Lima: strolling along with your kids.

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:

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.

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:

Beautiful set-up inside the Huaca Pucyana

Description:

La Hamaca, is a three story mansion that caters to the culinary needs of the locals. The restaurant generally serves delicious Peruvian fare but also incorporates the contemporary ones. Try out the traditional specialties like criollo, ají de gallina and tacu tacu-a preparations of rice and beans-they are very satisfying. The interiors command a lot of attention, with antique art deco pieces. Friday and Saturday nights, La Hamaca features dance nights on the third floor-another reason to visit La Hamaca!

Our Local Expert Says:

Very nice view of the Pacific Ocean and a paraglider's paradise

Description:

This is a unique park in Lima, located on Miraflores, along the Pacific Ocean shoreline, and is dedicated to celebrate love: it was inaugurated on Feb. 14, 1993, during St. Valentine's celebrations, placing there a huge sculpture called "The Kiss", by local artist Víctor Delfín. The sculpture represents a couple kissing, and is 12m long and 3m high. This park is located by the Villena bridge, a place where many young couples like to enjoy the sunset by the sea. Also, many newlyweds come here to have their wedding pictures taken. It is located within walking distance from Larcomar Shopping Center and from the Kennedy Park (Miraflores Central Park) and also pretty close from the spot where paragliders use to take off to start their flights over the district.

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.

Description:

Larco Avenue is at the center of the Miraflores district, where old and modern architecture blend together. The avenue stretches from Miraflores Circle to Salazar Park, where you can continue underground into Larcomar Plaza. Above ground, people stroll along Larco Avenue while visiting a myriad of shops and attractions, ranging from movie theaters and art galleries to bookstores, music shops, and clothing stores. Musicians perform in nearby parks along with small theater productions that provide a good dose of free entertainment after a long day of shopping. - Jorge Arevalo

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:

Olive trees planted in the XVII century create a nice ambiance

Description:

This park had its origins in an old, huge olive plantation established during the Viceroyalty years. Visiting means taking a fresh, relaxing break from the stressed city's routines: legends state that the Peruvian Saint San Martin de Porras was one of the founders of this place, which actually used to be part of the Limatambo farm, owned by the Dominican order. Nowadays, it is very popular among families, neighborhood residents and birdwatchers; it is also a usual scenery for newlywed couples, who come here to have their first photos taken here, especially under a legendary tree that is supposed to be more than 300 years old..

Our Local Expert Says:

Great display of Inca and Pre-Inca pottery and textiles

Description:

This is the oldest and the most important museum run by the state, due to the huge number (more than 10,000) of artifacts it houses in its exhibition halls and repositories as well: pottery, textiles, metal and stone objects, among many other surprises from ancient Peru history, but also documents and photographs from colonial and republican times. This is a museum commited to researching, conservation and dissemination of Peruvian cultural heritage and knowledge. And this is the museum which displays the Peruvian history´s complete chronology in a clear, didactic way. It is located at a historic building too, since a Spanish Viceroy and two of the Peruvian Independence heros lived here. The museum includes a virtual exhibition room specially intended for children, and in 2010 opened a hall dedicated to the cultures of the Amazon regions. The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English for S/. 15 (for groups of up to 15 people).

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.

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:

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.

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.

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:

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.

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:

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:

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.

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.

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.

Description:

The museum houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, ranging from pre-Columbian to modern Peruvian art and holds its widely attended annual auction benefit. Their Filmoteca de Lima cinema house features art and classic films, and there is a book store and gift shop. The museum also offers courses. Admissionrequired. Private parking is available.

Description:

The construction of this park, formerly know as Parque de la Exposicion, generated much controversy in the capital. The idea was to put "culture within the reach of the majority," an objective that was reached with the help of a multi-million dollar investment. The park has several different stages for live performances. Most of these performances are free, and the productions have something to offer audiences of all ages. Everything from puppeteers to open theater to musicals from all over the world can be enjoyed here.

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.

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.

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:

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).