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Lima, the capital of the Republic of Peru, is a dynamic and growing city that combines a historical legacy with the trends and amenities of a modern capital.
Metropolitan Lima is home to more than 10 million people, roughly a third of Peru's population.
Lima got that nickname at its founding: Francisco Pizarro established the city on January 18, 1535, as the Ciudad de los Reyes (City of the Kings), named for the Three Kings of the Epiphany.
This city has plenty to offer travelers.
You can learn about Lima's history by touring its buildings and monuments, especially in the historic downtown, known as the Centro Histórico.
Make sure you learn some basic Spanish. You will be relying on your language and hand gestures to get you through basic conversations.
Whatever your particular interests are, here are some of the highlights that Lima has to offer.
Things to do in Lima, Peru
The Historical Lima Downtown (Centro Historico)
Declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, this area is renowned for its monuments.
Stroll through the Plaza Mayor (that is, the Main Square) and its surroundings, making sure to visit the Cathedral of Lima, Government Palace, and the Municipal Palace. Take your time getting lost amongst the old homes such as the House of Oidor and the House of Pilatos, both of which are some of the oldest homes in Lima dating back to the late 1500's. Just a short walk away is the Church and Convent of San Francisco.
Barranco
A must see in Lima is the traditional district of Barranco, which is dubbed the SoHo of Peru. Its traditional 19th century buildings now host a very active, bohemian, and youth-oriented nightlife. Stop here to browse art galleries, drink coffee, watch live music, or enjoy a pisco sour at one of the bars around the plaza.
Miraflores
Located near Barranco is Miraflores, which has many commercial and entertainment options such as shopping malls, cinemas, hotels, cafes, discos, and a public park with free wi-fi connection. Hidden gems include the pre-Inca mud-brick temple Huaca Pucllana and Parque del Amor.
Museums
Lima's museums are worth a visit, especially the Museo Larco, home to one of the best collections of pre-Columbian art in the Americas. After dark, the Circuito Mágico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit) puts on a fountain and light show set to music.
OUTSIDE OF THE CITY
If you seek more adventure you can go an visit one of the ancient cities of South America, Caral.
CARAL
A 5000-year-old sacred city, Caral is not to be missed.
Situated on a dry desert terrace overlooking the green valley of the Supe river, it dates back to the Late Archaic Period of the Central Andes and is considered the oldest center of civilization in the Americas.
Exceptionally well-preserved, the site is impressive in terms of its design and complexity. It features monumental stone and earthen platforms and sunken circular courts as well as six large pyramidal structures.
Day tours to Caral leave Lima early in the morning; the drive is about three and a half hours each way.
Where to Eat in Lima
Ceviche is the national dish from Peru and is a must try in Lima!
Cevicheria Punto Azul Located in Miraflores District is a top pick among locals. But make sure to show up early to avoid long midday lines!
Other local delicacies include cuy (guinea pig), lomo saltado (stir fried beef), causa (potato based dish) and, of course, roasted Peruvian chicken. Make sure to wash it all down with a cool pisco sour.
Whatever it is you seek to explore and taste in Peru, Lima likely has it!
And make sure to get friendly with locals - they will likely have knowledge of some of the best kept local secrets.
Heading to Peru? Most international flights land in Lima before connecting to Cusco, the starting point for our small group trips for solo travelers 21 to 35. Join us on the 7-day Machu Picchu & Peru trip or hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Vamos!
