Top things to do in Lima (Peru)

A Tourist Guide to Lima, Peru

Lima, the capital city of Peru, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Its rich history is still evident in the city, from its ancient ruins to its colonial architecture. However, Lima is not just a city of the past - it's a city that is on the rise, with a thriving culinary scene and numerous modern attractions. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you should visit during your trip to Lima.

Historic Landmarks

Torre Tagle Palace

The Torre Tagle Palace is a stunning example of Spanish baroque architecture with Moorish-style features. It houses the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the palace has been restored to reflect its original splendor. The palace is open to the public, and guided tours are offered. Visitors can admire the ornate ceilings, lush gardens, and intricate stonework. Website

Lima Main Square

The Lima Main Square, also known as the Plaza de Armas, is the birthplace of Lima. The square is bordered by iconic palaces, including the Presidential Palace and the Municipal Palace. In the center of the square, there is a fountain that serves as a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is a great place to take a stroll and soak in the history of the city. Facebook Page

Cathedral of Lima

The Cathedral of Lima is a magnificent baroque-style Roman Catholic cathedral that boasts a gold-plated altar and an on-site religious museum. The museum displays religious relics, paintings, and artifacts that date back to the colonial era. Visitors can explore the intricately designed interior of the cathedral and climb the tower for a stunning view of the city. Website

Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima

The Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima is a baroque-style Roman Catholic church and monastery. It houses a prominent library and underground catacombs that contain the remains of over 25,000 people. The catacombs are open to the public, and guided tours are offered. Visitors can also admire the ornate architecture of the church and the beautiful courtyard. Website

Museums

Huaca Pucllana Site Museum

The Huaca Pucllana Site Museum is located in the Miraflores district of Lima. It features the remains of a clay and adobe stepped pyramid from the Lima Culture (200-700 A.D.), as well as tours and a museum. The museum displays artifacts that were found on the site, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can also enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal at the on-site restaurant. Website

Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is a mansion-turned-museum that features a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. The museum has over 45,000 pieces, including ceramic erotica and gold and silver artifacts. The museum's garden is a highlight, featuring over 50 species of Peruvian plants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. Website

Andres del Castillo Museum

The Andres del Castillo Museum is located in the Barranco district of Lima. It features a collection of pre-Columbian pottery and ceramics, as well as contemporary Peruvian art. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial-style mansion, and visitors can take a guided tour of the exhibits. Website

Parks and Outdoor Attractions

Circuito Mágico del Agua

The Circuito Mágico del Agua is a picturesque neighborhood park that is known for its fountains and evening laser light shows. The park features 13 fountains that are illuminated with colorful lights and synchronized to music. Visitors can watch the shows from a nearby amphitheater or take a leisurely stroll through the park. Website

Malecón de Miraflores

The Malecón de Miraflores is a scenic boardwalk that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. It stretches for several miles and offers stunning views of the coastline. The boardwalk is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as parks and public art installations. Visitors can rent bikes or go for a jog along the boardwalk. Website

Miraflores Central Park

The Miraflores Central Park is a triangular urban park that offers trees, landscaped lawns, paths, and an amphitheater. The park is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is also a playground for children. Google Maps

Other Attractions

Casa de Aliaga

The Casa de Aliaga is a 16th-century mansion that offers a glimpse into Peruvian history. It was the home of Francisco Pizarro and his descendants, and it's now a museum that showcases Peru's art and history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and admire the colonial-era architecture and artwork. Website

Paseo de Aguas

The Paseo de Aguas is a historic park that features fountains, gardens, and a waterwheel. The park dates back to the colonial era and was once a popular meeting spot for the city's elite. Today, it's a peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling city. Visitors can stroll through the park and admire the lush vegetation and beautiful architecture. Google Maps

Casa O'Higgins

The Casa O'Higgins is a beautiful colonial-era mansion that was once the home of the Irish-born revolutionary Bernardo O'Higgins. Today, it's a museum that showcases the life and work of O'Higgins, as well as the history of the mansion itself. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum and admire the beautiful architecture and artwork. Facebook Page

Casa de las 13 Puertas

The Casa de las 13 Puertas is a historic mansion that features 13 ornate wooden doors. The doors were carved by a 17th-century craftsman and are considered to be a masterpiece of colonial-era woodworking. The mansion is now a cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and concerts. Visitors can admire the beautiful doors and learn about the history of the mansion. Google Maps

Fuente Mágica / Fuente de la Fantasia

The Fuente Mágica, also known as the Fuente de la Fantasia, is one of two fountains in the Circuito Mágico del Agua. The fountain features a colorful light show that is synchronized to music, and it's a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can watch the show from a nearby amphitheater or take a leisurely stroll through the park. Website

Lima is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you're sure to find something that appeals to you. Be sure to visit these top tourist attractions during your trip to Lima, Peru.