Peru’s capital often gets bad rap because it is one of the most boring cities in South America, but this is not really the case. The other capitals of the region may not be as great as they are, but they are enough to guarantee a few nights stay in Lima. Plus, Lima is the gateway to Peru, and you could pass here on your way to Machu Picchu and Cusco.
10 Best Things to Do in Lima
Mayor of Plaza
The city centre and birthplace of Lima, the Plaza mayor is a sociable place for both locals and visitors. Located in the central area of Miraflores, this part of town has a lot to see. Walking through one of the many alleys, enjoying the gastronomy taste of Peruvian cuisine (a blend of many other dishes), shopping in small boutiques and soaking Lima’s livelihoods, you’ll get stunned.
San Francisco Abbey
You cannot come to Lima and visit the monasteries of San Francisco. The exterior is superficially impressive, especially as the pigeons surround the air above. Inside, you can learn much about the history of Lima since the Spanish invasion. This is certainly one of Lima’s top attractions. Admission is about $2.
Historic Center
While you’re here, wander around the historic centre of Lima and appreciate the architecture and history that surrounds you. Lima is very susceptible to earthquakes, but many of these buildings were able to withstand the test of time in their own right. Simply wander around the area of Miraflores and see the history timeline. I struggle to not be impressed.
Cathedral of Lima
If you enjoy observing the architecture of the church, even by European standards, the Cathedral of Lima is quite impressive. Located on the mayor of Plaza, the interior of this cathedral is spectacular.
Archbishop Lima Palace
Adjacent to Lima Cathedral is the palace of the Archbishop of Lima, built in the 1600s and the Archbishop’s administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church in Lima. You are already within the historical centre of Lima, so it is very impressive and out of the way.
Eat Peruvian food
If there is one thing you can’t do in Lima, it’s delicious food. Lima has many great restaurants to choose from. To be honest, it may be the most difficult choice you will face in your entire stay. For this I recommend you Play safely and head to TripAdvisor It all boils down to personal preferences as there are so many different dishes to choose from to check your options. Book your table in advance as you are not the only traveler who wants to taste Peru and far away.
Lako Museum
If you’re looking for a great museum to visit in Lima, you won’t be able to pass the Laco Museum. Inside, there are thousands of artifacts, ceramics and textiles, sourced from over 3,000 years. Admission is $11.50 and the museum is open daily from 9am to 6pm.
Mira Flores Boardwalk
To make the city of Lima a separate take, head to the sea and take a walk along the Miraflores boardwalk. The giant cliffs overlook the Pacific Ocean, and even on misty days (there are plenty in Lima), it almost feels magical. This is also a great place for a picnic lunch, a perfect place for people to look away from the metropolitan lifestyle.
Take a food tour
As Lima is the gastronomic capital of Latin America (seriously, they know how to eat here!), why not take a local food tour to maximize the food flavor? There are many great companies that run them, so feel free to shop. Delicious Peru It has a fairly solid reputation.
Torre Tagle Palace
Torre Tagle Palace is a foreign office building and although it is probably not on your radar, it could become the most beautiful Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the world, so why not take a look? It was found at Ukayari 363, just two blocks away from the Plaza mayor.
We visited Lima with Trafalgar as part of our 8-day “Highlights of Peru” tour. Lima was the first and last stop on the tour. It was combined with Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and more!