If you have just one day to explore the city of Lima, we recommend starting your adventure with a city tour. This way, you'll get an overview of the city. Lima is a city of contrasts, where you can admire the modern side as well as the colonial side.
Indulge in the most exquisite cuisine at different restaurants located in the Miraflores district.
To make the most of your time in Lima, here are some tips on places you can visit and include in your next visit:
City tours typically kick off at the "Parque del Amor" located in the Miraflores district. From this spot, you'll be treated to a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Next, head to the archaeological center of Huaca Pucllana, a ceremonial hub of the Lima culture that thrived between 200 AD and 700 AD.
Afterward, make your way to the historic center of Lima, home to splendid colonial-era buildings. Visit its main square, the cathedral, the archbishop's palace, and the San Francisco de Asís monastery. The latter is not only impressive for its architecture but is also the only place in Lima where you can witness the city's ancient cemetery, known as "the catacombs."
Visit Lima's most important museum, the Larco Museum, located in the Pueblo Libre district. It's a beautiful colonial mansion that houses over 45,000 pieces of pre-Columbian art, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. It also features a famous collection of erotic art.
It's undoubtedly a must-visit if you're a culture and history enthusiast.
In the evening, visit the Magic Water Circuit, the only park in the world with 13 ornamental fountains. This is why it's listed in the Guinness World Records. Don't miss the water, light, and image show at one of the fountains. For this reason, the park has become a significant attraction for both locals and foreigners.
If you're a lover of art and culture, be sure to visit the Barranco district, which hosts numerous art galleries, museums, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Visit the famous Bridge of Sighs, appreciate the Barranco Hermitage, the monument to Chabuca Granda, the main square of Barranco, and the viewpoint from which you'll have a beautiful view of the bay.
Lima, recognized as the gastronomic capital of South America, lives up to this title by offering a wide variety of flavors and traditional dishes. Don't miss out on trying ceviche, causa limeña, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, accompanied by a delightful pisco sour. If you're interested in uncovering the secrets of Peruvian cuisine, don't hesitate to embark on a gastronomic tour. You'll not only learn to prepare the country's most representative dishes but also explore a local market and savor some Peruvian products.