Jirón de la Unión

Overview

Jirón de la Unión is Lima's most historic commercial street, a pedestrianized boulevard connecting Plaza Mayor to Plaza San Martín through the heart of the colonial center. Once the most fashionable address in South America, it retains many of its belle-époque buildings.

Highlights

• Architecture: Art Nouveau and Beaux-Arts facades line the street, including the elegant Club Nacional and the historic Hotel Bolívar.
• Shopping Mix: A combination of traditional shops, modern retailers, and street vendors creates a bustling commercial atmosphere.
• Street Life: Musicians, food vendors, and performers animate the pedestrian boulevard, especially on weekends.

History

Originally called Calle de los Mercaderes (Merchants' Street), it was renamed after Peruvian independence. By the early 20th century, it was known as the "Champs-Élysées of South America" for its elegant shops and cafés. Though it lost some grandeur in the late 20th century, restoration efforts have revived much of its architectural beauty.

Visitor Tips

• Walk the Full Length: From Plaza Mayor to Plaza San Martín is about 1 km — an easy, flat walk.
• Watch for Pickpockets: The busy pedestrian street attracts opportunistic theft.
• Duration: 30 minutes–1 hour.