9 Best Things to Do in Lima, Peru

Are you looking for the top things to do in Lima, Peru? Lima is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Peru. But it is worth a visit.

Wondering what to do in Lima, Peru?

Stroll around the Miraflores and Barranco neighborhoods, shop at the Indian Market, relax in the Parque Del Amor park, or explore Huaca Pucllana.

Lima is the perfect place to start your Peru Itinerary from where you can easily reach Paracas, Huacachina, or Cusco.

This ultimate guide to visiting Lima includes how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do in Lima, Peru.

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Where is Lima

Lima is located on the Pacific Coast of Peru, about 5 hours from Huacachina and 4 hours from Paracas.

Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru.

Best Time to Visit Lima, Peru

Lima has a semi-arid, subtropical desert climate. The weather is generally hot and sunny, with high humidity and little rainfall.

Lima can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit Peru is from May to October.

During the day, temperatures can be between 18-25°C.

The best time to visit Lima is from December to April when the weather is warm and sunny. The cooler months with cloudy weather from May to November.

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In high season we strongly recommend booking accommodation in advance!

Recommended post → Ultimate Peru Itinerary

How to Get to Lima

Most travelers to Peru arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport (airport code LIM), as you can get cheap flights to Lima.

Lima is the perfect place to start your Peru Itinerary.

There are many direct flights to Lima from Europe, Mexico, the U.S., and other international countries.

If you are already in Peru, you can also take a short domestic flight from Cusco, Iquitos, or Arequipa to Lima.

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Use Skyscanner to get cheap flights to Peru.

How to Get from Lima Airport to Miraflores

The Jorge Chavez International Airport is located on the outskirts of Lima, about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Depending on traffic, travel time can take up to 1 hour.

We flew from Costa Rica to Peru. Then we booked a private transfer from the Airport to Miraflores.

Good to know
There is an Uber in Lima, but most people do not recommend using it at the Airport.

Keep reading → How to Visit Machu Picchu

Airport Bus/Shuttle Service

The cheapest option to get from Lima Airport to Miraflores is to take the Airport Express Lima bus for 15 Soles (4 USD) per person.

Another option is the Quick Llama airport transfer for 20 Soles (5,5 USD) per person.

Taxi or Private Transfer

Usually, the most expensive way to get from the airport is by taxi.

We recommend you choose a registered taxi company like Taxi Green. Locals prefer to use the Beat app, which is similar to Uber.

Private transfers start from 17 USD and are more comfortable for couples or groups.

Read our → Arequipa Guide

Getting Around Lima, Peru

Wondering how to get around Lima? You can easily explore the Miraflores and Barranco districts, as most attractions are within walking distance.

Another option is to rent a bike, use Uber or Beat apps, or take the local bus.

You can rent a bike for 50 Soles (14 USD) for 24 hours.

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For the best experience, join a hop-on hop-off panoramic bus tour.

Is Lima Safe?

It is generally safe. However, some areas in Lima are not safe, such as around the airport and the city center.

Avoid walking at night and taking taxis alone, especially in downtown Lima! We recommend booking a private transfer from the Airport to Miraflores.

However, the districts of Lima, such as Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, are absolutely safe and can be discovered on foot. Join a walking tour of Lima City.

But small thefts and pickpockets can happen everywhere. So always take care of your valuables!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose SafetyWing for our travels.

Best things to do in Lima, Peru

1. Find the Best Street Art in Barranco

Are you looking for free things to do in Lima? You should visit Barranco and explore the charming streets.

Barranco is one of the best districts in Lima, with a fantastic atmosphere, where you will find lots of street vendors, beautiful artwork, and colorful buildings.

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Make the most of your visit to Lima and book a combined Huacachina and Paracas tour via Viator. This tour is one of the most reviewed, so you will not be disappointed.

See also → Things to Do in Huacachina

Find the most beautiful street art and buy churros from local vendors.

Because you can easily spend a few hours exploring Barranco, you should wear comfortable shoes.

Good to know
You can get from Miraflores to Barranco by local bus, which costs 1.50 Soles per person.

2. Chill out at Parque Del Amor

One of the best things to do in Lima is to visit Love Park. The Parque del Amor in Miraflores is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Join a Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro small group tour HERE.

Did you know that park’s beautiful mosaic on the walls and benches is similar to the Park Güell in Barcelona?

The charming El Parque del Amor is the perfect place to enjoy the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean or watch a romantic sunset.

Keep reading → Best Places to Visit in Peru

3. Visit Faro La Marina Lighthouse

Are you looking for more things to do in Lima? The beautiful Faro La Marina Lighthouse, built in the 1900s, offers a fantastic photo backdrop. As it is just a 10-minute walk from the Parque del Amor, it is well worth a stop.

Take a short visit or spend 1-2 hours relaxing in the park. You can join a Miraflores small group tour.

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If you have a drone, bring it with you because the views from above are stunningly beautiful.

4. Try the National Dish of Peru

If you like fish dishes, you must try the national dish of Peru, Ceviche.

This Peruvian dish is typically made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices (lime or lemon) and seasoned with onions, oil, coriander, chili peppers, and spicy.

You can eat delicious seafood and Ceviche in most restaurants or enjoy a Pisco Sour with a stunning view.

Join the Peruvian food tour in Lima.

Good to know
Lima and Paracas are the best places to sample the national dish of Peru.

See also → What to Do in Paracas

5. Walk Around the Indian Market

Are you looking for the best souvenirs, gifts, or clothes in Peru? Then you should visit the Indian Market, where you can buy typical souvenirs such as beautiful handicrafts, paintings, and Alpaca clothing or accessories.

However, sometimes the prices are overpriced, so you can try to bargain, and if the cost is still high, shop in Arequipa or Cusco instead.

You will also find the Inca (Peruvian) market directly opposite the Indian market, which is also worth a visit.

It is usually open from 9 AM to 6 PM, but opening hours may vary.

6. Visit Puente de los Suspiros

One of our favorite places to visit in Lima was Barranco, the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs). The area has many local musicians, street vendors, and beautiful street art.

A legend says that if you hold your breath until you cross the bridge, then your wish will come true. It’s worth a try!

Join a Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro small group tour HERE.

Recommended post → See the Bridge of Sighs in Venice

7. Walk Along Miraflores Boardwalk

Are you looking for the best views of the cliffs of Lima and the ocean? Join a guided bike tour or walk through the Miraflores Boardwalk and find the most beautiful viewpoint (Malecón de Miraflores).

There are several cozy cafés with fantastic views, so you can easily spend a few hours here.

Good to know
Lima is the perfect place to go paragliding or surfing, so if you have more time, you should try these fun activities.

8. Explore Huaca Pucclana

One of the top things to do in Lima is to visit the Huaca Pucclana Pyramid, which is made of adobe and clay. The beautiful archaeological site with a museum is located in the Miraflores district.

Huaca Pucclana is open every day except Tuesday and Thursday from 9 AM to 4:15 PM.

Unfortunately, we missed it as it was closed when we visited. However, if you are in Miraflores, you must visit the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucclana and learn more about its history and culture.

The entrance fee to Huaca Pucclana is 15 Soles (4 USD) for adults and 7,50 Soles (2 USD) for children (5-12 years old).

Join a walking tour of Lima, including the Huaca Pucclana.

9. Shop at the Local Market

Visiting food markets is a great way to talk to locals and ask for tips on what not to miss in the city.

The Mercado de Surquillo 1 and Mercado de Surquillo 2 are the best local markets in the city, where you can buy fresh fruit, cheese, fish, and meat.

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If you can’t speak Spanish, you can use Google Translate.

Where to Eat in Lima

One of the best things to do in Lima is to try Peruvian cuisine and sample the national dishes. Lima was one of our favorite places to eat in Peru, where we sampled seafood and Ceviche.

These are our recommendations.

Best restaurants in Lima, Peru

Chez Wong (Unique experience with fresh Ceviche)
La Mar Cevichería Peruana (A popular restaurant with delicious dishes)
Canta Rana (A good place to try Ceviche)
Barra Maretazo (Delicious seafood)
Maido (One of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants)
Punto Azul (Fantastic dining experience)
El Pan De La Chola (Perfect breakfast place)
Veda Restaurant (Vegan Ceviche)
Raw Café (The best vegan restaurant)

Join a Peruvian food tour.

Where to Stay in Lima, Peru

It is recommended to stay in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro districts instead of the city center. As these Lima’s neighborhoods are safe, and you can easily explore the sights on foot.

The accommodation options are available for all budgets.

Best hotels in Lima, Peru

Luxury: Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel
Mid-Range: Dazzler Lima
Budget: Selina Miraflores Lima

more hotels in lima

How many Days do you Need in Lima, Peru?

Most people only take a short visit, but we recommend staying 1-2 days to discover the sights. If you want to explore the city center, add an extra day to your Peru Itinerary.

Are you spending limited time in Peru but want to make the most of your visit? Book a multi-day tour, including Machu Picchu.

We hope our list of the best things to do in Lima will help you plan your next trip to Peru. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Transfer – Bookaway

9 Best Things to Do in Lima, Peru