Top 10 Things to Do and See in Lima, Peru
Lima is more than a city to rush through on your way to other destinations in Peru. It is a city rich in culture and things to do and see. Here you can tour the museums and churches displaying the history and anthrologogy of the past, the richness of the Inca empire, the many regional varieties of the country, enjoy the neighboring beaches and sports, plus a zoo where you can see many of the country's wildlife up close. Enjoy Lima!
This is the center of Lima's historical area. The Cathedral, Palacio de Gobierno, the Archibishop's palace, Palacio Nacional and other important buildings are here, plus numerous restaurants and shopping opportunities.
The Cathedral, originally constructed in 1555, has been destroyed by natural causes and rebuilt numerous times. Francisco Pizarro's coffin rests in the mosaic chapel near the entrance.
This upscale neighborhood is home to many of Lima's wealthier residents and a popular location for hotels, restaurants and nightclubs.
The San Francisco monastery is famous for the catacombs containing the remains of thousands of people. The museum and library are worth a visit. The library contains thousands of antique documents, some dating back to the conquista.
This seaside resort is popular for both the beach and surfing. Surf camps will teach you the basics or perfect your technique.
6. Museums
Make time to see the Museo de Oro displaying gold and precious metal artifacts, the Museo de Armas with a great arms collection, the Museo de la Nacion which now houses many of the items from the Museo Nacional de Antropología, Arqueología e Historia, Museo Rafael Larco Herrera for the impressive ceramics collection, Museo Pedro de Osma for the colonial display and the Museo de la Inquisicion, for the display of torture implements from the Inquisition.7. Churches
Santo Domingo contains the tombs of Santa Rosa de Lima, America's first saint and of San Martin de Porras, America's first black saint. Santuario de Santa Rosa de Lima is built on the site Santa Rosa was born. Convento de los Descalsos is a look back in time to what a convent was like in colonial times. La Merced is built on the site where the first mass was said in Lima. Chorrillos is famous for beach resorts like La Herradura, featuring restaurants and eateries known as picanterías. It's perfect for a day trip, with time to get back to Lima for the hotspots.
The beautiful balconies on one of Lima's treasured colonial buildings are well known. Built the end of the XVII century by José B. Tagle, the building now houses the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
10. Parque de las Leyendas
The zoo is popular with Limenos and visitors who come to enjoy a close up look at some of Peru's native wildlife, including condors, llamas and birds from the Amazonian area.
