The 11 essential things to do in Lima

Do you want to go to the discovery of South America? Here is one of the most beautiful cities to make of the continent: Lima, the capital of Peru!

Lima is the capital of Peru and its largest city. It was created by the famous conquistador Francisco Pizzarro in 1535. This metropolis is not a city itself. This is indeed an urban area comprising 43 districts. Lima is also on the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, beyond cultural wealth, the capital enjoys in a favorable location. Ready to discover the city? So discover the 11 essential things to do in Lima.

1. Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is one if it’s the best place to do in Lima. It is a large pyramid of teenagers, built by the civilization Lima in the first century of our era. This type of ancient ruins is quite common. Nevertheless, the ruins of Huaca Pucllana have a peculiarity. Indeed, usually arranged horizontally, here the positioning of the adobes is vertical. A smart choice since it increased their strength.

2. La Plaza Mayor

Also called Plaza de Armas , it is the epicentre of Lima. There are many places of interest to do when visiting Lima, such as the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace or the Palacio Municipal. It is impossible, therefore, to make the impasse on this major place in the city.

3. The Parque de la Reserva

The Parque de la Reserva is a large eight-hectare park located in the city centre of Lima. His architect is no other than the Montpellier Claude Sahut. In the park there are numerous sculptures by Peruvian artists. But the real attraction of the park is its magic water circuit . Behind this name, there is a show combining water, lasers and thirteen fountains of the place. The result is spectacular.

4. The Museo Larco

The Museo Larco is named after its founder: Rafael Larco Hoyle . It houses many archaeological works from the pre-Columbian art. Moreover, the museum is world renowned for its collection dedicated to the civilization Moche . Between textiles, sculptures and ceramics, there are more than 45,000 objects belonging to this culture.

For all fans of History and Archaeology, the Museo Larco is the place not to be missed.

5. The central mercado

As in all cities around the world, it is unthinkable not to include gastronomy in things to do in Lima. That’s why we invite you to visit Central mercado . As its name suggests, the market is in the centre. You will discover an exceptional and friendly atmosphere, in addition to the various products of Peruvian cuisine.

The opportunity is therefore perfect to taste local specialties, such as:

• The Ceviche: raw fish marinated with green lemon, then mixed with sweet potatoes;
• The Causa: a chicken or tuna salad to a lawyer, cook on a basis of potatoes;
• The Aji of Gallina: chicken white in a creamy sauce, accompanied by rice;
• L’Arroz con Pollo : rice infused with coriander, steamed with chicken, carrots and peas;
• Seco de Cordero : a lamb stew flavored with coriander, served with potatoes and rice;
• The Lomo Saltado: cooked beef fillet, served with fries, tomatoes, onions and soy sauce.

6. Gamarra

Since we are talking about markets to be absolutely done in Lima, let’s continue on our way. In Gamarra, the shops are in the spotlight. Especially in his market! Here, no kitchen but mainly textile. Here you are in Victoria District, to discover the largest dress market in Latin America. There are more than 20,000 shops, 100,000 employees and 100,000 visitors! To believe it, there is no better way than to visit it yourself.

Finally, Gamarra has shopping streets (often crowded) where you can buy some souvenirs.

7. La Basilique San Francisco de Asís

If you had only one place of worship in Lima, it would be the Basilica of San Francisco de Asís. Its baroque architecture is simply beautiful. Inside, golden altars and various works have nothing to envy outside the monument.

Just beside you will find the homonymous convent, hosting a library with a special atmosphere. Not enough to convince you? So maybe the catacombs located under the place will eventually arrive...

8. The Museo Oro del Perú

The Museo Oro is a museum gathering various artifacts of pre-Columbian art, as well as an important collection of weapons from all over the world. The museum was born in the 1960s by the will of Miguel Mujica Gallo. The diplomat spent his life collecting these works in an attempt to store them in a museum.

But by collecting such objects, Miguel Mujica Gallo has especially allowed these treasures to remain on their original lands. Treasures that you can, therefore, discover you too.

9. El Malecón

Now move the district of Miraflores, probably the huppedest in Lima. It is here that El Malecón, the seafront with picturesque looks. You will walk a few meters from the water, while enjoying the beautiful parks and sculptures scattered along the promenade.

The place is also perfect to practice paragliding and ascensional parachute. However, cross your fingers so that the weather is good, in a city renowned for its sometimes capricious climate.

10. Downtown

If the Plaza Mayor, the central mercado and the Parque de la Reserva are real must-sees to be made in Lima, the whole centre is worth a visit. Thus, extend your visit to the heart of the city to discover its architecture and small hidden places between two alleys.

Don't miss another big city square: Plaza San Martin. Admire the statue homage to San Martin, as well as the baroque facades surrounding the square.

11. The Pont des Soupirs

Finally, let’s finish our tour of things to do in Lima, Barranco District. It is in this district that we find the Pont des Soupirs. The latter is the theatre of a tradition. By crossing the bridge, hold your breath and enjoy it to make a wish. If you did not resume your breathing before the end, your wish will come true.

How to get to Lima?

To get to Peru, there is no direct flight from France. Therefore, you will need to stop in cities like Amsterdam , Madrid or Miami . The total duration of the trip is 20 hours. So arm yourself with patience. You will land at Jorge Chávez International Airport. Take either the taxi or an Airport Express bus to the city centre. It takes 45 and 90 minutes .

In addition, we invite you to use a comparison of flights as Skyscanner . Thus, you will choose the terms and conditions of your trip and find the offer that will best match you.

Where to stay in Lima?

Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a simpler hotel or a Airbnb , several neighbourhoods will meet your expectations. To find the hotel you need at the best price, make your search easier with a Compare hotels . You will be able to indicate your criteria, the comparator will handle the rest.

Miraflores offers the assurance of a secure environment and appears as a very good choice. However, if you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, turn to Barranco and its colorful streets. Finally, for better mobility and close proximity to the main places of interest, downtown is the ideal neighbourhood.

Already gone to Lima? Tell us your stay in comment!