Things to See and Do in Lima, Peru
If you are flying down to Peru to see word famous Machu Picchu, don’t miss all the amazing things to see in Lima! There are lots of interesting things to do in Lima Peru from uncovering history with over 400 pyramids thorughout the city, architecture, art, to world-renown food! Let me share our fun day exploring this vibrant South American capital city!
Things to See in Lima
Are you planning a trip to Peru for a Machu Pichu vacation? Before you visit the world-famous Incan site, don’t overlook Lima—the bustling capital that has so much to offer! Lima isn’t just a stopover; it’s a vibrant destination bursting with culture and excitement. Did you know there are over 400 pyramids scattered throughout the city? These incredible structures tell the story of Peru’s ancient civilizations, including the Moche and the Wari. You can explore mesmerizing sites such as Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the past!
But that’s not all! Lima is also a haven for architecture lovers. Its colonial buildings, like the grand Basilica Cathedral and the stunning Convento de San Francisco, are truly breathtaking! Each corner of the city has a story to tell, from the exquisite detailing of Baroque churches to modern art installations that adorn the streets.
And of course, food lovers! Lima is renowned as the gastronomic capital of South America, boasting an array of award-winning restaurants. Sample mouthwatering dishes like Ceviche, Anticuchos, and Lomo Saltado at spots like Central and Maido—both ranked among the best in the world!
During our recent trip, we made the most of our day in Lima by visiting the historical center, sampling local street food, and indulging in a fantastic dining experience! The vibrant atmosphere, the friendly locals, and the delicious flavors made it a day to remember!
So, if you’re flying down to Peru, don’t miss out on all that Lima has to offer! Take some time to explore and fall in love with this incredible city before heading to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. You won’t regret it!
Things to Do in Lima Peru
Since we only had a day and wanted to see it all, we decided to opt for this viator private tour as they would pick us up at our hotel and return us here. We had a fabulous tour guide who gave us great history, tips, and was a delight to spend the day with.
Plaza San Martin Lima Peru
Our first stop was Plaza San Martin in the historic center of the city. This area is not very touristy anymore; it is mainly a business neighborhood. The staute in the middle is of Peru’s main liberator from the Spanish Conquistadores – Jose de San Martin. Interestingly enough, we had learned about him on our Buenos Aires Argentina Vacation. The surrounding buildings are reminiscent of Europe in the early 20th century, including stunning neoclassical and art nouveau designs.
Gran Hotel Bolívar
Right of the plaza we stopped to peak in the historic Gran Hotel Bolivar which originally opened in 1924. This hotel quickly became the epitome of luxury and sophistication with its stunning architecture with grand façades and beautiful interiors. We were blown away by the cupola and it’s stained glass dome in the atrium.
But what makes this hotel truly famous is its rich history and the notable guests who have graced its halls, including famous politicians, artists, and celebrities such as Orson Welles, John Wayne, and Ava Gardner.
Things to Do in Lima
Museo Convento San Francisco y Catacumbas
Discover the breathtaking Museo Convento San Francisco, often referred to as the St. Francis Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991! This stunning colonial gem showcases exceptional Baroque architecture and boasts an incredible collection of art and artifacts that beautifully illustrate the rich spiritual and cultural history of the Franciscan Order.
As you stroll through its ornate halls and peaceful courtyards, you’ll be amazed by the intricate wooden altars, vibrant frescoes, and the iconic library filled with approximately 25,000 ancient texts.
But the real adventure awaits below! Venture into the haunting catacombs, where an estimated 25,000 individuals were laid to rest. These eerie yet fascinating underground burial sites offer a unique glimpse into Lima’s past, allowing you to explore the burial practices of centuries gone by. Our guide told us that catacombs are so extensive they reach Plaza de Armas (see below) where the governor lived. The reason was they were an escape tunnel if there was ever trouble, and they were indeed used thoughout the history of Lima.
Lima Things to Do
Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)
This captivating square is not just a beautiful landmark; it is the very heart of the city, steeped in rich history and culture.
As you stroll through the plaza, you will be captivated by the stunning architecture that surrounds you. The Presidential Palace, an impressive structure that showcases the country’s political power, stands tall with its intricate design. Just a short distance away, the Arch Bishop’s Palace, with its ornate balconies and historical significance, adds to the architectural charm of this area. The grand Cathedral of Lima also graces the square, inviting visitors to appreciate its impressive façade and the remarkable history contained within its walls.
The Plaza de Armas is often buzzing with life, where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Street performers showcase their talents, musicians fill the air with lively melodies, and colorful markets pop up, offering a chance to discover local crafts and delicious traditional Peruvian treats. We were told it is also the hub of government protests, so having a guide allowed us to get here at just the right time to see it peacefully in the morning before it became hectic.
Best Things to Do in Lima
There is also a great LIMA sign that makes for a great picture right in the Plaza de Armas square!
Lima Peru Things to Do
While not listed on the itinerary, one of my favorite things was the stroll from one place to the next. As not only time and style evolved, but many earthquakes would level entire blocks, lima’s architecture became a fascinating fusion of the local craftspeople and their counterparts from the Old World. Our guide showed us how they would put up a block of the city in whatever style was popular at the time. Then the next block would be a completely different style. As you stroll through the streets of Lima, each block offers a new look— The architectural tapestry of Lima is truly a reflection of its diverse society, with influences from indigenous, colonial, and modern design woven throughout.
The above church is a great example. Look at the beautiful baroque architecture of the church. They added to the church in the (ugly) white and red patterns that don’t seem to match at all. You woudl see Colonial Buildings next to Asian influence or concrete buildings. So fascinating!
Balconies of Lima
Did you know that Lima is home to beautifully carved wooden balconies. These stunning architectural gems were built during the Spanish colonial era in the late 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting the intricate artistry and craftsmanship of the time. Because of Lima being cut off from the rainforest by mountains, it was extremely expensive to get wood. As such, these balconies were extravegant and a sign of wealth. Sadly, due to ongoing Earthquakes in the area many have been destroyed. In fact, our guide told us there are earthquakes every week in Peru.
Tapada Limena
You may have noticed the lady figures in the bottom of the above picture. Have you ever heard of the fascinating fashion trend known as the tapada limeña? It might just surprise you! Originating from the Moors who once ruled Spain, this unique style became a staple in Lima between the 16th and 19th centuries.
Imagine women donning a flowing shirt, a long saya (a beautiful skirt that brushed the ground), a stylish cloak, and a delicate manto (shawl) that elegantly draped over their bodies—leaving just one eye peeking out!
But here’s the twist: this wasn’t about modesty in Peru. The tapada limeña empowered women to step out into the world, conduct business, and even deliver crucial messages during Peru’s fight for independence.
Museo Larco
Huaca Pucllana
While there are almost 400 pyramids in Lima Peru, none are as famous as Huaca Pucllana. Dating back to around 500 AD (this is pre-Incan), this ancient ceremonial adobe pyramid showcases the rich history of the Lima Civilization. Located in the Miraflores district, it features seven staggered platforms made from mud bricks, highlighting the advanced engineering of its time.
Excavations have uncovered artifacts like pottery and textiles, providing valuable insights into the rituals and social structure of the Lima culture. Today, Huaca Pucllana is a popular cultural site where visitors can explore its ancient walls and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding gardens.
We made a VERY brief stop here. I wish we had spent longer and if I was visiting again I would insist beforehand we spend more time here!
El Parque del Amor
El Parque del Amor was inaugurated in 1993 and was designed by the talented architect Enrique Bustamante. This unique park draws inspiration from the famous “Parque Guell” in Barcelona and is dedicated to celebrating love in all its forms. Its playful design features colorful mosaics, romantic sculptures, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect destination for couples and families alike.
The Iconic Sculpture
At the heart of the park stands the famous statue of a couple locked in an embrace—an emblematic representation of love. This art is HUGE!
It was nice to see a different part of the city, the coast, and some locals. It is a lovely park and although you walk through it, we didn’t dawdle either.
Best Things to Do in Lima Peru
While this is not on many tours, I was delighted by a stop at Morro Solar. We drove up the side of the city, winding past the shantys to where we had a stunning view of Lima Peru, 251 meters over the sea level. We not only saw the Pacific Ocean, but learned about the poor communities that build up here as government officials look the other way. However they can’t get running water or electricity, and when earthquackes come (as they do weekly) many take out the homes and people die. It was a sad side of Peru.
But a really neat story had to do with the above electricity tower.
Pope Francis was to visit Peru on January 21, 2018 in an effort to promote peacea and unity. Tragically, just days before the Pope’s arrival, a horrific attack in the ongoing terrorist activities shook Lima. The pope decided to still come, and more than 1 million Peruvians attended his mass. The locals also came together to demonstrate their resilience, not just physically, but spiritually as well. The community transfored the remnants of a bombed electricity tower into a stunning cross, standing tall amidst the ruins. This cross lights up over the LIma skyline encouraging the city still.
Top Things to Do in Lima
We learned that if we had more time we could visit the penguins and Huacachina desert oasis or taken a Lima foodie tour as several of top restaurants worldwide are actually in Peru – we should have planned 2-3 days.
