30+ Best Things To Do In Lima Peru For An Unforgettable Journey

If you are heading to Peru, don’t overlook the delightful experiences that await you in this country’s capital. There are more wonderful things to do in Lima Peru.

Lima was founded in 1535 during the Christian Feast of the Three Kings. This aptly named City of Kings is now the center of Peru’s economic, social, and political life and the only South American capital with a sea view. A glorious pre-Hispanic past and Spanish colonial history have given rise to a rich culture with fascinating archaeological sites, historical landmarks, world-class cuisine, and friendly locals (Limeños). 

Its breathtaking natural beauty includes around two miles of parks along its Pacific Ocean coast, picturesque mountains and hills, forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Exciting outdoor activities, such as scuba diving, paragliding, and sandboarding, and a bustling, culturally-diverse city life add to the attraction that drives tourists to Lima.

You won’t run out of things to do in Lima, Peru. This article will guide you through some of the best experiences in this vibrant city.

Best Things to Do in Lima Peru – Sights

1. Plaza de Armas

Plaza Armas, situated in the heart of Lima, Peru, is a historically significant square encompassed by colonial and republican buildings. Its notable neighbors are the Cathedral of San Juan de Lima, the Casa de Pizarro, the Palace of Club de la Unión, and the Government Palace. Being the founding plaza of Lima and the hub of urban life, it holds the distinction of being the oldest spot in the city. 

This plaza is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Lima due to its immense importance and fascinating surroundings filled with historical edifices. 

Plaza Armas has transformed into a captivating public space with a central fountain and well-maintained gardens. It is encircled by some of Lima’s most prominent landmarks. Visitors can explore the plaza’s magnificent architecture, embark on guided city tours, or simply relish the captivating atmosphere of this historically significant square.

2. San Cristobal Hill View 

San Cristobal Hill is Lima’s must-see spot, offering captivating city views from its 400-meter (1,312 ft) altitude, the highest in the area. With historical and religious significance, it was a vital Inca Apu for offerings. Accessible for $3, visitors find a small museum and rest patio behind the altar. Located northeast of Plaza de Armas, crossing Rimac River, group tours are suggested due to its distance from the center.

Crowning San Cristobal Hill is the Monumental Cross, erected in 1928 and illuminated at night. This iconic city symbol holds religious importance and is admired along with the hill’s breathtaking views. Activities include exploring the museum and patio, taking a pilgrimage to the sacred hill, opting for guided tours, and navigating the winding road for hilltop access.

3. Larco Museum

Larco Museum is a must-visit if you love art. The collections at the museum are one of the largest in the whole of South America. All the collections consisting of pre-Columbian art are housed inside an 18^th-century mansion. The museum is located in the south of the historic center. 

4. Pachacamac Ruins 

Pachacamac ruins are located in the district of Pachacamac, which is 25 mi (40 km) southeast of Lima’s city center. Here, you can experience stunning pyramids, temples, and structures. All of these are as old as 200 A.D. These ruins are a must-visit for people who love history. 

5. Huaca Pucllana Temple

Huaca Pucllana temple is a part of the Pachacamac ruins, but its elegance deserves a separate mention. The temple dates back to the 5^th century when it served as a ceremonial center. It has become one of the most popular archaeological sites of the Pachacamac ruins.

6. Kennedy Park 

Kennedy Park is located in the district of Miraflores. It is a great place to spend time with your family or friends. There are plenty of activities for kids and adults, and some musicians to watch performing in the park. 

7. Visit Parque de la Reserva (Park of the Reserve)

Parque de la Reserva is a captivating fountain park situated in the heart of Lima. Renowned for its dazzling fountain extravaganza, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists.

At the park’s core lies the remarkable Magic Water Circuit, hailed as the world’s largest fountain complex. Illuminated by many vibrant colors, the 13 fountains come alive at night, offering an enchanting display of continuously changing water patterns, synchronized music, and mesmerizing laser beams that dance harmoniously together.

8. Barranco Tour

Barranco is a district in Lima that is full of color and art. It is a great overall experience. You can head to the famous bars nearby or enjoy the delicious Peruvian seafood. The place has an old but unique vibe to it. 

9. The Lima Cathedral 

The Basilica Metropolitan Cathedral of Lima, or the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral, is located on the east side of Plaza de Armas. It is the most stunning piece of architecture in the whole of Lima. The entrance fee is around 11 PEN ($3) per person. You can visit the place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, you can only visit between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. 

10. Barrio Chino 

The Chinatown of Lima is located at its historic center. As the name suggests, the place has a Chinese vibe, with restaurants serving food that combines Chinese and Peruvian gastronomy. You can enter the place anytime you want without any entry charges.

11. San Francisco Church

Built in 1600, the San Francisco church has the oldest collection of unique books with ancient knowledge of the place. The library is open to the public and a dream place for people who love to read about history. 

You can also visit the catacombs to see the bones and skulls of people buried in the church. The site is not for the faint-hearted. 

12. Museo de la Nación (National Museum)

The National Museum is the largest in Peru. It showcases all the historical stages of the Andean country. You can visit the place between Tuesdays and Sundays from 9 to 5 p.m. The entrance is free.

13. Parque de las Leyendas (Legends Park)

The Legends Park is a heaven on earth for animal lovers. It is a complete zoo where many animals are housed in three different zones. From lions, jaguars, and tigers to Harpy Eagles and alpacas, they have almost every animal you would wish to see. The park is located in the San Miguel district. The entrance cost per person is around 15 PEN ($4). 

14. Parque del Amor (Love Park)

Alberto Andrade Carmona Park, or Love Park, is a great place to visit with your partner. The romantic vibe and the mesmerizing atmosphere of the park will always keep you excited. 

The park is located at Malecon Cisneros Avenue in Miraflores. It is a public area, so the entrance is free. 

15. Bodega y Quadra 

Bodega y Quadra is located in the famous historic center of the city. It is the only archeological site within the main center. The place will take you back to pre-colonial and Colombian periods. There is much to learn here at only 6 PEN ($1.50) per person. 

16. House of Peruvian Literature 

For book lovers, this house is no less than a dream place. The building was first built in the 20^th century. Initially used as a train station. Nowadays, the place which was once a train station is home to numerous books on Peruvian literature. 

Best Things to Do in Lima Peru – Activities

17. Surfing on the Beaches

The coastline of Lima is around 155 mi (250 km) long, so there are plenty of spots to enjoy surfing. The difficulty level of the waves varies from one beach to another, so you can easily find one according to your expertise level. We recommend surfing in the summer months (late November to March) as the water is warmer and the winds are lighter. 

18. Cycling 

Cycling is an activity that won’t cost much while allowing you to experience the most beautiful landscapes of Lima. Bike lanes exist in various city districts, including San Isidro and Miraflores. Hop on a bicycle and start your own tour. 

19. Free Walking Tour

If you love walking, there is nothing better than a free tour with a local guide. The tour lasts for about two to three hours. We highly advise you to start your trip from Miraflores. You can make your free reservations online for any day of the week except Sundays. 

20. Paragliding 

For an amazing paragliding experience, head to the top of Malecon de Miraflores. Even if you have no previous paragliding experience, you can enjoy this activity, all for 268 PEN ($75). Professional pilots will guide you through a 10- to 15-minute glide above the coast of Lima.

21. White Water Rafting

White water rafting is available in the south of Lima at a place called Lunahuana. Here, the Cañete River has the best routes for rafting. The exciting rapids and amazing scenery make the experience a memory you will treasure forever. Depending on the season, this activity costs around 74 to 148 Peruvian soles (20 to 40 US dollars). 

22. Swimming With the Sea Lions 

The best place to experience sea lions is the Palomino Islands, only 30 minutes drive from Miraflores. It is home to more than 10,000 sea lions. You can watch some resting at the shore or dive into the water to watch them play underwater.

23. Day Trip to Ica and Huacachina

From Lima, you can go on a day trip to Ica, only four hours away from Lima. Ica offers numerous activities and sights, such as museums, historic places, and colonial architecture. It is a great place to enjoy our time before leaving for Huacachina. 

Surrounded by the dunes of Ica, Huacachina is just 10 minutes away and is considered a dream destination. You can experience many exciting activities, such as sand buggy rides and sandboarding. You can also enjoy the lake in the middle of the town. 

24. Ballestas Island

Ballestas Island, which is located near the island of Paracas, is quite popular for its wildlife. From unique birds to marine life, there is plenty to watch for animal lovers. Blue-footed boobies, seals, penguins, and sea lions are some of the most famous species. 

25. Watch the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard ritual is a good experience to have on your visit to the historic center of Lima. The event starts every day at 11: 45 a.m. Head to Plaza de Armas and watch this amazing event for free. 

Best Things to Do in Lima Peru – Food and Restaurants

26. Ceviche 

Ceviche is undoubtedly the iconic dish of Peru, and there is no better place to try it than Lima. The dish is made with raw fish marinated in lemon juice and salt and served with sweet potato, corn, and onion slices. We highly recommend you try it at Canta Rana in the Barranco district.

27. Lima Food Tour

Lima is one of the best places to try Peruvian food, so taking a food tour is something you just can’t miss. Plenty of food tour providers in Lima who will take you to two or three different places to try various local dishes. 

28. Chocolate Making in Lima 

One of the delightful activities to experience in Lima, Peru, is a chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo in the district of Miraflores. During this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. Knowledgeable instructors will guide you through each step, from roasting and grinding the cacao beans to creating your personalized chocolate bar. 

You can choose your preferred flavors and ingredients to make a unique creation. The workshop provides a hands-on experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of chocolate. The workshop costs around 93 PEN ($25) per person for two hours.

ChocoMuseo also features a museum where you can explore the secrets and history of chocolate. You can purchase artisanal chocolates, chocolate liquors, teas, and other cocoa-related products as souvenirs. The chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo is a delightful and educational activity for chocolate enthusiasts and a great addition to your itinerary while exploring Lima, Peru.

29. Try Local Peruvian Dishes at Famous Restaurants. 

If you are a food lover, you won’t find it hard to find something new and interesting to eat in Lima. There are many restaurants, and the variety of dishes is never-ending. Check out these highly recommended restaurants: Lomo Saltado, Aji De Gallina, and Arroz Chaufa. 

30. Pisco Sour 

Having a Pisco Sour is the best way to start your nightlife in Lima. The drink is made with fermented green grapes, lemon juice, egg white, ice, jelly syrup, and Angostura bitters. Pisco is so old that it also has a city named after it. The best place to enjoy this drink is The Pisco Museum. Here, you can enjoy a great drink while learning about its history.

31. Try craft beer at Lúpulo Draft Bar and BarBarian

If you are passionate about craft beer, visiting Lúpulo Draft Bar and BarBarian in Miraflores, Lima, is a must. These establishments provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local craft beer culture. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just love exploring new flavors, Lúpulo Draft Bar and BarBarian offer an excellent chance to sample and appreciate the diverse craft beer scene in Miraflores.

Why Visit Lima Peru?

When it comes to tourism, Peru offers as much as any other popular country, such as the U.S., Puerto Rico, or Colombia. As for Lima, people love to visit the country’s capital, not just for its amazing food. The ancient ruins and other historical sites contribute a lot to increasing tourism. Peruvian culture attracts people from around the world to this mesmerizing place. 

Since Lima is the city’s capital, you can get flights there from almost anywhere in the world. The most economical way to travel from major cities in the U.S. is by using LATAM Airlines. 

Where To Stay in Lima Peru?

Lima is one of the main cities of Peru, so you won’t be disappointed when finding a good hotel to stay in at night. There are plenty of places that you can enjoy, but some of the best ones include 

• Selina Miraflores (Budget)

In Lima’s vibrant Miraflores district, Selina Miraflores is located just 15 minutes from the beach and offers a variety of modern accommodations and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy various entertainment venues, tennis clubs, and shopping malls.

• Innside Lima Miraflores (Mid-range)

Innside Lima Miraflores, located 0.68 mi (1.1 km) from Larcomar and 3 mi (5 km) from the National Museum, features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and bar. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel. The nearest airport is Jorge Chavez International Airport, located 9 mi (14 km) from the property.

• Costa Del Sol Wyndham (Luxury)

Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport is a 4-star hotel conveniently located within Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima. The hotel chain includes locations in Peru’s 7 most important cities and an on-site Spa Express. The comfortably furnished rooms and suites include a 40″ LCD TV with cable, free WiFi, and marble bathrooms.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Important Tips To Stay Safe In Lima Peru 

To enjoy your Lima vacation to the fullest, here are some expert tips that can help you have a safer and better experience:

• Stick to popular tourist sites or districts such as Miraflores and Barranco. 
• Do not walk alone at night.
• Avoid showing off your valuable items in public.
• Prefer taking a taxi or Uber at night.
• Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things To Do in Lima Peru 

What Is Lima, Peru Most Known For? 

Lima is South America’s culinary capital. It is heaven on earth for people who love food. It is also renowned for its UNESCO-listed historical landmarks, marvelous surfing sites, and paragliding excursions. 

Is Lima, Peru Safe for American Tourists? 

Lima is as safe as any other metropolitan city. However, we would still advise you to stick to the more popular tourist spots like Miraflores and Barranco district. Also, your safety in Peru would be better ensured if you keep yourself updated with the latest advisories from the U.S. Embassy. 

Do They Speak English in Lima, Peru?

Beyond the tourist hubs, English is not commonly spoken in Lima. Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara are Lima, Peru’s most widely spoken languages. So it would be best to learn useful Spanish phrases and keep that guidebook close at hand.

Conclusion – Things To Do in Lima Peru

Machu Picchu may be the most popular tourist destination in Peru, but there will be no shortage of memorable experiences in Lima. 

This Peruvian capital offers a unique mix of attractions–from its delectable cuisine, wondrous natural landscapes, watersports and outdoor adventure activities, historical sights to ancient ruins–that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

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