Plaza Dos de Mayo Lima
A historic Lima plaza buzzing with musical instrument shops, retro treasures, and vibrant art galleries, all centered around a monument of national pr...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Plaza Dos de Mayo Lima
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Lima plaza buzzing with musical instrument shops, retro treasures, and vibrant art galleries, all centered around a monument of national pride.
"A vibrant historical square offering a blend of cultural significance and modern life."
Be Street Smart 🚨
This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Explore the Galleries 🎨
Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monument to the Battle of Dos de Mayo
Center of the Plaza
A striking obelisk commemorating Peru's 1802 victory against Spain. A key historical landmark.

Musical Instrument Shops
Surrounding streets
Discover a wide array of guitars, drums, and other instruments. Great for musicians and collectors alike.

Retro & Art Galleries
Around the Plaza
Explore unique art exhibitions, retro video game stores, and collectible toy shops. A haven for enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Plaza
Discovering Hidden Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Be Street Smart 🚨
This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Explore the Galleries 🎨
Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza.
Instrument Hunter's Paradise 🎶
If you're a musician, you'll find great deals on instruments here.
Free Art Exhibitions 🎨
Check out local galleries for free art shows and exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Street Smart 🚨
This area can be busy. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Explore the Galleries 🎨
Don't miss the unique retro game shops and art galleries surrounding the plaza.
Instrument Hunter's Paradise 🎶
If you're a musician, you'll find great deals on instruments here.
Free Art Exhibitions 🎨
Check out local galleries for free art shows and exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Dos de Mayo is a vibrant historical square in Lima, praised for its unique shops, especially for musical instruments and retro items. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the lively atmosphere, though some caution is advised due to its busy nature and occasional dirtiness. It's a great spot for niche interests and exploring local culture.
"It was a wonderful experience where I could find a seven string. The only other place I could find a seven string was in Miraflores, but they charged much more than it’s worth; in the shop I stopped at, it was a honest price."
Sorin botezatu
"I love going here even know how I haven’t been to Peru before"
Heather Byelich
"Plaza Dos de Mayo is a vibrant historical square in the heart of Lima, offering a blend of cultural significance and modern life. Named after the Battle of Dos de Mayo, which was a key event in Peru’s fight for independence, the square is surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and a prominent obelisk at its center, commemorating the battle. The area is a lively hub with cafes, shops, and street vendors, attracting both locals and visitors. Its central location and historical importance make Plaza Dos de Mayo a perfect starting point to explore the rich history of Lima while enjoying the local atmosphere."
Pramod Indranarayan Dubey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Dos de Mayo is located in the historic center of Lima. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps (like Uber or Cabify), or public buses that frequent the downtown area. Many visitors find it a convenient starting point for exploring the historic center.
Parking in the historic center of Lima can be challenging. It's often easier to use public transport or ride-sharing services. If you do drive, look for paid parking lots in the vicinity, but be prepared for potential traffic.
Yes, Plaza Dos de Mayo is centrally located within Lima's historic center. It's within walking distance of many other key sites like the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima, making it a great spot to include in a walking tour.
Walking is highly recommended for exploring the historic center from Plaza Dos de Mayo. The streets are relatively compact, and you can discover many hidden gems on foot. Taxis and ride-sharing are also readily available.
Numerous bus routes serve the historic center of Lima, and many will pass near or stop at Plaza Dos de Mayo. It's advisable to use a local transit app or ask a local for the most current routes, as they can change.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plaza Dos de Mayo itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, individual shops, galleries, and museums located around the plaza may have their own admission fees.
As a public square, Plaza Dos de Mayo is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and galleries have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for most of the shops and smaller art galleries around Plaza Dos de Mayo. Some special exhibitions might require advance booking, so it's good to check their individual social media or websites.
Plaza Dos de Mayo frequently hosts various events, including art exhibitions, retro fairs, and street art tributes. It's best to check local event listings or the social media of galleries like Lima 247 Art Gallery for current happenings.
The retro video game store, 'Que Tal Vicio,' located in Plaza Dos de Mayo, typically does not charge an entrance fee. You can browse their collection of retro games and consoles freely.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Plaza Dos de Mayo features a central monument, surrounded by numerous shops selling musical instruments, retro video games, and art. You can also find art galleries and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Lima's historic center.
While Plaza Dos de Mayo is a lively area, it's important to be cautious. Like many busy urban centers, it can attract pickpockets. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid displaying expensive items.
The area is particularly known for its musical instrument stores, offering a wide selection for musicians. You'll also find shops specializing in retro video games, collectibles, and art galleries.
Yes, you can take photos at Plaza Dos de Mayo. The monument and the surrounding colonial architecture offer great photo opportunities. Some galleries might have restrictions on photography inside.
The plaza is named after the Battle of Dos de Mayo in 1866, a significant victory for Peru against Spanish forces during the Chincha Islands War. The monument in the center commemorates this event.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Plaza Dos de Mayo itself is more focused on shops and galleries, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors in the surrounding streets of Lima's historic center. Explore nearby blocks for diverse dining options.
You can find a variety of Peruvian cuisine, from traditional dishes to more contemporary options, in the restaurants near Plaza Dos de Mayo. Street food vendors also offer local snacks and quick bites.
Eating street food can be a great way to experience local flavors, but it's always wise to choose vendors that appear clean and popular. If you have a sensitive stomach, opt for established restaurants.
Many restaurants in Lima's historic center offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff directly, as traditional Peruvian cuisine often features meat and fish.
Popular local snacks might include anticuchos (grilled skewers), picarones (doughnuts), and various empanadas. Look for vendors with a steady stream of customers for the freshest options.
📸 📸 Photography
The central monument offers a grand focal point. The surrounding colonial architecture, street art, and the vibrant activity of the plaza itself provide numerous photographic opportunities.
As with any busy public space, be mindful of your surroundings when using your camera. Keep it secure and avoid leaving it unattended. During daylight hours, it's generally safe.
Photography is generally permitted in the public square. However, some private galleries or shops might have their own policies regarding interior photography. Always check signage or ask permission.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for the monument and architecture. Midday can be harsh, but it's also when the plaza is most active, offering great street photography opportunities.
Yes, the area around Plaza Dos de Mayo is known for its street art, including murals. These make for vibrant and dynamic photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎵 Musicians and Music Lovers
🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Musical Heart of Lima
Beyond just sales, these shops contribute to the lively atmosphere of the plaza. You might hear impromptu jam sessions or see musicians testing out instruments. It’s a place where the passion for music is palpable. The accessibility of these stores, with many located just steps from the main plaza, makes it easy to browse and compare options. Remember to haggle respectfully if you feel the price is negotiable, as is common in some local markets.
When exploring the musical offerings, don't hesitate to ask the shop owners or staff for recommendations. They are often knowledgeable about different instrument types and brands, and can help you find exactly what you're looking for. This personal touch adds to the unique shopping experience at Plaza Dos de Mayo.
Retro Treasures and Artistic Expressions
In addition to gaming, the plaza is a canvas for street art and contemporary exhibitions. Galleries like Lima 247 Art Gallery frequently host free exhibitions, paying homage to local artists and art movements. These exhibitions can range from tributes to graffiti artists like 'Poet' to showcases of modern Peruvian art. The dynamic nature of these displays means there's often something new and exciting to see, making repeat visits worthwhile.
Exploring these galleries and shops offers a glimpse into Lima's vibrant subcultures and artistic community. It’s a chance to find unique souvenirs, connect with local artists, and experience a different side of the city beyond its historical monuments. The combination of retro nostalgia and modern art creates a unique and engaging environment around Plaza Dos de Mayo.
Historical Significance and Urban Vibe
Today, the plaza blends its historical importance with a lively urban atmosphere. It's a busy intersection where locals and tourists converge. The surrounding colonial-era buildings add to the charm, offering a picturesque backdrop for the daily hustle and bustle. While vibrant, visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings due to the area's popularity and potential for petty crime.
The plaza serves as a gateway to further exploration of Lima's historic center, with many other significant landmarks within walking distance. It’s a place where history meets contemporary life, offering a rich experience for those who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit