Fun Things To Do in Beautiful Lima, Peru

Lima is the capital of Peru, the largest city in the country, and one of the most populated cities on the continent of South America. It’s rich in culture and history. There’s delicious food, friendly people, and plenty of cute neighborhoods to explore.

If you’re planning on visiting Peru, chances are you’ll be landing in Lima’s international airport, Jorge Chavez. Regardless of if you’re purpose for coming to the country is to do some hiking up north, or experience the incredible Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, I would highly recommend spending a few days in Lima to experience what this wonderful city has to offer.

I touched down in Peru just a little over a week ago to embark on a month-long backpacking trip. So far, this country has been nothing short of incredible. I’ve already had some amazing experiences and have seen some views of a lifetime, but I’ll be honest in saying, Lima left a special impression on me.

I didn’t have high expectations for Lima. I kind of expected it to just be another big city. Dirty, busy, and chaotic. But I did go in with an open mind and couldn’t have been more pleasantly surprised. Lima is extremely special and if I can give you one piece of advice, it deserves a couple of days on your Peru itinerary. 

When To Visit Lima

If you’re looking for nice, warm weather, the best time to plan your trip to Lima would be between December and April. You’ll have summer temperatures ranging around 80 degrees, minimal rainfall, but unfortunately, you’ll have to deal with the humidity.

May through November is considered the cooler months, where you’ll experience lower temperatures, misty fog, and overcast skies.

How Much Time To Spend in Lima

I spent four days in Lima and I think it was just enough. You could probably do everything you’d want in three, but it’s nice to take your time and get to really enjoy a place if you have the time to do so. On the other hand, if you’re tight on time, two days in Lima would still offer up enough time to cover the basics.

Fun Things to Do in Lima

In this post, I will break down all of the fun things I got to experience during my time in Lima and hopefully offer up some great suggestions and ideas for your own Lima trip. Let’s get to it!

Go on a City Walking Tour

There’s really no better way to get introduced to a new city than by taking a walking tour. I’ve done this in numerous countries all over the world and they never disappoint. The guides are interesting, knowledgeable, and charismatic. They know all of the iconic spots, can give great recommendations, and can usually answer all of your questions. This also gives you the opportunity to do a fun, group activity and meet other travelers. Especially, if you’re traveling alone, this is a fantastic way to make new friends.

The walking tour I did in Lima was offered through the hostel I stayed with, 1900 Backpackers. However, many accommodations offer something similar and there are also walking tours available on viator.com

This tour in particular was based around Lima’s Historic Center. We got to experience the beautiful architecture, understand some of Lima’s history, and marvel at the incredible Plaza de Armas, a must-visit. 

Eat Ceviche

Ceviche is Peru’s most famous dish! It actually claims origins in Lima but can be found in many coastal areas in Latin America. If you’re not familiar with it, ceviche is a very popular seafood dish of raw fish which is marinated in lemon or lime juice. The reaction of the citrus juices cures the protein while absorbing its flavors. 

This process was originally born out of a need to preserve food. Today, it continues to be one of the most popular things on any menu in Peru. In Lima, in particular, it’s impossible to walk down a block without coming across at least a few restaurants with “ceviche” on their menu board.

So make sure you don’t leave Lima without trying it at least once!

Explore Lima’s Historic Center

Lima’s Historic Center is the old downtown of the city and a perfect place to really take in the history and culture of Lima. Here, you will get to experience the present along with the past. There are beautiful parks & squares to walk through, important monuments to marvel at, and incredible architecture at every turn. Also, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is pretty cool! Here are some places in Lima’s Historic Center that you should not miss:

• Plaza San Martin
• Plaza de Armas
• Jiron de la Union
• Cathedral of Lima
• Government Palace of Peru
• Basilica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima
• Iglesia de La Merced

Wander Around Barranco

Barranco is an artsy, bohemian vibe neighborhood about 35 minutes from Lima’s Historic Center. It’s home and working place to many of Peru’s major artists, musicians, designers, and photographers and it’s easy to see why. Barranco is filled with tons of cool street art, amazing museums, great restaurants, and incredible views. It’s truly a vibe all on its own.

Barranco is the kind of place you can show up to with absolutely no plan and just wander around. I can promise you’ll stumble upon something unique and cool. It’s also located right on the water and there’s a really pretty walking path that takes you up to the cliffside.

I spent an afternoon in Barranco and I can honestly say, it was my favorite area in all of Lima.

Walk the Bridge of Sighs

While you’re in Barranco, make sure to check out the Bridge of Sighs- one of the top attractions of the area. The bridge was built in 1876 and is perfect for people watching and admiring the surrounding area, which is beyond charming. Also, just for fun, you’re meant to take a deep breath and then hold it until you reach the other side of the bridge- as you sigh out, make a wish! And so you have it, the Bridge of Sighs.

Drink a Pisco Sour

The Pisco Sour is the national drink of Peru. The birth of this cocktail dates back to the 20s and although it’s not entirely sure which bar it was invented in, it was somewhere in Lima. Pisco is the actual name of the base liquor which the drink is made out of. The other ingredients include fresh-squeezed lime juice (the sour), simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. It’s a delicious, well-balanced cocktail that tastes somewhat similar to a margarita.

Enjoy Miraflores

Miraflores is another lovely area of Lima about 25 minutes from the Historic Center. It’s a vibrant, more upscale neighborhood known for its shopping, chic hotels, and wonderful restaurants. Miraflores is another place that really deserves an afternoon of your time. It’s a beautiful place to stroll around, buy souvenirs, have a nice meal, and go for a walk along the cliffside. It’s another area that’s along the water, which really adds to its charm.

Have Lunch at Buenavista Cafe

While visiting Miraflores, go to Buena Vista for lunch. This adorable restaurant sits right on the cliffside so you can enjoy your meal with a beautiful view. The menu is fairly simple but delicious- put together of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and fresh juices. And it is well priced for the location.

Unfortunately, when I went for lunch, it was an extremely foggy day so I was unable to get the full view of the ocean, but there was still something very magical about it. Buena Vista is a great place to start your day in Miraflores.

Explore Ancient Ruins at Huaca Pucllana

Most people come to Peru with intention of visiting the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu- something I plan on doing myself. However, the county is filled with tons of ancient ruin sites and you don’t have to wait for Machu Picchu to have the experience of stepping back in time.

Right in Miraflores, you’ll be able to visit the incredible museum and ruins of Huaca Pucllana, something I highly recommend doing. Tours are offered Friday- Monday & Wednesday from 9 am to 4 pm. Reservations are required and can be pre-booked online. I didn’t know this and showed up without a reservation. They were so wonderful in accommodating me anyway, but I wouldn’t recommend doing this.

Entree costs 15 sol, which is roughly $4 USD and there’s even a restaurant on site.

Lima is without a doubt a very magical, lively city with so much to offer. If you were not considering it before, I hope this post has helped convince you to spend some time in Lima. I also hope it’s given you some helpful ideas for how to spend your time there.

Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below, and happy travels!