Peru is known for many things, including its rich cultural heritage, long history and incredible natural landscapes. It's home to the Andes Mountains and Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Lima is at the heart of it all, with some of the most exciting history from ancient civilizations, a fabulous oceanfront area and a diverse food paradise to explore.
There's something quite unique about Lima, whether it is the diverse lifestyle or the landscape itself. With numerous neighborhoods featuring diverse cultural influences, ranging from traditional and historic to more modern, each area is well worth exploring. Dance and listen to live music or explore the coastline. Vibrant architecture dots the landscape.
As you think about planning your trip, ask yourself why you should visit Lima. Is Lima worth visiting? If you want to learn as much as you can about the people who call Peru home, then this city is a great place to explore. We can help you find the perfect vacation in Peru to fit your needs, including a tour of Lima.
Top Reasons to Visit Lima
Lima is an old city, founded in 1535, and has served for hundreds of years as the capital and largest city of Peru. Tucked into the Chillon and Rimac valleys, along the Lurin River, Lima is a diverse and vibrant city.
When you visit the capital of Peru, you can find everything from a unique culinary scene to stunning architecture and outdoor adventures and is celebrated for being a place to experience rich Peruvian culture
Here are some of the best reasons to add a visit to Lima to your Peruvian vacation itinerary:
1. Take in the Museums
Numerous museums in Lima tell the diverse history of this region. You will find a few locations that are excellent for those who are visiting the country for the first time and want to learn about it. That includes the Museo Nacional de Arqueología and the Antropología e Historia del Perú.
Others include the Lima Art Museum and the Museum of Italian Art, which showcases Italian artists. The Larco Museum is an excellent choice for those seeking pre-Columbian art, which dates back over 5,000 years.
2. Explore the Historic Center
The Historic Center of Lima is the largest destination in the city for tourists, where many of the city's museums, galleries and festivals take place. You'll find it includes the Lima and Rimac districts, both of which are World Heritage Sites.
The Monumental Zone, one of the two areas of this historic center, is where you'll find history and life established by the Peruvian government in 1972. The second area is the UNESCO site, where you'll find a much longer history of the region. The displays, exhibitions and people at this location are some of the most valuable resources available today for understanding this area's culture.
3. Walk to Explore the Architecture
Lima's architecture is stunning and distinctly different from that of other South American communities. There are a few excellent examples to see as you walk through the area:
- Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo: A 16th-century religious complex known for its stunning architecture. It houses the tombs of Saints Rose of Lima and Martin de Porres and was the original site of the University of San Marcos, the oldest university in the Americas.
- Plaza Mayor: The historic heart of Lima, founded by in 1535. Surrounded by iconic buildings like the Government Palace, it has witnessed key events including Peru’s declaration of independence.
- Basilica and Convent of San Francisco: A Baroque masterpiece famous for its ornate architecture, ancient library and eerie catacombs. It’s one of Lima’s most visited sites and a vivid reminder of colonial religious life.
- Palacio de Torre Tagle: A stunning 18th-century mansion. Its carved wooden balconies and lavish interior make it one of Lima’s finest colonial buildings, now home to Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
4. Walk Through Miraflores
Miraflores is one of the districts in Lima that has its own personality. While the historic center is very much focused on the old, Miraflores is a stunning and truly vibrant modern center. It is where you'll find some of the best bars and nightclubs. The hotels here tend to be modern with a trendy vibe.
You'll also be able to explore the Malecon as you walk from one area to the next. Parque Kennedy is an open green space that's quite a beautiful garden-like setting. There are lots of cafes throughout this neighborhood as well.
5. Take in the Art in Barranco
Another district to explore in Lima is Barranco. It's distinctly the art center of the community. You'll find wondrous wall murals along the paths and roads as well as art galleries. Note that there are many residential areas here, and walking through this area's tree-lined streets will create an impressive opportunity to see residential architecture at its best.
As you explore Barranco, make sure to walk to Bajada de Banos, which is a beachfront area. You can also explore the restaurants and cafes along the Puente de los Suspiros. In the evenings, the local bars in this area come to life and live music is very common on weekends.
6. Watch the Water at Circuito Magico del Aqua
In English, it translates to "Magic Water Show" but no matter what you call it, this experience comes to life when the sun goes down. Located in the Parque de la Reserva, the Circuito Magico del Agua is an impressive water show in the largest water fountain in this downtown park.
The cybernetic fountain on display adds to the mesmerizing charm. Once the sky is dark, the music comes to life, the water glistens and seems to dance to the rhythms of the music.
7. Check Out the Port of Callao
Another interesting way to experience Lima is by taking to the water. Destinations like The Fisherman's Cove Adventure create opportunities to take a short boat ride into the water. You can choose one of the Lima shore excursions if you're traveling up and down the coastline as well. No matter what you do, get to the port to walk around. There is a lot of fun to be had here, including rooftop dance parties at some of the more trendy restaurants.
If you're more interested in the history of the area, you may want to check out the Real Felipe Fortress. It was built in the mid-1700s as a way to protect the city from the pirate ships that often came in.
8. Explore the Archaeological Sites
One of the vast wonders of Peru is its numerous archaeological sites. Lima has some as well. You'll see a variety of older buildings throughout the city, but some are incredible.
For example, the Huaca Pucllana is a 4th-century adobe temple. You can also find other destinations throughout the Pueblo Libre and San Miguel districts. Temples and treasures await in the capital of Peru.
9. See the Convent and Catacombs
There's a long religious history in Lima, and there may not be a better representation of it than the Saint Francis Monastery, just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas.
This destination is a Baroque convent that was built in the late 1600s. It is noted to be home to over 25,000 texts, some of the oldest in the world. Exploring the catacombs, (they really are underground) is an excellent way to find the history of this region. It's said more than 25,000 people were buried in this area over the centuries.
How to Get Around Lima
Tourism is an important part of Lima's culture and economy. As such, you will find a variety of options for getting around Lima once you arrive. Most people arrive from the Jorge Chavez International Airport, which is located in nearby Callao. Once there, you have several options for transportation around the city.
- Metropolitano: The Metropolitano is a rapid transit system that links each of the 12 districts, including the tourism districts. This bus system runs along the expressway and operates like subway stations do, though the platforms are elevated.
- Taxis: While taxis are available and commonly used, their costs are not regulated. They can be inexpensive or very expensive, depending on where you obtain them and, unfortunately, if the drivers are fair. Unlicensed taxis are located throughout the city.
- Bike and walk: If you are planning to explore the individual neighborhoods, the malecon is a simple way to bike or walk from one area to the next. It's a coastal pathway that connects each area. You'll find food markets and a variety of shops along these routes, most of which take about 20 to 40 minutes to navigate. You can also take a bike tour of Lima for a more guided experience.
- Rent a car: If you want your own transportation, you can rent a car at the airport with a valid license and documentation. A variety of car rental companies are available at the airport, and you may be able to book your experience before you arrive.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Lima?
Visiting Lima means exploring a country that can be very warm at certain times. Choosing the time of the year to visit can make a big difference in your experience. Here are some recommendations on the best times to visit Lima:
- December to April: Remember that the summer months below the equator are from December until March or April. This is a great time to visit the city and take in the outdoor experiences. Temperatures are around 80 degrees F most of the time, especially along the waterfront.
- May to November: If you're looking for cooler months with less humidity, the period from May to November. It's overall less crowded during this time, and there are a variety of experiences planned most of the year.
- April to May: From April until May, you'll find fewer tourists and okay temperatures most of the time. There are far more places to relax without the crowds during this time of the year.
FAQs About Lima
If you're planning your Lima trip, these questions may come up. AAA has the answers you need to make your Peruvian vacation a breeze!
Is Lima good for tourists?
Lima offers a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. It's noted as one of the food capitals of the world and certainly an excellent place for culture and history. Overall, it's a community that gives tourists the big city vibe while also providing a smaller feel than other worldwide destinations.
How many days does it take to explore Lima?
If you have limited time, plan to spend at least three days in Lima. That gives you a few excellent locations to try for meals and also enough time to explore the historical center. If you can stay longer, a 5 to 7-day trip can be outstanding for deeper cultural experiences.
Where are the best places to eat in Lima?
As a food destination, Lima offers numerous restaurants all worthy of your exploration. Some of the best restaurants in Lima include the following:
- For spectacular views and local cuisine: Insumo Rooftop – C Hotel Lima Miraflores
- For international cuisine in an upscale setting: Popurri
- In Miraflores, a steakhouse served Peruvian style: La Cabrera
- For Peruvian specialties and authentic dishes: XOMA
You may want to consider a local food tour, a way to explore some of the best restaurants with a guide.
Do they speak English in Lima?
When traveling to Lima, it's helpful to know some Spanish. Brushing up on some common Spanish phrases will help you communicate and get around Lima as efficiently as possible. However, in the tourism-centric areas, many people speak English and numerous translation services are available.
What are the best hotels in Lima to stay at?
Numerous hotels are available throughout the city. You're sure to find some great Lima hotel deals when you use our services, too. The following are some of the area's best-rated hotels.
- Casa Andina Premium San Isidro: An upscale, high-rise hotel in the heart of the city.
- AC by Marriott Lima Miraflores: An upscale, all-inclusive hotel with numerous gourmet restaurants and amenities'
- Manto Hotel Lima Mgallery: A fun, eclectic destination with excellent amenities.
No matter where you plan to stay, expect to find the best hotel deals in Lima with our team at AAA.
Does Lima have beaches?
Yes, Lima's beaches on the Pacific coast are accessible. You can walk in the water and take a boat out. It is important to consider that the beaches are far more rocky than those in other areas. Also, the temperature of the water tends to be cooler, making it less desirable for traditional getting wet.
Ready to Visit Lima?
With some insight into the culture, history and cuisine of Lima, you may be ready to book your experience. With so much to do and see, it's always best to work with a professional to make the most out of your trip. Is Lima worth visiting? To help you decide, AAA Travel can point out all of the tools and resources available to make your trip memorable.
If you are traveling around the world or just across the country, know that AAA members have direct access to exclusive discounts on lodging, rental cars and much more.