Journey Through Peru’s Cosmopolitan Capital: Lima is a city bursting with vitality and diversity, enriched by centuries of history reflected in every corner of the city. Its dynamism intertwines with a wide range of cultural experiences, internationally renowned cuisine, and a varied array of attractions that enthrall those who visit.
Lima, the Peruvian capital, has been highlighted as one of the most exciting destinations to visit in 2024, according to National Geographic’s exclusive Cool List 2024. This city has become an international culinary reference due to the richness and diversity of its cuisine, fusing ancient cooking traditions with contemporary innovations.
The tourism portal’s article emphasizes Lima’s worldwide recognition for its exquisite and varied culinary offerings and its unparalleled participation in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards 2023. In this event, Lima was the only city with two places in the top 10 thanks to Maido, with its Nikkei cuisine fusion, and Central, which secured the top spot for its innovative approach using region-specific ingredients. , which was crowned with the top spot for its innovative approach using region-specific ingredients.
However, not only is the presence of high Peruvian cuisine noteworthy, but also the flourishing emergence of rooftop bars in bohemian and exclusive districts like Barranco and Miraflores.
What else about Lima
Lima shows its historical wealth through its streets adorned with colonial architecture and vibrant modern districts. This is portrayed through its monuments, churches, and museums, offering a profound insight into its past and the Peruvian cultural diversity.
Its tourist attractions are diverse and thrilling. Whether exploring the grandeur of its historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the distinctive districts like Barranco and Miraflores, Lima presents a variety of experiences at every turn.
Museums exhibiting archaeological treasures and contemporary art, parks and boardwalks providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, and a vibrant nightlife make Lima a tourist destination that offers something special for every type of traveler.
Lonely Planet suggest some things to do in Lima
Meander along the Malecon
Rent a bike, go for a jog or simply stroll along this pathway that is dotted with green spaces, art and children’s parks. A smoothly paved path that follows the natural curves of Lima’s coastal cliffside, the malecon is an iconic part of Peru’s capital. Covering roughly 10km (6 miles), the malecon extends through a handful of Lima’s most popular neighborhoods.
Tour Museo Larco and sip pisco sour at Queirolo
Less hip than Barranco and not nearly as swanky as Miraflores, Pueblo Libre is like a hidden jewel, quietly waiting to be discovered by tourists. One of its must-see sites is Museo Larco, an incredible museum that houses 30,000 cataloged ancient pottery artifacts – and a cheeky pre-Columbian erotic ceramics collection.
After touring Museo Larco (and admiring its lush garden), head over to the legendary Antigua Taberna Queirolo for a proper pisco sour.
Paraglide above the spectacular Pacific coast
Take in a bird’s-eye view of the City of Kings and Lima’s coastline on an unforgettable paragliding excursion. In the Miraflores section of the malecon, is offered (harnessed in with an experienced guide) paraglide sessions every day of the year. The flight time lasts 10 minutes and is a pure adrenaline rush.
Splurge at one of the world’s best restaurants
Lima has been considered a top culinary destination for over a decade and is privileged with access to the bounty of exotic produce and superfoods that derive from all regions of Peru. Set aside a budget to spend at one of the world-renowned restaurants in the city. Central and Kjolle offer exciting concepts that focus on tubers, flowers and grains from the Amazon and Andes; discover nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) at Maido; or greet the godfather of popular Peruvian gastronomy, Gaston Acurio, at Astrid y Gaston.
Take a surfing or paddle board class
Though it was built on top of a desert, Lima’s unique coastal position makes it a haven for aquaphiles.
The only South American capital kissed by the Pacific, visitors to Lima should take advantage of the easy beach access by signing up for a surf or paddle board lesson. Boards, wetsuits and instructors can be found simply by taking a stroll on the beach
Visit galleries and boutiques in Barranco
Bohemian, trendy, artsy – Barranco is bestowed with numerous adjectives that paint it as one of (if not the) most popular districts in Lima. Luckily, you can immerse yourself in the creative scene for free by visiting galleries and boutique shops such as Las Pallas, Dédalo and Crisis Galería.
Full of street art as well, there is no shortage of art and culture in Barranco, an extremely walkable district.
Splash around at the Magic Water Circuit
Couples, families and those young at heart will delight in a visit to the colorful Magic Water Circuit. The open-air park is best visited at night when a rainbow of lights reflects upon the active water fountains.
If visiting during Lima’s summer months, a day visit is less colorful but all the more refreshing as you walk beneath a tunnel of fountains to cool off.
Visit the incredible Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca pyramid
Tucked in the heart of bustling Miraflores, Huaca Pucllana once served as an administrative and ceremonial center for the ancient Lima culture. Built around 400 CE, the mud-brick pyramid predates Inca masterpieces like Machu Picchu.
To add to its mystique, a group of mummies was discovered on site as recently as 2010. Daily tours are available.
And so on; just come to Peru and visit all with the style of View Peru & Signature!!
