Last Updated on April 16, 2024
Any trip to Peru starts in its capital city, Lima. This is my comprehensive guide to the Peruvian capital and a comprehensive list of things to do in Lima.
If you’re traveling to Peru, it’s highly likely that you will spend some time in Lima, the capital city. Although many travelers tend to avoid Lima due to its metropolitan and massive nature, it’s actually a great place to start or end your Peru trip because of the world-class restaurants, museums and beaches here.
On our first visit to Peru, we also avoided Lima, thinking that our time was best spent in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. But on our recent return to Lima, we were pleasantly surprised by the capital city and loved our time in Lima. In this blog post, I’m sharing with you the best things to do in Lima, including the coolest museums, best taverns, and day trips.
Things to Do in Lima
1. Visit Plaza Las Armas
Plaza Las Armas is the main square in Lima and a great place to start your exploration of the city. The square is home to the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima, as well as a number of other important historical buildings.
From its conception in 1535—the same year in which Francisco Pizarro founded the city of Lima—to the present day, the Plaza de Armas has remained the focal point of the city.
2. Take a Tour of the Lima Cathedral
Overlooking the Plaza las Armas, the Lima Cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in Peru. The cathedral was built in the 16th century and is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture. With the entry ticket, you can get a free tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and see its stunning interior.
3. Wander around the Museo Palacio Arzobispal
Next door to Lima Cathedral is the Palacio Arzobispal (or Archbishop’s Palace), a gorgeous colonial-style building that houses the Archbishop of Lima.
The palace is open to the public and visitors can explore its grounds and gardens, as well as take a tour of the interior. You can buy a combo ticket for this site and the Cathedral.
4. See the Change of Guards at the Palacio Gobierno
Running perpendicular to the Archbishop’s Palace is the Palacio Gobierno or Government Palace, the official residence of the President of Peru. The palace is open to the public for tours (with advance reservations), but it’s the changing of the guards ceremony that’s most interesting.
A full marching band performs during the ceremony, complete with formal attire and orchestra instruments. It takes place every day from 11.45 am to 12.30 pm.
5. Explore the Museo de Oro
One of the most prominent attractions in Lima, the Museo de Oro (or Gold Museum) is a must-see in my opinion. The museum houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold and silver in the world, and its exhibitions provide a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Peru’s indigenous people.
It might pale in comparison to the gold museums in Quito (Ecuador) and Bogota (Colombia), but for first-time visitors to South America, the museum is still a sight to behold. Book your tickets here.
6. Try a Pisco Sour at the Museo de Pisco
Pisco Sour is Peru’s national drink, and what better place to try it than at the Museo de Pisco?
This museum is dedicated to Peru’s most famous export, and visitors can learn all about the history and production of pisco. At the end of the tour, you get to sample a few different types of pisco sour, as well as other pisco-based cocktails.
7. Learn at the Choco Museum
Next to the Museo de Pisco is the chocolate museum, a small but informative museum that traces the history of chocolate-making in Peru.
You can learn about the process of making chocolate, from bean to bar, and sample some delicious Peruvian chocolate at the end of the tour. They do regular workshops and classes too, so check the website in advance if you’re interested.
8. Visit the Catacomb at the Monasterio de San Francisco
One of the most unique things to do in Lima is a visit of the underground catacomb at the Monasterio de San Francisco. This 17th-century monastery is one of the city’s most important historical sites, and its catacombs are said to be the largest in all of South America.
The entrance ticket comes with a free tour, which takes you through the various parts of the monastery before descending into the dark tunnels of the catacombs. You’ll see bones and skulls lining the walls. It’s a little bit eerie but also very fascinating.
9. Eat at Bar Cordano
One of the oldest restaurants in Lima is the Restaurant Bar Cordano, which has been serving up traditional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is located in the historic center of Lima, and its traditional decor and atmosphere make it a great place to try some authentic Peruvian cuisine. The menu features Peruvian classics, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa.
10. Wander around Parque del Muelle
Running around the edge of the old town, the Parque del Muelle is a great place to take a break from sightseeing. The park has a number of sculptures and art installations, as well as some nice views of the river. It’s also a popular spot for locals to come and relax, so it’s a good place to people-watch.
11. Learn about Peru’s History at Museo Larco
The best museum in Lima in my opinion is Larco Museum, which houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru.
The museum is located in a colonial-style mansion, and its exhibitions are spread out over three floors. The highlight is definitely the extensive collection of ceramics, which date back to 3000 BC.
12. Explore the National History Museum
Another museum worth visiting is the National History Museum, which is located in the former residence of Peruvian independence hero Jose de San Martin.
The museum covers a wide range of topics, from the country’s pre-Columbian history to the present day. There are some interesting exhibits on the military history of Peru, as well as a section on Peruvian cuisine.
13. Visit the Pisco Distillery at Taberna Queirolo
Near the National History Museum is an iconic tavern and pisco distillery, Taberna Queirolo, which has been in business since 1874. Take a step into the restaurant and you’ll find that the walls are filled with history. The tavern is famous for its pisco sour, but the food is just as outstanding. Try the ruleta dorada, a roulette of traditional Peruvian dishes that’s great for sampling.
14. See the Ancient Ruins at Huaca Pucllana
Did you know that there’s an ancient ruin right in the heart of the city? Huaca Pucllana is an ancient adobe and clay pyramid that was once the ceremonial center of the Lima Culture, one of the most advanced cultures in pre-Columbian Peru.
The site is now a protected archaeological park, and you can visit Huaca Pucllana on a guided tour, which includes a walk around the archaeological site and an explanation of its history and significance.
15. Walk along the Miraflores Boardwalk
In the Miraflores district of Lima, you’ll find a lovely boardwalk that runs along the edge of the cliffs, with great views of the ocean. The boardwalk is also home to a string of restaurants and cafes, as well as some parks and playgrounds. It’s the best spot in Lima to catch the sunset.
16. Chill at Parque de los Amores
Along the Miraflores boardwalk, be sure to stop by Parque de los Amores, a park dedicated to love. The park is home to a number of sculptures and murals, as well as a beautiful view of the city.
The local’s favorite chain, Besos Frances creperie, has several locations along the boardwalk, but the one at Parque de los Amores is the most popular.
17. Go Paragliding off the Cliffs
Adventurers alert! On the Miraflores boardwalk, you can go paragliding off the craggy cliffs and soar over the Atlantic Ocean. The view of the city from above is glorious, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. We’ve paraglided a few times and enjoyed it every single time! Book your paragliding experience here.
18. Surf on the Beach
Playa El Malecon at the base of the cliffs is Lima’s most popular beach. The waves here are ideal for surfing, and the beach is lined with restaurants and bars, making it a fantastic place to spend a day in the sun.
If you’re not into surfing, don’t worry; the beach also offers excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing.
19. Shop at Larcomar Mall
Perched on the top of the Miraflores cliffs, the Larcomar Mall is a great spot to do some last-minute shopping for outdoor gear. The mall has an outdoor promenade with views of the ocean, as well as several shops and restaurants.
20. Explore the District of Barranco
The bohemian district of Barranco is a district bursting with charm and character, earning its reputation as one of the city’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods.
One of the most captivating aspects of Barranco is its colorful colonial-era buildings adorned with intricate wooden balconies, which line its narrow cobblestone streets. These architectural gems serve as a testament to the district’s storied past, offering a glimpse into Lima’s colonial history while providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.
21. Get Lost in the Mercado Surquillo
Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors as you wander through the bustling stalls of Surquillo market, which stands as a shining example of district food markets in Lima. Here, vendors proudly showcase a diverse array of produce, each offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich agricultural heritage.
Engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share the origins of unique fruits like chirimoya (custard apple) and granadilla, providing insights into their cultural significance and nutritional benefits. Delve into discussions about indigenous seeds such as sacha inchi, cherished since the time of the Incas for their healthful properties.
22. Dine in World-Class Restaurants
Renowned for over a decade as a culinary hotspot, Lima is blessed with some of the world’s best restaurants. Central ranks #1 in the World’s Best Restaurants 2024 list and is drawing people from around the world to Lima. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the diverse bounty of tubers, flowers, and grains sourced from the Amazon and Andes regions. These establishments offer innovative concepts that showcase the richness and complexity of Peruvian ingredients in every dish.
For a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors, head to Maido, where the concept of nikkei cuisine takes center stage. Here, traditional Japanese techniques intertwine seamlessly with Peruvian ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
Alternatively, pay homage to the godfather of Peruvian gastronomy, Gaston Acurio, at Astrid y Gaston. This iconic restaurant promises a gastronomic adventure that pays homage to Peru’s culinary heritage while embracing contemporary techniques and flavors.
23. Stroll around the Bosque el Olivar in San Isidro
This serene forest-park offers a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. It encompasses the remnants of an ancient olive grove, a portion of which was cultivated by the revered San Martín de Porres during the 17th century.
Within its tranquil confines, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls surrounded by a diverse array of flora and fauna, including 44 species of trees and over 20 species of birds such as scarlet flycatchers, blue-gray tanagers, and Harris’s hawks.
A picturesque lagoon adds to the park’s natural charm, while a cultural center provides opportunities for enrichment and exploration. Wooden benches scattered throughout the park offer idyllic spots for couples to share intimate moments. In essence, this park serves as a delightful sanctuary amidst the often frenetic atmosphere of Peru’s capital city.
24. See the Circuito del Agua Water Fountain Show
Situated within the Parque de la Reserva, a sprawling 19-acre park inaugurated back in 1929, the Circuito Mágico del Agua is a recent addition completed in 2007.
Nestled between Avenida Arequipa and Paseo de la República, this park underwent a remarkable transformation with the introduction of the Magic Water Circuit, consisting of the 13 brilliantly illuminated fountains.
Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest public water fountain, its sheer scale is awe-inspiring. Operating from 3:00 pm to 10:30 pm Wednesday through Sunday, the fountains truly come alive at night. This spectacle is an absolute must-see for those traveling Peru with kids.
25. Climb to the Top of Cerro San Cristobal
For the best views of Lima, head to Cerro San Cristobal, a hill that towers over the city. You can take a cable car to the top, or hike up one of the trails.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lima. That said, it’s a dodgy area that locals tend to avoid – so make sure you go in a group and avoid staying there till dark.
26. Explore the Pachacamac Ruins
Located just outside of Lima’s city centre, the Pachacamac ruins are an archeological gold mine waiting to be explored. As one of the most important pre-Inca sites in all of Peru, Pachacamac is estimated to date back as early as 200 AD and was once a religious pilgrimage site for Inca and non-Inca alike.
Although much of the site still remains unexcavated, there’s plenty to see, including the Temple of Pachacamac, the Sun Temple, and the Acllawasi, a complex of buildings that served as a residence for acolytes.
Things to Do Near Lima
27. Hike in Lomas de Lachay
Lomas de Lachay is a biosphere place 100 km north Lima, and protects part of the lomas ecosystem. The unique ecosystem at Lomas de Lachay is part of Peru’s Yungas geography, much like a cloud forest in which a haze of humidity occupies the land for long periods of time.
At the end of the humid season, the moisture will have created a lush spread of vegetation. Hiking trails lead you through the gorgeous cloud forest. If you prefer to go with a guide, book your day trip here.
28. Visit the Huacachina Oasis
One of my favorite spots in Peru, the Huacachina Oasis lies in the deserts of Ica in southwestern Peru around a 2-hour drive from Lima. Surrounded by colossal sand dunes, the oasis is nestled around the Huacachina Lagoon, with waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small town right in the heart of the oasis, fringed by palm trees and lined with restaurants.
The best way to explore the oasis is on a dune buggy, which brings you up and down the vertiginous dunes. My daughter absolutely loved it! For those tight on time, you can also book a day trip to Huacachina.
29. Explore the Paracas Nature Reserve
About four hours south of Lima lies the sprawling, unspoiled Paracas National Reserve, home to a huge variety of wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and birds. Spanning over 3,350 km² of area, the protected area spans desert, ocean and islands and the iconic red sand beaches.
The Paracas Candelabra geoglyph, a huge hillside etching of mysterious origins, sits on the Paracas Peninsula. This is an absolutely wild and stunning area, that rightfully deserves spending some time exploring.
30. Take a Boat to Islas Ballestas
The Ballestas Islands are found within the oceans of the Paracas National Reserve. Nicknamed “the poor man’s Galapagos”, the rocky islands have gained popularity due to their rich wildlife and stunning views.
It’s easy and cheap to visit these islands, and those dreaming of going to the Galapagos will find the trip a nice compromise. Many tour companies combine the day trip to the Huacachina sand dunes with a boat trip around Islas Ballestas. Book your day trip here.
Travel Insurance for Peru
It’s important to have travel insurance, whether you’re traveling Peru for 2 weeks or a few months. Travel insurance will cover you in the event of a mishap or emergency. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.
Lima Travel Guide
How to Get to Lima
The main gateway to Peru is the Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM). LATAM Airlines is the national airline and serves many major cities in the world. You can get flights from New York to Lima for just US$260 return and Los Angeles to Lima for around $480 return.
We flew from Cancun to Lima (a 5-hour direct flight) for just US$300 return. You can also get reasonably priced flights to Lima from London. Similarly, you’ll find flights from Madrid to Lima offering reasonable rates, providing you with multiple options for affordable travel to Peru’s capital.
Getting Around Lima
By Uber
We mainly used Uber to get around Lima as it was cheap and really convenient. It’s also safer than taxis and you won’t need to waste time bargaining. A 20-minute Uber ride from our apartment in Miraflores to the airport cost us only US$11, while most Uber rides around the city cost less than US$5.
By Bus
The Metropolitano bus system was created in 2010 to help reduce traffic congestion in Lima. The buses are air-conditioned and have WiFi onboard, making them a comfortable way to get around the city. A one-way ticket costs only US$0.50, but you’ll need to buy a rechargeable card for about $0.50 in order to ride.
By Car Rental
We rented a car to drive from Lima to Huacachina, but would not suggest hiring a car to use inside Lima as traffic in some parts can be crazy.
It’s really cheap to hire an economy car in Lima; we paid around US$20 a day. We always use DiscoverCars.com as they’ve consistently given us the best prices and customer service.
Best Time to Visit Lima
The best time to visit Lima is from March to April or from September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Lima is a year-round destination, however, as the city experiences only two seasons: summer (December to April) and winter (May to November). During the summer, temperatures can get quite high while in winter it can be cool and misty.
Cost of Travel in Lima
If you’re coming from the US or Europe, it’s generally quite cheap to travel around Peru. The currency in Peru is the nuevo sol (S). The exchange rate is currently around US$1=3.72 Sol.
You can find ATMs all over Lima, but it’s always best to have some cash on hand as not all places accept card payments. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and stores in Lima.
Tipping in Lima
Tipping is not obligatory in Peru, but it’s always appreciated by service staff. A good rule of thumb is to leave around S/. 0.50-S/. 0.70 (US$0.15-US$0.20) per drink at a bar, S/. 0.50-S/. 0.70 per dish in a restaurant, and around S/. 0.70-S /.
Where to Stay in Lima
Lima has accommodation options to suit all budgets. For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of hostels available starting from $45/night.
Airbnb: Miraflores Apartment
We booked a spacious and comfortable 3-bedroom apartment in Lima’s upscale Miraflores neighborhood and couldn’t believe how cheap it was. At just $45/night, it was incredible value for money.
Just steps from restaurants and supermarkets, the apartment has an amazing location and functional features. If you’ve got a bigger family, check out this gorgeous 4-room apartment.
Luxury: Belmond Miraflores Park
Situated in the upscale Miraflores district, this five-star hotel offers lavish amenities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a spa, gourmet dining options, and elegant rooms and suites adorned with modern decor and upscale furnishings. Check rates here.
Mid-Range: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores
Located in the heart of Miraflores, this mid-range hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites with modern amenities. Its convenient location allows guests to explore nearby attractions such as Kennedy Park, Larcomar shopping center, and the Malecón de Miraflores. Check rates here.
Budget: Red Psycho Llama
Travelers on a budget will find great value at the Red Psycho Llama. Situated in the bohemian Barranco district, this budget-friendly hotel offers cozy accommodations with quirky decor and basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms.
Its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant surroundings make it a favorite among budget-conscious travelers looking to explore. Check rates here.
Where to Eat in Lima
Central Restaurante
Ranked #1 in the World’s Best Restaurant 2024 list, Central is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary dining experience. Helmed by acclaimed chef Virgilio Martínez, Central is known for its innovative approach to Peruvian cuisine, featuring a tasting menu that highlights ingredients sourced from different altitudes and ecosystems across Peru. Book a table here.
La Mar Cebichería
As a coastal city, Lima is renowned for its fresh seafood, and La Mar Cebichería is the perfect place to sample some of the best ceviche in town. This lively restaurant, founded by acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio, offers an extensive menu of ceviches, tiraditos, and other seafood specialties that highlight the vibrant flavors of Peru’s coastal cuisine. Read reviews here.
Astrid y Gastón
Housed in a beautiful colonial mansion in the upscale San Isidro district, Astrid y Gastón is a culinary institution in Lima. Founded by renowned chef Gastón Acurio, this flagship restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience that showcases the diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Read reviews here.
Taberna Queirolo
Taberna Queirolo has been serving up traditional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is located in the historic center of Lima, and its traditional decor and atmosphere make it a great place to try some authentic Peruvian cuisine. The menu features all the classics, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa. Read reviews here.
How to Stay Connected in Lima
To stay connected in Lima, you can get a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival or get a eSIM before arrival. We bought our eSIM on Airalo and it worked really well throughout the trip. We had unlimited internet data, with reception even on top of the Huacachina sand dunes. Get your eSIM here.
Enjoy Your Trip to Lima!
Phew, thanks for reading this far! I hope this list of things to do in Lima helped you get a great overview to Peru. Feel free to leave me any questions or comments you may have below.
Read more articles on Peru or other parts of South America:
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