As Peru’s capital, Lima hides numerous historical and cultural attractions. We can encounter colonial and even older heritage in many places.
Located on the Pacific coast, Lima is one of South America’s largest cities with over 10 million inhabitants. The city founded during Spanish colonization still preserves its colonial heritage while developing into a dynamic modern metropolis. The city’s different neighborhoods have unique characters, from the historic center to the bohemian Barranco.
Table of Contents
Lima attractions
Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)
The historic main square in Lima’s heart is the city’s most important community and cultural center.
The square was founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 along with the city. Since colonial times, it has been considered the center of Peruvian political and social life, where the most important events take place. It attracts visitors not only with its historical significance but also with its vibrant cultural life.
The square houses the city’s most significant buildings, including the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the City Hall. The bronze fountain in the center of the square dates from the 17th century and, together with Francisco Pizarro’s statue, preserves memories of Spanish colonization.
Palacio de Gobierno
This is Peru’s president’s official residence and the government center, one of the most imposing buildings on Plaza Mayor.
The palace, built on the site originally serving as Francisco Pizarro’s residence, began construction in the 16th century but gained its current form during 20th-century renovations. The beautiful baroque and neocolonial style building is a symbol of Peru’s political power. The ornate changing of the guard ceremony can be seen daily at noon in front of the palace, which is a popular spectacle for tourists and locals alike.
The palace facade is made special by rich decorations, elegant balconies, and gates decorated with the Peruvian coat of arms. The inner courtyards and representative halls showcase excellent examples of Spanish colonial architecture. The palace also houses various museum exhibitions where visitors can learn about Peru’s history and cultural heritage.
Lima Cathedral
The monumental cathedral on the eastern side of Plaza Mayor is the most important monument to Lima’s religious and architectural heritage.
The original church was founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, but the current building took shape during the 17th and 18th centuries after multiple earthquakes and reconstructions. The cathedral presents a mixture of baroque and neoclassical style elements. The church’s museum displays an unparalleled collection of Peru’s colonial religious art, including famous colonial paintings, silver objects, and liturgical vestments.
The temple’s imposing facade is decorated with two 58-meter-high towers that are defining elements of Lima’s cityscape. The interior’s massive naves are adorned with richly carved altars, valuable paintings, and silver decorations. Francisco Pizarro’s earthly remains rest in the cathedral’s crypt, giving the place special historical significance.
Plaza San Martín
One of the most elegant squares in Lima’s historic center, which commemorates the great hero of Peruvian independence, General José de San Martín.
The square was opened in 1921 for the 100th anniversary of Peru’s independence and has since been one of the most important symbols of the republican era. The square gains special significance from the fact that San Martín proclaimed Peru’s independence here in 1821.
Its central element is the monumental San Martín statue, which depicts the liberator general on horseback. Neocolonial and republican-style buildings line the plaza, including the famous Gran Hotel Bolívar, which was Lima’s most elegant hotel in the early 20th century.
Alameda de los Descalzos
The promenade created in Lima’s historic center in the 17th century originally aimed to provide the city’s residents with a pleasant environment for rest and entertainment. The place called „Barefoot Promenade” got its name from the nearby Franciscan monastery.
Beautiful marble statues depicting the four seasons and various mythological figures line both sides. The 12 statues are masterpieces of Peruvian baroque sculpture and show local interpretations of European artistic influences. The fountain in the middle of the promenade and the carefully maintained gardens create a romantic atmosphere.
Alameda de los Descalzos remains a popular meeting place for locals and tourists today. At the end of the promenade is the Los Descalzos church and monastery, where visitors can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and religious artworks. The area’s small cafés and restaurants provide excellent places for rest.
Paseo de Aguas
The elegant promenade created at the end of the 18th century is one of Lima’s most romantic locations.
The promenade near the Rímac River was originally built by Viceroy Manuel Amat y Juniet for his love, Micaela Villegas. The walkway’s water motifs and baroque decorations create a special atmosphere that has been immortalized in local literature and popular culture. Its central element is the beautiful fountain system that leads water down the hillside in cascades.
Its historical significance goes beyond its aesthetic beauty: it’s a symbol of Peruvian romanticism and colonial lifestyle. Visitors can walk along the historic routes here, rest in the pavilions, and enjoy the beauty of traditional Lima garden art.
San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs
One of Lima’s most important religious and historical monuments, an excellent example of colonial architecture.
The Franciscan monastery building, constructed during the 16th and 17th centuries, combines stunning baroque and mudéjar style elements, decorated with beautiful azulejo tiles, carved wooden ceilings, and gilded altars. Valuable paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects can be viewed in the church nave and monastic cells. The monastery’s library preserves more than 25,000 antique books and manuscripts, among which true historical treasures can be found.
The monastery’s most special part is the underground catacomb system, where more than 70,000 people were buried during the colonial period. The narrow corridors and chambers still preserve the bones and skulls, creating a special, mystical atmosphere. During the catacomb tour, visitors can learn about contemporary burial customs and the history of urban development while having a unique experience.
Malecón
One of Lima’s most beautiful promenade systems stretches along the coast of the Miraflores and Barranco districts.
The several-kilometer-long seaside promenade is located high above the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and coastline. Its modernly designed parks, bike paths, and sports courts provide a popular recreational destination for both locals and tourists.
Carefully planned gardens, fountains, and sculptural works can be found along the promenade, serving to showcase local art and culture. Different sections of the malecón have different characters: the Miraflores section is more modern and strives for elegance, while moving toward Barranco, an artistic and bohemian atmosphere dominates.
Parque del Amor
One of the most romantic locations in the Miraflores district, located on the Pacific coast along the malecón.
The park’s name is clear: it’s a place dedicated to love and romance, where couples and families alike can find opportunities for peaceful rest. The park’s central element is the famous „El Beso” (The Kiss) sculpture, which depicts an embracing couple and has become one of Lima’s most iconic artworks.
The park is surrounded by walls decorated with colorful mosaics, on which love poems and quotes can be read in Spanish. These decorations come from the works of the famous Peruvian poet Pablo Neruda and other Latin American writers.
Barranco District
Lima’s most bohemian and artistically most active district is located in the southern part of the capital, near the coast.
At the end of the 19th century, it was a summer resort for wealthy Lima families, and today it’s the center of the city’s cultural and nightlife. Beautiful colonial and republican-style houses stand on the district’s narrow streets, among which art galleries, cafés, and bars are tucked away.
Barranco’s streets are full of colorful murals, graffiti, and street art works that showcase the work of local and international artists. The district’s cultural life is extremely rich: numerous music clubs, theaters, and cultural centers can be found here.
Puente de los Suspiros
Perhaps the most iconic attraction of the Barranco district is this charming little wooden bridge.
The „Bridge of Sighs” owes its romantic name to local legends that say if someone holds their breath while crossing the bridge, their wish will come true. The bridge built at the end of the 19th century connects the steep street called Bajada de los Baños with the malecón, offering beautiful views of the sea.
Puente de los Suspiros is not only a tourist attraction but also an important cultural symbol. This romantic location has served as inspiration for numerous Peruvian songs, poems, and stories. Near the bridge is the Bajada de los Baños, a charming little street that leads all the way to the beach, where visitors can meet local artists and handicraft products.
Christ of the Pacific (Cristo del Pacífico)
A monumental Jesus statue in the Chorrillos district, on top of Morro Solar hill.
The 37-meter-high work was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. The artwork completed in 2011 was commissioned by Peruvian President Alan García on the occasion of leaving his presidential office following the 2011 election.
The illuminated statue is clearly visible at night, providing symbolic protection and blessing toward the city and the ocean. The location offers a breathtaking panorama of Lima and the Pacific coastline, making it a popular destination from both religious and tourist perspectives.
Circuito Mágico del Agua
This stunning fountain complex located in Lima’s Reserva Park is one of the world’s largest water, light, and music shows.
The park opened in 2007 includes 13 interactive fountains, each presenting different themed and technological water shows. Each fountain combines water, light, music, and technology to create a unique spectacle. It becomes truly magical in the evening when colorful lighting and musical accompaniment create a wonderful show together with the water displays.
The park’s central element is the „Fuente de la Fantasía” (Fantasy Fountain), which presents a water show combined with hologram projection and fire show in an 80-meter diameter pool. There’s also a fountain through which visitors can walk.
Parque Kennedy
This popular park in the heart of the Miraflores district is the center of local community life.
The park named after American President John F. Kennedy serves not only as a green space but also as a cultural and social meeting place. Its specialty is the several hundred cats that live freely in the area, cared for by local residents.
The park is surrounded by the Miraflores district’s best shops, restaurants, and cafés, creating a vibrant commercial environment. On one side of the park is the local market, where handicraft products, traditional textiles, and local specialties can be purchased.
Fortaleza del Real Felipe
This massive colonial fortification located in Callao port was one of Peru’s most important defensive structures during Spanish rule.
It was built in the 18th century to defend against British and Dutch pirates and is one of Latin America’s best-preserved colonial fortresses. The fortress’s square bastions and thick stone walls showcase excellent examples of contemporary military architecture. During fortress visits, tourists can walk through the bastions, which offer beautiful views of Callao port and the Pacific Ocean.
Its historical significance goes beyond its military function: it played an important role during the Peruvian wars of independence and was the scene of numerous tragic events. A museum now operates in the fortress, where visitors can learn about the military history, weapons, and strategic methods of the colonial era. The exhibition also presents the military aspects of Spanish colonization.
Larcomar Shopping Center
The unique shopping center built into the cliff of the Miraflores district is constructed into the rock so that the upper level offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Larcomar includes more than 100 shops offering products from local and international brands. The shopping center’s specialty is showcasing Peruvian handicrafts and the creations of local designers.
Due to the shopping center’s special location, sunsets are particularly spectacular here. The malecón is located near Larcomar, so visitors can easily combine shopping with seaside walks.
Best museums in Lima
National Museum (Museo de la Nación)
One of Lima’s most important cultural institutions, opened in 1990 in the San Borja district, and since then has become a key center for Peru’s multi- and pre-Columbian heritage.
Among the approximately 15,500 original objects displayed in the building are ceramics, textiles, and metalwork treasures from the Paracas, Moche, Wari, Lima, and Inca cultures. Additionally, the permanent „Memorias de la Violencia” exhibition documents the period of internal conflicts between 1980-2000, with photos and personal accounts.
The museum also hosts temporary contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and a small cinema.
All information can be found here!
Huaca Pucllana / Museo de Sitio Huallamarca
This archaeological museum in the San Isidro district was developed around a pre-Columbian pyramid.
The museum’s purpose is to present the heritage of the Lima culture (200-700 AD), particularly regarding burial customs and religious practices. The complex consisting of the restored adobe pyramid and the modern museum building provides unique insight into ancient Peruvian civilizations.
Its permanent exhibition presents a rich archaeological collection, including mummies, ceramic vessels, textiles, and jewelry. Among the most valuable pieces are the well-preserved textiles that showcase the refinement of contemporary weaving art.
The pyramid’s specialty is that it’s located in the modern district, among residential buildings, thus sharply contrasting past and present. The museum’s garden is also noteworthy, where contemporary plants are displayed that members of the Lima culture used in their daily lives and religious ceremonies.
All information can be found here!
Museo de Arte de Lima
One of the capital’s most important cultural institutions presents a comprehensive collection of Peruvian art.
The museum is housed in a neoclassical palace built at the end of the 19th century, which is itself an architectural attraction. MALI’s collection encompasses three millennia of Peruvian art: from pre-Columbian times through the colonial period to modern and contemporary works.
The pre-Columbian section displays stunning ceramics, textiles, and metalwork that showcase the artistic refinement of various ancient cultures. The colonial collection contains baroque paintings, silver liturgical objects, and wood carvings that illustrate the meeting of Spanish and local traditions. Its modern and contemporary section focuses on Peru’s 19th and 20th-century art, showing the formation of national identity through the mirror of arts.
All information can be found here!
Museo Larco
The museum presenting one of Lima’s richest and most significant pre-Columbian art collections is housed in an 18th-century viceregal villa building.
The museum was founded by Rafael Larco Hoyle in 1926 and has since become one of the most significant collections of Peru’s ancient cultures. Its specialty is that thousands of artifacts can be found not only in the exhibition halls but also in storage areas accessible to visitors.
The collection includes more than 45,000 archaeological artifacts spanning three millennia of Peruvian history. The museum’s most famous part is the erotic art collection, which presents ancient Peruvian cultures’ relationship to sexuality and fertility. In addition to ceramic vessels, textiles, and jewelry, it also has a rich gold and silver collection.
All information can be found here!
Lima weather: when is the best time to visit?
Lima’s climate is extremely unique: despite the city’s desert climate, it’s characterized by humid and foggy weather due to the Humboldt Current’s influence. The capital has two main seasons: the dry winter period (May-October) and the warmer, less foggy summer months (November-April).
Dry season (May-October):
Lima’s „winter” is actually a dry and cool period when temperatures range between 15-20°C. This period is characterized by frequent fog and drizzling rain (garúa), which creates a thick cloud cover over the city. Sunlight rarely shines through the clouds, giving the city a mystical, gray atmosphere. This season is less popular among tourists, but it provides an excellent opportunity to experience authentic local life.
Warmer season (November-April):
During the summer months, temperatures range between 20-28°C, and foggy days occur less frequently. This period is richer in sunlight, and humidity also becomes more pleasant. The sea breeze alleviates the heat.
Best time to travel:
Lima’s coastal climate is mild year-round, but often overcast and humid. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the summer months bring warmer weather, fewer clouds, and more sunshine – ideal for coastal walks and sightseeing.
Frequently asked questions about Lima
Lima is in the Peru time zone (UTC-5) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Spanish is Peru’s official language, and it’s the primary communication language in Lima. At tourist sites, hotels, and some restaurants, they speak some English, but widespread English proficiency is not common. It’s worth learning some basic Spanish phrases or using a translation app.
Peru’s official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). Larger stores, restaurants, and hotels accept credit cards, but smaller places and markets typically prefer cash payments. It’s advisable to always carry some cash with you. Here is a currency converter.
From Jorge Chávez International Airport, the most convenient way to get into the city is the official Airport Express Lima bus, which stops at several hotels in the city center. Official taxis and app-based rideshares are also available (e.g., Uber or Beat). Public transportation is less recommended for tourists arriving for the first time.
In Lima, the most convenient way to get around is by taxi or app-based ridesharing (Uber, Cabify, Beat), since city public transport (e.g., Metropolitano buses) is often crowded and less transparent for tourists. Walking is mainly safe and pleasant in the Miraflores and Barranco neighborhoods.
Some parts of Lima are safer, others less so. The neighborhoods popular with tourists (Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro) are generally safe, especially during the day. However, it’s worth avoiding less familiar, peripheral districts, especially after dark. Watch your valuables and use official forms of transportation.
Peruvians are friendly and polite, but respectful, reserved behavior is important in social interactions. It’s worth avoiding political topics (e.g., past conflicts or the Shining Path), and paying attention to cultural differences, such as dining customs or tipping etiquette (10% tip is generally expected in restaurants).
Plaza Mayor – Lima’s historic center, with an impressive cathedral and colonial buildings.
Larco Museum – World-class museum with stunning pre-Columbian artifacts and gardens.
Miraflores – Modern, oceanfront neighborhood with promenades and the famous Larcomar.
Barranco – Bohemian artist quarter with colorful streets, galleries, and cozy cafés.
Huaca Pucllana – A stunning pre-Inca clay pyramid in the heart of Lima, in Miraflores.
Ceviche – Raw fish „cooked” in lime juice, with cilantro, onions, and sweet potato.
Lomo Saltado – Beef stir-fried wok-style, Peruvian-fusion style, with french fries and rice.
Aji de Gallina – Chicken in a mildly spicy, creamy cheese sauce.
Anticuchos – Grilled beef heart skewers, also available as street food.
Picarones – Donut-like sweets made from sweet potato and pumpkin, with sugar syrup.