Peru Cities to Visit
PeruPeruvian cities have distinct characteristics based upon their geographical area, long histories, and cultural heritage. From the Inca stone structures in Cusco to the Spanish architecture in Lima, Peru's cities are a feast for the eyes and require little more than a camera and a good pair of walking shoes to enjoy them.
Get your introduction to Peru's cities in Lima and relish in the myriad of eating, drinking, shopping, and entertaining options on offer. As well as museums, monuments, and other cultural sites, there's enough to keep you busy here for weeks.
Move on to cities like Puno and Cusco, the gateways to some of Peru's best destinations, and admire the charm in smaller city destinations. Don't forget to prepare yourself for the altitude — these are some of the highest cities in the world!
Peru Highlights
A curated look at the best Peru has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.
Lima
The coastal city of Lima is diverse, with colorful parks, friendly locals, tasty cuisine, vibrant markets, and ancient historical attractions. Travelers can tour world-class museums, wander through the colonial architecture of Miraflores, and eat seafood along the Pacific coast.
Explore DestinationCusco
Nestling in the dip of the Watanay River Valley, from above the city of Cusco takes the shape of a puma, which some historians theorize was a purposeful design. As the city expands, its borders creep up the sides of the surrounding mountains, but puma statues, fountains, and signs keep the big cat’s status of unofficial city mascot.
Explore DestinationPuno
Puno is Lake Titicaca’s only major city, and most travelers will pass through here while heading towards other destinations around the lake. The city is only mildly attractive, but is surrounded by seriously spectacular scenery.
Explore DestinationArequipa
The name Arequipa comes from "Ari, Quepay," which means "Yes, you may stay" in the local Quechua language. Not surprisingly, Arequipa is very welcoming and well worth the visit with its amazing architecture, bustling city center, and friendly atmosphere.
Explore DestinationTrujillo
Trujillo is a sunny and well-preserved city that boasts a large central plaza and beautiful colonial architecture. Its hidden chapels, inner gardens, and various plazas provide a great canvas for photographers and travelers interested in Peru’s colonial past.
Explore DestinationChiclayo
Chiclayo is located in a green valley along Peru's North Coast. It provides respite from the arid coast and is well known for its historical sites, agriculture, and high-quality restaurants.
Explore DestinationPiura
The Spanish founded Piura in 1532, making it the third-oldest city in Peru. Visit downtown Piura to see the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings. Basilica Catedral de Piura and the central Plaza de Armas have classical colonial architecture, and the peaceful plaza has shady trees. See more of the town’s religious history in San Francisco Church. It has a crypt in the basement and stained glass windows.
Explore DestinationCajamarca
Cajamarca is a charming city in northern Peru. Set within the Andes at an elevation of about 9,000 feet (2,750 m), Cajamarca is one of the best destinations in the Northern Highlands. Despite rapid growth due to the gold mining industry, Cajamarca still retains a historic feel. Villagers stroll down cobblestone streets in traditional attire, passing by old churches and colonial houses as they make their way towards the Plaza de Armas.
Explore DestinationChincha
Chincha is a hub of Afro-Peruvian culture. You can see this influence in the handicrafts that locals sell and in the music scene. Sample sugarcane juice while you’re here, as well as fresh seafood.
Explore DestinationBarranco Neighborhood
Barranco is a neighborhood in Lima known for its artistic and bohemian character. It’s a great place spend the afternoon strolling and exploring shops, restaurants, bars, and museums.
Explore DestinationFeatured Peru Trips
Browse our handpicked selection of Peru itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.
Peru for Two on a Budget
Embark on a vibrant Peruvian adventure where bustling city life meets ancient Andean wonders, contrasting modern Lima’s coastal energy with the mystique of the Sacred Valley. You'll wander Lima’s historic streets, then soar to Cusco’s high-altitude charm before trekking to the misty ruins of Machu Picchu and the colorful heights of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you'll taste traditional cuisine, hear Andean legends, and leave with a deeper connection to Peru’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Our Multigenerational Journey
My sister and her family want to come next year, and possible another friend's family as well, so will definitely tell them to use Anywhere!!!
Wow, We Did it!
Excellent coordination and very helpful staff throughout the trip. Sara is the boss...she has good command of all aspects of our trip and provided the necessary help & support ...right from planning stage to boarding our flight back to US.
We Conquered Huayna Picchu
This was a very personal experience and Anywhere.com does an amazing job of having agents who are cultured and/or very familiar with the country to which you wish to visit. This allows the agent to listen to what you want to experience and then match you up with the right outfitter, vendor, excursion group, etc...I felt like Sara Nizama truly listened to my wants/needs and made them a reality. I am so happy with my Peru experience, thanks to Sara and her team. I want to go back soon and explore more of Peru with the help of Sara and her team. Thank you!
Experience The Heart of Peru
Very professional service, very good organization overall. Everything went smoothly. We ABSOLUTELY will recommend Anywhere.com to our friends. And for our future trips, we will first look at what anywhere.com is offering before looking elsewhere.
We Explored Incan Lands
Thank you Anywhere for planning an excellent vacation.
Romance in The Andes
After debating on which country to visit for our special trip, we finally decided on Peru. It was the best decision ever. Anywhere.com helped us arrange and make the most of our dream vacation!
Inca, Lake, & Culture Family Adventure
We were blown away by the beauty of the country—from the highland Lake Titicaca to the cultural experiences at Arequipa. We were so impressed with the Machu Picchu experience...we have to come back and explore more of Peru!
An Epic Peruvian Family Journey
Peru is bursting with history, interesting sites and friendly people and tourists from all parts of the world. We wished our hotels were a bit better and should have requested upgrades for a reasonably higher price. We have already recommended Peru to family and friends. Our photos and videos on Facebook have evoked several inquiries. I would certainly like to visit Peru again along with other countries of South America.
A Quick Machu Picchu Getaway
Peru was a great place to visit. I had nothing but great experiences.
Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
