City Guide for: Lima, Peru

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Lima, Peru Guide

Lima is the capital city of Peru, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Plaza de Armas, sample delicious ceviche and other Peruvian dishes, and visit world-class museums.

Transportation

Lima has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. The city is also very walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other.

Airport

Jorge Chávez International Airport is the main airport serving Lima, located about 7 miles from the city center. Visitors can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or public bus to reach their accommodations.

Attractions

Barranco District

Barranco District Barranco is a bohemian district in Lima known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore colorful street art, visit art galleries and museums, and enjoy live music and performances at local bars and cafes. The district is also home to beautiful beaches, such as Playa Barranquito, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.

Miraflores district at Lima, Peru

Miraflores district at Lima, Peru Miraflores is a trendy district in Lima known for its upscale shopping, dining, and nightlife. Visitors can stroll along the Malecón, a cliffside boardwalk with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, or explore the Larcomar shopping center. The district also boasts beautiful parks, such as Parque Kennedy, and the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site.

Huaca Pucllana archaeological site at Lima, Peru

Huaca Pucllana archaeological site at Lima, Peru Huaca Pucllana is an ancient adobe pyramid located in the heart of Lima. This archaeological site dates back to the Lima culture, which flourished between 200 and 700 AD. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history of the site and the rituals performed by the ancient inhabitants. The site offers a unique glimpse into Peru's pre-Columbian past.

Miraflores Boardwalk

Miraflores Boardwalk The Miraflores Boardwalk is a scenic promenade that runs along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the Miraflores district of Lima. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, watch paragliders soar overhead, and explore the nearby parks and gardens. The boardwalk is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, or simply taking a leisurely stroll while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor, also known as Plaza de Armas, is the main square in Lima and the historical center of the city. It is surrounded by important buildings such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop's Palace. The square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, with street vendors selling traditional Peruvian crafts and food.

Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana Huaca Pucllana is an archaeological site located in the Miraflores district of Lima. It is an ancient adobe and clay pyramid that was built by the Lima culture, a pre-Inca civilization, around 500 AD. Visitors can take guided tours of the site to learn about its history and significance, as well as explore the on-site museum which displays artifacts found at the site.

San Francisco Monastery

San Francisco Monastery The San Francisco Monastery in Lima, Peru is a historic landmark known for its stunning architecture and extensive catacombs. Visitors can explore the monastery's ornate chapels, courtyards, and library, as well as the underground catacombs that contain the remains of thousands of people. The monastery also houses a museum with religious artifacts and artwork dating back to the colonial era. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning about the monastery's history and significance.

Magic Water Circuit

Magic Water Circuit The Magic Water Circuit is a dazzling water and light show located in the Parque de la Reserva in Lima. The park features 13 interactive fountains that are illuminated with colorful lights and music, creating a magical and immersive experience for visitors. The highlight of the show is the "Magic Fountain," which shoots water up to 80 meters in the air.

Larco Museum

Larco Museum The Larco Museum is a privately owned museum located in the Pueblo Libre district of Lima. It houses a vast collection of pre-Columbian art, including ceramics, textiles, and gold and silver artifacts. The museum is known for its extensive collection of erotic pottery, as well as its beautiful gardens and colonial-era mansion.

Santo Domingo Church

Santo Domingo Church The Santo Domingo Church in Lima, Peru is a historic church dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the church, including its ornate baroque facade and beautiful interior. The church also houses a museum with religious art and artifacts, as well as a convent with a peaceful courtyard. Guided tours are available to learn more about the church's history and significance.

Parque Kennedy at Lima, Peru

Parque Kennedy at Lima, Peru Explore Parque Kennedy, a bustling park in the heart of Lima's Miraflores district, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and cat population.

Islas Palomino tour at Lima, Peru

Islas Palomino tour at Lima, Peru Take a boat tour to Islas Palomino, a group of small islands off the coast of Lima, where you can swim with sea lions and enjoy the pristine beaches.

Parque de la Reserva at Lima, Peru

Parque de la Reserva at Lima, Peru Visit Parque de la Reserva in Lima, home to the magical Circuito Mágico del Agua, a dazzling fountain complex featuring light and water shows.

Plaza San Martin

Plaza San Martin Plaza San Martin is a historic square in Lima dedicated to the Peruvian liberator, Jose de San Martin. The plaza is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the city's atmosphere.

Pachacamac

Pachacamac Pachacamac is an archaeological site located just outside of Lima that was once a major religious center for the pre-Columbian civilizations of the Andes. Visitors can explore the ruins of temples, palaces, and pyramids, as well as a museum showcasing artifacts found at the site. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the ancient Andean cultures.

Larcomar

Larcomar Larcomar is a modern shopping and entertainment complex located on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the upscale district of Miraflores. Visitors can shop at a variety of international and local stores, dine at gourmet restaurants, or catch a movie at the cinema. The outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the ocean and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Parque Kennedy

Parque Kennedy Parque Kennedy is a bustling park in the heart of Lima's Miraflores district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and street performers. Visitors can relax on the park benches, enjoy a snack from one of the food vendors, or explore the surrounding shops and restaurants. The park is also home to a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.

Museo Larco

Museo Larco The Museo Larco is a privately owned museum in Lima that showcases pre-Columbian art and artifacts. The museum is housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion and features an extensive collection of ceramics, textiles, and gold and silver pieces from ancient Peruvian civilizations. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Peru through the museum's well-curated exhibits.

Historic Centre of Lima

Historic Centre of Lima The Historic Centre of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the colonial architecture and history of the city. Visitors can explore the Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by important buildings such as the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. The area is also home to numerous museums, churches, and historic mansions that offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

Miraflores

Miraflores Miraflores is a trendy district in Lima known for its upscale shopping, dining, and nightlife. Visitors can stroll along the Malecon, a scenic boardwalk overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or explore the bustling Kennedy Park, where street performers and artisans gather. The district is also home to the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe pyramid that offers guided tours and a glimpse into Lima's pre-Columbian history.

Convent of San Francisco

Convent of San Francisco The Convent of San Francisco is a historic landmark in Lima, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful courtyards. Visitors can explore the catacombs underneath the convent, which contain the remains of over 25,000 people. It is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Mercado Central de Lima

Mercado Central de Lima Mercado Central de Lima is a bustling market in the heart of Lima where visitors can experience the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of Peruvian cuisine. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample traditional dishes like ceviche and anticuchos, or shop for souvenirs and handicrafts. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and culinary scene.

Islas Palomino tour

Islas Palomino tour The Islas Palomino tour takes visitors on a boat ride to the Palomino Islands, where they can swim with sea lions and observe a variety of marine wildlife. The islands are known for their beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Huaca Huallamarca

Huaca Huallamarca Huaca Huallamarca is an ancient adobe pyramid located in the heart of modern Lima. Visitors can explore the archaeological site and learn about the history of the Lima culture that inhabited the area over 1,500 years ago.

Lima Cathedral

Lima Cathedral The Lima Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Lima, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Plaza Mayor of Lima. It is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture and is one of the most important religious buildings in Peru. Visitors can admire the intricate facade, beautiful chapels, and impressive artwork inside the cathedral.

Parque de la Reserva

Parque de la Reserva Parque de la Reserva is a beautiful park located in Lima, Peru. It is known for its stunning water fountains, including the famous Magic Water Circuit, which features colorful light displays. Visitors can stroll through the park, relax by the fountains, and enjoy the nightly water shows. Parque de la Reserva is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Historic Center of Lima

Historic Center of Lima The Historic Center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Government Palace. Visitors can explore the charming streets lined with colorful buildings, visit museums and churches, and enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine in the many restaurants and cafes. It is a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru

National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Peru. From ancient civilizations like the Incas to colonial-era artifacts, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the country's past. Visitors can learn about Peru's diverse history through archaeological finds, ethnographic displays, and historical documents.

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI) The Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI) is one of the most important art museums in Peru, showcasing a vast collection of Peruvian art from pre-Columbian times to contemporary pieces. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. Visitors can explore the diverse artistic heritage of Peru through paintings, sculptures, textiles, and more.

Chorrillos

Chorrillos Chorrillos is a district in Lima known for its beautiful beaches, such as La Herradura and Agua Dulce. Visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, and relaxing by the sea. Chorrillos also has a historic pier, where you can take in stunning views of the coastline. The district is famous for its seafood restaurants, offering fresh ceviche and other Peruvian dishes. Chorrillos is a great destination for those looking to experience the beach culture of Lima.

Miraflores District

Miraflores District Miraflores District is a popular upscale district in Lima known for its beautiful parks, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy shopping at Larcomar, a cliffside shopping center, exploring the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site, or relaxing on the beaches along the Malecon. The district also offers a variety of restaurants serving delicious Peruvian cuisine.

Museo de Arte de Lima

Museo de Arte de Lima The Museo de Arte de Lima, also known as MALI, is one of the most important art museums in Peru. It houses a vast collection of Peruvian art spanning from pre-Columbian times to contemporary pieces. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, textiles, and ceramics that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

National Museum of Archaeology

National Museum of Archaeology The National Museum of Archaeology in Lima, Peru, showcases a vast collection of artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations, including the famous Inca Empire. Visitors can explore exhibits on ancient Peruvian cultures, such as the Moche, Chimu, and Nazca. Highlights include intricate pottery, textiles, and gold artifacts. The museum offers insight into the rich history and cultural heritage of Peru, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in archaeology.

San Francisco Church

San Francisco Church The San Francisco Church in Lima is a historic landmark known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built in the 16th century, the church features beautiful Baroque and Moorish-style decorations, as well as an impressive collection of religious art. Visitors can explore the church's catacombs, which contain the remains of over 25,000 people. The church also offers guided tours that provide insight into its significance in Peruvian history and culture.

Day Trips

Huacachina Oasis

Head to the desert oasis of Huacachina on a day trip from Lima. Enjoy thrilling activities such as sandboarding and dune buggies in the surrounding sand dunes. Relax by the lagoon and take in the picturesque views of the palm trees and sand dunes.

Travel Time

4.5 hours by bus from Lima to Ica, then a short taxi ride to Huacachina

Activities
  • Sandboarding on the dunes
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  • Dune buggy rides
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  • Relax by the lagoon

Paracas and Ballestas Islands

Take a day trip from Lima to Paracas and explore the stunning Ballestas Islands, also known as the "Galapagos of Peru". Enjoy a boat tour to see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of bird species. Visit the Paracas National Reserve and admire the breathtaking coastal desert landscape.

Travel Time

4 hours by bus from Lima to Paracas

Activities
  • Boat tour to Ballestas Islands
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  • Visit Paracas National Reserve
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  • Explore the town of Paracas

Cusco and Machu Picchu

Embark on a day trip from Lima to Cusco and visit the iconic Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient Inca ruins and marvel at the breathtaking mountain scenery. Discover the rich history and culture of the Incas in the charming city of Cusco.

Travel Time

1.5 hours by plane from Lima to Cusco, then a train or bus ride to Machu Picchu

Activities
  • Visit Machu Picchu
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  • Explore the city of Cusco
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  • Learn about Inca history and culture