Arequipa 1-day itinerary

Start at Plaza de Armas, one of Peru's most beautiful colonial squares, framed by white sillar volcanic stone arcades and the twin-towered Cathedral. The brilliant white facades glow in the morning sun with the snow-capped Misti volcano rising directly behind — photograph this view from the Cathedral steps. From the plaza, walk five minutes to the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a cloistered convent founded in 1579 that operated as a self-contained city for 400 years. Its vivid red, orange, and blue-painted streets, flower-filled courtyards, and silent chapels are the most extraordinary architectural experience in southern Peru.

Head to Mercado San Camilo, Arequipa's bustling central market, for a lunch of rocoto relleno — the city's signature dish of hot peppers stuffed with minced meat and cheese, baked until the skin blisters. The market food court serves this for 8-12 soles alongside pastel de papa (potato pie) and chupe de camarones (prawn chowder). After lunch, take a taxi or 20-minute walk to the Yanahuara viewpoint — a mirador with stone sillar arches framing perfect views of Misti and Chachani volcanoes rising above the city. The neighbourhood has a quiet, residential feel very different from the busy centre.

Explore San Lázaro, Arequipa's oldest neighbourhood, a warren of narrow cobblestone lanes lined with sillar stone homes draped in bougainvillea. The area is quiet and largely tourist-free. Return to the plaza area for dinner — Arequipa has an excellent restaurant scene concentrated on the streets around the main square. Try adobo arequipeño (slow-braised pork in vinegar and chilli) at a traditional picanteríia, or freshwater prawn dishes if the season is right (Jun–Nov). The illuminated Cathedral and sillar facades at night are stunning.