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Lima, Peru Travel Guide

Best Things to Do, Eat & Explore in the City of Kings

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a coastal metropolis where colonial charm meets modern innovation. As the largest city in the country and home to over 10 million people, Lima is more than just a gateway to Machu Picchu it’s a destination in its own right. From stunning sea cliffs and world-class cuisine to colorful neighborhoods and ancient ruins, Lima offers a rich mix of culture, history, and excitement for every type of traveler.
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Introduction

Why Visit Lima?

Often overlooked by travelers eager to get to the Andes or the Amazon, Lima is the cultural, culinary, and economic heartbeat of Peru. This bustling city blends the old and the new, offering everything from Baroque churches and pre-Incan pyramids to cutting-edge restaurants and trendy art galleries.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, surfer, or art enthusiast, Lima has something to impress you.

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Top Districts

Best Neighborhoods to Explore in Lima

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Miraflores

  • Lima's most popular tourist district
  • Home to luxury hotels, the Malecón (cliffside boardwalk), and parks
  • Great for shopping, paragliding, and Pacific Ocean views
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Barranco

  • Known as Lima’s bohemian quarter
  • Famous for vibrant street art, colonial architecture, and live music
  • Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros)
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Centro Histórico
(Historic Centre)

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Highlights include Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, and Government Palace
  • Ideal for history lovers and walking tours
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San Isidro

  • A business district with green spaces and upscale dining
  • Visit the Huaca Huallamarca an ancient pyramid in the heart of the city
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Food Guide

Peruvian Cuisine: What to Eat in Lima

Lima is known as the Gastronomic Capital of South America, and for good reason. The city boasts multiple restaurants ranked among the world’s best, blending indigenous ingredients with international techniques.

Must try dishes include:

  • Aji de Gallina :
    Creamy chicken stew with a spicy yellow pepper sauce
  • Lomo Saltado :
    A Chinese-Peruvian stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries
  • Ceviche :
    Raw fish cured in lime juice, served with sweet potato and corn
  • Anticuchos :
    Skewered beef hearts grilled to perfection

Top restaurants:

  • Central (World’s #1 restaurant in 2023)
  • Maido (Nikkei cuisine)
  • Astrid y Gastón
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Make Lima Your Next Great Adventure

Lima is more than just a stopover—it’s a dynamic destination packed with flavor, color, and culture. From ancient ruins to modern-day marvels, Lima invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and savor every moment.
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Lima Hotel Favorites

Top Attractions in Lima

Attraction

Description

Larco Museum

Pre-Columbian art in a beautiful 18th-century mansion

Parque del Amor

Romantic park with Gaudí-style mosaics and ocean views

Circuito Mágico del Agua

Dazzling water fountain park with nightly light shows

Huaca Pucllana

1,500-year-old adobe pyramid in Miraflores

Parque Kennedy

Central hub in Miraflores, home to artists and cats

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Lima Adventures

Outdoor Activities in Lima

Lima’s location on the Pacific coast makes it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Activities to consider

Surfing

Playa Makaha and Playa Waikiki are beginner friendly

Paragliding

Soar above Miraflores for panoramic views

Biking

Ride along the Malecón or through the parks

Beach lounging

Summer months (Dec–March) are ideal for sunbathing

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Shopping Spots

Where to Shop in Lima

Lima is a great place to pick up authentic Peruvian goods:

  • Inka Market :
    Artisan stalls with textiles, jewelry, and alpaca goods.
  • Larcomar :
    Oceanfront mall with luxury boutiques and restaurants
  • Barranco Boutiques :
    Independent designers, artwork, and souvenirs
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Accommodation Guide

Where to Stay in Lima

Area

Best For

Recommended Stays

Miraflores

First-timers, nightlife

JW Marriott, Casa Andina

Barranco

Artists, bohemian vibe

Second Home Peru, Villa Barranco

San Isidro

Business travelers

Swissôtel Lima, Country Club Lima Hotel

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Transportation

Getting Around Lima

Lima is a great place to pick up authentic Peruvian goods:
  • Taxis :
    Use apps like Beat or Uber safer than street hailing
  • Metropolitano Bus: :
    Efficient BRT system connecting major districts
  • Walking :
    Very doable in Miraflores and Barranco
  • Airport Transfers :
    Jorge Chávez Intl. is 45 min from central districts
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Optimal Time

Best Time to Visit Lima

Booking the right hotel in Cusco goes beyond comfort altitude, location, and service matter. Here’s what you get when you stay in a top-rated hotel:

Summer (Dec–March)

Warmest and sunniest months, great for beachgoers

Winter (June–Sept)

Cooler, often overcast but pleasant

Shoulder Seasons (April–May, Oct–Nov)

Fewer tourists, mild weather

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Contact Us

Contact Information

Find Our Contact Details for Quick Assistance and Personalized Travel Support.

Location

Lima, Peru

Call Us

1 (866) 498-0824

Email

[email protected]

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Lima safe for tourists?
    Yes, if you stay in tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco and use trusted transport options.
    Ideally 2–3 days to experience food, culture, and top sights.
    Its food scene, colonial architecture, coastal cliffs, and cultural diversity.
    No—stick to bottled or filtered water.
    Miraflores for convenience, Barranco for art and culture, San Isidro for business.
    Spanish is helpful, but many in hospitality and tourism speak basic English.
    The Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is good for markets.
    Yes, especially around Miraflores and Chorrillos. Water is cold but refreshing.
    Vibrant! Barranco has live music, rooftop bars, and cultural venues.
    In some tourist areas, yes. But it’s better to use Soles for smaller purchases.
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