Lima, Peru, is one of the most beautiful cities globally. It’s the only capital located facing the Pacific and is the gastronomic capital of South America. The city is filled with culture, from ancient to modern. All of this means this place is a must-see!
Wondering where to start? Here are five destinations you need to visit when you're in Lima!
Barranco District
Barranco District is full of art, music, and culture! Everywhere you go in Barranco is a beautiful tapestry of Peruvian history and artistry.
There is art and music on the streets. There are several renowned art galleries you can visit in Barranco. Great quality restaurants and coffee shops are there. You can walk through the architecturally striking Main Square, where theatre performances and art fairs display.
Miraflores
Miraflores is an upscale suburban beach just a few kilometers from Lima. The district is the best place to enjoy and indulge in the Peruvian beach lifestyle.
One of the most scenic spots in Miraflores is the ten-kilometer boardwalk, where you can enjoy fun activities like surfing, swimming, and paragliding. Of course, you can also relax and adore the one-of-a-kind sunset views along the beautiful boardwalk coast.
Pachacamac
For archeology and ancient mystery fans, Lima has many to offer! Pachacamac is an archeological site about thirty kilometers from Lima, constructed more than 1000 years before the Incas.
You can go on a group or bike tour to rediscover the wonders of the ancient ruins of the pyramids and temples built by a mysterious civilization. These sacred ruins are said to be a religious center to worship a creator-god. The whole complex covers about 600 hectares, with portions of archeological findings that you can see and learn about.
Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor, is a must-go when you're in Lima. It’s one of Peru's most famous historical locations, as Plaza de Armas was the heart of 16th-century settlement and the Spanish Colonial Empire.
Being the main tourist attraction in Lima, Plaza Mayor has several architecturally beautiful structures. The most eye-catching would be the bronze fountain, a plaza centerpiece made in 1651. You should also see the Cathedral of Lima, built in 1535 and standing to this day with only two reconstructions.
It’s pretty romantic to stroll around Plaza de Armas and appreciate the grand architecture of the 16th century. Truly a must-do on your travel list.
Huaca Pucllana
Huaca Puclanna is an ancient pyramid made from clay and adobe found in the Miraflores district of Lima. It's a 7-layered pyramid built around 500 AD and was recently uncovered in 1981. Huaca Pucllana is said to have been made for ceremonial and administrative purposes by the ancient inhabitants.
Today, you can tour Huaca Pucllana and see the pyramids up close. The guided tour immerses you in the ancient culture and how it influenced Peru today. And at the end of your visit, you can also indulge in exceptional, delicious Peruvian cuisine at the famous Huaca Pucllana Restaurant. The restaurant boasts excellent Peruvian dishes, a great ambiance, and a view of the pyramid.
These five places will make you love Peru and its culture to the core. So go, travel, meet new friends, and immerse in the culture!
