When exploring a new destination, it’s normal to feel a bit lost — especially when trying to find the best places to shop, eat, or connect with local culture. But if you’re planning one of your trips to Peru, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.
Peru offers everything from modern department stores and supermarkets to vibrant local fairs and traditional markets. While you may be familiar with the former, it’s the latter that truly capture the spirit of a real tour to Peru.
✨ Known for offering high-quality products at affordable prices, Peru’s markets are a treasure trove of fresh produce, tropical fruits, medicinal plants, handmade crafts, and authentic local flavors.
That’s why Trip Peru has put together a curated list of 4 traditional markets you simply can’t miss during your trip. These unique spots will not only enrich your travel experience but also bring you closer to the heart of Peruvian culture.
Get ready to discover the local side of Peru — one market at a time. 🧺
Market of Surquillo in Lima, a Great Spot to Taste Food and Drinks
For many travelers, Lima is the first stop on their trips to Peru, as it’s home to the country’s main international airport. However, with packed itineraries heading toward destinations like Cusco or the Amazon, visitors often overlook the cultural gems hidden within Peru’s vibrant capital — known as the City of Kings.
If your tour to Peru includes even a short stay in Lima, don’t miss the chance to explore one of its most authentic spots: the Surquillo Market. Just a few minutes from Miraflores — the go-to district for international travelers — this colorful local market offers a feast for the senses and a taste of real Peruvian life.
🥭 Here, you’ll find everything from exotic fruits and fresh seafood to spices and ingredients you may have never encountered before. It’s also a great place to enjoy delicious Peruvian dishes at unbeatable prices, all served with warm local hospitality.
🌈 Surquillo Market is perfect for those who want to capture the essence of Peru — through its flavors, its people, and its daily rhythm — all in one place. Whether you’re a foodie, a photographer, or a curious traveler, this market is a must during your time in Lima.
🕒 Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Saturdays from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Sundays from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Belén Market, in Iquitos, a Really Exotic Place
To give you a taste of Peru’s diversity, let’s talk about one of its most fascinating and exotic regions: the Peruvian Amazon. Unlike the elegant sophistication of Europe’s urban markets, this is a place where nature, tradition, and mystery come together in the most unexpected ways.
As part of many unforgettable trips to Peru, a journey into the Amazon offers the chance to explore vibrant local markets that are truly one of a kind. This is not your average shopping stop — it’s a deep dive into the unknown.
🦎 Here, you’ll come across items and ingredients you never imagined existed: turtle meat, piranhas, massive Amazonian fish like the paiche (one of the largest freshwater fish in the world), medicinal plants, and mysterious potions used in traditional healing practices.
If your tour to Peru includes the Amazon region, make sure to set aside time to visit this incredibly unique market. It’s a place for curious travelers, adventurous foodies, and anyone fascinated by the lesser-known corners of the world.
🕒 Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- It is not open on Sundays.
Central Market of San Pedro in Cusco, the Most Traditional Spot for Tourists
Unlike the jungle markets of the Amazon, this vibrant market in Cusco offers a truly Andean experience — a must-see for anyone on trips to Peru seeking a deeper connection with local culture and traditions.
Located in the heart of the historic city, this popular market is surrounded by cozy bars, authentic restaurants, and countless food stalls offering traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a lively space that reflects the spirit of Cusco and its rich cultural heritage.
🍃 One of the highlights of this stop on your tour to Peru is the incredible variety of products: colorful fruits and vegetables, healing plants, and many items made from the coca leaf — a sacred plant in Andean culture. You’ll also find beautiful handmade crafts, perfect for souvenirs, all at very affordable prices.
🧺 Whether you’re shopping, tasting local flavors, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this market offers a truly immersive experience in one of the most iconic cities of Peru.
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from morning until 5:00 p.m.
Pisac Market in Cusco, the Perfect Place to Shop Peruvian Handicrafts
Cusco is one of the most iconic and visited cities in the country — a true highlight on most trips to Peru, thanks to its close connection with the majestic Machu Picchu. But beyond the famous Inca citadel, Cusco offers much more to explore, especially when you take a tour to Peru’s Sacred Valley.
✨ Along this unforgettable route, you’ll find vibrant artisan markets where you can shop for the finest Peruvian handicrafts — all in one place. From colorful chullos (traditional Andean hats) and handwoven alpaca rugs to costume jewelry and decorative objects, this is the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Peru’s rich culture.
🧵 Whether you’re searching for authentic souvenirs or simply want to enjoy a walk through local markets surrounded by mountains and tradition, this experience is the perfect blend of culture, craftsmanship, and discovery — a must for any traveler on their trip to Peru.
🕒 Market hours:
- Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Now you have more reasons to travel to Peru. Trip Peru one of the best travel agencies and can help you in your new trip to this country. Just contact us a we will assist you to choose your next tour to Peru.
