3 days in Lima

Description:

This man-made viewpoint overlooks the River Rímac, the Estación de Trenes de Desamparados ( Train Station), Cerro San Cristóbal and many colonial residences of the Viceroyalty. It has three amphitheatres for the staging of popular Criollo (Creole) music performances. There are food stands to sample Lima's authentic snacks and desserts. During the city's Iberian-American Art Biennial large-format art pieces are exhibited here.

Our Local Expert Says:

Editors choice for Chinese restaurant (chifa)

Description:

One of the best and well-known Chifas (local slang for Chinese restaurants) is appropriately situated right in the heart of the Barrio Chino, in the centre of Lima. Hot or cold drinks accompany its colourful oriental dishes. The dining area is spacious and distinctly Chinese. Tourists frequently flock here for the combination Chinese-Peruvian cuisine, after trekking about the nearby historic centre of the city. A delicious Dim Sum and a traditional noodle and dumpling breakfast can be enjoyed when this Chifa opens in the early hours of the morning.

Our Local Expert Says:

Traditional restaurant frequented by President Alan Garcia

Description:

El Cordano opened in 1905 and has changed little over the passage of time. This traditional old bar and restaurant has been the haunt of numerous politicians and other important figures in Peru. It is situated a block away from the Plaza Mayor in the heart of downtown Lima, just beside the government palace and near many other sights and attractions. The establishment offers a greatly varied menu featuring local cuisine, meats, seafood, chicken, salads, desserts and fruit juices. Beer and other drinks are also available; the Chilcano de Pisco (made with soda, pisco and lemon) is highly recommended.

Description:

Built in the last part of the 18th century, this house was named in honour of its last proprietor, the distinguished writer Don José de la Riva Agüero. The Roman floor plan-introduced by the Spaniards-characteristically found in Lima, harmoniously integrates the ceramic tiles from Seville skirting the plinth of the interior walls. The passing of time and generations through the house is clearly reflected in the different styles of furnishings. It currently belongs to the Universidad Católica and houses the Instituto Riva Agüero Museo de Arte Popular, the Centro de Etnomusicología, dedicated to Andean music, as well as a vast library and historic archives, with over 60,000 volumes.

Description:

This is one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Lima, and one which has been notably influenced by French architecture. It was opened on the 28th July, 1921, in honour of the first centenary of the independence of Peru. It possesses great urban development value due to its architectural style and it has a monument to Jose de San Martin. At the moment, the ground is completely covered in paving stones. As part of the restoration and appreciation work which it has undergone, pastoral and republican-style fence posts have been erected and the ornamental streetlamps have been restored.

Our Local Expert Says:

The most important plaza in Peru

Description:

This is the oldest and most traditional spot in Lima. In fact, this is the place where Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded Lima; the first streets built here were the ones surrounding it. It houses the oldest and the most authentic monument in the city, that it, the brass fountain, placed there in 1651. The fountain and the Plaza as well have both survived through earthquakes, social revolts and urban development. Here you will find some very important and historical buildings like the Cathedral, the Archbishopric Palace, the Municipality and the Government Palace. The Official Act of Independence of Peru was proclaimed here, in1821, and the first bullfighting events were also held here. Another interesting spots nearby are the Casa del Oidor, the and very specially the Casa de Aliaga, property of the descendants of one of Lima first founders, still very well preserved. A must-see in your city tour.

Description:

It was built in 1901 to meet the demands of the Lima families who wanted to live on the outskirts of the city. They were tired of the classic architectural structure of the front courtyard and central pond, and were fans of French-style buildings. In the old days, this Avenue was lined with splendid old houses and to round it off, four marble urns and four statues depicting the seasons were brought from the Plaza de Armas.The passing of the years has meant that impressive, important buildings have been erected around and along the avenue, transforming it into an extension of the main road. From here, you can admire the Museum of Italian Art, Parque de la Exposicion, the Museum of National Art and Plaza Grau.

Description:

This palace was built in the early 18th century by Don José Tagle and Brachio, for domestic use. The main facade is made from stone in the first wing and plaster in the second. The style is Sevillian baroque with a strong Arabic influence. The materials used in its construction were brought from Spain, Panama and Central America. It has carved columns and finely worked balconies in dark wood, imitating colonial buildings. These balconies or miradors adapt the architecture to local tradition. It has Sevillian tiles, plasterwork, wooden columns and lobed arches. Currently, it functions as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Visits can be made by appointment only at the office of 'Imagen Institucional del organismo público'.

Description:

Inspired from the architecture of the Palace de Justice in Brussels and designed by the architect Bruno Paprocki, it was built on the site where a prison once stood. The Great Hall is surrounded by columns and decorated with monumental bronze lamps. The bust of the first president of the Supreme Court, Don Manuel Lorenzo de Vidaurre, rises from the centre. The work was finished in 1947 and is currently the seat of Peru's Judicial Power, leaving it inaccessible to all except those participating in judicial processes.

Description:

This extraordinary architectural work is found in front of the Plaza Major, and was the old house of the Marquis Francisco Pizarro, founder of the city of Lima in 1535. In July 1921, a fire destroyed the main rooms and objects of incalculable value. In 1938, during the government of Mariscal Benavides, the architect Ricardo De La Jara Malachoswsky built a new palace. It is a majestic work, which fulfils all the space and comfort requirements of modern life. The style, mainly baroque, is reminiscent of colonial art in Peru.

Description:

Located on the Plaza Mayor, this is one of Lima's most important historic monuments. Although the existent building was constructed in the mid-20th century, it retains elements of colonial design. The pinacotheca is interesting and the library contains veritable treasures including the written act of the city's founding, signed by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Impressive balconies.

Description:

Located just beside the Cathedral, side to side with the Capilla del Sagrario, this imposing Baroque palace occupies an entire block facing the city's main square, called Plaza Mayor. The place is not only the official residency of the current Cardinal, but also the administrative headquarters for the Catholic church in Peru. There is, however, an area for art exhibitions and open for tour visits (ask your tour guide). But even if you do not get to visit this little museum, the outside façade is a must see, with its outstanding and lavishly carved, dark wood balconies, a remembrance from the Viceroys era.

Our Local Expert Says:

Another Lima's underrated must-see

Description:

Located very close to Lima downtown, the Cerro San Cristobal (Saint Cristobal Hill) is a 400m high peak from which you can have a privileged, unique panoramic view of Lima: on a clear day, with a little luck, you may see the ships anchored at Callao Bay. Legends say that this hill was named got its name after an indigenous rebellion in 1536, after which a wooden cross was placed at the peak to protect the city. Nowadays there's a huge cross instead and a site museum that houses historic photos and documents of old Lima and related to the cross. But the best is the stunning panoramic view, specially in Summer or Spring. The best time is very early in the morning or late afternoon. You can take a bus at the Plaza the Armas (on weekends), which will take you to the top of the San Cristobal, stay there 20-30 minutes and then bring you back.

Our Local Expert Says:

Lovely gardens, imppressive cloisters, full of history

Description:

The construction for the first church and cloisters of the Dominican Order was completed in 1578. The Altar de Los Santos Peruanos-a magnificent neo-classical Altar to The Peruvian Saints is decorated in turquoise and gold. Other highlights include the chapel of San Martín de Porres, the altar to the Virgen del Rosario (Virgin of the Rosary) and the beautiful sculpture made by Italian artist Melchor Caffa of Santa Rosa de Lima. The church boasts one of the most beautiful panelled ceilings in Lima. A museum is open to the public and provides Spanish and English speaking guides, who receive voluntary donations. Admission required for museum.

Our Local Expert Says:

Impressive decor, a must for those interested in architecture

Description:

It is said that the Jesuits longed for a place of worship that was worthy of the Jesuit order, and so when the time came to build their church, they modeled it on the Iglesia de Gesú. The church was constructed between 1624 and 1638 by Martín de Aspirate, who built the three naves and a dome. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Peru. The church has baroque altars decorated in gold leaf, as well as a dazzling sacristy. Also of note are the numerous colonial paintings and the San Ignacio de Loyola altar. The church retains its original bell, La Abuelita, which is the oldest bell in the country.

Our Local Expert Says:

A visit to the catacombs is a must

Description:

This excellent example of baroque colonial architecture is comprised of the Convent of San Francisco, and the Capilla de la Soledad y del Milagro (Chapel of Solitude and of the Miracle), which has a neo-classical facade. Dating from 1542, an extensive system of catacombs lies beneath. The cloisters are famous for the authentic Sevillian tile work, which was completed in 1620. There is a Museum of Religious Art, the Zurbaran hall and a library. English and Spanish tours are available with a voluntary donation.

Description:

This church suffered extensive damages as a result of both the Civil War and a series of earthquakes. As a result, its tower and magnificent stone-carved façade no longer exist. (The façade you see now is baroque, and dates from the 18th century.) The main façade, the lateral walls and the main courtyard, with its beautiful arches, remained standing, and other valuable objects such as the choir stalls and the painting collection were also saved. Other notable features of the church are the magnificent stucco ceiling in the ante sacristy and the famous sculpture of death by Baltasar Gavilan. Admission and guided tours are free of charge.

Description:

This is one of the oldest mansions in the city. It was built in 1535, the year Lima was founded. It has large and luxurious rooms, which boast exceptional examples of colonial art. It also has a pretty interior courtyard which is typical of the period when it was built.

Description:

Located at the foot of the San Cristobal hill, the Convento de Los Descalzos was founded at the end of the 16th century by Father Andrés Corso as a place of spiritual retreat. Notable features inside include the Ayacuchan cloister, which has paintings in the form of an altarpiece representing the Stations of the Cross; the vestibule, which displays sculptures of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Claire; the order's private courtyard, which still has its original flooring; and the private chapel, which has a beautiful baroque-style façade. The museum has English and Spanish speaking guides who accept small donations from the visitors. Admission required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Chinese restaurants are known as chifas

Description:

Lima boasts the largest Chinese community in South America and in part, they have settled in this traditional Lima suburb, where the main road is the Boulevard de la calle Capitol. It has a striking Chinese arch built in 1971 as a symbol of friendship between Peru and China. It was built out of stone and the bases are covered in marble. One of the main attractions, apart from the significant oriental influence in the architecture, are the Chinese restaurants. These almost always have red lights inside or wooden palace lanterns encrusted with glass, replicas of ones used by the old Chinese emperors. If you want to leave a permanent imprint in this boulevard, the Chinese sells paving stones. You can write whatever message you like, from your name to the date of birth of your first grandchild.

Description:

This is considered one of the oldest houses in all of Lima, because it dates back to the 17th Century. According to local tradition, the women from Lima would hide behind the shutters of their balconies to watch what was happening in the square, without being seen. It was built shortly after the city was founded. At present, it is closed to the public, but its beautiful balconies can be seen from the square.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great way of touring downtown Lima

Description:

To evoke the Lima of old, simply get on one of these beautiful horse-drawn carriages which will allow you to enjoy a relaxing tour around the Plaza Major. The carriages are a tourist attraction in themselves and many people prefer just to take photographs of them, with the architectural splendours around the Plaza in the background. There are 8 carriages in total, although normally only three are used at any one time. This is a perfect mean of transportation in order sightseeing the city while taking pictures.

Our Local Expert Says:

The remains of conquistador Francisco Pizarro lie here.

Description:

The greatest religious monument in Lima, is first stone was laid by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, soon after Lima's foundation. The interior has 15 chapels, including the one that showcases Pizarro's remains. The Cathedral's latin cross design also features typical the typical baroque architecture, with lots of carvings and marble floorings. Two of the most attractive altars are the ones dedicated to St. Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo and to the Virgen de la Evangelizacion, and also the choir stalls. The sacristy serves also as Museum of Religious Art, that exhibits art pieces and sacred artifacts, as well as liturgical outfits, relics and furnishings.

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite B&B for weary travelers

Description:

This two-story hotel is two blocks from Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of the Sighs). Each of the five guestrooms has two balconies overlooking the ocean and offers complimentary high-speed Internet. A business center, art gallery, and complimentary Continental breakfasts each morning are among the amenities offered.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nice place for a romantic stroll

Description:

Built in the late 1800s, this Bridge of Sighs is a landmark in the Barranco district, so called for the lovers who steal away here. The area has quality eateries and food vendors gather here to sell typical local food at affordable prices. Initially the structure stood 44 metres long by three metres wide and eight and one half metres high, but was reduced to ease car traffic flow.

Our Local Expert Says:

Visit the outskirts of Lima to see pre-Inca ruins

Description:

In April 2002, some real-life "Indiana Joneses" announced the discovery of a tremendous Incan burial ground near Lima. Archeologists uncovered the remains of thousands of mummified bodies and scores of artifacts that date back five centuries. While the site is still being excavated, the nearby Pachacamac ruins are open to the public and a good day trip during the tail end of the dry fall season. Visitors can walk among pre-Incan temples, palaces and dwellings. Intrepid folks who climb the Sun Temple pyramid on clear days are rewarded with a lovely view of the coast. Admission required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great for night life

Description:

What was once the number one beach resort in Lima is now a bohemian barrio par excellence-preferred by artists, writers and lovers for its serenity and idyllic atmosphere. The area has flourished again, over the last 15 years and its parks and republican-style mansions have regained past splendour. Cross the Puente de los Suspiros to the scenic pier overlooking the Pacific ocean. Catch a musical or cultural performance in one of the barrio's plazas, stroll along the boulevard and stop in at one of the many bars, such as La Noche.

Description:

Since the start of the 20th century, San Isidro has been characterised by the sobriety of a wealthy suburb. It is the garden district of Lima, and it radiates with green areas. The 'El Olivar' area stands out, so called for the hundreds of olive trees which grow in its parks. Here you find the best restaurants, hotels, areas of entertainment and the most famous shows in the capital.In recent years, it has also become an important business centre which now houses banks, ministries and some government organisations. Visiting 'Huaca Huallamarca', an occasional venue for artistic shows, is a must.

Our Local Expert Says:

It's a must-see during summer months

Description:

Actually, this is not a beach, but a complex of beaches lined up one after the other, connected by a road that runs by the sea along several coastal Lima districts; San Miguel, Magdalena, San Isidro, Miraflores, Barranco, and Chorrillos. These beaches are located under cliffs, and before going down you can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the beaches and the ocean; and if you are a surfer, you will find some very good waves here at any time of the year, as well as some very good gourmet restaurants, like La Rosa Nautica, Cala or El Salto del Fraile, for example. Some of the most visited beaches here are La Pampilla, Makaha, Waikiki, Redondo and La Herradura; the most popular is undoubtedly Agua Dulce, in Chorrillos, than can get really crowded in summer, so if you want to experience a real day at the beach for many locals, we suggest you to arrive early. And to take good care of your belongings.

Description:

Nestled within a historic mansion, this museum has a lot to offer its visitors. Step into the Palacio de Osma and you will find art in all forms, be it linen cloth, wood or metal; glass and leather have not been left out either! And these centuries-old paintings hail from places as far as Italy, Bolivia, Quito, Mexico, and Germany. The gallery hosts temporary exhibitions also. Check the website for more details.

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Originally owned by the Mujica family, who then donated it to the Peruvian government

Description:

Peruvian businessman Miguel Mujica Gallo spent his entire life collecting different archaeological artifacts and weapons from all over the world, to create what is now one of the largest museums in Lima. On display is an extremely impressive collection of pre-Hispanic gold, silver and semiprecious stones, as well as ceramics and textiles from the Mochica, Chimú and Vicús cultures. Beautiful tumis, idols and masks sit in large exhibition cases, obsequies that demonstrate the impressive technological advances made in metallurgy, and uses of gold by the inhabitants of ancient Peru. In addition to archaeological finds, this museum displays an impressive collection of weapons from different eras and parts of the world. Admission required.

Description:

This enormous state building exemplifies the architecture of the military government of the 70s. It was re-opened as a museum in 1990, and today has four floors of exhibitions. There are replicas of pre-colonial life, along with ceramics from various cultures and reproductions of the country's main archaeological sites. Throughout the museum, visitors can follow a series of educational illustrations, models and collections representing different aspects of the development of ancient Peru. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the galleries also house temporary exhibits. Parking is available. Admission required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Biggest erotic Inca pottery display in the world

Description:

This museum houses impressive collections of ancient Peruvian pottery and metalurgy, including silver and gold objects; but probably its most famous collection is the "Sala Erótica" ("Erotic Hall") and its ancient pottery pieces depicting many sexual practices of Moche's civilization (however minors are not allowed here). The museum has also a nice cafeteria, "Cafe del Museo", a museum shop called "Galeria del Museo", a H. Stern jewellery shop (with pieces inspired in ancient Peruvian cultures) and a alpaca garments shop, "Alpaca 111". General Admission: S/. 30 (Students and under-15 years old, S/. 15). Open Hours: Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm (including holidays).

Our Local Expert Says:

The city's best residential and shopping district

Description:

It is the district of gardens and the busiest beaches of the city. Without a doubt, it is also the tourist and hotels district par excellence. Modern, cheerful, colourful, very pleasant to stroll about and enjoy the large commercial areas, parks and green spaces. It is an area of intense artistic and cultural activity which unfolds in the good theatres, cinemas and art galleries; and it is also the site of the pre-Inca temple Hauca Pucllana. Visit its cafés, pubs and restaurants and take in the fresh air at its restored gardens which on Sundays, attracts hundreds of locals and tourists to the painting exhibitions and music events.

Our Local Expert Says:

Very interesting for those who love history.

Description:

This imposing monument has remained impervious to the ravages of time, and modern civilisation and stands surrounded by the asphalt jungle. The two-story construction is made of adobe with a steep ramp leading to the upper level. Archaeological excavations have unearthed mummies, on display with ancient objects inside the on-site museum.

Our Local Expert Says:

Very interesting Site Museum

Description:

An impressive Inca sanctuary which is considered, along with Cusco, to be the main place of worship in pre-Hispanic Peru. It is made from adobe bricks and inside you'll find the Templo del Sol, the Templo de Urpi Wachak and the Templo de la Luna or Acllawasi. Its Quechua name means "that which gives life to the world". It is surrounded by various monuments, with temples, small palaces and carefully restored houses, and a spacious museum which contains a collection of archaeological pieces discovered in the area during the excavations. Admission required.

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite B&B for weary travelers

Description:

This two-story hotel is two blocks from Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of the Sighs). Each of the five guestrooms has two balconies overlooking the ocean and offers complimentary high-speed Internet. A business center, art gallery, and complimentary Continental breakfasts each morning are among the amenities offered.

Description:

This is Peru's main port and is of great historical importance. It was founded in 1537 to act as an embarcation point for Peru's ancient treasures which were bound for Spain. Here you find the famous 'Fortaleza del Real Felipe' (fortress) which played an important part in the many battles for independence. Another point of interest is the resort of 'La Punta' where Lima's wealthy families lived between the 1920s and the end of the 1950s. To the North-East, facing the coastline, are the islands of San Lorenzo, with its relative archaeological importance; Palomino; Cabinzas and El Frontón, which was, up until some years ago, the headquarters of Peru's most famous prison. It has several rocky beaches, a picturesque pier and very good restaurants.

Our Local Expert Says:

Off the beaten path!

Description:

Located to the northwest of Callao sea, San Lorenzo is considered to be the largest and the highest island in the Peruvian coast. It is 8km long and 2km wide, and covers an area of 17.6 km; it has some small beaches, caves, cliffs and reefs. Despite being a small place, and despite its lack of water sources, and it is full of history, because during the colonial times it was a hideway for pirates, and then it was a prison. According to a local historian, the pirate Jacques L'Hermite Clerk is buried here. San Lorenzo island is also a haven for natural life (mainly birds and seals) and endangered species, which is also the reason why many tourism agencies organize visits to this place. During the low tide you may also have a glimpse of the remains of an old section of the Callao port, which was sunk after the big 1746 earthquake.

Description:

This museum has a good collection of paintings and uniforms related to the country's naval forces. Here you can also see the logbook belonging to Admiral Grau, a Peruvian naval hero who died in the historic late-19th century Battle of Angamos against the Chilean troops. Admission is free, and the museum is very near the Plaza Grau in Callao. For those who love war relics, the port of Callao is a good place to walk around. In addition to this museum, the Military History Museum at the Real Felipe Fortress is also worth a visit.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Alcatraz of Lima

Description:

Isla El Fronton is a colossal rock structure which, for years, served as a penal colony and a feared political prison. At the moment, it is abandoned, but tourists who wish to know something about this coastal area occasionally visit, and the island became legendary after a prison riot in 1986. As on the other Callao islands, seal colonies provide a beautiful view. It is accessible by boat and by ferry, which departs from Puerto del Callao. The journey takes 30 minutes on average.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great spot for kids

Description:

A stone-wall fort in a pentagonal shape, which was built to repel attacks from pirates and privateers. It played an important part in the battle for independence. It was designed by the architect Luis Gaudin, and was finished by the Viceroy Amat in 1773. It was called Felipe V, in honour of the first Bourbon king of Spain, who died in 1746. The defence requirements of the building and the intention that it should have an austere aspect, meant there was no use for embellishments, so that the resulting structure was a homogenous design, in tune with the neo-classical style. It presently houses the 'Museo del Ejército' (Military Museum).

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite B&B for weary travelers

Description:

This two-story hotel is two blocks from Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of the Sighs). Each of the five guestrooms has two balconies overlooking the ocean and offers complimentary high-speed Internet. A business center, art gallery, and complimentary Continental breakfasts each morning are among the amenities offered.