The capital of Peru, Lima is one of the most popular cities for tourists in South America. This is the perfect destination for those in search of culture, history and modernity. Its natural beauty and attractions captivate thousands of tourists every year.
Want to know more about Lima? Keep reading our post and find out about its main tourist attractions, gastronomy and a travel itinerary so you can spend 5 days enjoying Lima's attractions in the best way possible. Check it out!
What are the main tourist attractions in Lima?
One of Lima's strong points is its tourist attractions. They offer attractions rich in culture, beauty and fun. Check out the city's main tourist attractions:
1. Lima's main square
In the city's historic center, Plaza Mayor is one of Lima's main tourist attractions. Here, you can admire Lima Cathedral and its imposing architecture, and the Government Palace, where ceremonies and events are often held. Walking through the square is like taking a step back in time, with its narrow streets and colonial buildings.
2. Larco Museum
For history lovers, the Larco Museum is a must-see. Located in an 18th century mansion, the museum houses one of the most important collections of pre-Columbian art in South America. With fascinating exhibitions, the museum also has a restaurant offering typical Peruvian dishes, perfect for a break between visits.
3. Kennedy Park and the Miraflores neighborhood
In the heart of Lima, you'll find Miraflores, one of Lima's most iconic neighborhoods, and Parque Kennedy, a major attraction in the area. This park is surrounded by cafés, stores and restaurants, and is a great spot for those who want to experience the daily life of the city.
In addition, the Miraflores neighborhood offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, and a walk along the Malecón is a great way to take in the scenery.
4. Huaca Pucllana
In the heart of Lima's urban center, you'll find the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe pyramid built by the pre-Inca peoples, a perfect place for those interested in historical attractions. With a guided tour, you can understand the historical and cultural importance of this archaeological site, which dates back more than a thousand years.
How is Lima's cuisine?
Lima is a gastronomic paradise, and the world-class restaurants are second to none. Peruvian cuisine is considered one of the best in the world, and Lima is the center of this culinary experience. With an immense coastline, Lima has access to the freshest seafood. Here you'll find some typical dishes that are considered specialties of the region, such as:
- Ceviche: served with fresh fish, lemon, red onion and pepper, an explosion of flavor;
- Lomo saltado: a mixture of meat with rice and French fries;
- Aji de gallina: chicken cooked in a creamy sauce with yellow peppers and walnuts;
- Anticuchos: marinated meat skewers, a true symbol of Peruvian street food.
In addition to the variety of typical dishes, Lima has two of the best restaurants in the world: Central and Maido. Don't miss the chance to taste the best of Lima's gastronomy.
Check out a travel itinerary for 5 days in Lima!
Whether you' re traveling alone, with family or friends, Lima offers many incredible options. So that you can organize your outings and make the most of each experience without missing a thing, we've prepared a guide with options for attractions for each day of your trip. Follow along!
Day 1: visit the historic center
Start your trip by exploring Lima's Historic Center. Visit the Plaza Mayor, where you can see the Cathedral of Lima and the Government Palace. Afterwards, you can have lunch in one of the traditional restaurants in the area and, in the afternoon, visit the Larco Museum for an immersion in Peruvian history.
Day 2: explore Miraflores and Barranco
Dedicate the second day to the Miraflores neighborhood. Walk along the Malecón, enjoying the view of the ocean, and have lunch in one of the restaurants facing the sea. In the afternoon, you can explore Barranco, Lima's bohemian district, with its colorful streets, art galleries and cool cafés.
Day 3: Get to know the pre-Inca culture
Visit Huaca Pucllana in the morning to see one of the city's most important archaeological sites. Later, explore the National Archaeological Museum, which offers a deeper insight into the civilizations that inhabited the region.
Day 4: Enjoy gastronomy and shopping
Take a gastronomic tour to try the best dishes of Peruvian cuisine. Don't miss the Surquillo Market, a perfect place to sample fresh ingredients and chat with local vendors. Afterwards, visit the San Isidro or Miraflores shopping centers, where you can buy souvenirs and Peruvian design items.
Day 5: Relax and enjoy the view
On the last day, relax and enjoy the view from Parque Kennedy. If you want a quieter experience, spend the afternoon at Parque de las Leyendas, a zoo that also houses archaeological ruins. In the evening, you can dine in one of the seafront restaurants and enjoy the Limeño nightlife.
Is traveling to Lima expensive?
If you're looking for a destination that combines the best tourist experiences with the best prices, Lima is the place to be. The gastronomy is very affordable and you can find great restaurants for reasonable prices. Accommodation and transportation also have options for all budgets, ideal for those who want to save on international travel.
If you plan to stay in luxury hotels or dine in renowned restaurants, the cost may be higher, but it still offers excellent value for money.
Why rent a car with Happy Tours to visit Lima?
Renting a car with Happy Tours in Lima is synonymous with comfort, practicality and freedom, allowing you to enjoy the city in the best possible way. Whether you want to explore the sights, relax on the beaches or even take short trips to neighboring regions, our fleet of vehicles is ready to ensure that your experience in Lima is unforgettable.
Now that you've seen the main attractions that Lima has to offer, don't waste any time booking your accommodation! And for more travel tips, check out the blog at Happy Tours!
