Things To Do
in Lima
Lima, Peru, is a sprawling metropolis that serves as the capital city of Peru, renowned for its vibrant mixture of colonial architecture, modern districts, and rich cultural heritage. It's situated on the arid Pacific coast, offering stunning cliff-top views and a gateway to the country's famed gastronomy, which is considered one of the best in the world.
Additionally, Lima is the heart of Peruvian history and culture, home to ancient archaeological sites, prestigious museums, and lively markets that showcase the nation's diverse traditions and crafts.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café. Then, visit the historic Plaza Mayor and take in the stunning colonial architecture.
Head to the Larco Museum for a fascinating look at Peru's pre-Columbian history. Enjoy lunch at the museum's café with beautiful gardens.
Explore the Miraflores boardwalk and enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Finish your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Visit the San Francisco Monastery and explore its catacombs for a peek into Lima's past. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a nearby café.
Discover Barranco, the art district of Lima, and enjoy street art along with artistic shops. Have lunch at a trendy eatery in the neighborhood.
Take in a cultural show showcasing Peruvian dance and music. Dine at a local picanteria to experience authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious and diverse cuisine, known for its seafood and fusion dishes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many major cities.
- Vibrant arts and music scene with many festivals.
- Mild climate with coastal breezes.
- Traffic congestion and limited public transportation options.
- Pollution and air quality issues in certain areas.
- Economic disparities and areas of high poverty.
- Petty crime and safety concerns in some neighborhoods.
- Limited access to certain public services and healthcare facilities.
Best Activities in Lima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience paragliding with stunning views of Lima's coastline and cityscape.
Enjoy surfing on the beaches of Costa Verde, known for its great waves and beautiful scenery.
Explore Lima's coastline by biking along the scenic Malecon, enjoying beautiful ocean views and fresh sea breeze.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the unique ecosystem of Lomas de Lachay, a coastal desert with diverse wildlife and vegetation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lima
Visit one of these nice places.
This boardwalk offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline, making it a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Located in the Miraflores district, this park overlooks the ocean and features a prominent sculpture that provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the ancient adobe pyramid and the surrounding city from the on-site restaurant and observation deck.
Food in Lima
Lima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Peruvian dish consisting of raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili peppers, and onions, often served with sweet potatoes and corn. Best enjoyed at Canta Rana in Barranco or La Mar in Miraflores.
Must-Try!
A stir-fry dish combining marinated strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and other spices, often served with rice and French fries. Recommended at Panchita in Miraflores or La Picantería in Surquillo.
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically beef heart, served with potatoes and aji sauce. Feast on these at Anticuchos Grimanesa in Miraflores or Anticucheria Doña Pochita.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a tantalizing array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls. Don't miss trying the empanadas, tamales, or chicharrones.
A vibrant alley filled with stands and carts specializing in anticuchos, a must-visit for those looking to savor this traditional Peruvian street food delicacy.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lima, it is customary to greet friends and family members with a kiss on the cheek. This gesture is a sign of warmth and friendship.
Peruvians value personal space, so it is important to be mindful of physical boundaries and avoid standing too close when communicating with others.
In formal settings, it is respectful to use formal language and titles when addressing others, especially with older individuals or those in authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Lima, Peru is generally not expected, but leaving a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated, typically around 5-10% of the bill.
In Lima, Peru, cash is widely used for small transactions, while credit cards are accepted in most establishments. It's also common for businesses to accept US dollars in addition to the local currency, the Peruvian sol.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal for beach activities and outdoor events with warm temperatures and occasional afternoon showers.
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to experience local food festivals and cultural events.
Cool, misty weather with a possibility of drizzle, perfect for exploring indoor museums and historical sites.
Warmer temperatures, vibrant foliage, and the opportunity to witness local celebrations and traditional dances.
Lima at Night
Hiking in Lima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
A popular hiking destination known for its challenging trails and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Located within the city, this hill offers easy hiking paths and impressive views of Lima from its summit.
A unique coastal ecosystem with rolling hills and mirages, ideal for hiking during the rainy season when flora flourishes.
Peru's first national park, featuring numerous high-altitude hiking paths amidst spectacular glacier landscapes, though it's a bit farther from Lima.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lima by plane.
The main international airport serving Lima, Peru.
Located in Tumbes, approximately 1,100 km north of Lima, serving international flights mainly to Ecuador.
Located in Trujillo, about 560 km north of Lima, serving some international flights.
Located in Jauja, approximately 240 km east of Lima, serving limited international flights.
Located in Pisco, around 250 km south of Lima, serving some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Lima, comprising those of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Includes various Indigenous communities, primarily descendants of the pre-Columbian populations.
Individuals of European descent, often linked to the colonial history of Peru.
Descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Peru during the colonial period.
Comprises primarily individuals of Japanese and Chinese descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of Lima.
Includes various immigrant communities and other smaller demographic groups.
The Soul of Lima
Discover the essence of Lima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer, or football as it's known in most parts of the world, is the most popular sport in Lima and across Peru. The country has a rich soccer culture and is home to several historic clubs.
Volleyball is widely played in Lima, both at a professional level and recreationally. The national women’s volleyball team has achieved international success, boosting the sport's popularity.
Given its coastal location, Lima has a vibrant surfing community. The city's beaches offer great waves, attracting both local and international surfers.
Basketball has grown in popularity in Lima, particularly among youth. Various leagues and schools promote the sport, and there are increasing numbers of professional clubs.
Martial arts, including judo, taekwondo, and karate, are popular in Lima. There are many schools and clubs training students in different disciplines.
Athletics, including track and field events, is actively promoted in schools and colleges across Lima, with various competitions organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Peruvian cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Lima offer creative and flavorful vegetarian and vegan options, with places like Arabesque and Govinda providing diverse and satisfying plant-based dishes.
With the increasing awareness of dietary restrictions, several eateries in Lima now cater to gluten-free diets. Visitors can savor gluten-free delights at Puku Puku Café or Café de Lima.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lima with these cultural adventures.