15 Best Things to Do in Lima 2025

When planning a trip to Lima, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the countless options of things to do. From historic sites and lively neighborhoods to stunning ocean views and mouth-watering local dishes, Lima offers experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip, you’re in the right place. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 15 best things to do in Lima in 2026. Let’s get started with some of the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.

Quick tip: Visit the official Tourist Information Center in Miraflores, where you can find Sim Cards, Money Exchange, Free Wi-Fi, Free Maps, and an ATM machine.

1. MUST DO: Take a day trip to Paracas and Huacachina

• Huacachina – A unique desert oasis surrounded by the largest sand dunes in South America.
• Paracas – Stunning beach town which is home of the “Peruvian Galapagos” full of sea lions and penguins.

A day trip from Lima to Huacachina and Paracas is simply a MUST thing to do on any trip to Lima. Ensure you travel with a company who offer big luxury buses and not minibuses, as it’s a long day of travel.

2. Hands-on experience at Luchito’s Cooking Class

If you want to experience a taste of what Peru has to offer in a unique way, don’t miss out on Luchito’s Peruvian Cooking Class!

In this hands-on experience in Miraflores, you will learn how to make ceviche, causa and Pisco Sour with real Peruvian chefs! The cooking class makes a perfect stop for those who want to discover some of Peru’s taste.

Make sure to book your cooking class now!

3. Free Walking Tour Lima

At Peru Hop, we believe the best way to truly experience a place is through the eyes of a local, and Lima is no exception. A Free Walking Tour in Lima allows you to explore the capital city while learning about the rich history and vibrant culture that shape it today.

There are three main tours available, each showcasing a different part of the city:

• Historic Center of Lima: Walk through the heart of Lima and uncover its colonial history, including iconic landmarks like Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima.
• Miraflores: This coastal district offers stunning views and a look into Lima’s modern side, with beautiful parks and lively streets.
• Barranco: Known for its bohemian vibe, this tour will take you through Lima’s most artistic district, filled with colorful murals, unique cafes, and vibrant nightlife.

Each tour lasts about 3 hours, with friendly local guides providing insights into the city’s past and present. Departures are available every day from the Tourist Information Center in Miraflores.

For those with a love for food, there’s also the Mercado Central Tour, where you can visit the famous Central Market, sample delicious street food, and taste exotic Peruvian fruits and vegetables.

Here are the departure times for each tour:

• Historic Center of Lima (10:30 AM)
• Miraflores (3:30 PM)
• Barranco (4:30 PM)
• Foodie Tour (9:30 AM)

4. Enjoy a meal and cocktail at Saha’s rooftop

Take the time to enjoy the best local cuisine in Lima. Saha offers a unique dining experience with a fusion of traditional Peruvian flavors and contemporary culinary techniques. Located in the heart of Miraflores, Saha’s rooftop provides the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Their menu features a variety of classic dishes, such as Ceviche Limeño, fresh fish marinated with Peruvian spices and served with sweet potatoes, onions, and corn, as well as the famous Lomo Saltado, a flavorful stir-fried beef dish with tomatoes, onions, and a dash of Peruvian yellow chili, served with rice and crispy French fries.

The rooftop bar at Saha is known for its expertly crafted cocktails, made by award-winning bartenders. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing mocktail or a creative cocktail, there’s something for everyone. The ambiance is relaxed during the day and transforms into a lively, vibrant spot in the evening, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Lima and savor the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine while enjoying a drink.

5. Circuito Magico del Agua (Water Fountain Park)

Parque de la Reserva is a beautiful park and a nice place to visit during the day but at night this park becomes truly magical. Once night time comes, their famous fountains light up and make for a truly spectacular sight. If you are only spending one day in Lima, the fountains are the ideal choice for you.

We recommend checking out Lima Walking Tour’s tour option for an incredible night through the fountains!

6. Swim with Sea Lions at the Palomino’s Island

Wildlife lovers can’t miss this adventure whilst visiting Lima – What better way to spend your day than by swimming alongside sea lions, spying birds and Humboldt penguins! The Palomino’s Islands are home to large colonies of seabird. This fantastic tour in Callao can be booked on FindLocalTrips.com; Get in the boat and explore these islands full of life!

7. Shop at one of the many markets

If you truly want to experience Peru then make sure to visit one of its many markets. Enjoy the visual display of fruits stacked to the brim, exotic food stalls, and interesting souvenirs all in one place make for a shop that won’t be easily forgotten!

8. Huaca Pucllana

Get up close and personal with pre-Inca history. These incredible ruins are located right in the heart of Miraflores, and are a window into history. There is also a world class restaurant within the ruins, where you can enjoy Peruvian food from every corner of the country. Visit at night for an unbelievable view of the ruins lit up.

Quick Tip: These destinations located just outside of Lima are easy to reach with Peru Hop.

9. Paraglide by the coast

If the view of coast of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro is beautiful from sea level, imagine having a bird’s eye view of the whole thing! Not as extreme as it sounds, paragliding by the coast is the perfect day activity to catch the green areas, ocean and the urban buildings of Lima’s coast with a 360° view.

10. Barranco

This district is probably the coolest place in Lima and the perfect escape from Miraflores for a couple of hours. Barranco has great historical architecture and a blooming art scene. At night, Barranco transforms into Lima’s party district with great restaurants and themed alternative bars for Peruvians and foreigners alike.

One of the most interesting places to see, is Puente de los Suspiros. This bridge lies in the main part of the district where it connects two main streets. It is said that if you can cross the bridge while holding your breath, your wish will be granted.

Another great location is the MATE museum that was founded by famous Peruvian fashion photographer Mario Testino. Located in a restored 19th century mansion, the museum exhibits the best of national and international contemporary art and photography. The museum offers guided tours, workshops and talks. A great way to get around this wonderful place and ensure that you see as much it as possible is with a Bike tour of Barranco.

11. Visit the Museo Pedro de Osma

If you’re a fan of art and history, visiting the Museo Pedro de Osma is a must. Located in the charming district of Barranco, this museum offers a deep dive into Peru’s rich colonial history and artistic heritage.

Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, the museum is home to an impressive collection of Peruvian colonial art, including religious paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects from the 17th and 18th centuries.

As you walk through the museum, you’ll see exquisite pieces that tell the story of Peru’s past, with a focus on the influence of Spanish colonization and the fusion of indigenous and European art styles. The collection is beautifully displayed, with each room offering a glimpse into a different aspect of colonial life and culture.

Aside from the art, the museum itself is a work of art, with its lush gardens and elegant architecture providing a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours soaking in the space’s beauty and its fascinating history.

12. Experience a Night of Dancing at a Peña

For a truly authentic Peruvian experience, spend an evening at a peña, a traditional music and dance venue where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of folk music, salsa, and marinera.

A peña is the place to be if you want to see Peru’s rich cultural traditions come to life. Watch talented dancers twirl and move to the rhythm of marinera, or enjoy the high-energy beats of salsa as the crowd joins in.

These venues usually serve traditional Peruvian dishes and drinks, giving you the perfect opportunity to try local favorites like pisco sours, ceviche, or lomo saltado while you enjoy the performances.

If you’re looking to dive into Lima’s vibrant nightlife, experiencing a night at a peña is one of the best ways to do it.

13. Explore the Street Art in the Bohemian Side of Lima

Lima is a city full of surprises, and one of its best-kept secrets is its vibrant street art scene. To discover the creative heart of the city, head on over to the colorful neighborhoods of Barranco.

A great way to learn more about its history is with a free Barranco Walking Tour, guided by a local expert who explains the meaning behind the art you see.

14. Relax at One of the Many Beaches of the Costa Verde

The Costa Verde runs along Miraflores and Barranco and offers one of the best views in Lima. While not known for soft sands, it’s perfect for a peaceful day out.

You can take a leisurely walk along the coastal path, enjoy the sea breeze, or sit back and watch the waves roll in. The beach is popular for jogging, cycling, and people-watching.

15. Visit the Pachacamac Archaeological Site

Located about 40 kilometers southeast of Lima, this ancient site offers a glimpse into pre-Columbian civilizations like the Wari and Inca.

Highlights include:

• The Pachacamac Temple, dedicated to the god Pachacamac.
• Ancient temples, pyramids, and plazas used for ceremonies.
• Well-preserved structures revealing ancient culture and religion.

The site also offers stunning desert and ocean views, and an onsite museum with informative exhibits.

Lima Activities Cost & Time Guide

Summary

Lima offers an incredible mix of activities for all kinds of travelers. From exploring its vibrant culture, sampling delicious local cuisine, to discovering ancient history, there’s something for everyone.

You can dive into the city’s past with a visit to the Pachacamac Archaeological Site, enjoy a hands-on cooking class, or take in the stunning coastal views at Playa Costa Verde.

Lima’s lively neighborhoods, historic sites, and artistic districts like Barranco provide endless opportunities for exploration. Lima has everything, whether you’re seeking adventure, food, history, or relaxation.

To make your visit even easier, we recommend Peru Hop. With flexible tours that take you through Lima’s top attractions and beyond, we’ll help you explore Peru at your own pace. From the streets of Lima to breathtaking natural wonders, our hop-on, hop-off bus service ensures you don’t miss any of the country’s highlights. Ready to discover Lima and beyond? Let us take you there with
Peru Hop.

Did You Know… If you have a few days in Lima, don’t miss these
Day Trips located just a few hours from the city.