Lima, Peru

Lima, Peru

Barranco District

Barranco District

Circuito Mágico del Agua

Circuito Mágico del Agua

Museo del Pisco

Museo del Pisco

Cerro San Cristobal

Cerro San Cristobal

1 / 5

Top Places to Visit in Lima, Peru

Lima is the only capital city in South America that fronts the Pacific Ocean. This vibrant Peruvian metropolis is a captivating blend of ancient pre-Columbian history, colonial grandeur, and modern sophistication, offering world-class cuisine, fascinating museums, and a rich cultural heritage.

Miraflores Boardwalk (Malecón)
#1

Miraflores Boardwalk (Malecón)

1.5-3 hours
Free

Stroll or cycle along the Miraflores Boardwalk, or Malecón, offering stunning cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy its parks, gardens, and popular spots like the Parque del Amor.

Updated June 23, 2025
Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)
#2

Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)

1-1.5 hours
Free

Explore the historic Plaza de Armas, Lima's main square and the heart of its colonial center. Admire the Government Palace, Archbishop's Palace, Cathedral, and listen for the changing of the guard.

Updated June 23, 2025
Larco Museum
#3

Larco Museum

1.5-2.5 hours
PEN 35 adult

Discover a magnificent collection of pre-Columbian art at the Larco Museum. Housed in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion, it provides fascinating insights into ancient Peruvian cultures, including its famous erotic pottery.

Updated June 23, 2025
Convento de San Francisco y Catacumbas
#4

Convento de San Francisco y Catacumbas

1-1.5 hours
PEN 30 adult

Descend into the eerie catacombs beneath the Convento de San Francisco, an impressive Baroque monastery. Explore its crypts filled with the bones of thousands and admire the beautiful library.

Updated June 23, 2025
Barranco District
#5

Barranco District

2-3 hours
Free

Explore the bohemian and artistic district of Barranco, known for its colorful colonial mansions, street art, vibrant nightlife, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy its laid-back charm and ocean views.

Updated June 23, 2025
Magic Water Circuit (Parque de la Reserva)
#6

Magic Water Circuit (Parque de la Reserva)

1.5-2 hours
PEN 4 adult

Experience the dazzling Magic Water Circuit, a Guinness World Record-holding fountain park. Enjoy a spectacular evening show of illuminated fountains dancing to music and lasers.

Updated June 23, 2025
Huaca Pucllana
#7

Huaca Pucllana

1-1.5 hours
PEN 30 adult

Visit Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe and clay pyramid built by the Lima culture, located right in the heart of Miraflores. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and purpose.

Updated June 23, 2025
Museo de la Nación
#8

Museo de la Nación

2-3 hours
Free

Discover Peru's vast archaeological and cultural heritage at the Museo de la Nación. Its extensive collection covers various pre-Columbian cultures and civilizations.

Updated June 23, 2025
Lima Cathedral
#9

Lima Cathedral

30 minutes-1 hour
PEN 10 adult

Explore the impressive Lima Cathedral, located on the Plaza de Armas. Admire its colonial architecture, ornate chapels, and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.

Updated June 23, 2025
Circuito Mágico del Agua
#10

Circuito Mágico del Agua

1.5-2 hours
PEN 4 adult

A dazzling park featuring a series of synchronized, illuminated fountains, holding a Guinness World Record. A fantastic evening experience with music and light shows.

Updated June 23, 2025
Parque Kennedy (Cat Park)
#11

Parque Kennedy (Cat Park)

30 minutes-1 hour
Free

Relax and observe the numerous friendly cats that call Parque Kennedy home. This central park in Miraflores is also a hub for local artists, street performers, and food vendors.

Updated June 23, 2025
Pachacamac
#12

Pachacamac

2-3 hours
PEN15 adult

Take a day trip to Pachacamac, a vast pre-Columbian archaeological site south of Lima. Explore its pyramids, temples, and plazas, which served as a major religious center for various cultures.

Updated June 23, 2025
Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)
#13

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)

1.5-2.5 hours
PEN30 adult

Discover Peruvian art spanning pre-Columbian times to the present at MALI. Housed in a beautiful Palacio de la Exposición, it offers a comprehensive overview of the country's artistic heritage.

Updated June 23, 2025
Chorrillos and Morro Solar
#14

Chorrillos and Morro Solar

1.5-2.5 hours
Free

Explore the historic district of Chorrillos and climb Morro Solar for panoramic views of Lima and the coastline. Visit the Cristo del Pacífico statue and learn about the area's historical significance.

Updated June 23, 2025
Museo del Pisco
#15

Museo del Pisco

1-1.5 hours
Free (tastings cost extra)

Learn about Peru's national spirit, Pisco, at the Museo del Pisco. Enjoy a Pisco tasting, discover its history and production, and try a classic Pisco Sour.

Updated June 23, 2025
Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros)
#16

Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros)

15-30 minutes
Free

Walk across the romantic Bridge of Sighs in Barranco. Legend says if you hold your breath and make a wish while crossing it, your wish will come true. Enjoy the charming surroundings.

Updated June 23, 2025
Parque La Reserva
#17

Parque La Reserva

1.5-2 hours
PEN4 adult

Home to the Magic Water Circuit, this park is fantastic even during the day, with beautiful green spaces and smaller fountains. It's a great urban oasis.

Updated June 23, 2025
Museo de la Santa Inquisición y del Congreso
#18

Museo de la Santa Inquisición y del Congreso

1 hour
Free

Discover the dark history of the Spanish Inquisition in Peru at this museum, located in the former Inquisition Tribunal building. It offers a glimpse into a somber period of colonial rule.

Updated June 23, 2025
Malecon de la Reserva
#19

Malecon de la Reserva

1-2 hours
Free

This scenic clifftop promenade in Miraflores offers stunning ocean views, sculptures, and green spaces. Perfect for a walk, jog, or simply enjoying the sunset over the Pacific.

Updated June 23, 2025
Cerro San Cristobal
#20

Cerro San Cristobal

1-1.5 hours
PEN5 adult (bus ride)

Take a bus or hike up Cerro San Cristobal, a hill overlooking Lima's historic center. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, especially impressive at night.

Updated June 23, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Lima, Peru

Get answers to common questions about visiting Lima, Peru