Lima, Peru
Lima, the capital city of Peru is a vibrant city to explore. The coastal city, one of the largest cities in South America is packed with exciting things to do, as it boasts about its top-class museums, rugged deserts, majestic cathedrals, architecturally rich structures, and ruins. Finding it difficult to decide on what to do in Lima? Don’t worry. Let me guide you with my list of the best things to do in the city.
- Go sightseeing in and around Plaza de Armas
Located in the historical center of Lima, Plaza de Armas or otherwise known as Plaza Mayor is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the center of the Plaza, you will find a bronze fountain, the only remnant of the Plaza. From there go on to explore the Cathedral, Archbishop Palace, and Palace of the Union. Here you can even sit on a bench and watch people pass by the square. You can even visit Plaza San Martin where you will come across Jiron de la Union with both new and old shops and restaurants. Also explore Casa de Aliaga, a perfectly preserved colonial mansion.
- Tour the best museums in Lima
Lima is home to some incredible museums that are worth exploring. Make sure to tour at least the National Museum and the Larco Museum during your stay in the city.
- National Museum (Museo de la Nación)
This is a must-visit attraction when in Lima. At the largest museum in Lima, you will get to learn all about the history of Peru, its first inhabitants, the Inca Empire, and the culture of Peru. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts collected from Machu Picchu archeological site, textiles, and ceramics. Do not forget to take a good look at the replica of Lord of Sipan, a Moche mummy, discovered at Sipan’s Huaca Rajada.
- Rafael Larco Herrera Museum
Spare some time browsing the collection of more than 40,000 ceramics belonging to Chimu and Moche, textiles, works of gold, and stone carvings on display at Larco Museum.
- Explore the famous catacombs at Convento De Francisco
You should make a visit to the San Francisco church, especially to observe the catacombs. If you are up for viewing these, explore the church’s hallways with skulls and bones. If you get a chance take a glimpse of the art, especially the mural ‘Last Supper’.
- Visit Huaca Pucllana
Located at the heart of Miraflores, Huaca Pucllana is a masterpiece. You can go on a guided tour to appreciate the clay-brick pyramid-shaped, seven-platform structure, where even mummies have been discovered.
- Enjoy fountains at Magic Water Tour
Here you get to enjoy exceptional water fountains, totaling up to 13. Magic Water Tour being the largest fountain complex in the world features Fuente Magica, a water fountain that reaches 80m.
- Go on a paragliding excursion
The Pacific Coast is ideal for paragliding and you can try this in Lima. If you are up for a paragliding adventure, enjoy a 10-minute paragliding session that you will remember for a lifetime. Lima will surely surprise you in every way and you will find something to do somewhere in the city. So, get ready for a great vacation in Lima!