Last Updated on April 16, 2024
Any journey to Peru begins in its capital metropolis, Lima. This is my complete information to the Peruvian capital and a complete record of issues to do in Lima.
If you’re touring to Peru, it’s extremely possible that you’ll spend a while in Lima, the capital metropolis. Although many vacationers are inclined to keep away from Lima resulting from its metropolitan and big nature, it’s really a terrific place to begin or finish your Peru journey due to the world-class eating places, museums and seashores right here.
On our first go to to Peru, we additionally averted Lima, considering that our time was greatest spent in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. But on our current return to Lima, we have been pleasantly stunned by the capital metropolis and cherished our time in Lima. In this weblog publish, I’m sharing with you the perfect issues to do in Lima, together with the good museums, greatest taverns, and day journeys.
Things to Do in Lima
1. Visit Plaza Las Armas
Plaza Las Armas is the primary sq. in Lima and a terrific place to begin your exploration of the town. The sq. is house to the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima, in addition to various different essential historic buildings.
From its conception in 1535—the identical yr by which Francisco Pizarro based the town of Lima—to the current day, the Plaza de Armas has remained the focus of the town.
2. Take a Tour of the Lima Cathedral
Overlooking the Plaza las Armas, the Lima Cathedral is without doubt one of the most essential spiritual websites in Peru. The cathedral was constructed within the sixteenth century and is a stupendous instance of Spanish colonial structure. With the entry ticket, you will get a free tour of the cathedral to study extra about its historical past and see its gorgeous inside.
3. Wander across the Museo Palacio Arzobispal
Next door to Lima Cathedral is the Palacio Arzobispal (or Archbishop’s Palace), a stunning colonial-style constructing that homes the Archbishop of Lima.
The palace is open to the general public and guests can discover its grounds and gardens, in addition to take a tour of the inside. You should buy a combo ticket for this website and the Cathedral.
4. See the Change of Guards on 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 general public for excursions (with advance reservations), however it’s the altering of the guards ceremony that’s most fascinating.
A full marching band performs through the ceremony, full with formal apparel and orchestra devices. It takes place day by day from 11.45 am to 12.30 pm.
5. Explore the Museo de Oro
One of probably the most distinguished points of interest in Lima, the Museo de Oro (or Gold Museum) is a must-see in my view. The museum homes one of many largest collections of pre-Columbian gold and silver on the earth, and its exhibitions present a captivating perception into the historical past and tradition of Peru’s indigenous individuals.
It may pale compared to the gold museums in Quito (Ecuador) and Bogota (Colombia), however for first-time guests to South America, the museum continues to be a sight to behold. Book your tickets right here.
6. Try a Pisco Sour on the Museo de Pisco
Pisco Sour is Peru’s nationwide drink, and what higher place to strive it than on the Museo de Pisco?
This museum is devoted to Peru’s most well-known export, and guests can study all in regards to the historical past and manufacturing of pisco. At the tip of the tour, you get to pattern just a few various kinds of pisco bitter, in addition to different pisco-based cocktails.
7. Learn on the Choco Museum
Next to the Museo de Pisco is the chocolate museum, a small however informative museum that traces the historical past of chocolate-making in Peru.
You can study in regards to the course of of creating chocolate, from bean to bar, and pattern some scrumptious Peruvian chocolate on the finish of the tour. They do common workshops and lessons too, so test the web site upfront should you’re .
8. Visit the Catacomb on the Monasterio de San Francisco
One of probably the most distinctive issues to do in Lima is a go to of the underground catacomb on the Monasterio de San Francisco. This Seventeenth-century monastery is without doubt one of the metropolis’s most essential historic websites, and its catacombs are stated to be the biggest in all of South America.
The entrance ticket comes with a free tour, which takes you thru the varied elements of the monastery earlier than descending into the darkish tunnels of the catacombs. You’ll see bones and skulls lining the partitions. It’s a bit bit eerie but additionally very fascinating.
9. Eat at Bar Cordano
One of the oldest eating places in Lima is the Restaurant Bar Cordano, which has been serving up conventional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is situated within the historic heart of Lima, and its conventional decor and ambiance make it a terrific place to strive some genuine Peruvian delicacies. The menu options Peruvian classics, similar to ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa.
10. Wander round Parque del Muelle
Running across the fringe of the outdated city, the Parque del Muelle is a good place to take a break from sightseeing. The park has various sculptures and artwork installations, in addition to some good views of the river. It’s additionally a well-liked spot for locals to return and calm down, so it’s a superb place to people-watch.
11. Learn about Peru’s History at Museo Larco
The greatest museum in Lima in my view is Larco Museum, which homes the biggest assortment of pre-Columbian artwork in Peru.
The museum is situated in a colonial-style mansion, and its exhibitions are unfold out over three flooring. The spotlight is certainly the in depth assortment of ceramics, which date again to 3000 BC.
12. Explore the National History Museum
Another museum value visiting is the National History Museum, which is situated within the former residence of Peruvian independence hero Jose de San Martin.
The museum covers a variety of subjects, from the nation’s pre-Columbian historical past to the current day. There are some fascinating displays on the navy historical past of Peru, in addition to a piece on Peruvian delicacies.
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 enterprise since 1874. Take a step into the restaurant and also you’ll discover that the partitions are stuffed with historical past. The tavern is known for its pisco bitter, however the meals is simply as excellent. Try the ruleta dorada, a roulette of conventional Peruvian dishes that’s nice for sampling.
14. See the Ancient Ruins at Huaca Pucllana
Did you recognize that there’s an historic spoil proper within the coronary heart of the town? Huaca Pucllana is an historic adobe and clay pyramid that was as soon as the ceremonial heart of the Lima Culture, one of the crucial superior cultures in pre-Columbian Peru.
The website is now a protected archaeological park, and you’ll go to Huaca Pucllana on a guided tour, which features a stroll across the archaeological website and an evidence of its historical past and significance.
15. Walk alongside the Miraflores Boardwalk
In the Miraflores district of Lima, you’ll discover a beautiful boardwalk that runs alongside the sting of the cliffs, with nice views of the ocean. The boardwalk can also be house to a string of eating places and cafes, in addition to some parks and playgrounds. It’s the perfect spot in Lima to catch the sundown.
16. Chill at Parque de los Amores
Along the Miraflores boardwalk, you’ll want to cease by Parque de los Amores, a park devoted to like. The park is house to various sculptures and murals, in addition to a stupendous view of the town.
The native’s favourite chain, Besos Frances creperie, has a number of areas alongside the boardwalk, however the one at Parque de los Amores is the most well-liked.
17. Go Paragliding off the Cliffs
Adventurers alert! On the Miraflores boardwalk, you’ll be able to go paragliding off the craggy cliffs and soar over the Atlantic Ocean. The view of the town from above is superb, and it’s an expertise you received’t quickly neglect. We’ve paraglided just a few instances and loved it each single time! Book your paragliding expertise right here.
18. Surf on the Beach
Playa El Malecon on the base of the cliffs is Lima’s hottest seaside. The waves right here are perfect for browsing, and the seaside is lined with eating places and bars, making it a incredible place to spend a day within the solar.
If you’re not into browsing, don’t fear; the seaside additionally gives wonderful alternatives for swimming, sunbathing, and easily enjoyable.
19. Shop at Larcomar Mall
Perched on the highest of the Miraflores cliffs, the Larcomar Mall is a good spot to do some last-minute searching for out of doors gear. The mall has an out of doors promenade with views of the ocean, in addition to a number of retailers and eating places.
20. Explore the District of Barranco
The bohemian district of Barranco is a district bursting with allure and character, incomes its popularity as one of many metropolis’s most vibrant and culturally wealthy neighborhoods.
One of probably the most charming points of Barranco is its colourful colonial-era buildings adorned with intricate picket balconies, which line its slender cobblestone streets. These architectural gems function a testomony to the district’s storied previous, providing a glimpse into Lima’s colonial historical past whereas offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.
21. Get Lost within the Mercado Surquillo
Immerse your self in a kaleidoscope of colours as you wander via the bustling stalls of Surquillo market, which stands as a shining instance of district meals markets in Lima. Here, distributors proudly showcase a various array of produce, every providing a glimpse into Peru’s wealthy agricultural heritage.
Engage with pleasant distributors who’re desirous to share the origins of distinctive fruits like chirimoya (custard apple) and granadilla, offering insights into their cultural significance and dietary advantages. Delve into discussions about indigenous seeds similar to sacha inchi, cherished because the time of the Incas for his or her healthful properties.
22. Dine in World-Class Restaurants
Renowned for over a decade as a culinary hotspot, Lima is blessed with a few of the world’s greatest eating places. Central ranks #1 within the World’s Best Restaurants 2024 record and is drawing individuals from around the globe to Lima. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the varied bounty of tubers, flowers, and grains sourced from the Amazon and Andes areas. These institutions provide revolutionary ideas that showcase the richness and complexity of Peruvian elements in each dish.
For a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors, head to Maido, the place the idea of nikkei delicacies takes heart stage. Here, conventional Japanese methods intertwine seamlessly with Peruvian elements to create an unforgettable eating expertise that tantalizes the style buds.
Alternatively, pay homage to the godfather of Peruvian gastronomy, Gaston Acurio, at Astrid y Gaston. This iconic restaurant guarantees a gastronomic journey that pays homage to Peru’s culinary heritage whereas embracing up to date methods and flavors.
23. Stroll across the Bosque el Olivar in San Isidro
This serene forest-park gives a peaceable retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the town. It encompasses the remnants of an historic olive grove, a portion of which was cultivated by the revered San Martín de Porres through the Seventeenth century.
Within its tranquil confines, guests can take pleasure in leisurely strolls surrounded by a various array of wildlife, together with 44 species of timber and over 20 species of birds similar to scarlet flycatchers, blue-gray tanagers, and Harris’s hawks.
A picturesque lagoon provides to the park’s pure allure, whereas a cultural heart supplies alternatives for enrichment and exploration. Wooden benches scattered all through the park provide idyllic spots for {couples} to share intimate moments. In essence, this park serves as a pleasant sanctuary amidst the usually frenetic ambiance of Peru’s capital metropolis.
24. See the Circuito del Agua Water Fountain Show
Situated inside the Parque de la Reserva, a sprawling 19-acre park inaugurated again in 1929, the Circuito Mágico del Agua is a current addition accomplished in 2007.
Nestled between Avenida Arequipa and Paseo de la República, this park underwent a exceptional transformation with the introduction of the Magic Water Circuit, consisting of the 13 brilliantly illuminated fountains.
Recognized by Guinness World Records because the world’s largest public water fountain, its sheer scale is awe-inspiring. Operating from 3:00 pm to 10:30 pm Wednesday via Sunday, the fountains actually come alive at night time. This spectacle is an absolute must-see for these touring Peru with children.
25. Climb to the Top of Cerro San Cristobal
For the perfect views of Lima, head to Cerro San Cristobal, a hill that towers over the town. You can take a cable automotive to the highest, or hike up one of many trails.
Once you attain the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lima. That stated, it’s a dodgy space that locals are inclined to keep away from – so be sure you go in a bunch and keep away from staying there until darkish.
26. Explore the Pachacamac Ruins
Located simply exterior of Lima’s metropolis centre, the Pachacamac ruins are an archeological gold mine ready to be explored. As one of the crucial essential pre-Inca websites in all of Peru, Pachacamac is estimated so far again as early as 200 AD and was as soon as a spiritual pilgrimage website for Inca and non-Inca alike.
Although a lot of the positioning nonetheless stays unexcavated, there’s loads to see, together with the Temple of Pachacamac, the Sun Temple, and the Acllawasi, a posh 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 a part of the lomas ecosystem. The distinctive ecosystem at Lomas de Lachay is a part of Peru’s Yungas geography, very like a cloud forest by which a haze of humidity occupies the land for lengthy intervals of time.
At the tip of the humid season, the moisture may have created a lush unfold of vegetation. Hiking trails lead you thru the attractive cloud forest. If you like to go along with a information, e book your day journey right here.
28. Visit the Huacachina Oasis
One of my favourite spots in Peru, the Huacachina Oasis lies within the deserts of Ica in southwestern Peru round a 2-hour drive from Lima. Surrounded by colossal sand dunes, the oasis is nestled across the Huacachina Lagoon, with waters which might be believed to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small city proper within the coronary heart of the oasis, fringed by palm timber and lined with eating places.
The greatest solution to discover the oasis is on a dune buggy, which brings you up and down the vertiginous dunes. My daughter completely cherished it! For these tight on time, you too can e book a day journey to Huacachina.
29. Explore the Paracas Nature Reserve
About 4 hours south of Lima lies the sprawling, unspoiled Paracas National Reserve, house to an enormous number of wildlife, together with penguins, sea lions, and birds. Spanning over 3,350 km² of space, the protected space spans desert, ocean and islands and the enduring purple sand seashores.
The Paracas Candelabra geoglyph, an enormous hillside etching of mysterious origins, sits on the Paracas Peninsula. This is a fully wild and gorgeous space, that rightfully deserves spending a while exploring.
30. Take a Boat to Islas Ballestas
The Ballestas Islands are discovered inside the oceans of the Paracas National Reserve. Nicknamed “the poor man’s Galapagos”, the rocky islands have gained recognition resulting from their wealthy wildlife and gorgeous views.
It’s simple and low cost to go to these islands, and people dreaming of going to the Galapagos will discover the journey a pleasant compromise. Many tour firms mix the day journey to the Huacachina sand dunes with a ship journey round Islas Ballestas. Book your day journey right here.
Travel Insurance for Peru
It’s essential to have journey insurance coverage, whether or not you’re touring Peru for two weeks or just a few months. Travel insurance coverage will cowl you within the occasion of a mishap or emergency. Refer to my journey insurance coverage information for extra particulars.
Safety Wing is the most well-liked journey insurance coverage firm for COVID19-coverage. I take advantage of their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as another sickness so long as it was not contracted earlier than your protection begin date.
Lima Travel Guide
How to Get to Lima
The fundamental gateway to Peru is the Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM). LATAM Airlines is the nationwide airline and serves many main cities on the earth. You can get flights from New York to Lima for simply US$260 return and Los Angeles to Lima for round $480 return.
We flew from Cancun to Lima (a 5-hour direct flight) for simply US$300 return. You may get fairly priced flights to Lima from London. Similarly, you’ll discover flights from Madrid to Lima providing affordable charges, offering you with a number of choices for reasonably priced journey to Peru’s capital.
Getting Around Lima
By Uber
We primarily used Uber to get round Lima because it was low cost and actually handy. It’s additionally safer than taxis and also you received’t must waste time bargaining. A 20-minute Uber experience from our house in Miraflores to the airport price us solely US$11, whereas most Uber rides across the metropolis price lower than US$5.
By Bus
The Metropolitano bus system was created in 2010 to assist cut back visitors congestion in Lima. The buses are air-conditioned and have WiFi onboard, making them a snug solution to get across the metropolis. A one-way ticket prices solely US$0.50, however you’ll want to purchase a chargeable card for about $0.50 in an effort to experience.
By Car Rental
We rented a automotive to drive from Lima to Huacachina, however wouldn’t counsel hiring a automotive to make use of inside Lima as visitors in some elements may be loopy.
It’s actually low cost to rent an economic system automotive in Lima; we paid round US$20 a day. We all the time use UncoverCars.com as they’ve constantly given us the perfect costs and customer support.
Best Time to Visit Lima
The greatest time to go to Lima is from March to April or from September to October when the climate is gentle and there are fewer crowds. Lima is a year-round vacation spot, nonetheless, as the town experiences solely two seasons: summer time (December to April) and winter (May to November). During the summer time, temperatures can get fairly excessive whereas in winter it may be cool and misty.
Cost of Travel in Lima
If you’re coming from the US or Europe, it’s typically fairly low cost to journey round Peru. The forex in Peru is the nuevo sol (S). The alternate fee is at the moment round US$1=3.72 Sol.
You can discover ATMs throughout Lima, however it’s all the time greatest to have some money available as not all locations settle for card funds. Credit playing cards are accepted in most lodges, eating places and shops in Lima.
Tipping in Lima
Tipping just isn’t compulsory in Peru, however it’s all the time appreciated by service workers. An excellent rule of thumb is to go away round 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 round S/. 0.70-S /.
Where to Stay in Lima
Lima has lodging choices to go well with all budgets. For these on a decent price range, there are many hostels obtainable ranging from $45/night time.
Airbnb: Miraflores Apartment
We booked a spacious and comfy 3-bedroom house in Lima’s upscale Miraflores neighborhood and couldn’t imagine how low cost it was. At simply $45/night time, it was unimaginable worth for cash.
Just steps from eating places and supermarkets, the house has a tremendous location and purposeful options. If you’ve received a much bigger household, take a look at this attractive 4-room house.
Luxury: Belmond Miraflores Park
Situated within the upscale Miraflores district, this five-star resort gives lavish facilities, together with a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a spa, connoisseur eating choices, and chic rooms and suites adorned with trendy decor and upscale furnishings. Check charges right here.
Mid-Range: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores
Located within the coronary heart of Miraflores, this mid-range resort gives well-appointed rooms and suites with trendy facilities. Its handy location permits visitors to discover close by points of interest similar to Kennedy Park, Larcomar buying heart, and the Malecón de Miraflores. Check charges right here.
Budget: Red Psycho Llama
Travelers on a price range will discover nice worth on the Red Psycho Llama. Situated within the bohemian Barranco district, this budget-friendly resort gives cozy lodging with quirky decor and fundamental facilities, together with free Wi-Fi and shared loos.
Its laid-back ambiance and vibrant environment make it a favourite amongst budget-conscious vacationers trying to discover. Check charges right here.
Where to Eat in Lima
Central Restaurante
Ranked #1 within the World’s Best Restaurant 2024 record, Central is a must-visit for meals lovers in search of a rare eating expertise. Helmed by acclaimed chef Virgilio Martínez, Central is understood for its revolutionary method to Peruvian delicacies, that includes a tasting menu that highlights elements sourced from completely different altitudes and ecosystems throughout Peru. Book a desk right here.
La Mar Cebichería
As a coastal metropolis, Lima is famend for its recent seafood, and La Mar Cebichería is the right place to pattern a few of the greatest ceviche on the town. This vigorous restaurant, based by acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio, gives an intensive menu of ceviches, tiraditos, and different seafood specialties that spotlight the colourful flavors of Peru’s coastal delicacies. Read critiques right here.
Astrid y Gastón
Housed in a stupendous colonial mansion within the upscale San Isidro district, Astrid y Gastón is a culinary establishment in Lima. Founded by famend chef Gastón Acurio, this flagship restaurant gives a classy eating expertise that showcases the varied flavors of Peruvian delicacies. Read critiques right here.
Taberna Queirolo
Taberna Queirolo has been serving up conventional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is situated within the historic heart of Lima, and its conventional decor and ambiance make it a terrific place to strive some genuine Peruvian delicacies. The menu options all of the classics, similar to ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa. Read critiques right here.
How to Stay Connected in Lima
To keep related in Lima, you will get an area SIM card on the airport upon arrival or get a eSIM earlier than arrival. We purchased our eSIM on Airalo and it labored rather well all through the journey. We had limitless web information, with reception even on high of the Huacachina sand dunes. Get your eSIM right here.
Enjoy Your Trip to Lima!
Phew, thanks for studying this far! I hope this record of issues to do in Lima helped you get a terrific overview to Peru. Feel free to go away me any questions or feedback you will have beneath.
Read extra articles on Peru or different elements of South America:
Disclaimer: This publish comprises affiliate hyperlinks i.e. should you e book something via my hyperlinks, I’ll get a small % of fee, at NO price to you. I solely advocate merchandise or lodges I’ve personally used and loved.
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