Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, is much more than just a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu. This ancient metropolis blends pre-Columbian history, colonial architecture, and modernity into a unique experience that captivates millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning to explore Lima, here’s a selection of must-see destinations.
1. Historic Center of Lima
The colonial heart of the city
The Historic Center of Lima is an architectural treasure that transports visitors back to the colonial era. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this district is home to some of the most important buildings in the country.
The majestic Lima Cathedral dominates the Main Square (Plaza de Armas), while the Government Palace showcases the changing of the guard ceremony every day at 11:45 AM. The colonial wooden balconies adorn the historic mansions, creating a unique atmosphere on every street.
Location: Main Square (Plaza de Armas), Cercado de Lima
Cost: Free access to the square / Guided tours from 25 soles
Fun fact: The Act of Independence of Peru was signed here on July 28, 1821
2. Barranco: The bohemian district of artists
Art, culture, and nightlife
Barranco is the most picturesque district in Lima, known for its bohemian atmosphere and colorful republican houses. This neighborhood is the cultural heart of the city, home to artists, musicians, and writers.
The famous Bridge of Sighs is the district’s icon, surrounded by romantic legends. The art galleries, charming cafés, and vibrant nightlife make Barranco a must-visit destination for culture lovers.
Location: Barranco District, 15 km from downtown Lima
Cost: Free / Cultural activities range from 10-30 soles
Recommendation: Visit at sunset for the best ocean views
3. Caral Archaeological Site
The oldest civilization in America
Two hours from Lima lies Caral, the oldest city on the American continent, over 5,000 years old. This archaeological site revolutionized our understanding of pre-Columbian civilizations.
The imposing stone and adobe pyramids rise in the Supe Valley, a testament to the advanced urban development of the Caral culture. The site includes a modern interpretation center that explains the historical significance of this civilization, contemporary to ancient Egypt.
Location: Supe Valley, Barranca (182 km north of Lima)
Cost: 11 soles adults / 4 soles students
Recommended time: Full-day tour (8-10 hours)
4. Pachacamac Sanctuary
The sacred oracle of the Incas
Pachacamac was the most important religious center on the Peruvian coast for over a thousand years. This pre-Hispanic sanctuary served multiple cultures: Lima, Wari, Ichma, and Inca, each leaving its architectural mark.
The Temple of the Sun dominates the complex, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The on-site museum displays ceramics, textiles, and ritual objects that narrate the rich history of the site.
Location: Lurín District, 34 km south of Lima
Cost: 15 soles adults
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop in Lurín to try the famous chicharrones
5. Lima’s Huacas: Juliana and Pucllana
Archaeological treasures in the modern city
In the heart of modern Lima, you’ll find these impressive huacas (pre-Hispanic temples) that show how ancestral cultures coexisted with the current urban landscape.
Huaca Pucllana, in Miraflores, is a ceremonial center of the Lima culture (200-700 A.D.) built with small adobe bricks. The lesser-known Huaca Juliana, equally fascinating, offers an intimate perspective of ancestral rituals.
Location: Huaca Pucllana (Miraflores) / Huaca Juliana (San Isidro)
Cost: 15 soles per huaca / Night tours available
Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
6. Parque de las Leyendas
Zoo and archaeological site
This unique park combines a zoo with significant archaeological remains from the Maranga culture. Visitors can observe Peruvian wildlife while exploring perfectly preserved pre-Hispanic temples.
The park is home to over 2,000 animals from 200 different species, organized by geographical regions of Peru: coast, highlands, and jungle. It’s ideal for families seeking education and entertainment.
Location: Av. Las Leyendas s/n, San Miguel
Cost: 15 soles adults / 8 soles children
Best day: Weekends for special activities
7. Callao: Port of history and culture
Fortaleza Real Felipe and urban art
The first port of Peru combines military history with contemporary artistic expression. The Real Felipe Fortress, built in the 18th century, is an imposing military bastion that withstood attacks from Spanish and Chilean forces.
The modern district of Callao is also known for its colorful urban murals and its growing culinary scene. La Punta, the most traditional neighborhood, retains the charm of yesteryear with its republican houses.
Location: Constitutional Province of Callao
Cost: 10 soles nationals / 15 soles foreigners (Real Felipe)
Special activity: Night tours with ghost stories
8. Cieneguilla: Adventure and nature
Extreme sports near Lima
Just an hour from Lima, Cieneguilla offers the perfect escape for adrenaline lovers. This district is famous for its adventure tourism activities: canopy, rappelling, rafting, and mountain biking.
The desert landscapes of the Lurín River valley contrast with the green areas of the country clubs, creating a unique environment for extreme sports.
Location: Cieneguilla District, 45 km southeast of Lima
Cost: Activities from 50 soles / Full packages 150-200 soles
Best time: April to November (dry weather)
9. Surquillo Market
Authentic flavors of Lima
To experience true Lima cuisine, nothing beats a visit to Surquillo Market. This traditional market is where the most renowned chefs in Lima buy their fresh ingredients.
From exotic fruits from the jungle to fish and seafood from the Pacific, the market offers a complete sensory experience. The natural juice stands and small restaurants serve authentic homemade dishes.
Location: Av. Paseo de la República, Surquillo
Cost: Free / Meals from 8 soles
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
10. Lomas de Lachay
Green oasis in the desert
During the winter months (June-October), the Lomas de Lachay transform into a green paradise thanks to the humidity from Lima’s garúa. This natural phenomenon creates a unique ecosystem where plants bloom and migratory birds arrive.
The Lomas de Lachay National Reserve protects this fragile ecosystem and offers interpretive trails to observe the unique flora and fauna of the coastal hills.
Location: Km 105 Panamericana Norte, Huaura
Cost: 3 soles adults / 1.50 soles students
Best time: July to October (most lush vegetation)