{"id":3110,"date":"2018-07-28T19:30:21","date_gmt":"2018-07-29T00:30:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/?p=297"},"modified":"2026-07-19T23:50:28","modified_gmt":"2026-07-20T04:50:28","slug":"things-to-do-lima-peru","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/freewalkingtoursperu.com\/en\/blog\/things-to-do-lima-peru\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do in Lima Today!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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If you’re currently planning your trip to Peru<\/strong> and wondering what to do to have a great time in Lima<\/strong>, let me tell you\u2014you\u2019ve come to the right place! Here, we\u2019ll give you more than one answer<\/strong> to make sure your stay in the city founded by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro is pleasant and fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first thing you need to know is that there’s so much to see and do<\/strong> in the Peruvian capital. If you\u2019re a history buff, you\u2019ll find pre-Inca archaeological sites<\/strong> and museums displaying ancient relics. If you love grand architecture, you\u2019ll be amazed by the old mansions<\/strong> and temples in the historic centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fancy reading a good book? The House of Peruvian Literature is waiting for you<\/strong>. Looking for a panoramic view of Lima\u2019s bay? The Parque del Amor<\/strong> (Love Park) in Miraflores is a perfect spot to snap a photo of the sunset<\/strong>. And if you feel like toasting to your adventures, go ahead and try a pisco sour<\/strong> in a traditional bar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Say goodbye to doubts<\/strong>\u2014Lima is a spectacular destination! It\u2019s a metropolis where bohemian life thrives in the district of Barranco<\/strong>, a city where you might pray for more than one miracle<\/strong> in the sanctuary of the first saint of the Americas, and a place where dancing water fountains are part of a magical and stunning circuit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That\u2019s Lima\u2014the city that\u2019s waiting for you<\/strong>, the city we want to show you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Join our FREE tour in Lima historic center<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Walk, explore, discover, and enjoy the heart of the Peruvian capital<\/strong> with a knowledgeable guide<\/strong> and a group of enthusiastic travellers just like you. That\u2019s the essence of our free tours<\/em>\u2014you\u2019ll get to know the top attractions of Lima\u2019s historic centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join the best free walking tour in Lima<\/a>. Book your spot and live a unique experience<\/strong>. We\u2019re pioneers in free walking tours, and our local guides are deeply passionate about the city<\/strong> they\u2019ll proudly introduce you to with professionalism and heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out the reviews of our walking tours<\/a> and you\u2019ll be amazed by the fantastic feedback from our past visitors<\/strong>. You can also follow us on Instagram<\/a>. We look forward to showing you the best of Lima\u2014the city you\u2019ll discover step by step with us<\/strong>. And don\u2019t forget to tip your guide at the end of the tour!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note for Peruvians:<\/strong> The free<\/em> tours are exclusive to international visitors. Peruvian nationals are welcome to join the classic city tour of colonial and modern Lima<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Explore the Plaza de Armas<\/em> and the Historic Centre<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Historical Center of Lima<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

If you want to connect with colonial history<\/strong>… If you want to imagine what life was like in old Lima… If you want to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site<\/strong>, then don\u2019t hesitate to make your way to the historic centre<\/a> of Peru\u2019s capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The old town, also known as the \u201cDamero de Pizarro<\/a><\/em>\u201d (Pizarro\u2019s Grid) in honour of the city\u2019s founder, preserves churches, convents, and colonial mansions of extraordinary architectural and historical value<\/strong>. These buildings showcase a variety of styles, including Baroque, Renaissance, Neoclassical and Gothic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the heart of the historic centre lies the Plaza de Armas<\/em> or Main Square<\/em><\/a>. Surrounded by majestic buildings like the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Archbishop\u2019s Palace, and the House of the Oidor, this is where Francisco Pizarro founded the City of Kings<\/strong> on 18 January 1535.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Try the best Pisco Sour<\/em><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Pisco Sour – Peru\u00b4s Offical Drink<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Pisco<\/a> \u2014 with a capital \u201cP\u201d for Peruvian pride \u2014 is the national drink of Peru<\/strong>. Its origins date back to colonial times, when a grape-based spirit was shipped<\/strong> from the port of Pisco, produced in wineries along the southern coast<\/strong>. That\u2019s the historical reason why Peru was granted the protected designation of origin<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, only spirits made in the regions of Lima, Ica, Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna \u2014 and that meet Peru\u2019s strict production standards<\/strong> \u2014 can legally be called pisco. These rules preserve the legacy of a drink that will brighten your excursion through Lima\u2019s Historic Centre<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you enjoy strong drinks, try it neat<\/strong>. If you\u2019re after something more refreshing, go for a chilcano<\/strong>. And if you\u2019d like to taste the country\u2019s most iconic cocktail<\/strong>, don\u2019t miss the pisco sour<\/a><\/em> \u2014 a classic blend of pisco, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup, egg white, and ice.<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Oldest Bar in Lima<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Traditional bartenders \u201cshake<\/strong>\u201d the ingredients in a cocktail shaker<\/strong>, while others blend them. Which is better? Try both versions and decide for yourself. Just a word of caution: pisco has an alcohol content ranging from 38% to 48%<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are plenty of great spots in the city centre to enjoy a pisco sour<\/strong>. The bars at the Hotel Maury<\/strong> \u2014 said by many historians to be the birthplace of this cocktail<\/a> \u2014 and the iconic Hotel Bol\u00edvar<\/strong>, known for its \u201ccathedral-sized\u201d<\/a> pisco sours, are especially popular with locals. Another tempting option is Bar Cordano, one of the oldest bars in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Discover Huaca Pucllana<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Huaca Pucllana Temple<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Long before the Spanish arrived, pre-Hispanic peoples had already built settlements<\/strong> and temples in what is now modern-day Lima. The city\u2019s roots stretch back thousands of years<\/strong> \u2014 something that often goes unnoticed by visitors who are captivated by its colonial and republican heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But that ancient past is much closer than you might think. In Miraflores<\/strong>, one of Lima\u2019s most popular tourist districts, you\u2019ll find Huaca Pucllana<\/a> \u2014 an administrative and ceremonial centre dating back to the 5th century AD<\/strong>. The site\u2019s main feature is a massive adobe pyramid, measuring 500 metres in length<\/strong>, 100 metres in width, and 22 metres in height.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Occupied by several ancient cultures (including the Lima<\/a>, Wari<\/a>, Ychsma<\/a>, and Inca<\/a>), Pucllana \u2014 which means \u201cplace for games<\/strong>\u201d in Spanish \u2014 was a ceremonial site where people paid tribute to the sea, the sun, Mother Earth, the mountains, and other deities worshipped by Peru\u2019s ancient civilisations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also visit Huaca Pucllana at night<\/strong>. Complete your visit with a memorable dinner at the on-site restaurant<\/strong>, where you’ll find creative takes on classic Peruvian dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5.<\/span> Visit Miraflores Central Park<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Kennedy Park in Miraflores<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Locally known as Parque Kennedy<\/a>, this green space of culture, fun and flavour is actually made up of two adjoining parks<\/strong>: one named after the American president, and the other called 7 de Junio<\/em>, in honour of the Battle of Arica during the War of the Pacific (1879\u20131884).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Miraflores Central Park hosts a wide range of cultural events<\/strong> \u2014 from book fairs and photo exhibitions to painting displays \u2014 and offers delicious street food, including Peruvian desserts and the classic butifarra lime\u00f1a<\/em> (a traditional sandwich). One particularly charming feature is the number of friendly cats<\/strong> that wander freely around the park and interact with visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a must-see. If you’re visiting with children, they’ll have a great time at the playground<\/strong>. Before you leave, take a moment to admire the Virgen Milagrosa church<\/strong> and the Miraflores City Hall \u2014 two impressive landmarks within this relaxing urban oasis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Experience the Bohemian Spirit of Barranco<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Street Art Tour in Barranco<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

With its bohemian soul<\/strong> and iconic landmarks \u2014 like the Bridge of Sighs and the Bajada de los Ba\u00f1os<\/strong> \u2014 Barranco<\/a> is one of Lima\u2019s most enchanting districts. Strolling through its colourful streets<\/a> lined with beautiful old republican-style mansions, you\u2019ll come across art galleries, museums, traditional bars and pe\u00f1as criollas<\/strong> (live Creole music venues).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll also find countless restaurants, pubs and caf\u00e9s perfect for unforgettable evenings<\/strong>. But Barranco\u2019s artistic and bohemian charm isn\u2019t just indoors \u2014 it spills out into the streets, where graffiti murals have transformed walls into canvases<\/strong>, showcasing the creativity and emotions of Lima\u2019s younger generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Travel Back in Time at Lima\u2019s Museums<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Museo Larco<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Museo de Arte<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you find museums fascinating and simply can\u2019t resist them, you\u2019re going to love Lima. The city is full of treasures \u2014 in its Historic Centre and across several of its districts \u2014 offering outstanding exhibitions and galleries that reveal the rich history<\/strong>, art and culture of a country considered one of the cradles of human civilisation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru<\/a>, located in the district of Pueblo Libre, is the oldest in the country<\/strong>. Its extensive collections will help you trace the roots and development of the many civilisations<\/strong> that once thrived in this part of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also in Pueblo Libre, you\u2019ll find the Larco Museum \u2013 Ancient Treasures of Peru<\/a>. Its collection of pre-Columbian art<\/strong> will take you on a journey through 5,000 years of history. During your visit, you\u2019ll see the most complete exhibition of archaeological pieces from pre-Hispanic Lima.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re keen to explore even more collections, make sure to visit the Museum of Art of Lima<\/a> (MALI), the Gold Museum of Peru and Weapons of the World<\/strong>, the impressive and ultra-modern National Museum of Peru<\/a> (MUNA), and the Natural History Museum<\/strong> of the National University of San Marcos \u2014 just to name a few.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Visit the Bodega<\/em> y Quadra<\/em> Site Museum<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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House of Bodega y Quadra<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

In this colonial-era property \u2014 once the home of sailor and explorer Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra \u2014 archaeologists uncovered <\/strong>a site <\/strong>of such importance that it\u2019s now considered one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in Lima\u2019s Historic Centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2012, a site museum was established here<\/strong>, where you can see remnants of both pre-Hispanic and colonial structures<\/strong>. These ruins reveal just a part of the long and fascinating human history of Peru\u2019s capital city. You\u2019ll find this gem at 213 Jir\u00f3n \u00c1ncash, just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Explore the Colonial Churches of the Historic Centre<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Colonial Paintings<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

As you walk through the old town, you\u2019ll be drawn to stop in front of the many convents, temples and colonial churches<\/strong>. Their towers and bell gables, courtyards and facades are an essential part of the identity<\/strong> and charm of old Lima \u2014 a charm that speaks to everyone, regardless of faith or belief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Cathedral of Lima<\/strong>, along with the churches of San Francisco, La Merced, Santo Domingo, and San Pedro, are all extraordinary examples of viceregal architecture<\/strong>. Inside, you\u2019ll find altars, sculptures, paintings and other expressions of religious art that have been preserved <\/strong>and are on display in their peaceful cloisters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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10. Get Romantic at the Park of Love<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Love Park<\/em> in Miraflores<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Couples find a haven of tranquillity in<\/strong> Miraflores<\/strong> at a park designed especially for romance. The centrepiece is a striking sculpture called The Kiss<\/em><\/strong> (El Beso<\/em>) by Peruvian artist V\u00edctor Delf\u00edn<\/a>, which portrays a passionate embrace between two lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poetic verses and love messages inscribed on the benches add to the harmonious atmosphere of the park. When you visit, you\u2019re bound to fall in love \u2014 not just with the person beside you, but also with the stunning views over Lima\u2019s bay<\/strong>. Sunsets here are truly magical. Don\u2019t miss them! Entry is free<\/strong>. You\u2019ll find the Park of Love along the Cisneros Seafront Promenade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Read at the House of Peruvian Literature<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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House of Peruvian Literature<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Just a few steps from the Government Palace, the former Desamparados railway station<\/strong> is now home to the House of Peruvian Literature<\/a> \u2014 a cultural space that celebrates and promotes the work of national writers who have described, interpreted and reflected on the country in their writing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This literary haven regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and gives visitors access to a variety of works<\/strong>. In a calm and thoughtful setting right in the Historic Centre, enjoy the poetry, stories and novels of world-renowned Peruvian authors such as C\u00e9sar Vallejo and Mario Vargas Llosa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Make a Wish at the Well of Saint Rose of Lima<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Church of Santa Rosa<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The first saint of the Americas<\/strong> was born and lived in Peru\u2019s capital between 1586 and 1617. Over a century after her death \u2014 and before she was officially canonised \u2014 a sanctuary was built<\/strong> beside what had been her home, now located on Avenida Tacna in Lima\u2019s Historic Centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This took place in 1728, though little remains of the original structure<\/strong>. The current sanctuary, church and monastery date back to the 20th century. According to tradition, both devout and not-so-devout visitors are encouraged to write their wishes in a letter<\/strong> and drop it into the well<\/a>, so that Saint Rosita<\/a> may help them come true.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Visit the Magic Water Circuit<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Magic water circuit<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The 13 fountains<\/strong> of Lima\u2019s monumental Parque de la Reserva<\/a> \u2014 inaugurated in 1929 and open all day \u2014 come alive at night with a dazzling display of dancing water jets<\/strong>, colourful lights, laser projections, and images that reflect the history and traditions of the Peruvian capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officially opened in July 2007<\/strong>, the Magic Water Circuit<\/a> is now one of the city\u2019s must-see attractions. If you\u2019re travelling with children, this is an experience they absolutely won\u2019t forget. The nightly shows begin at 19:00 hours<\/strong> and run every evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Witness the Changing of the Guard<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Change of Guard<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

One of the highlights at Lima\u2019s Plaza de Armas is the daily changing of the guard<\/a> ceremony, held in the Courtyard of Honour<\/strong> at the Government Palace<\/strong>. This military ritual is a truly memorable spectacle<\/strong>, and the best part \u2014 it\u2019s free to watch! The ceremony starts at 11:45 hours<\/strong> and ends at 12:15 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During this event, the soldiers guarding the Government Palace<\/strong> are replaced by a new group, as both march in formation to the rhythm of a military band<\/strong>. The musicians perform traditional military pieces as well as iconic Peruvian melodies<\/strong> \u2014 including the beloved El C\u00f3ndor Pasa<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Be Amazed by the Catacombs of San Francisco<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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A Scary Walking Tour!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Beneath the peaceful cloisters and prayer halls of the San Francisco<\/a> <\/strong>Religious <\/strong>Complex \u2014 a jewel of colonial architecture in the New World \u2014 lie the remains of around 35,000 people<\/strong>, stored in the shadowy catacombs<\/strong> of this sacred site in Lima\u2019s Historic Centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For nearly three centuries<\/strong>, the mortal remains of Lima\u2019s residents were brought to San Francisco. There, in the narrow, dimly lit passageways of the catacombs<\/strong>, they were laid to rest in eternal peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. Set Sail on the Waters of Callao<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n
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Palomino Islands – Play with Sea Lions!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

If you\u2019re in Lima and believe that life is better at sea, take a short trip to the nearby port of Callao<\/strong> and hop aboard a tourist boat to explore the Cavinzas Islands and the Palomino Islets<\/a> \u2014 two Pacific Ocean sanctuaries teeming with biodiversity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During this ocean adventure, you\u2019ll spot colonies of South American sea lions<\/strong> and fur seals, along with a wide variety of seabirds<\/strong>. While you\u2019re in Peru\u2019s constitutional province<\/a>, don\u2019t miss the chance to explore the historic Real Felipe Fortress<\/strong>, the vibrant Monumental Callao cultural project, and the charming seaside district of La Punta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Free Walking Tours Peru<\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Secure your spot on our free tours led by professional, authorized, and expert guides in Free tour Cusco<\/a>, Free tour Lima<\/a>, Free tour Arequipa<\/a>, Free tour Barranco<\/a>, Free tour Magic Water Circuit<\/a>. Booking is free!<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n