Best 11 Things To Do In Lima, Peru

When planning a trip to any part of Peru, Lima, the capital city, is your first contact with Peruvian culture and lifestyle. 

It’s colourful and rich, full of friendly locals and amazing restaurants. 

Lima is often called a top destination for foodies, and it did not disappoint. If you need help planning your trip, check out this travel guide for Lima, Peru. 

But what amazed me the most about Lima is that it is a complex destination that offers so much and is suitable for any kind of traveller. 

I also have a video version of this guide on YouTube of the best things to do in Lima if you prefer video format.

The internet made me believe Lima was a dangerous place. But after spending more than two weeks there and following advice from locals, I can definitely say that Lima is my favourite city in South America. 

It has it all – culture, lifestyle, history and modern amenities. 

As a foreigner, the places that you visit in Lima are much safer and more relaxed than a lot of other places in this world. 

I feel like Lima is an undiscovered gem of Latin America and definitely a top destination for digital nomads. 

P.S.: After visiting over 60 countries from all over the world, I can confidently say that Peruvians are some of the friendliest and kindest people on Earth! 

Now, let’s talk about the best things you can do in Lima, the capital of Peru. Of course, there are so many other activities to be included on this list, so if you are a local or have been to Peru, please share your tips and suggestions in the comments. 

So, let’s begin. 

Top things to do in Lima, Peru

1. Explore Lima’s Historical Centre

I visited Lima’s historical centre with a free walking tour that started in Miraflores. 

When you first get to Lima, you might hear or read about how certain parts of Lima are dangerous. In my case, that made me wanna stick around Miraflores and not go out of that area too much. 

But after almost 2 weeks in Lima, I became more curious about the place and was happy to discover that the tourist information office next to Kenedy Park organises daily tours in different parts of Lima, including this tour of Lima’s historical centre. 

The best part is that you get to experience public transport in Lima, because that’s how the group gets from Miraflores to Lima’s downtown, and then you get to explore the most important parts of the historical centre. 

After going on that tour, I can say that the centre of Lima is very safe, or at least that’s how it felt for me, and it has so much to offer that you shouldn’t skip it if you’re on a trip in Lima. 

During the tour, I learnt about how Lima was founded and how Peru gained its independence. 

Then you pass by so many of the most important buildings in the capital of Peru, such as Lima’s Cathedral. The building itself is a blend of architectural styles and stands as a testament to Lima’s colonial past. The cathedral is located in the most important square in all of Lima, Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas. 

An unexpected visit in Lima’s historical centre is at San Francisco Church and Monastery, which are most famous for the catacombs located underneath the monastery. Although this place isn’t included in the free walking tour, I highly recommend that you visit it after the tour is over. 

In the end, you can relax a bit and do some shopping on the famous pedestrian street, Jirón de la Unión, which connects Plaza Mayor to Plaza San Martín. Lima is famous for its shopping opportunities. But we’ll get to this a bit later.

And if you want to eat, stop at a local restaurant or head over to Chinatown, which is only a few steps away, to learn more about the fusion between Peruvian and Chinese cuisine. 

If you’re lazy and don’t want to do much walking around, a great alternative is this bus tour of Lima, which includes the best must-see places in Lima. 

2. Visit the Larco Museum (Museo Larco)

The Larco Museum is one of the most popular spots to visit in Lima because of the wonderful building that hosts the museum and the extensive collection of the museum. 

Here, you can learn about the pre-Colombian civilisations that lived in today’s Peru territory, as well as customs and aspects of their daily life. Given that there isn’t much writing about it, most exhibits are actually ancient artefacts that depict their lives. 

The museum offers some explanation in English, but for a more in-depth understanding of the Peruvian civilisations, I’d recommend booking a guide for the Larco Museum. 

After you finish visiting the museum, check out the restaurant, as they offer an exquisite experience. It’s a restaurant that is more fancy and has a higher price, but I believe that it is worth the experience. It’s a perfect spot to relax on a sunny afternoon, enjoy a pisco sour and taste the famous Lucuma mouse dessert.  

3. Discover Barranco

I’ll be honest with you and admit that I didn’t visit Barranco much in Lima. That’s because I stayed in the Miraflores neighbourhood most of the time. But both Barranco and Miraflores are recommended areas for tourists to stay and explore. 

Barranco is popular because of its vibrant art scene, which is why it is often called Lima’s artistic district. 

In fact, it’s so popular that you can join a free walking tour or a bike tour to explore Barranco. As is the case with Miraflores, the coastal views at sunset are to die for, so you should definitely add this to your Lima’s list of things to do.  

4. Stroll along the Miraflores boardwalk (Malecón)

Since I talked so much about Miraflores and how it fascinated me so much, one of the top things to do in Lima and Miraflores is to walk on the famous boardwalk. 

The views are extraordinary, and it gets really busy at sunset. Even locals love it here, and I can totally understand why. 

The area is super safe, even after sunset, so don’t be afraid to explore all you want, take photos, enjoy a snack or go there to read a book. 

A popular spot on the boardwalk is Love Park (el Parque del Amor), which reminds me of the famous Güell Park in Barcelona. 

And if adventure is what you’re seeking, consider going paragliding over the magnificent coast of Lima. It’s a popular thing to do around here, and if the weather allows it, the views are worth the adrenaline. 

5. Indulge in Peruvian Cuisine

It’s no secret that Peruvians are absolutely obsessed with becoming the best cooks in the world. 

It all starts with the world-famous CEVICHE, which is marinated raw fish with spices. It has a taste you won’t ever forget and most likely love enough to have it at least every two meals while in Peru. 

If you’re short on time, a food tour in Lima will give you the best taste of Peru. 

The vast majority of Peruvian staple dishes are meat-based, and while I don’t personally eat meat, there seemed to be a vast array of restaurants to suit any kind of budget. 

As for vegetarians and vegans, don’t worry; you will find plenty of options. 

In Miraflores, I found many vegan restaurants, and some even offer vegan alternatives to the popular Peruvian dishes. 

I ate in many different places and restaurants in Peru, from very affordable locations to more posh ones, and every time, the food was amazing. 

I can’t remember a single occasion when the food was bad in Peru because it never was. In the end, I spent more than three weeks in Peru and never starved; quite the contrary. 

One thing to keep in mind, if you’re travelling to Lima on a budget, is that a lot of restaurants will offer a set lunch menu, which is often much more affordable than the a-la-carte dishes from their menu. 

For instance, during my stay in Miraflores, I ate at a very nice vegan restaurant during lunchtime. And it was just about $5 per menu, with dessert and a drink included. 

It’s also worth mentioning that more traditional restaurants are often open only for lunch, something like from 12 pm to 4 or 5 PM. 

You’ll soon see that food is a big thing in Peru, and Lima is often regarded as the world capital of food, or at least somewhere in the top 3 culinary destinations in the world. 

If you’re a foodie, then I couldn’t think of a better place to recommend you visit other than Peru. 

I also loved the fruit in Peru. If you want to see some of the most common fruits, I have a video on YouTube in which I taste the fruit of Peru, so go and watch it. 

And by the way, don’t forget to try at least once at a famous Chifa restaurant, which is more than just a place to eat; they are a testament to Lima’s multicultural identity. 

These Chifa restaurants are the result of the unique fusion between Chinese and Peruvian cuisines. The word Chifa comes from the Cantonese phrase “chi fan,” which means “to eat rice.” 

The origin of Chifa cuisine dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Chinese immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them and created this one-of-a-kind experience in Lima. Even the interior of these restaurants is a mix between the two cultures, so don’t miss it. 

And don’t worry, you don’t need to search for them; Chifa restaurants are everywhere. 

6. Go shopping in Lima

Lima is also a popular shopping destination. If you’re travelling around South America, and you want to update your wardrobe, then Lima is the place to go shopping. 

You’ll find shops and shopping malls in a lot of places. 

If you’re staying in the modern districts, Miraflores or Barranco, then you will most definitely find shops around without searching too much. 

Most shopping malls will offer international brands, such as Patagonia or Zara. By the way, did you know that some of the cheapest Levi’s you can buy are in Peru? That’s according to Numbeo.com. 

Because I didn’t quite understand the magnitude of this shopping experience in Lima, I was shocked when I first discovered all the shopping malls located in Miraflores. Just around Kennedy Park, you will find three different shopping malls, and beside those, the entire area is basically surrounded by shops. 

If you are staying in Miraflores, you will not be disappointed. 

During my stay there, Kennedy Park was used for fairs almost daily that showcased all sorts of handmade crafts, food, and clothes. If you want things such as souvenirs and other traditional Peruvian items, then don’t miss the Inca Market in Miraflores, which is just 10 minutes on foot from Kenedy Park. 

I also have to mention that in all these places, I met lovely and friendly locals who almost always had the time to chat with me, help me practice my Spanish and give me good travel advice. 

In the historical centre of Lima, you have to check out the Jirón de la Unión, which is the place for both locals and tourists to go shopping. I already mentioned this, but it is worth mentioning specifically if shopping is what you care about. 

7. Go swimming with sea lions on Palomino island

If you have the time to do something more adventurous, I recommend this half-a-day boat trip in the Pacific Ocean to swim with sea lions. 

Don’t worry, the trip starts from Lima, and you don’t have to spend hours in a bus to reach your destination. 

That’s why I believe this is one of the top attractions in Lima and truly one of the must-see things in the capital of Peru. 

I wrote all about this activity in my detailed blog about swimming with sea lions on Palomino Island. 

The experience starts in La Punta district in Lima, and you can easily reach it by Uber no matter where you are in Lima. 

I don’t recommend this activity if you usually experience seasickness, but in my personal experience, it should be an activity appropriate for almost everyone. 

Here is the exact Palomino Island tour I did and which I recommend. 

If you want to learn more about this experience, make sure to check out my Palomino Islands video about the trip I made to the Palomino Islands in Lima, Peru. 

8. Explore Callao, the port district

I’d like to also suggest you explore the historic port district of Lima, Callao. I visited the area when I went on the boat trip to the Palomino islands, and it really impressed me. Here, you can admire amazing coastal views, and it’s much more chill than other parts of Lima. 

Callao offers a different perspective of Lima that blends the charm of its colonial past with a dynamic modern vibe. You can explore it in-depth with this Callao guided tour. 

Or you can combine this tour with a visit to Barranco, as both districts are the go-to destinations in Lima for artsy lovers. 

Callao has a deep historical significance as Peru’s main port and a vital hub during the Spanish colonial era. The district is home to several historical landmarks, such as the 18th-century Real Felipe Fortress, which was primarily built to protect the port from pirate attacks. 

Today, the fortress serves as a military museum, offering visitors a chance to explore its well-preserved ramparts, towers, and exhibitions that detail Callao’s rich maritime history.

The area also boasts colonial-era architecture that provides a glimpse into the past. The restored facades in La Punta neighbourhood and the charming old houses add to the district’s unique character.

Callao has also merged as a cultural hotspot in recent years, particularly in the Callao Monumental area, also known as Barrio Monumental. This revitalised neighbourhood has transformed into an open-air museum and arts district which hosts numerous art galleries, street murals, and cultural spaces. 

9. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum

As I was exploring Miraflores on foot, I noticed this random archaeological site right in the middle of the city. I didn’t know what to make of it when I first saw it, but then I checked it on Google Maps, and it turns out that it is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Lima. 

The Huaca Pucllana Site is a huge clay pyramid that stands testimony to the pre-Inca civilisations that inhabited the territory of today’s Lima. 

The pyramid can only be visited with the official tour of the museum, which takes about one hour. There are also a few tours in English per day, so you should check the schedule to make it there on time. If not, you can join the Spanish guided tour, which is more often. 

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this place, but I left with a deeper understanding of the Peruvian civilisation and the daily life of those who once lived here. 

While the guided tour is the only way to visit the place, it might feel like a rigid environment at first, but I learnt so much from the guide. The last part of the tour included a short walk through the museum’s small outside garden that hosts typical animals and plants of Peru. 

The kids liked this part the most, as we learnt the difference between Llamas and Alpacas and saw a Lucuma tree with fruits. 

And this isn’t the only archaeological site in Lima. In fact, there are so many that you will not have time to visit all of them. But if you’re a history lover or archaeology geek, then check out these sites in Lima:

• Huaca Huallamarca (San Isidro district)
• Pachacamac (30 kilometres southeast of Lima). You can visit it with this Pachacamac tour. 
• Huaca Mateo Salado (Pueblo Libre district)
• Puruchuco (Ate district)
• Maranga Complex (Parque de Las Leyendas, San Miguel district)
• Huaca Santa Catalina (La Victoria district)
• Huaca Palomino (Pueblo Libre district)

If you want to combine your museum visits, you can book this tour, which includes a visit to the most important pre-Inca ruins in the city such as Huaca Pucllana, Huaca Huallamarca and Huaca Mateo Salado. 

The tour ends up at the Larco Museum, where you can enjoy dinner in their garden restaurant. Honestly, sounds like a dream for history lovers. 

10. Visit the Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua)

The Magic Water Circuit, or Circuito Mágico del Agua, is a must-see attraction in Lima. 

Here, you will be delighted by a dazzling display of 13 fountains that come alive during the evenings using lights and music. It is said to be one of the largest fountain complexes in the world.

The time to visit is at night, so you can admire the show. A lot of locals gather around them and enjoy the magical atmosphere. Note that to visit the magical fountains, you need to pay a ticket for the park. Check the schedule before you visit the location (Parque de la Reserva). 

11. Paracas and Huacachina oasis day trip

And after you experienced all the things to do in Lima, you can go on a day trip from Lima. 

You see, Peru is a huge place, and it feels like it offers endless experiences and trips. Once you’re there, you will understand why it is so hard to choose only a few experiences; craft your personal must-see places in Lima and around because there’s simply too much to do and see in Peru in general. 

With that being said, one of the most popular day trips from Lima is the trip to Paracas and Huacachina Oasis. I went on this day’s trip from Lima, and it was worth it. Some complained about the stop in Paracas, but most tours offering this experience have these two stops as they are close together. 

I also noticed that most foreigners, even if they only spend a few days in Lima, usually before flying to Cusco, inevitably book this tour. 

I guess that’s because Huacachina Desert Oasis has gained massive popularity over the past few years on the internet, primarily due to social media. 

I certainly remember the first time I saw that drone shot from Huacachina, where an influencer was up on the sand dune at sunset, overlooking the seemingly endless desert, and the oasis seemed like the last drop of civilisation in a sea of infinite sand. It’s truly a remarkable sight that turned Huacachina into this massive attraction in Peru. 

There is so much more to be said and explained about this destination, so that is why I wrote an entire blog about the day trip to Paracas and Huacachina Oasis and I also have a video about it on my YouTube channel. 

Here’s the exact tour I booked to visit this famous Huacachina oasis in Peru, starting from Lima:

However, there are also other day trips you can take from Lima, and I think it all comes down to your time in Lima and your personal interests. Here are all the day trips from Lima that I think are worth the trip:

• Nazca Lines and Ica Desert Day Trip
• Sanctuary of Pachacamac & Barranco
• Full-day Guided Trip to Sayan and Churin
• Caral – The Oldest Civilization in America
• Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve 2-Day Trip
• Cordillera de la Viuda from Lima – Mountain Exploration

What is the best way to end a day in Lima? Go relax at the beach.

How far is Lima from the beach? Well, you can walk to the beach, as Lima is a coastal city and there are plenty of beaches that stretch along the coast. 

What struck me on the first day I spent in Lima was the gorgeous coastline. 

Also known as Costa Verde, the coastline stretches for kilometres an end and offers plenty of popular spots for relaxation, including beaches, boardwalks, and even surfing. 

By the way, don’t let the infamous Garúa rain or the Neblina fog in Lima scare you. The coastline of Lima somehow experiences a unique natural event due to the Humbolt current that comes all the way from Antarctica. 

When that cold front meets the warm air that covers the land, it’s not going to affect your trip to Lima, but it’s something that will appear peculiar at first. 

It doesn’t happen every day or every month, but it happened when I visited during March 2024, and it’s really awkward at first when you notice really low clouds that cover the top of the buildings in the city. 

To experience the beach in Lima, you can simply go on the beach, sit on a towel and soak in the sun. 

From my personal experience, the beaches in Miraflores are artificially built, as the city is located on a small cliff and then there are walkways built in order to access the beach as a pedestrian. 

The beaches are ok, but most of them have huge pebbles, and it’s a bit painful to walk barefoot. 

When I visited in March 2024, I noticed that a bit north of Miraflores, the coast was in the set-up process, and more fine sand was being brought onto it. 

There was also a park and a huge stage being set up, so I guess that wherever you go along a coastline, you will find different attractions on the beach. Luckily, the municipality realised that the beaches in Lima are a huge asset and attraction and is actively working to improve them. 

So my advice is to simply walk towards the coast, the closest point to your location, and you will figure it out once you get there. 

However, as I mentioned, the beaches in Lima aren’t great. So, if you want to spend the day at a nicer sand beach, then check out these areas:

• Punta Hermosa beach (40 km south of Lima, ~ 1 hour drive from Miraflores, beach resort)
• Ancon Beach (55 km  ~ 1.5 hours away from Miraflores, north of Lima, beach resort)
• Punta Rocas Beach (40 km ~one hour away from Miraflores, surfer beach)

While I didn’t have much time to explore, I believe that the best beaches in Peru are located in the South. If you decide to go on the day trip to Paracas, you’ll notice how the coastline starts to change, and there are sandy beaches with breathtaking cliff backgrounds. 

If you are looking to explore Peru’s beaches, then the best option would be to rent a car and explore those places south of Paracas at your own pace. 

Is Lima worth it?

YES. Lima, the capital of Peru, is my favourite city in South America, and it will probably be yours too after you visit it for the first time. Lima has so much to offer, and I simply can’t see how it can let you down. It has everything you might want from an urban travel destination and so much more. 

It’s truly a capital, a place that holds the heritage of the Peruvians, offering fun, culture, adventure and some of the best food in the world. 

I know for a fact that you will enjoy your trip to Peru because I haven’t heard anyone complaining about it during my travels in Peru. 

I have another detailed guide about logistics if you’re travelling to Lima, the capital of Peru, to help you plan your visit. Go check that out!