If you are or planning to visit our capital, here are some of our Things to do in Lima to have a great time and good experiences.
Lima is not just a stopover before Machu Picchu, it’s a destination full of history, culture, and flavors you won’t find anywhere else. Known as the “Gastronomic Capital of Latin America,” Lima blends colonial charm, ancient traditions, and a modern coastal lifestyle. That we are proud of and want to share to the people that visit our city.
Top Things to Do in Lima
1. Visit the Historic Center of Lima
The Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living museum of colonial architecture and political history. Begin at Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the majestic Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Wander down Jirón de la Unión, a pedestrian street full of local shops and cafés, until you reach the ornate San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs. In my pov it’s a place you must visit if you are touring in Lima, aside the cultural information the vibes are incredible for you to have a good time.
💡 Travel Tip: I recommend the morning visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Depends of what experience are you looking for. If you want a tour for the experience, click for more information.
2. Sunset in Miraflores
Miraflores is like Lima’s modern, upscale district, best known for the Malecón, an incredible cliffside walkway offering panoramic Pacific Ocean views. It’s a paradise for joggers, cyclists, and couples enjoying the golden hour. Adventure lovers can try paragliding over the coast, a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a fun place to walk through, and you’ll find anything you want nearby.
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💡 Travel Tip: The best sunset spot is near Parque del Amor (“Love Park”), where the “El Beso” sculpture overlooks the ocean and you can enjoy the cold breeze. To have the best viewpoints and guide, click here.
3. Ruins of Huaca Pucllana
In the heart of Miraflores lies Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca adobe pyramid that dates back to 500 AD. Guided tours take you through the ceremonial plazas, explaining the religious and political importance of the site. The on-site Huaca Pucllana restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a view of the ruins. There you can try our typical food and drinks if you want to experience the delicious (to be honest) gastronomy that we want you to try.
💡 Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon, then stay for dinner, as the ruins are beautifully illuminated at night, which gives a cozy vibe. If you want more information, we have a recommendation.
4. Lima’s Food Scene
Lima is known as the Gastronomic Capital of Latin America, home to restaurants like Central and Maido, ranked among the best in the world. Your MUST-try dishes include: Ceviche, our national dish, marinated in fresh lime juice. Lomo Saltado, a flavorful stir-fry blending a Peruvian and Asian fusion. Anticuchos, grilled beef heart skewers, a street food classic.
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💡 Travel Tip: For authentic flavors, explore local markets before heading to fine dining spots. The best thing about local and small restaurants or markets, beside the price (cheap) it’s that flavor that feels like «home», that we are used to since little kids.
5. Barranco – Lima’s Bohemian Heart
Barranco is Lima’s artistic neighborhood, filled with colorful murals, art galleries, and charming cafés. It’s the perfect place to enjoy nightlife or a romantic stroll. Don’t miss the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) and the panoramic viewpoints over the ocean if you are wonder what to do in Barranco.
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💡 Travel Tip: Visit during the afternoon to catch the soft evening light for photography, then stay for live music in one of the bars, meet people, dance, drink, eat, enjoy the Barranco vibe. If you don’t want to miss a thing, here are a recommendation.
6. See the Magic Water Circuit
Located in Parque de la Reserva, the Magic Water Circuit is a dazzling nighttime attraction featuring illuminated fountains, synchronized music, and light projections. It’s a family friendly activity and one of Lima’s most photogenic experiences. And if you are feeling kinda hot, you can refresh anywhere there, take some change clothes just in case..
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💡 Travel Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before the show to secure the best viewing spot. And change clothes, please. If you want to experiencie this, click here.
7. Tour to the Larco Museum
The Museo Larco houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Pre-Columbian art, including intricate gold and silver artifacts, textiles, and ceramics. The museum is set inside an 18th-century mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens, a chill place to enjoy, learn and take some photos. And later, if you are hungry can eat in the Museo Larco Café-Restaurant, with a good atmosphere, food and attention.
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💡 Travel Tip: The museum café is perfect for a relaxing lunch after your visit, totally recommended. You can learn and visit this museum with this tour.
8. Surfing in Costa Verde
Lima’s coastline offers consistent waves, making it a favorite surfing destination in Lima. Beaches like Playa Waikiki and Punta Roquitas cater to both beginners and experienced surfers. The best thing is that is near the city, so you can go without so many days of advance or even the same day.
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💡 Travel Tip: If you’ve never surfed before, book a lesson with a certified instructor for safety and fun. There’s a lot of options that you prefer to choose. Here are a recommendation if you want to experience this.
9. Lima Local Markets
From artisan crafts to fresh produce, Lima’s markets are a treasure trove. Mercado Surquillo is great for sampling local fruits, while Inka Market in Miraflores is ideal for souvenirs like alpaca sweaters and handmade jewelry, as before, the best thing is that you have a lot of options to choose as you like. Be patient, walk and ask a lot.
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💡 Travel Tip: Bring cash and don’t hesitate to negotiate prices at artisan markets, you can deal at a very reasonable price.
10. Day Trip to Pachacamac
Just 30 km from Lima, Pachacamac is an ancient archaeological site offering panoramic views of the Lurín Valley and Pacific Ocean. Once a major religious center, it contains temples, plazas, and adobe pyramids. So much things that you can explore and learn.
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💡 Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and some snacks, the site is large and best explored on foot. For more safety and comfort, here are a tour you can take.
