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Lima is the capital and largest port of Peru. Located in western Peru, on the Pacific Ocean, Lima enjoys little rainfall year-round, earning it the world-renowned "Rainless City," while winters are often foggy and humid. Lima was chosen as Peru's capital in 1535 due to its convenient harbor. Throughout much of the colonial era, Lima remained the most important center of political and commercial power in South America. This glorious past is reflected in colonial architecture, such as the Catacombs of the Monastery of St. Francis, the Central Plaza, and the Plaza de San Marino. These structures have earned Lima UNESCO World Heritage status.
Best from August to October
Larco Museum
The museum houses countless exquisite pottery, gold and silver artifacts, and feather textiles. A major hit was the exhibition of erotic pottery from the pre-Columbian period, which depicted ancient Peruvian sexual scenes in a rather explicit way.
San Francisco Monastery
It is famous for its catacombs, which are home to over 70,000 people, and its excellent library, which houses countless ancient scriptures. The church itself is one of the best-preserved colonial churches in Lima, influenced by the Moorish Baroque style.
The crypts were rediscovered in 1943 and are believed to be vast, connected to the cathedral and other churches via secret passages. The crypts are eerie yet filled with beautiful art, with carefully arranged assemblages of human bones visible through gratings as you walk through the church.
Lima, founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, is the capital of Peru. It served as the center of Spanish colonial administration in South America. Today, it is Peru’s cultural, political, and economic hub, known for its historic architecture, rich gastronomy, and coastal scenery.
Lima is on the central coast of Peru, along the Pacific Ocean. Accessible via Jorge Chávez International Airport. Within the city, use taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, or walking for short distances. Metro line 1 connects key districts.
Museums typically open 9:00–18:00, parks are open early morning to evening. Best time to visit is May to September when weather is dry and sunny.
Booking in advance is recommended for Larco Museum and Magic Water Circuit, especially in high season. 1–2 weeks ahead is sufficient.
2–4 days to cover major districts, museums, and beaches comfortably.
Yes, guided tours are available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. Audio guides offered in major museums like Larco Museum.
Start at the Historic Center, then visit Miraflores and Huaca Pucllana. Spend an afternoon in Barranco exploring street art, then end with the Magic Water Circuit at night. Culinary tours can be interspersed in any day.
Historic center is busiest mornings and weekends. Best to visit weekdays and early mornings for fewer crowds. May–September sees fewer rain-related disruptions.
Museums and parks provide toilets, cafes, restaurants, benches, and souvenir shops. Public water fountains and resting areas are common in parks and plazas.
Main museums, parks, and commercial areas are generally accessible. Some historic buildings and archaeological sites have limited wheelchair access.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but small markets and street vendors may require cash (Peruvian Sol).
Yes, Lima has vegetarian and vegan restaurants, as well as some halal-friendly eateries, particularly in Miraflores and San Isidro.
Yes, typical souvenirs include alpaca textiles, handcrafted jewelry, Peruvian coffee, pottery, and local art.
Jorge Chávez International Airport for domestic and international flights. Within the city, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and bus services connect districts. Buses to nearby towns and tour operators offer day trips.
