Lima

Lima – The City of Kings

Lima, Peru’s bustling capital, is a dynamic metropolis where history, culture, and modernity converge. Perched on the Pacific coast, it’s the largest city in the country and serves as a gateway to Peru’s rich heritage. Known as the “City of Kings,” Lima was founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and became the heart of Spain’s colonial empire in South America. Today, Lima is a vibrant city that offers an eclectic mix of colonial architecture, world-renowned cuisine, lively neighbourhoods, and stunning coastal landscapes. With its thriving cultural scene and deep historical roots, Lima is an essential stop for any traveller exploring Peru.

Top Attractions in Lima

1. Historic Centre of Lima

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lima’s historic centre is a treasure trove of colonial-era architecture. Highlights include the Plaza Mayor (Main Square), where the grandiose Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop’s Palace stand as testaments to the city’s colonial past. The nearby San Francisco Monastery is a must-see, famous for its baroque architecture and eerie catacombs that once served as an underground cemetery.

2. Miraflores

One of Lima’s most popular and upscale districts, Miraflores is perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s home to the Malecón, a picturesque promenade that offers stunning ocean views and is a hotspot for joggers, bikers, and paragliders. Miraflores is also known for its vibrant nightlife, high-end restaurants, and the Larcomar Shopping Centre, built into the cliffs with spectacular sea views. The Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pre-Inca pyramid made of adobe, adds a historical touch to this modern district.

3. Barranco

Known as Lima’s bohemian neighbourhood, Barranco is a charming area filled with colourful colonial houses, art galleries, and street murals. It’s a hub for Lima’s creative community and a great spot to experience the city’s thriving art and music scenes. The Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros) is a romantic landmark surrounded by lush gardens and offers a picturesque setting for evening strolls.

4. Lima’s Museums

Lima boasts some of the best museums in Peru, showcasing its rich history and cultural diversity. The Larco Museum, housed in an 18th-century mansion, features a vast collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, including intricate ceramics and gold treasures. The Museum of the Nation provides a comprehensive overview of Peru’s ancient civilisations, while the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) highlights Lima’s modern artistic talents.

5. Parque Kennedy and the Cats

Located in the heart of Miraflores, Parque Kennedy is a lively park known for its abundance of friendly stray cats that have become an endearing symbol of the area. The park often hosts artisan fairs and live performances, making it a great spot to relax and soak up the local culture.

6. Costa Verde

Stretching along the Pacific coastline, the Costa Verde is a series of beaches and green spaces popular for surfing, sunbathing, and dining at beachfront restaurants. The waves of the Pacific make it a top destination for surfers, and its seafood restaurants are perfect for trying ceviche, Lima’s signature dish.

Lima’s Culinary Scene

Lima is widely regarded as the culinary capital of South America and is home to several world-renowned restaurants, such as Central, Maido, and Astrid & Gastón, which consistently rank among the world’s best. The city is famous for its diverse and innovative cuisine that blends indigenous, European, Asian, and African influences. Must-try dishes include ceviche, Peru’s national dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, and lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish with Chinese-inspired flavours. Lima’s street food scene is equally enticing, offering treats like anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) and picarones (sweet potato doughnuts).

Unique Experiences in Lima

• Paragliding in Miraflores: Adventurous travellers can soar over the cliffs of Miraflores with a tandem paragliding experience, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
• Magic Water Circuit: The Circuito Mágico del Agua in the Parque de la Reserva is an enchanting display of illuminated fountains that come alive at night with music and light shows.
• Pisco Tasting: Learn about Peru’s national drink, pisco, at local bars or through guided tasting tours. The Pisco Sour, a cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, egg white, and bitters, is a must-try.

Fun Facts about Lima

• Lima is the second-largest desert city in the world, after Cairo, with a dry climate and minimal rainfall.
• The city was once the wealthiest in South America during the Spanish colonial period, serving as the seat of the Spanish Viceroyalty.
• Lima’s iconic dish, ceviche, is celebrated every June 28th on National Ceviche Day.

Whether exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in world-class cuisine, or enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere, Lima offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Its dynamic energy and rich cultural offerings make it an unforgettable destination for travellers seeking to experience the best of Peru.