Pan-American Highway.
- From Cusco: The route spans around 500 km, taking roughly 10 hours through mountainous terrain.
Ensure you’re prepared for long distances and varying road conditions.
Brush up on your Spanish, many of the towns along the route are small, and English isn’t widely spoken, if at all.
🚐 By Tour Bus
If you’re independent an option I didn’t know existed is Peru Hop.
Peru Hop offers a hop-on-hop-off bus service that allows travelers to explore multiple destinations en route to Arequipa.
This option combines transportation with guided tours and is suitable for those looking to experience more of Peru along the way.
Each mode of transportation offers unique advantages, so consider your priorities regarding time, budget, and travel experience when choosing the best option for your journey to Arequipa.
What To Do In Arequipa
So what should you do once you get to Arequipa?
Here are my favorite places and a few I would have liked to see but didn’t have the time.
1. Plaza de Armas de Arequipa
Arequipa’s main square is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen.
It feels grand and open, framed by elegant white buildings made of volcanic sillar stone.
The Cathedral dominates one side, while colonial churches and the city’s signature arches line the others.
At the center of the plaza, a charming fountain is surrounded by palm trees, benches, and well-tended gardens—perfect for relaxing or people-watching.
There’s plenty to explore around the square, including local cafés, shops, and the Museo Santuarios Andinos, where you can meet “Juanita,” the Inca Ice Maiden discovered on Mount Ampato.
It’s a fascinating look into Peru’s ancient past.
2. Monasterio de Santa Catalina
Step inside the walls of Santa Catalina Monastery, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a peaceful, hidden town within the city.
Founded in 1579, this monastery is still active today and offers a rare glimpse into traditional monastic life.
As you wander through its quiet cells, chapels, and galleries, you’ll see displays of ecclesiastical art and get a sense of the austere, contemplative lifestyle once followed by the nuns.
But what surprised me most were the vibrant colors; bright reds, deep blues, and warm ochre, that line the corridors and courtyards.
These bold hues create a striking contrast with the white stone architecture that defines much of Arequipa.
The monastery’s beautifully maintained courtyards and peaceful gardens make it a lovely place to take a break from the heat and the bustle of the city.
The monastery is open to visitors Monday through Sunday, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with slightly shorter hours on holidays.
You can explore at your own pace or opt for a guided tour, which is available in Spanish or English.
Either way, Santa Catalina offers a peaceful and visually stunning glimpse into Arequipa’s colonial and religious history.
3. Catedral de Arequipa
You can’t miss this stunning cathedral.
It stretches across the entire north side of the Plaza de Armas and makes an immediate impression with its twin spires and grand white façade.
The exterior is just the beginning; step inside to admire its elegant columns, vaulted ceilings, and a beautiful altar.
It’s definitely a must-see while you’re in Arequipa.
Be sure to return to the plaza near sunset.
The cathedral glows in the changing light, and the atmosphere becomes even more magical as the square lights up for the evening.
Tip
There are restaurants with terraces surrounding the Plaza de Armas from where you can enjoy the sunset views and the amazing colors of the Cathedral while savoring a Pisco Sour.
4. Mirador de Yanahuara
For one of the best views in Arequipa, head to the Mirador de Yanahuara.
This peaceful spot is just a short walk from the city center.
From here, you’ll get a stunning view of the city’s white rooftops framed by the towering El Misti volcano.
The mirador itself is set in a small park lined with palm trees and shaded benches, making it a relaxing place to pause and take photos.
The stone arches of the viewpoint are engraved with local quotes and poetry, adding a touch of culture to the scenic overlook.
Right next to the mirador, you’ll find the Parroquia San Juan Bautista, a charming 18th-century church with a simple yet elegant façade.
Since I visited during the Christmas season, the plaza featured a life-sized nativity scene made entirely of hay—it was both creative and beautiful.
Whether you’re here for the view, a bit of quiet, or a cultural stop, Mirador de Yanahuara is well worth the visit.
Tip
After enjoying the view, walk over to El Nuevo Palomino, one of Arequipa’s most beloved traditional picanterías. It was recommended to me by friends from Peru, and it did not disappoint. The food is authentic, hearty, and full of local flavor. If you want a true Peruvian dining experience, this is the place to go.
5. Mercado San Camilo
A visit to Mercado San Camilo is a great way to experience the local flavor, literally and culturally.
While it may look like a typical South American market at first glance, it’s full of surprises unique to Peru.
Wander through aisles of colorful produce and you’ll spot fruits you’ve probably never seen before, many native to the Andes.
But what impressed me most was the mind-blowing variety of potatoes.
Fun fact: Peru is home to over 3,000 types of potatoes, and you’ll find a good number of them here!
Beyond the produce, the market is also a fantastic place to grab a budget-friendly Peruvian lunch.
Pull up a stool at one of the food stalls and try something freshly made, from stews to soups to local “fritters” (like buñuelos or picarones) that make for a sweet or savory treat.
If you want a taste of daily life in Arequipa, San Camilo is the perfect place to soak it all in.
Tip
Bring small change in soles, as most vendors don’t accept credit or debit cards. While a few stalls may have card readers, cash is still king here—especially if you’re planning to snack your way through the market or shop for souvenirs
More Things To Do In Arequipa Peru
If you have more time in Arequipa or are already planning a return trip like I am there are a few more spots worth checking out.
The Museo de Arte Virreinal is a great stop for fans of colonial-era art.
Casa Museo Mario Vargas Llosa offers insight into the life of Peru’s Nobel Prize-winning author.
And if you’re looking for a quieter alternative to the main plaza, Plaza España is a peaceful, elegant square perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Arequipa Peru wasn’t on my radar but it should be on yours
Arequipa is a city that truly surprised me, and I wish I had known more about it before I went.
It’s a place where striking white architecture meets deep tradition, and where every street feels like a step into the past.
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to give Arequipa at least a couple of days. It’s absolutely worth the time.
Have you been to Arequipa? I’d love to hear about your experience.
Drop a comment below!
