Lima Things To Do: The Ultimate Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Lima is the capital of Peru and the largest metropolitan area in the country. Located on the Pacific coast, it’s a vibrant city and a center for culture and art. With a rich history, diverse architecture, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, Lima is a great destination for those looking to experience South America in a unique way.

A Brief History of Lima

Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was initially known as the City of Kings. It was the capital of Spanish South America and an important center of trade and government. Throughout its history, Lima has been home to many different cultures and in the mid-19th century it was an important center of ideas and intellectual development.

Today, Lima is a vibrant city with over 8 million residents. It is the political, cultural, and economic center of Peru and a hub for international trade. It is renowned for its rich colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, biking, and kayaking.

What to Do in Lima

Explore Historic Colonial Architecture

Lima is a city rich in history and colonial architecture. The city’s most famous landmark is the Presidential Palace of Peru, which is located in Plaza Mayor. The palace was built in 1535 and is considered one of Lima’s most important buildings. Other notable buildings include the Archbishop’s Palace, San Francisco Convent, and Santo Domingo Church.

Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums, including the National Museum of Peruvian Art, the Museum of Gold, and the Larco Museum. Each museum offers a unique experience that is sure to pique the interest of history buffs.

Stroll Through the City’s Parks

Lima is home to a number of parks that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Parque Kennedy is one of the city’s most popular parks, located in the Miraflores district. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air while taking in the views of Lima’s skyline. Other parks include Parque de la Reserva, Parque del Amor, and Parque El Olivar.

Shop at Local Markets

For visitors looking to shop, Lima has a variety of markets that offer goods ranging from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Mercado Central de Lima is one of the city’s most popular markets, located in the historic center of Lima. It’s a great place to find local souvenirs and explore Peru’s unique culture. Other markets include Mercado de Surquillo, Mercado de San Isidro, and Mercado 28 de Julho.

Experience Lima’s Nightlife

Lima’s nightlife is vibrant and exciting with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The city has something for everyone from lively bars to upscale nightclubs. Popular spots include Barranco Beer Company, El Dragon Rojo, and La Noche.

Sample Delicious Cuisine

A trip to Lima would not be complete without sampling some of the city’s delicious cuisine. Ceviche is one of Peru’s most popular dishes and can be found in many restaurants throughout Lima. Other popular dishes include Anticuchos (grilled beef heart) and Pachamanca (a traditional dish made with pork or beef).

The Best Tours in Lima

Lima Half-Day City Tour

This tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Lima’s historic center and learn about the city’s rich history. The tour includes stops at Plaza Mayor, Santo Domingo Church, and San Francisco Convent. Visitors will also get to explore some of the city’s popular neighborhoods such as Miraflores and Barranco. The tour also includes a visit to Huaca Pucllana, an ancient archaeological site that was once a ceremonial center for the Lima culture. This tour is perfect for those looking to get a comprehensive overview of Lima. Book a Lima Half-Day City Tour here.

Taste of Peru Food Tour

This tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through Lima’s culinary scene, allowing them to sample some of the city’s best dishes. The tour includes visits to 5 different restaurants where visitors will get to experience authentic Peruvian cuisine. At each stop, visitors will get to sample dishes such as Ceviche, Anticuchos, Pachamanca, and other traditional dishes. This tour is perfect for food lovers looking to learn about Peruvian cuisine in an interactive way. Book a Taste of Peru Food Tour here.

Lima Nightlife Pub-Crawl Tour

This tour offers visitors an opportunity to experience Lima’s vibrant nightlife scene in an interactive way. The tour includes stops at 5 different bars where visitors will get to sample local drinks such as Pisco Sour and Chilcano while enjoying live music and dancing. The tour also includes visits to some of the city’s most popular nightclubs such as La Noche and El Dragon Rojo. This tour is perfect for those looking to party in Lima in an organized way. Book a Lima Nightlife Pub-Crawl Tour here.

Conclusion

Lima is an incredible city with plenty to offer visitors looking for a unique experience in South America. From exploring colonial architecture to sampling local cuisine and experiencing Lima’s vibrant nightlife scene, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Lima has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Book a tour today and start your journey!