Lima is Peru's vibrant capital and largest city, stretching along the Pacific coast where ancient civilizations once flourished.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Lima.
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1
Museo Larco (Larco Museum)
One of South America's finest archaeological museums, housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion built on a pre-Columbian pyramid. The Larco Museum holds over 45,000 artifacts representing 3,000 years of ancient Peruvian culture, including the famous collection of pre-Columbian erotic pottery. The extensive gold and silver vaults and the beautiful garden cafe make this a must-visit.
Tip: Book online in advance. The garden cafe serves excellent Peruvian food. Allow 2-3 hours.
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2
Historic Centre of Lima
Lima's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre is a stunning ensemble of colonial architecture dating to the 16th century. The district centers on the Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and Archbishop's Palace. Walking its streets reveals ornate wooden balconies, Baroque churches, and centuries of history layered across a living, breathing city.
Tip: Best explored on foot. Take an official guided tour for context. Visit on a Sunday for the ceremonial changing of the guard at noon.
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3
Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)
The beating heart of Lima since its founding by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Plaza Mayor is surrounded by the most important colonial buildings in Peru. The central bronze fountain dates to 1651. The surrounding Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, and Municipal Palace form one of the finest colonial ensembles in Latin America.
Tip: Beware of pickpockets in the square. Visit at night when the buildings are beautifully illuminated.
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4
Huaca Pucllana
An ancient ceremonial and administrative center of the Lima Culture, built around 400-700 AD right in the middle of modern Miraflores. This massive adobe pyramid rises 25 meters and is dramatically lit at night. The on-site museum displays artifacts including ceramics, textiles, and mummies. The adjacent restaurant is one of Lima's most atmospheric dining spots.
Tip: Evening visits when the site is lit are magical. Book the restaurant in advance for a unique dining experience overlooking the ruins.
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5
Parque del Amor
Lima's most romantic spot, this clifftop park overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the Miraflores malecón. Inspired by Barcelona's Park Güell, it features colorful mosaic benches and walls, and is dominated by Victor Delfín's famous 11-meter sculpture 'El Beso' (The Kiss). Paragliders launch from nearby cliffs, and the sunsets here are spectacular.
Tip: Visit at sunset for the best views and photos. February 14th sees large Valentine's Day celebrations here.
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6
Larcomar Shopping Center
A uniquely positioned open-air shopping mall built into the cliffs of Miraflores, offering stunning Pacific Ocean views from its terraces. Beyond shopping, Larcomar features restaurants, a cinema, bars, and is adjacent to Parque del Amor. It's one of Lima's most scenic people-watching spots, especially at sunset.
Tip: The cliff-side terrace restaurants offer stunning views. Great place to buy quality Peruvian crafts and alpaca goods.
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7
Barranco District
Lima's most bohemian and artistic neighborhood, Barranco is a former 19th-century beach resort transformed into a hub of galleries, street art, craft beer bars, and some of Peru's best restaurants. The colonial mansions, the Bridge of Sighs, and the clifftop views make it one of Lima's most photogenic neighborhoods. Barranco comes alive after dark with its thriving nightlife scene.
Tip: Start at Puente de los Suspiros, walk down Bajada de los Baños to the beach, then explore the restaurant and bar strip in the evening.
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8
Circuito Mágico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit)
The world's largest water fountain complex according to the Guinness Book of Records, featuring 13 illuminated fountains in a 3-hectare park. The nightly light shows set to music are a highlight, with the Fantasy Fountain tunnel walk-through and the Tunnel of Surprises being crowd favorites. A magical experience for all ages.
Tip: Arrive after sunset for the full effect. Show times vary, check schedule online. Great for families.
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9
Pachacamac Archaeological Site
One of Peru's most important pre-Columbian sacred sites, Pachacamac was a major pilgrimage center and oracle for over 1,000 years before the Inca. The sprawling complex covers over 465 hectares and includes dozens of temples, administrative buildings, and cemeteries. The excellent on-site museum displays artifacts including the famous wooden Pachacamac idol.
Tip: Hire a guide at the entrance for context. Wear sun protection - the site is very exposed. Combine with a visit to Lurín beach.
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10
Lima Cathedral (Catedral de Lima)
Founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and rebuilt multiple times after earthquakes, the Lima Cathedral is one of the most important churches in South America. The current structure dates primarily from the 17th-18th centuries and houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of the Inca Empire. The interior features 14 side chapels, a religious art museum, and elaborately carved choir stalls.
Tip: Dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless tops). The museum inside has excellent colonial religious art.
Attractions by category
Explore by your interests.
Landmarks
Historic Centre of Lima
Lima's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre is a stunning ensemble of colonial architecture
Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)
The beating heart of Lima since its founding by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Plaza Mayor is surrounded
Parque del Amor
Lima's most romantic spot, this clifftop park overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the Miraflores malecón.
Barranco District
Lima's most bohemian and artistic neighborhood, Barranco is a former 19th-century beach resort trans
Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace)
Peru's presidential palace, built on the site where Francisco Pizarro once lived and was later assas
Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs)
A beloved 19th-century wooden pedestrian bridge that is the symbol of Barranco. Local legend says th
El Olivar de San Isidro
A tranquil urban park centered on a grove of 1,500 olive trees brought to Peru from Spain in the 17t
Real Felipe Fortress (Fortaleza del Real Felipe)
One of the largest and best-preserved colonial military fortifications in the Americas, built by the
Barrio Chino (Lima's Chinatown)
The oldest Chinatown in Latin America, dating to the arrival of Chinese laborers (coolies) to Peru i
Parque Kennedy
The central park of Miraflores and the social heart of the district, famous for its colony of stray
Museums
Museo Larco (Larco Museum)
One of South America's finest archaeological museums, housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion bui
MALI - Museo de Arte de Lima
Lima's premier fine arts museum, housed in a stunning neoclassical Palace of Exhibitions built in 18
Museo de la Nación
Peru's national museum of anthropology, archaeology, and history, housing one of the most comprehens
Amano Textile Museum
A small but exceptional private museum dedicated to pre-Columbian textiles, housed in the former hom
Nature
Parque del Amor
Lima's most romantic spot, this clifftop park overlooks the Pacific Ocean from the Miraflores malecón.
Miraflores Malecón (Clifftop Walk)
A stunning 4km clifftop promenade running along the edge of Miraflores with dramatic views of the Pa
El Olivar de San Isidro
A tranquil urban park centered on a grove of 1,500 olive trees brought to Peru from Spain in the 17t
Circuito de Playas (Lima Beach Circuit)
A chain of beaches running along Lima's Costa Verde (Green Coast) beneath the Miraflores and Barranc
Parque Kennedy
The central park of Miraflores and the social heart of the district, famous for its colony of stray
Cultural
Huaca Pucllana
An ancient ceremonial and administrative center of the Lima Culture, built around 400-700 AD right i
Larcomar Shopping Center
A uniquely positioned open-air shopping mall built into the cliffs of Miraflores, offering stunning
Circuito Mágico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit)
The world's largest water fountain complex according to the Guinness Book of Records, featuring 13 i
Pachacamac Archaeological Site
One of Peru's most important pre-Columbian sacred sites, Pachacamac was a major pilgrimage center an
Lima Cathedral (Catedral de Lima)
Founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and rebuilt multiple times after earthquakes, the Lima Cathedra
Convento de San Francisco y Catacumbas
One of Lima's most impressive colonial monuments, this 17th-century Franciscan convent is renowned f
Chorrillos Fish Market
A traditional fishing village market where Chorrillos fishermen bring in their daily catch. The earl
Mercado de Surquillo
Lima's most famous food market and exceptional territory for food lovers. Surquillo Market is where Lima's top
Huaca Huallamarca
A well-preserved adobe pyramid from the Lima Culture (200-600 AD), strikingly set amid the modern sk
Parque de las Leyendas (Lima Zoo)
Lima's major zoo and cultural park, incorporating a zoological park with over 1,000 animals represen
Practical information
What you need to know before you go.
- Hours
- Most attractions open 9AM-5PM, some until 10PM
- Fees
- Average museum entry $3-8 USD; many parks free
- Best Times
- Early morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Booking
- Book Larco Museum and food tours online in advance
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit Huaca Pucllana in the evening when it's beautifully illuminated
The Historic Centre is best explored on weekday mornings
Carry small change for admission fees at minor sites
Many museums are free on Sundays - check schedules
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season to visit attractions in Lima?
December to March (summer) for sunshine; year-round for cultural sites
Are guided tours available for Lima's attractions?
Available at major sites, typically $15-30 USD
Can I take photos at attractions in Lima?
Allowed at most sites; no flash in churches and museums
How much time do I need for Lima's main attractions?
Plan 3-4 days to see the major highlights