Lima, the capital of Peru, lies on the country's arid Pacific coast. Though its colonial center is preserved, it's a bustling metropolis and one of South America’s largest cities. It's home to the Museo Larco collection of pre-Columbian art and the Museo de la Nación, tracing the history of Peru’s ancient civilizations. The Plaza de Armas and the 16th-century cathedral are the heart of old Lima Centro. ― Google
Elevation: 0–1,550 m (0–5,090 ft)
Demonyms: Limeño/a
Established: 18 January 1535
Founded by: Francisco Pizarro
Province: Lima
Ideal Months: December to April (summer)
Warm, sunny weather — best for beaches and sightseeing.
May to November: Cloudier but mild; fewer tourists and lower prices.
International Airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
Direct flights from major cities in the Americas and Europe.
From within Peru: Frequent domestic flights and long-distance buses (especially from Cusco, Arequipa, or Chiclayo).
Historic Center of Lima
Visit Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and colonial mansions.
Miraflores District
Trendy area with parks, Larcomar shopping center, and Pacific cliffs.
Barranco District
Bohemian vibe, street art, cozy cafes, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
Huaca Pucllana
A pre-Inca adobe pyramid in the middle of Miraflores.
Circuito Mágico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit)
Spectacular nighttime fountain show in Parque de la Reserva.
Museo Larco
Excellent museum showcasing 5,000 years of Peruvian history — with erotic pottery and gold artifacts.
Parque del Amor (Love Park)
Romantic coastal spot with Gaudí-style mosaics and ocean views.
El Malecón
Scenic cliffside walkway perfect for walking, biking, or paragliding.
Surf or chill at Costa Verde beaches like Makaha and Waikiki.
Paragliding over Miraflores for aerial ocean views.
Bike tour through Miraflores and Barranco.
Take a cooking class to learn Peruvian staples like ceviche and lomo saltado.
Go on a Lima food tour — from street snacks to gourmet tasting menus.
Shop at Inca markets or upscale boutiques in San Isidro.
Budget:
Selina Miraflores – Stylish hostel with coworking space.
1900 Backpackers – Close to downtown and museums.
Mid-Range:
Casa Andina Standard or Select – Reliable and well-located.
Tierra Viva Miraflores – Modern, clean, and central.
Luxury:
Belmond Miraflores Park – 5-star oceanfront hotel.
JW Marriott Lima – Iconic, with panoramic ocean views.
Famous Dishes to Try:
Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime and chili.
Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with rice and fries.
Anticuchos: Grilled beef heart skewers.
Causa: Mashed yellow potato layered with fillings.
Pollo a la brasa: Juicy rotisserie chicken.
Top Restaurants:
Central (by Virgilio Martínez): Ranked one of the best in the world.
Maido: Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) fusion at its finest.
Isolina (Barranco): Hearty Peruvian comfort food.
La Mar: Premier cevichería for seafood lovers.
El Bodegón: Classic Lima dishes with a gourmet twist.
Language & People:
Spanish is the main language. English is spoken in tourist areas.
Limeños are friendly, urban, and proud of their culinary heritage.
Festivals:
Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen (July): Religious processions and traditional dances.
Peru Independence Day (July 28–29): Parades, fireworks, and civic events.
Mistura (if held): One of Latin America’s biggest food festivals (dates vary).
Art & Crafts:
Local artisans sell woven textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, and Alpaca wool in markets like Mercado Inca.