Food & Markets

Lima Street Food Free Tour

Ceviche, pisco and the flavors behind Peru's culinary fame

4.3 (57) · Bookable via Civitatis

Lima is widely considered the gastronomic capital of Latin America, and this tour tastes its way through the reasons why. Starting near the colonial Church of La Merced, your guide leads you between market stalls and unassuming counters to sample dishes such as ceviche, causa and anticuchos — with tastings purchased along the way at your own pace, not included in the free tour itself.

Between bites you'll hear how Peru's coastal, Andean, Chinese and Japanese influences collided to create criollo cuisine, why pisco sour became the national cocktail, and which unmarked spots locals actually queue for — the kind of tip that doesn't show up in restaurant guides.

Tour highlights

Tastings of ceviche and causa (paid on-site)
Pisco sour tasting
Traditional market visit
Stories behind Peru's criollo cuisine

Meeting point

Church of La Merced

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This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Lima Street Food Free Tour really free?

Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.

Where does the Lima Street Food Free Tour start?

The tour meets at Church of La Merced (Church of La Merced). Look for the guide with the FreeTour sign; the exact meeting point is confirmed in your booking.

How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?

It lasts around 2h30 and is guided in Spanish, English. Groups are capped at about 6 people so the experience stays personal. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.