Ultimate Guide: Top Things to Do in Lima, Peru (2025 Edition)

Looking for the best things to do in Lima, Peru? Whether you're visiting for a few days or longer, Lima offers a perfect blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and coastal charm. This guide reveals the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

⭐⭐⭐Top-rated Things to Do in Lima

- For Solo Travellers: Free Walking Tour in Lima Centre
- For Group of Friends: Bicycle Tour along Lima’s Coastline
- For Adventurers: Paragliding over Lima

🏛️1. Explore Lima’s Historic Center (Centro Histórico)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, the Historic Center is a top attraction in Lima, showcasing colonial architecture, including:

Plaza Mayor: The heart of Lima with the Government Palace and Cathedral.
Basilica of San Francisco: Famous for its catacombs, baroque design, and rich history.
Jiron de la Union: a shopping street with a blend of magnificent buildings and spanish balconies

🌄 2. Stroll Along the Miraflores Malecón

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views while walking or cycling along the Miraflores clifftop parks:

Parque del Amor: Known for its romantic sculptures and colorful mosaics.
Larcomar: A modern shopping and dining complex with stunning coastal views.

🌟 3. Discover Barranco: Lima’s Bohemian District

Barranco is Lima’s artsy neighborhood, perfect for creative souls. Don’t miss:

Street Art & Galleries: Vibrant murals, art spaces, and hip cafes.
Puente de los Suspiros: A charming bridge surrounded by legends and local folklore.

🍜 4. Indulge in Peruvian Gastronomy

Lima is the culinary capital of South America. Treat your taste buds with:

Ceviche: Peru’s national dish, best enjoyed fresh by the coast.

Starters: Causa Limeña, Papa a la Huancaina; Main courses: Lomo Saltado, Arroz con Pollo. Desserts Picarones or Mazamorra Morada.
Food Tours: Explore local markets, hidden eateries, and top-rated restaurants.
Here also our Updated List of The Best Restauran ts in Lima, for you to enjoy the best Peruvian food.

🌊 5. Experience the Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua)

The Magic Water Circuit, is located in Parque de la Reserva, this world-record fountain complex offers:

Nightly Light Shows: Mesmerizing displays of water, light, and music.
Family-Friendly Activities: A fun experience for all ages.
Special show: at the main fountain at 7pm, 8pm and 9pm

🚶🏽‍♂️6. Take a Free Walking Tour in Lima

Discover Lima’s history and culture with a local guide. A free walking tour is ideal for:

Hidden Gems: Explore off-the-beaten-path spots.
Cultural Insights: Learn fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides.
Tip-Based: pay what you consider it’s worth it at the end of the tour.

🚴 7. Go on a Bike Tour Along the Costa Verde

A Bicycle Tour is a thrilling way to see Lima’s coastline, passing through:

Miraflores & Barranco: Scenic routes with ocean views. The Park of Love, the Bridge of Sighs and the amazing street Art along Barranco.
Local Hotspots: Perfect photo opportunities along the way.
Skip the traffic: the city is well connected with bike lanes.

🌎 8. Visit the Larco Museum (Museo Larco)

Dive into Peru’s rich history at this renowned museum featuring:

Pre-Columbian Artifacts: Ancient ceramics, textiles, and jewelry with more than 5000 years of Prehispanic past.
Beautiful Gardens: A peaceful setting to relax after your tour.

🌴 9. Relax at the Beaches of Lima’s Costa Verde

Ideal for beach lovers and surf lessons, the Costa Verde offers:

Surf Spots: Popular beaches like Waikiki and Makaha, with excellent conditions all year long.
Seaside Restaurants: Enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views.

🪂 10. Paragliding Over the Costa Verde

For adventure enthusiasts, Paragliding offers spectacular aerial views of Lima’s coastline and cityscape.

the experience takes about 12min in the sky, you won’t regret it, Just do it!

11. Explore Huaca Pucllana in Miarflores

“Huaca” is the given name for the Ceremonial and administrative site of different pre-hispanic cultures.

At Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores, you can:

Have a better understanding of the organization and daily life of the different cultures even before the Incas.
This ancient adobe pyramid in the heart of Miraflores offers guided tours that unveil Lima’s pre-Incan history.

12. Swim with the Sea Lions in the Islands of Lima

Visiting Palomino Islands is an adventure to a surreal and magical place about 6 miles away from the coast of Lima.

Dipping into the waters of the Pacific Ocean to enjoy a close experience with playful sea lions.
The boat trip takes about 3 hours, also enjoying the views of San Lorenzo: the biggest Island of Peru; and El Frontón: the Peruvian version of Alcatraz prision.

🤔 13. FAQs About Things to Do in Lima, Peru

How many days should I spend in Lima? At least 2-3 days to cover the highlights.
Is Lima safe for tourists? Yes, with standard travel precautions.
What’s the best time to visit Lima? From December to April for sunny weather. Anyhow winter isn’t that cold (15ºC/60ºF)

🚀 Plan Your Trip to Lima Today!

Lima offers endless adventures for every traveler. From historical landmarks to mouthwatering cuisine, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Lima, Peru. Ready to explore? Book your tours now and start your unforgettable journey!

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