Lima, the sprawling capital of Peru, is a coastal city that seamlessly merges history, gastronomy, and modernity. For those pondering things to do in Lima, visiting the historic center with its grand colonial architecture and UNESCO-listed sites like the Cathedral of Lima and the Monastery of San Francisco, and exploring the bohemian district of Barranco with its art galleries, vibrant murals, and cliffside views of the Pacific, are top activities.
The city’s Larco Museum offers a comprehensive look into Peru’s pre-Columbian history, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, including a renowned gallery of ancient erotic ceramics. Nearby, the Magic Water Circuit, a park with illuminated fountains, provides a mesmerizing evening experience, especially during its light and music shows.
Beyond its cultural and historical landmarks, Lima is celebrated as South America’s gastronomic capital, boasting many world-class restaurants and local eateries serving everything from ceviche to pisco sours. Lima’s blend of culinary delights, colonial charm, and coastal beauty makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking the best places to visit in Peru.
Attractions & Things to Do in Lima, Peru
1. Miraflores District
Miraflores is Lima’s modern and upscale district, located by the coast. It offers a blend of green parks, ocean views, shopping areas, and vibrant nightlife. The Malecón, a long stretch overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is perfect for walks, jogs, or simply soaking in the views.
Location: Coastal district of Lima, accessible by car, bus, or taxi. The Jorge Chávez International Airport is about 40 minutes away.
Scenic Spot: The Malecón, a stunning coastal boardwalk offering ocean views, green parks, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a scenic sunset or early morning for a peaceful walk.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for everyone, with family-friendly parks, shopping areas, and a safe environment.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: Safety is generally good in Miraflores, but as with any touristy area, watch your belongings and avoid deserted areas at night.
2. Larco Museum
Situated in the Pueblo Libre District, the Larco Museum boasts one of the world’s most impressive collections of pre-Columbian art. The museum is housed in an 18th-century viceroyalty mansion, and its exhibitions showcase the richness of Peru’s ancient civilizations.
Location: Pueblo Libre District, reachable by taxi or public transportation from Miraflores and the Historic Center.
Scenic Spot: An 18th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and one of the world’s most impressive pre-Columbian art collections.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or midday to avoid crowds and explore at a relaxed pace.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in history and archaeology.
Price: Approximately $8–$10 per person.
Travel Tip: Allocate at least two to three hours to explore this museum thoroughly. The café in its beautiful garden setting is worth a visit too.
3. The Historic Centre of Lima
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Historic Centre of Lima showcases colonial architecture, grand plazas, and historic churches. Key landmarks include the Lima Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the San Francisco Monastery.
Location: Downtown Lima, easily accessible by bus, taxi, or guided tours.
Scenic Spot: Colonial architecture, grand plazas, and landmarks like the Cathedral of Lima, Government Palace, and San Francisco Monastery.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heavy traffic and crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but younger children may find historical tours less engaging.
Price: Free to walk around; some buildings charge an entrance fee (typically $5–$10).
Travel Tip: Consider joining a guided walking tour to understand each site’s historical significance better.
4. Magic Water Circuit
Located in the Parque de la Reserva, the Magic Water Circuit is a collection of fountains illuminated at night, some of which are interactive. Music and light shows make it a delightful experience for families and couples alike.
Location: Parque de la Reserva, a short taxi or bus ride from Miraflores and downtown Lima.
Scenic Spot: A collection of illuminated fountains with music and light shows in the evening.
Best Time to Visit: After sunset for the full light and water show experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Approximately $2–$3 per person.
Travel Tip: The park is most magical when the fountains are illuminated in the evening. Remember to bring a light jacket as the weather can cool down.
5. Barranco District
Adjacent to Miraflores, Barranco exudes a bohemian charm. This neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene, colonial architecture, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. It’s also a great place to sample some of Lima’s burgeoning culinary scene.
Location: Adjacent to Miraflores, easily reachable by taxi, bus, or walking along the coast.
Scenic Spot: The bohemian heart of Lima, filled with art galleries, murals, historic architecture, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime for quiet exploration, evening for nightlife and cultural events.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all, but more enjoyable for adults and art lovers.
Price: Free to explore; some museums and galleries may have entry fees ($5–$10).
Travel Tip: While daytime offers a relaxed vibe, evenings are lively with music and events. Check local listings for any ongoing art shows or music events.
6. Huaca Pucllana
Huaca Pucllana, a clay pyramid built by the Lima culture around 500 AD, is in the heart of the modern Miraflores district. This pre-Incan ruin serves as a testament to the area’s deep history, long before the Spanish arrival.
Location: Located in Miraflores, easily accessible by taxi, bus, or even on foot from other parts of the district.
Scenic Spot: A massive pre-Incan adobe pyramid dating back to 500 AD, set against the modern skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening to avoid the midday heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but young children may not find it as engaging.
Price: Approximately $5–$7 per person.
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. A restaurant on-site offers views of the ruins, making it a perfect spot for dinner with a historical backdrop.
7. Parque Kennedy
Named after President John F. Kennedy, Parque Kennedy is a bustling urban park in the heart of Miraflores. It’s often teeming with artists, musicians, and street vendors, making it a lively spot for locals and tourists alike.
Location: Central Miraflores, accessible by taxi, bus, or walking.
Scenic Spot: A lively urban park filled with street performers, vendors, and the famous resident cats.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a vibrant atmosphere with music and artists.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, pet lovers, and street food enthusiasts.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: This is a great place for souvenir shopping. Remember to bargain, and keep an eye out for the many friendly cats that call the park home.
8. Mario Testino’s MATE Museum
Dedicated to the work of renowned Peruvian fashion photographer Mario Testino, this museum is a modern art haven in Barranco. It features exhibitions of Testino’s most iconic works alongside rotating exhibits from other contemporary artists.
Location: Barranco District, easily reachable by taxi or bus from Miraflores.
Scenic Spot: A contemporary art museum featuring the works of renowned Peruvian photographer Mario Testino.
Best Time to Visit: Midday or afternoon, followed by a stroll around Barranco’s artsy streets.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for art lovers, photographers, and adults; may not be engaging for young children.
Price: Approximately $5–$7 per person.
Travel Tip: After visiting the museum, stroll around Barranco to find various murals and art pieces that color the district’s streets.
9. El Malecón
Stretching several miles along Lima’s coast, El Malecón offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, particularly during sunset. It’s interspersed with parks, statues, and recreational areas and is popular among joggers, cyclists, and families.
Location: Stretches along the coast of Miraflores, accessible on foot, by bike, or by taxi.
Scenic Spot: One of Lima’s most beautiful walkways, offering panoramic Pacific Ocean views, paragliding, and green spaces.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for everyone, including families, joggers, and adventure seekers.
Price: Free to explore; paragliding costs around $70–$90 per flight.
Travel Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the green spaces. If you’re a fan of paragliding, this is also the place to take off for an aerial view of Lima.
10. Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú
Located in the Pueblo Libre district, this is Peru’s oldest state museum. It provides an exhaustive overview of Peru’s history, from its ancient civilizations to its colonial past.
Location: Pueblo Libre District, accessible by taxi or bus from Miraflores and downtown Lima.
Scenic Spot: The country’s oldest state museum, showcasing an extensive history of Peru from ancient civilizations to colonial times.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon for a less crowded experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for history lovers; young children may not find it very engaging.
Price: Approximately $3–$5 per person.
Travel Tip: Start your tour of Lima’s museums here, as it provides a chronological understanding of Peru’s diverse history. The museum’s garden is also a peaceful spot for relaxation.
11. San Isidro’s El Olivar Park
This peaceful park, once an olive grove, is a designated national monument. San Isidro’s El Olivar is a serene oasis amidst Lima’s urban sprawl, with ponds, pathways, and hundreds of old olive trees.
Location: San Isidro District, reachable by taxi or bus from Miraflores and other central areas.
Scenic Spot: A serene park filled with centuries-old olive trees, ponds, and walking paths.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon for a quiet, relaxing experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: It’s a perfect quiet morning or afternoon spot. The park also occasionally hosts cultural events and fairs, so check the local calendar.
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Lima, Peru: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Lima: 8/10 – Lima offers several family-friendly attractions such as the Parque de las Leyendas (a large zoo and botanical garden), the Magic Water Circuit at Parque de la Reserva, and the Larco Museum with its child-friendly exhibits. The city’s coastal parks and beaches, like Costa Verde and Playa Agua Dulce, provide outdoor space for children to play and explore.
Nightlife in Lima: 9/10 – Lima has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues, especially in areas like Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. The city offers everything from salsa and reggaeton clubs to stylish rooftop bars and cozy pubs, catering to diverse tastes and providing a lively evening atmosphere.
Sport in Lima: 8/10 – Lima provides numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts, including facilities for football, basketball, and tennis. The city’s coastal location makes it ideal for water sports such as surfing, particularly at beaches like Punta Hermosa and Miraflores. Outdoor activities such as jogging along the Malecón and paragliding are also popular.
Culture and Attractions in Lima: 9/10 – Lima is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with landmarks like Plaza Mayor and the Monastery of San Francisco. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes museums like the Museo Larco, theaters, and festivals, reflecting its diverse heritage.
Gastronomy in Lima: 10/10 – Lima is known as the culinary capital of South America, featuring a diverse and sophisticated culinary scene. Traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos are popular. The city offers numerous dining options, from street food vendors to world-renowned restaurants like Central and Maido, providing a rich and varied culinary experience.
Shopping in Lima: 8/10 – Shopping in Lima includes modern malls like Jockey Plaza and Larcomar, as well as traditional markets such as Mercado Central and the Inca Market. The city offers a variety of products, from fashion and electronics to local crafts and souvenirs, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
Prices in Lima: 8/10 – Lima is generally affordable, with options to suit different budgets. While luxury accommodations and dining can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping, making the city accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: $70
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $6
Price of a beer: $2.50
Price of a coffee: $1.50
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Lima, Peru
For those looking to explore beyond Lima’s coastal beauty, top day trips near Lima reveal the ancient mysteries and natural wonders of Peru. The sacred ruins of Pachacamac, the sandy oasis of Huacachina, and the verdant landscapes of the Lomas de Lachay offer a glimpse into the diverse terrains that surround the capital.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Lima accommodations cater to every preference, from luxury hotels in the vibrant Miraflores and Barranco districts to charming guesthouses in the historical center, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in Peru’s bustling metropolis.
FAQ About Things to Do in Lima, Peru
What are the top attractions to visit in Lima?
Some of the top attractions in Lima include the Larco Museum, Miraflores Boardwalk, Plaza de Armas, and the San Francisco Monastery.
Is it worth visiting the historic center of Lima?
Absolutely! The historic center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past with its beautiful architecture, churches, and palaces.
Can I surf in Lima?
Yes, Lima has several beaches that are popular among surfers. The Miraflores district, particularly, has beaches like Waikiki and Makaha, which are great for surfing.
Are there any local markets I should visit in Lima?
Definitely! The Mercado Central and Mercado de Surquillo are bustling local markets where fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs are found.
What local dishes should I try while in Lima?
Lima is known for its culinary delights. Don’t miss out on trying ceviche, lomo saltado, causa limeña, and anticuchos.
Is Lima safe for tourists?
Like any major city, it’s essential to take standard precautions. Stick to well-traveled areas, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings. Lima is relatively safe for tourists, but it’s always good to be cautious.
Are there any nearby day trips I can take from Lima?
Yes, the nearby Pachacamac ruins, the beach town of Paracas, and the Ballestas Islands are popular day trip destinations from Lima.
Can I experience traditional Peruvian music and dance in Lima?
Absolutely! There are several peñas (traditional music venues) in Lima where you can enjoy live performances of traditional Peruvian music and dance, including the famous Marinera dance.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lima
https://www.getyourguide.com/lima-l39/
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