The Historical Centre of Arequipa captivates visitors with its stunning white volcanic stone architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site earned its nickname "The White City" through colonial-era buildings that glow in the Andean sunlight. The magnificent twin-towered Cathedral dominates the pedestrian-friendly Plaza de Armas. Santa Catalina Monastery feels like a colourful city within the city. Cobblestone streets lead to museums housing pre-Columbian treasures and traditional picantería restaurants serving authentic Arequipeño cuisine. Mountain and volcano views provide a dramatic backdrop to this walkable district where Spanish and Indigenous influences blend beautifully.
Yanahuara charms visitors with its colonial-era architecture and peaceful ambiance just minutes from city centre Arequipa. The iconic Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of El Misti volcano through sillar stone arches inscribed with romantic poetry. The neighborhood's 1750 baroque church stands as a testament to rich cultural heritage. Traditional picantería restaurants serve authentic Arequipeño cuisine like spicy rocoto relleno and chicha. White sillar volcanic stone buildings line tree-filled streets. Local artisans sell handcrafted alpaca textiles and stone carvings near the plaza.
San Lázaro reveals Arequipa's soul through its white volcanic stone buildings and intimate cobblestone streets. This historic district dates back to the 16th century, blending Indigenous Andean influences with Spanish colonial heritage. Locals still follow traditional customs in this peaceful residential haven away from tourist crowds. The area centers around Plaza San Lázaro with its weathered church and wooden balconies. Small family-run restaurants serve authentic Arequipeño cuisine like rocoto relleno. Mountain views peek between buildings while church bells mark time throughout the day.
Cayma offers an upscale retreat with stunning volcanic views just outside bustling Arequipa. The San Miguel Arcángel Church stands proudly among tree-lined streets where elegant sillar stone homes create a peaceful atmosphere. Real Plaza shopping centre brings modern convenience to this traditional area. Visitors can enjoy refined Arequipeño cuisine in sophisticated restaurants throughout the district. The area balances affluent local life with selective tourism, making it perfect for travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences without crowds. Mountain vistas and cool mountain air complete this tranquil escape.
Sachaca offers a peaceful retreat from Arequipa's busy centre with traditional homes and authentic local living. Panoramic views of Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes frame this tranquil district. Agricultural terraces create striking geometric patterns across the landscape. This area preserves Arequipeñan customs through its sillar stone architecture and terracotta roofs. Family-run picantería restaurants serve traditional dishes like rocoto relleno in rustic settings. Casa Goyeneche stands as a cultural landmark worth exploring during your visit.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Arequipa
Arequipa Plaza de Armas
9.6/10 (509 reviews)
Framed by white volcanic sillar buildings, this UNESCO-listed plaza showcases Arequipa's colonial heart. Enjoy sunset views from balcony cafés as the cathedral glows against Misti Volcano's backdrop.
Arequipa Cathedral
9.2/10 (358 reviews)
This majestic cathedral, built from white volcanic sillar stone, defines Arequipa's skyline with its neoclassical grandeur. Inside, marvel at the Carrara marble altar and one of South America's largest organs.
Photo by MarceLita
Open Photo by MarceLita
Santa Catalina Monastery
9.6/10 (372 reviews)
This 16th-century "city within a city" dazzles with vibrant blue and red walls along cobblestone streets. Explore peaceful courtyards and restored living quarters for a glimpse into centuries of cloistered life.
San Camilo Market
8.6/10 (206 reviews)
This historic market, designed by Gustave Eiffel, offers a vibrant showcase of Arequipa's culinary treasures. Sample local specialities like rocoto relleno and queso helado while mingling with friendly vendors.
National University of St Augustin of Arequipa
8.2/10 (67 reviews)
Founded in 1828, the National University of San Agustín houses one of Peru's most significant archaeological collections. Explore the San Agustín Museum's 8,000 artefacts spanning pre-ceramic to colonial eras.
Mall Aventura Porongoche
8.4/10 (90 reviews)
Mall Aventura Porongoche, southern Peru's largest shopping centre, features international retail stores and entertainment. Enjoy its food court, cinema, or modern coworking spaces.
Parque Lambramani
8.6/10 (70 reviews)
Parque Lambramani combines modern architecture with natural elements in the distinctive Arequipeña style. Explore over 100 stores and enjoy the open-air design that creates a relaxed atmosphere for shopping and dining.
Umacollo Stadium
7.6/10 (22 reviews)
Catch an event at Umacollo Stadium during your trip to Arequipa. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.
What to do in Arequipa
Arequipa: Chili River White Water Rafting with Transfers
"The room was pleasant and always clean for us after a long day. Breakfast was always on the table before we showed up to the table. Staff was very friendly and helpful. A 10 min walk away from the Plaza de Armas, quite place if you like to stay away from the noise. "
"El hotel no cambia las sábanas ni el juego de almohada llena de cabellos estaba completamente sucios los baños con popo y no había luz en 1 baño no jabón ni papel en los baños públicos muy sucio el hotel"
"The hotel was beautiful and staff were amazing and helpful. They made me a lunch bag for one of my tours; that was a huge plus for me. Hotel is walking distance to plaza de armas and restaurants. I really recommend it."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can grab a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Arequipa costs will depend on the season, length of stay and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Arequipa?
If you're hoping to book a cheap Arequipa holiday package, consider travelling in February, March and December. You'll generally find lower prices on flights and hotels during these quieter months — ideal for a budget-friendly break.
How many days is enough for Arequipa?
To get the most out of your Arequipa holiday, we suggest staying for 3 days. Divide your time between visiting La Mansion del Fundador, Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Arequipa and other must-see attractions, as well as experiencing neighbourhoods like Historical Centre and Cerro Colorado District. If you've got some time to spare, add a day trip or tour to your Arequipa holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Arequipa?
Well known for its history, culture and a host of other highlights, you can be certain Arequipa is a good holiday destination. Some of the most popular attractions to add to your itinerary? Visit Mall Aventura Porongoche and Parque Lambramani during your Arequipa holiday.
How to find the best Arequipa package deals?
Landing a cheap Arequipa package deal is easy with Expedia. After you've entered your preferred dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your maximum budget, add some filters and browse what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Traveller experience" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most wallet-friendly Arequipa package deals. Want a simple trick to score even more savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are usually lower.
Is it cheaper to book an Arequipa holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to make your money go further. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll generally score a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still get the flexibility to create a personalised Arequipa holiday by choosing your preferred type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Arequipa?
Score incredible discounts by reserving your flights early with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your thing, grab one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Arequipa adventure.
How to plan a trip to Arequipa?
Choose the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to go to Arequipa.
Set your budget: Consider costs like transportation, flights and meals when calculating how much to save for your trip to Arequipa. Then, choose a property that matches your budget, whether that's a low-cost stay or a more luxurious retreat.
Decide your trip length: Think about how long you'd like to spend discovering Arequipa. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the activities and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, car rental, hotels and more into a personalised Arequipa holiday package.