Top things to do in Arequipa

This convent shouldn’t be missed, even if you’re overdosed on colonial edifices. Occupying a whole block and guarded by imposing high walls, it is one of the most fascinating religious buildings in Peru. Nor is it j…

Peru’s most famous chef, Gastón Acurio, owns this experimental place where the menu closely reflects Peru’s Inca-Spanish roots. River prawns are a highlight in season (April to December), but Acurio prepares Peruvia…

The innovative, wonderfully plated contemporary Peruvian creations at Salamanto bolster Arequipa's reputation as a foodie destination. The five-dish degustation is unmissable with mushroom and pistachio mousse, trou…

An unmissable local favorite, this long-running picantería has old-world formal service but a casual atmosphere that turns boisterous even during the week when family groups descend to eat generous servings of local…

There’s an escalating drama to this theatrically presented museum, dedicated to the preserved body of a frozen ‘mummy,’ and its compulsory guided tour (free, but a tip is expected at the end). Spoiler: the climax is…

Upscale but not ridiculously pricey, Zig Zag is a Peruvian restaurant with European inflections. It inhabits a two-story colonial house with an iron stairway designed by Gustave Eiffel (blimey, that bloke must have …

A must for visitors who want to see more of Arequipa's cathedral, the included 45-minute bilingual tour of this 'museum' is actually a peek at the inner workings of the basilica, with an explanation of the impressiv…

This tranquil neighborhood makes for a pleasant, walkable excursion, with a mirador (lookout) as its centerpiece providing excellent views of Arequipa and El Misti through arches inscribed with poetry. To get here, …

Arequipa's first craft-beer bar is a modern but unpretentious pub in the village-like San Lázaro area. The burgers, wings and hand-cut fries are excellent for pacing yourself. New to craft beer? Chelawasi's friendly…

This beautiful building on the Plaza de Armas stands out for its stark white sillar (volcanic rock) and massive size – it's the only cathedral in Peru that stretches the length of a plaza. It also has a history of r…