Attractions and Places To See in San Martin De Porres - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in San Martin De Porres, a district within Lima, Peru, include a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and green spaces. The area is associated with the revered Catholic saint, San Martín de Porres, and offers insights into Lima's heritage. Visitors can explore sites ranging from significant religious buildings to modern recreational parks. The district provides opportunities to experience both historical depth and contemporary urban life in Lima.
Best attractions and places to see in San Martin De Porres
- The most popular attractions is Parque Chino de Miraflores, a man-made monument that features a Chinese pavilion on a scenic hill. The park is complemented by wooden surfaces, glass tiles, stone-clad staircases, a bridge, water fountains, and gardens.
- Another must-see spot is La Marina Lighthouse, a man-made monument. This 22-meter-high iron tower was first erected in 1900 and later rebuilt on the cliffs of Miraflores in 1973, with its light visible 18 nautical miles away.
- Visitors also love San Martín Square, a man-made monument in the historic center of Lima. It features a large equestrian statue of José San Martín and is connected to the Plaza Mayor of Lima.
- San Martin De Porres is known for historical sites, man-made monuments, and family-friendly viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, reflecting both its historical significance and modern recreational offerings.
- The attractions in San Martin De Porres are appreciated by the komoot community, with 25 upvotes and 27 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
San Martín Square
Highlight • Monument
Source and further information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_San_Mart%C3%ADn,_Lima
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Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima
Highlight • Religious Site
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Gran Hotel Bolívar
Highlight • Historical Site
As part of a modernization program for Lima, the hotel was built on government-owned land. The hotel was inaugurated on December 6, 1924, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Ayacucho, a decisive military encounter during the Peruvian War of Independence. The square itself was inaugurated on July 27, 1921, to mark the centenary of Peru's independence.
During the 1940s and 1950s, the hotel attracted Hollywood film stars such as Orson Welles, Ava Gardner and John Wayne, where many also discovered the local cocktail, the Pisco Sour.
Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gran_Hotel_Bol%C3%ADvar
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La Marina Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
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Desamparados
Highlight • Historical Site
The main highlight of the train ride is the Galera station, the second highest in the world, at an altitude of 4,876 meters. Other highlights include Puente Carrión, a 200-meter-long bridge between high peaks, and a thrilling Infernillo bridge that connects two tunnels. During 14 hours, the train passes by the Cordillera Occidental, Valle del Mantaro and finally reaches Huancayo, the capital of the high mountain Junín.
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Tips from the Community
On the last Sunday of the month, ethnic groups from different parts of the country meet here alternately.
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The building was designed as the main station, passenger terminal, and office building of the Central Railway of Lima. It was completed in 1912. Modern methods and materials such as reinforced concrete with iron structures and metal lattice girders were used in its construction.
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In its heyday, the Gran Hotel Bolivar was the place to be in Lima. Built at the request of the government on state property and designed by Peruvian architect Rafael Marquina, its original raison d'être was to serve as a sophisticated base for politicians. Charles de Gaulle, Nixon, Robert Kennedy and Emperor Akihito all stayed at the Bolivar, which is located in the royal Plaza San Martín, six blocks from the Government Palace.
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A great place. But unfortunately, like everywhere else, there is a lot of traffic.
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The Estación de Desamparados is a historic train station in Lima. The station was named after the former Jesuit convent Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados. It is located on the railway line to La Oroya, which began operating here in 1871. After a later operating company, the line is also known as Ferrocarril Central Andino (Peruvian Central Railway). Today the station is mainly used as an exhibition hall and since 2003, twice a month between April and November, when a tourist train runs along the old line, as a stop for photo shoots. The "Desamparados" station houses a museum that shows ethnic exhibitions, as well as the Casa de la Literatura Peruana.
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A beautiful colonial-era hotel. It seems as if time has stood still here. Some exhibits are on display in the hotel lobby.
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Currently, the station is only used for administrative purposes, although it can offer excursion services for passengers between Lima and the central mountain range. The station has been beautifully remodeled and is now home to the "La Casa de la Literatura Peruana" which was inaugurated on October 20, 2009 in the Desamparados station by President Alan García. The basement houses the Mario Vargas Llosa Library. The name of the library is a tribute to the writer Mario Vargas Llosa, Nobel Prize winner for Literature in 2010, which also happened to be inaugurated in 2010 with the writer's presence in the library.
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The lighthouse is located in the Parque el Faro, which commemorates a century of Peruvian navigation. It has a height of 22 meters. It is made of cast iron, consists of 319 disassembly parts, 1,750 connecting bolts and has a total weight of 60,000 kg. It is painted navy blue and has two white stripes.1 With a focal height of 108 m above sea level, its light can be seen 18 nautical miles (33 km; 21 mi) away and has a pattern. Source: https://www.ecured.cu/Faro_de_la_Marina_(Oc%C3%A9ano_Pac%C3%ADfico)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in San Martin De Porres?
San Martin De Porres and its surrounding areas in Lima offer rich historical and cultural experiences. You can visit the magnificent Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, known for its catacombs and ancient library, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another significant historical landmark is San Martín Square, featuring a grand equestrian statue of José San Martín in the historic center of Lima.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in San Martin De Porres?
Yes, several attractions in and around San Martin De Porres are suitable for families. The Parque Chino de Miraflores, with its unique Chinese pavilion, gardens, and fountains, offers a pleasant outing. Families can also enjoy the scenic views from La Marina Lighthouse, located in Parque el Faro, commemorating Peruvian navigation. The San Martín Square is also a great place for families to learn about Peruvian history.
Where can I find green spaces or parks for recreation in the area?
The Municipal Ecological Park (Parque Ecológico Municipal) in the San Martin de Porres district is a notable green space. It features large gardens, picnic areas, sports fields, and even a swimming pool, providing ample recreational opportunities. The park also houses a municipal nursery where you can observe various plant cultivations.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near San Martin De Porres attractions?
You can find various outdoor activities nearby. For hiking enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Parque Chino de Miraflores – View of Miraflores Coastline loop' which offers moderate to difficult trails. If you prefer running, explore the Running Trails in San Martin De Porres, including challenging loops around Larcomar Shopping Center. Mountain biking is also an option, with trails such as the 'La Herradura Beach, Chorrillos – View of Morro Solar loop' available in the wider Lima area. For more details, check out the Hiking in San Martin De Porres and MTB Trails in San Martin De Porres guides.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, some attractions are noted for their accessibility. The historic Desamparados train station, which now houses the 'La Casa de la Literatura Peruana' and the Mario Vargas Llosa Library, is wheelchair accessible. Additionally, San Martín Square in the historic center of Lima is also wheelchair friendly.
What is the significance of the Desamparados train station?
The Desamparados train station is a historic landmark in Lima, originally part of the railway line to La Oroya. While primarily used for administrative purposes today, it has been beautifully remodeled and now hosts the 'La Casa de la Literatura Peruana' and the Mario Vargas Llosa Library. It also serves as a stop for tourist trains between April and November, offering photo opportunities.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in San Martin De Porres?
For scenic views, head to Parque Chino de Miraflores, which offers a picturesque setting with its Chinese pavilion on a hill. Another excellent viewpoint is La Marina Lighthouse, situated on the cliffs of Miraflores, providing panoramic vistas of the coastline and Pacific Ocean.
What is the best time to visit San Martin De Porres for outdoor activities?
Lima, including San Martin De Porres, generally experiences mild temperatures year-round. The dry season, from April to December, offers cooler, cloudier weather (known as 'garúa') but is ideal for outdoor exploration without intense heat. The summer months (January to March) are warmer and sunnier, which might be preferable for some, but can also be more humid. For comfortable outdoor activities like hiking or walking, the dry season is often recommended.
Are there any places related to Saint Martin de Porres himself?
While the district is named after him, the most significant sites directly related to Saint Martin de Porres are located in other parts of Lima. The Convent of Santo Domingo, for instance, houses his remains within a chapel. There is also the House of Birth of San Martin de Porres, a historical and religious site dedicated to his life and legacy, featuring colonial architecture and an Ethnographic Museum.
What unique cultural experiences can I find in the area?
Beyond the historical sites, you can experience unique cultural aspects. The Parque Chino de Miraflores commemorates over 172 years of Chinese immigration to Peru, offering a glimpse into this significant cultural influence. The 'La Casa de la Literatura Peruana' located in the Desamparados train station provides insights into Peruvian literature and heritage.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in San Martin De Porres?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical depth and modern recreational offerings. The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is often highlighted for its spectacular architecture and the unique experience of its catacombs. The scenic beauty and cultural significance of Parque Chino de Miraflores and the impressive San Martín Square are also highly rated by the komoot community.
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