Lima Travel Guide
Lima is a vibrant, sprawling metropolis that serves as the culinary capital of Latin America, seamlessly blending ancient archaeological sites with colonial grandeur and modern coastal living. Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it offers a unique atmosphere where history and contemporary innovation collide.
About Lima
Founded on January 18, 1535, by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was originally named the 'City of Kings' and served as the administrative, political, and economic center of the Viceroyalty of Peru. For centuries, it was the most important city in the Spanish dominions of South America, boasting a rich architectural legacy that includes grand cathedrals, convents, and palatial mansions that still define its historic center today. Before the Spanish arrival, the region was inhabited by various indigenous cultures, such as the Lima and Wari, who left behind impressive adobe structures like Huaca Pucllana. Following its colonial peak, the city played a pivotal role in the struggle for independence, which was officially proclaimed in 1821, marking the beginning of its evolution into the modern, diverse capital of the Republic of Peru.
Lima’s culture is a rich tapestry woven from indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences, which is most famously expressed through its world-renowned gastronomy. The city is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from traditional ceviche and lomo saltado to innovative fusion cuisine that has earned it global acclaim. The local lifestyle is a mix of bustling urban energy and relaxed coastal charm, particularly in neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco, where art galleries, cafes, and ocean-view parks thrive. Traditions in Lima are deeply rooted in religious and social celebrations, with the city’s historic center serving as a living museum of colonial art and architecture. The local arts scene is equally dynamic, ranging from pre-Columbian artifacts housed in world-class museums to contemporary street art and music that reflect the city's diverse, multicultural population.
Practical info
Quick facts
- Lima is the second-largest city in the world located in a desert, surpassed only by Cairo, Egypt.
- The city's historic center is home to a massive complex of catacombs beneath the San Francisco Monastery, containing the remains of approximately 25,000 people.
- Lima is widely considered the 'Gastronomic Capital of the Americas,' with several of its restaurants consistently ranked among the best in the world.
- The city features an ancient adobe pyramid, Huaca Pucllana, which was built by the Lima culture between 100 AD and 650 AD and sits right in the middle of the modern Miraflores district.
- Lima is home to the oldest university in the Americas, the National University of San Marcos, founded in 1551.
Top things to do in Lima
The 0 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Lima?
The currency in Lima, Peru is Sol (PEN).
What language is spoken in Lima?
Spanish is the primary language spoken in Lima.
What's the weather like in Lima?
Mild, desert-like climate with high humidity and frequent coastal fog, characterized by cool, cloudy winters and warm, sunny summers.
How many days do you need in Lima?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Lima. With 0+ attractions and 0+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Lima?
Top picks include Plaza Mayor, Larco Museum, Huaca Pucllana, San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs, Miraflores Boardwalk (Malecón).
Plan Lima in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
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