What to do for free in Arequipa?

Arequipa, affectionately known as the ‘White City’ due to the characteristic color of its sillar stone buildings, is one of Peru’s colonial jewels. This city, located at the foot of the imposing Misti volcano, holds cultural richness within its cobblestone streets, Baroque temples, and old mansions that doesn’t require a large financial investment to enjoy. In fact, many of its most emblematic attractions can be experienced at no cost, simply by walking through its charming historic center or exploring its traditional neighborhoods.

If you’re just passing through, love budget travel, or simply enjoy discovering the most authentic aspects of each city, here’s what to do for free in Arequipa, a city that captivates at every turn.

1. The San Camilo Market

One of the best places to start your journey is the colorful and bustling San Camilo Market, the oldest and most representative in Arequipa. This market, whose history began after the 1868 earthquake, is not just a shopping venue but an authentic cultural meeting point.

There you’ll find everything from fresh juices and exotic fruits to typical Arequipeña dishes like adobo, caldo de cabeza, and traditional quesos helados (frozen cheese). While buying or trying something has a cost, walking through its aisles, observing the local dynamics, and enjoying the aromas and colors is completely free.

• Location: Calle San Camilo, a few minutes from the Plaza de Armas (Main Square).
• Hours: Daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

2. Mirador de Yanahuara: Unforgettable Views of the Misti

One of the most photogenic and romantic spots in Arequipa is, without a doubt, the Mirador de Yanahuara. This set of sillar arches with engraved phrases from famous Peruvian figures offers a privileged panoramic view of the city and its three majestic volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.

The viewpoint is located in the heart of the traditional Yanahuara neighborhood, a place that preserves its colonial essence in every corner. Besides being an excellent spot for taking an unforgettable postcard photo, its access is completely free.

• Location: Calle Miguel Grau, Yanahuara.
• Hours: Open all day.
• Extra tip: Very close by, you’ll find charming cafes where you can sit and enjoy a quiet afternoon with unforgettable views.

3. Plaza de Armas of Arequipa

The heart of Arequipa beats strongly in its Plaza de Armas, one of the most elegant in all of South America. Its harmonious architectural design, framed by white colonial arches, well-maintained gardens, and a central fountain crowned by the ‘Turututu’ statue, invites you to sit and simply watch life go by.

Around it, you’ll find cafes, handicraft shops, and historic buildings like the Arequipa Cathedral, whose imposing white sillar facade is the protagonist of thousands of photographs. Although entering the Cathedral’s museum has a cost, enjoying its exterior and the atmosphere of the square is completely free.

• Location: Historic center of Arequipa.
• Hours: Permanent, ideal for visiting both day and night.

4. San Lázaro Neighborhood

One of Arequipa’s most picturesque and ancient corners is the San Lázaro Neighborhood, considered the original cradle of the city. Its narrow streets and passages with singular names like Ripacha, Violín, or Cristales, offer a journey to the city’s colonial past.

This neighborhood, which preserves its original sillar stone constructions, is perfect for wandering aimlessly and finding charming corners, small squares, flowers on balconies, and architecture that conveys living history. It’s also a very quiet place for taking photographs or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

• Location: Just a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas, near the Puente Grau.
• Hours: Accessible all day.
• Local tip: Be sure to look for the famous “Ripacha bread,” typical of the neighborhood.

5. Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús)

Located on a corner of the Plaza de Armas, this 17th-century Jesuit church is a masterpiece of Mestizo Baroque art. Its facade, richly ornamented with floral motifs, birds, and Christian symbols, is one of the most photographed in the country.

While entry to the internal museum has a cost, entry to the temple is free during liturgy hours, and it’s enough to enter to admire its golden altarpieces, its magnificent main altar, and its paintings belonging to the Cusco School of painting.

• Location: Calle General Morán 114.
• Hours: Primarily in the mornings, during mass times.

6. The Arequipa Cathedral

While access to the Cathedral’s museum involves a payment, admiring it from the outside and exploring its surroundings costs nothing. The Arequipa Cathedral is one of the few in the world that occupies an entire side of the Plaza de Armas and, thanks to its imposing Neorenaissance-inspired architecture, is a mandatory stop.

By day it is beautiful, but at night, when it is illuminated, its majesty comes even more to life. It is a perfect place to sit in front of it, reflect, and absorb the serene spirit of the city.

Other Free Corners You Can Enjoy

• Puente Grau and Puente Bolognesi: Cross these historic bridges and contemplate the Chili River and the volcanoes in the background.
• Calles Santa Catalina and San Francisco: Full of history, galleries, shops, and small museums with free entry.
• Museo del Centro Cultural de la UNSA (UNSA Cultural Center Museum): With temporary exhibitions and free cultural activities.