What to do in Lima, Peru: A Guide to the City of Kings

Travel guide to Lima, capital of Peru, with tips and information for a rich visit in its attractions, culture and recreational activities.

Lima, Peru is a fascinating city that combines history, culture, nature and gastronomy. It is the capital and largest city of Peru, located on the Pacific coast. It was founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and became the center of the Spanish colonial empire in South America. Today, the city is a modern metropolis that preserves its rich heritage and offers a variety of attractions for visitors.

If you are planning to visit Lima, Peru, here are some tips and information to help you make the most of your trip.

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Brief History of Lima, Peru

Lima has a long and turbulent history that spans from pre-Columbian times to the present day. The area was inhabited by various indigenous cultures, such as the Lima, the Ichma and the Huari. They left behind impressive archaeological sites, such as Pachacamac, Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca.

The Spanish conquest brought drastic changes to the region, as it became the seat of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the main port of trade and commerce in the region. Lima was adorned with magnificent churches, palaces, convents and mansions that reflected the wealth and power of the colonial elite. Some of the most notable examples are the Cathedral, the San Francisco Church and Monastery, the Torre Tagle Palace and the Plaza Mayor.

Lima also witnessed important events that shaped the history of Peru and South America, such as the rebellion of Tupac Amaru II, the independence movement led by Jose de San Martin and Simon Bolivar, the War of the Pacific against Chile, and the social and political transformations of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Today, Lima is a vibrant city that embraces its past and looks forward to its future. It is home to more than 10 million people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, who contribute to its dynamic and creative atmosphere.

Where is Lima, Peru

Lima is located in the central coast of Peru, facing the Pacific Ocean. It covers an area of about 2,700 square kilometers (1,040 square miles) and comprises 43 districts. The city is divided into three main zones: Centro (the historic center), Moderna (the modern and commercial area) and Metropolitana (the suburban and residential area).

How to go to Lima, Peru

The easiest way to go to Lima is by air. The Jorge Chavez International Airport is located in Callao, about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from downtown . It is the main airport in Peru and serves domestic and international flights from various airlines. You can take a taxi, a bus or a shuttle service from the airport to your destination.

You can also go to Lima by bus from other cities in Peru or neighboring countries. There are several bus terminals that connect with different routes and destinations. Some of the most popular ones are Plaza Norte, Javier Prado and Cruz del Sur.

Find the best deals and options for flights and airport transfers to your hotel.

Services that can help with your transfer and visit:

What are the best times to visit Lima, Peru

The best time to visit Lima depends on your preferences and activities. The capital of Peru has a mild climate throughout the year, with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F). However, there are two distinct seasons: winter (May to October) and summer (November to April).

Winter is characterized by cloudy skies, high humidity and occasional drizzle. The temperature ranges from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). This is a good time to visit Lima if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices. You can also explore the cultural and historical attractions of the city without worrying about the heat.

Summer is sunny, warm and dry. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This is a good time to visit Peru if you want to enjoy the beaches, outdoor activities and nightlife. You can also take advantage of the festivals and events that take place during this season, such as Carnaval de Lima, Fiesta de la Vendimia and Semana Santa.

Bohemian Barranco Guided Bike Tour – Take a bike tour of Miraflores and Barranco. See stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, discover hidden streets of the bohemian neighborhood, and learn about street art and nightlife in the area.

Where to Stay in Lima, Peru – Best Areas and Regions to Stay

Lima is divided into several districts, each with its own character and charm. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose from different areas and regions to stay in Lima. Here are some of the best options:

Miraflores: This is the most popular and tourist-friendly area of Lima. It has a wide range of hotels, hostels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. It is also close to the Pacific Ocean and the Malecon, a scenic promenade that offers stunning views of the coast. Miraflores is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy the modern and cosmopolitan side of the city.
Barranco: This is the bohemian and artistic district of Lima. It is full of colorful houses, murals, galleries, museums, and cultural centers. It also has a lively nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Barranco is a great place to stay if you want to experience the creative and alternative side.
San Isidro: This is the financial and business district of Lima. It has many upscale hotels, restaurants, malls, and parks. It is also home to some of the most important cultural and historical attractions of the Peru, such as the Huaca Huallamarca, a pre-Inca pyramid, and the Museo de la Nacion, a museum that showcases the history and diversity of Peru. San Isidro is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy the luxury and convenience of Lima.
Centro Historico: This is the historical and cultural heart of Lima. It has many colonial buildings, churches, plazas, and monuments that reflect the rich Peruvian heritage. It is also where you can find some of the most iconic landmarks of the city, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the San Francisco Monastery. Centro Historico is a great place to stay if you want to explore the history and culture of Lima.

Lima has a variety of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the capital of Peru:

Resort: If you want to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing stay in Lima, you can choose from several resorts that offer amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and golf courses. Some of the best resorts in Lima are:
Hotel: If you prefer a more affordable and convenient option, you can find many hotels that offer comfortable rooms, friendly service, and good locations. Some of the best hotels in Lima are
Hostel: If you are looking for a cheap and social option, you can stay in one of the many hostels that offer dorms, private rooms, shared facilities, and fun activities. Some of the best hostels in Lima are
Bed & Breakfast: If you want to experience a more cozy and personal option, you can stay in one of the many bed & breakfasts that offer homey rooms, delicious breakfasts, and local hosts. Some of the best bed & breakfasts in Lima are
- Second Home Peru,
- Casa Nuestra Peru, and
- Casa Azul.

There are also some other accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

The Shanty Town Tour (Local Life Experience) – Explore the real Lima and meet friendly locals. This eye-opening tour experience challenges common preconceptions about local communities. Best of all, Your visit contributes to the community!

What to Do in Lima, Peru

Lima is a city that never gets boring. There are so many things to do that you will never run out of options.

Whether you are looking for museums, churches, markets, beaches or parks, Lima has something for everyone. Here are some of the best attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Peru.

Visit the museums

Lima has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its many museums. You can learn about the pre-Columbian civilizations, the colonial period, the independence movement, and the contemporary art of Peru. SSome of the most popular ones are the Museo Larco, which has a collection of pre-Columbian pottery and erotic art; the Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), which has a collection of Peruvian art from different periods; the Museo Nacional de Arqueologia Antropologia e Historia del Peru (MNAAHP), which has a collection of artifacts from various ancient civilizations; and the Museo de Oro del Peru (Gold Museum), which has a collection of gold objects from different cultures.

Enjoy the parks

Lima is a green city that has many parks where you can relax, exercise, or have fun. Some of the most popular ones are the Parque de la Reserva (Park of the Reserve), which has a water fountain show at night; the Parque Kennedy (Kennedy Park), which has a cat sanctuary and an artisan market; the Parque del Amor (Park of Love), which has a sculpture of a kissing couple and a panoramic view of the ocean; and the Parque de la Exposicion (Exposition Park), which has a botanical garden and an art museum.

Visit the Historic Center of Lima

The Historic Center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the colonial architecture and heritage of the city. You can admire the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the San Francisco Church and Convent, and many other buildings that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. You can also visit some of the museums that display the art, history and culture, such as the Larco Museum, the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History, and the Museum of the Inquisition.

Explore the Bohemian District of Barranco

Barranco is one of the most colorful and lively districts of Lima, where you can find art galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants and nightlife. It is also home to some of the most famous street art and murals in the city, as well as the Bridge of Sighs, a romantic spot that overlooks a ravine. Barranco is a great place to experience the creative and bohemian side of Lima, Peru.

Enjoy the Gastronomy of Lima

Lima is known as one of the gastronomic capitals of the world, thanks to its diverse and delicious cuisine that combines influences from indigenous, Spanish, African, Asian and European cultures. You can taste some of the most popular dishes of Lima, such as ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes and fries), causa (layered potato dish with chicken or tuna), anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) and picarones (fried doughnuts with honey). You can also try some of the local drinks, such as pisco sour (a cocktail made with grape brandy, lime juice, egg white and sugar) or chicha morada (a purple corn drink with spices).

Lima’s Food Tour through Local Markets & Barranco Visit – Discover Peru’s food culture by visiting the local markets on this food-lovers adventure. Interact with the vendors and taste traditional dishes and drinks with an expert local guide.

Top 10 tourist attractions in Lima, Peru

Lima has many attractions that showcase its rich and varied heritage. Here are some of the most popular ones that you should not miss:

Plaza de Armas: This is the main square of Lima, where you can admire the colonial architecture of the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the City Hall. It is also a lively place where you can see street performers, vendors, and locals.
Miraflores: This is one of the most modern and upscale districts of Lima, where you can find trendy shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels. It is also a great place to enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean and the cliffs that border the coast.
Huaca Pucllana: This is an ancient adobe pyramid that dates back to the Lima culture, around 500 AD. You can take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance, as well as see some artifacts and remains found on site.
Barranco: This is the bohemian and artistic neighborhood of Lima, where you can find colorful houses, murals, galleries, and cafes. It is also home to the famous Bridge of Sighs, a romantic spot that overlooks a ravine.
Larco Museum: This museum houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian art in the world, with more than 45,000 pieces. You can see pottery, textiles, jewelry, and sculptures from different cultures and periods of Peru’s history.

Half-Day Private Lima City Tour and Larco Museum – A tour taking you through the historical side of the city. You will encounter buildings from the pre-colonial era all the way through to today.

San Francisco Church and Convent: This is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Lima, known for its baroque style and its catacombs. You can visit the church, the convent, the library, and the underground chambers where thousands of bones are arranged in patterns.
Parque de la Reserva: This is a park that features 13 fountains that light up at night with music and colors. It is a spectacular show that attracts many visitors and locals alike.
Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI): This is a museum that showcases the artistic evolution of Peru from pre-Columbian times to the present day. You can see paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations from different artists and movements.
Parque Kennedy: This is a park that is famous for its resident cats, who roam freely and interact with visitors. You can also find vendors selling crafts, snacks, and souvenirs.
Larcomar: This is a shopping mall that is built on the edge of a cliff, offering stunning views of the ocean. You can find many shops, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment options here.

Pachacamac Inca Archaeological Complex Tour – Learn more about the culture, traditions, and history of the Inca Empire on a guided tour of the vast archaeological site of Pachacamac. Get breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the Temple of the Sun.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Lima

If you only have one day to visit Lima, you might want to focus on one or two areas that interest you the most. Here are some suggestions for different itineraries:

Historical itinerary: Start your day at Plaza de Armas, where you can see the main landmarks of Lima’s colonial past. Then head to San Francisco Church and Convent to explore its architecture and catacombs. Next, visit Larco Museum to learn more about Peru’s pre-Columbian history and art. Finally, end your day at Parque de la Reserva to enjoy the fountain show.
Cultural itinerary: Start your day at MALI to admire the works of art from different periods and styles. Then head to Barranco to discover its bohemian vibe and street art. Next, visit Huaca Pucllana to see an ancient pyramid in the middle of the city. Finally, end your day at Miraflores to enjoy the nightlife and ocean views.
Nature itinerary: Start your day at Parque Kennedy to meet some friendly cats and buy some souvenirs. Then head to Larcomar to shop and admire the scenery from the cliff. Next, visit Miraflores Boardwalk to walk or bike along the coast. Finally, end your day at Parque del Amor to see a giant sculpture of a kissing couple.

Colonial City Tour with Catacombs Visit – Discover the historic center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this tour. See sights such as San Martin Square and the Plaza de Armas and finish with a visit to the catacombs, entry included.

Where to eat in Lima, Peru – Tips for bars and restaurants

Lima is a gastronomic paradise, with a variety of cuisines and flavors to suit every palate. You can find everything from traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos, to international fare like sushi, pizza, and burgers. Some of the best areas to eat are Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and the historic center.

Here are some of the best bars and restaurants in Lima, Peru:

Central: This is one of the most famous and acclaimed restaurants in the world, ranked as the sixth best restaurant in the world by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Chef Virgilio Martinez creates innovative dishes that showcase the diversity and richness of Peru’s ingredients and ecosystems. You need to book well in advance to get a table at this exclusive place.
Maido: This is another top-rated restaurant in Lima, specializing in Nikkei cuisine, which is a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura prepares exquisite dishes like nigiri sushi, ceviche, and tiradito, using local seafood and produce. The tasting menu is a must-try for a memorable experience.
La Mar: This is a casual and lively restaurant that serves some of the best ceviche in Lima. Ceviche is a dish of raw fish marinated in lime juice, onion, chili, and cilantro. You can choose from different types of fish and sauces, and enjoy it with corn, sweet potato, or plantain chips. La Mar also offers other seafood dishes like grilled octopus, fried calamari, and seafood rice.
Ayahuasca: This is a trendy and cozy bar that is located in a restored mansion in Barranco. The bar has several rooms with different themes and decorations, creating a unique atmosphere. You can enjoy a variety of cocktails made with pisco, the national spirit of Peru, as well as other drinks and snacks. Ayahuasca is a great place to relax and mingle with locals and travelers alike.

Where to eat in Lima, Peru – Tips for bars and restaurants

Peruvian Cooking Class, Market Tour & Exotic Fruits – Visit a local market with an expert chef to choose the best ingredients and fresh exotic fruits. Then enjoy a cooking class and delight your palate with the best flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

Key Tips and Practical Information for Lima, Peru

Before you travel to Lima, Peru, here are some key tips and practical information that you should know to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

The best time to visit Lima is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. From May to November, Lima is often covered by a gray fog called garúa, which makes the city look gloomy and damp.
The currency of Peru is the sol (PEN), which you can exchange at banks, hotels or authorized exchange offices. You can also use US dollars in some places, but make sure you have small bills and coins. Credit cards are widely accepted in Lima, but you may need cash for taxis or street vendors.
The official language of Peru is Spanish, but you can also find people who speak English in tourist areas or hotels. It is always helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases or words before you travel to Lima.
The public transportation system in Lima consists of buses, microbuses (called combis), taxis and a metro line. The buses and combis are cheap but crowded and chaotic. The taxis are convenient but you should always negotiate the fare before you get in. The metro line is modern and safe but it only covers a limited area of the city.
The safety situation in Lima is generally good but you should always be careful with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. You should also be aware of some common scams or tricks that some people may use to rob or cheat you.
The health situation in Lima is also generally good but you should always drink bottled water or boiled water and avoid ice or raw food. You should also bring some medication for altitude sickness if you plan to visit other parts of Peru that are higher than Lima.
The culture and etiquette of Lima are friendly and hospitable but you should also respect some local customs and norms. For example, you should greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek depending on their gender and relationship. You should also dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Lima is a fascinating city that has something for every traveler. By following these tips and information, you can make the most out of your trip to the capital of Peru.

General international travel tips

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