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Things to See and Do in Lima, Peru

Things to See and Do in Lima, Peru

January 03, 2018

Cerro San Cristobal

 

Located in the Park of the Reserve, the El Circuito Magico was constructed back in 2007. The 13 fountains of El Circuito Magico are a favorite among both locals and tourists. By day both kids and adults can play in the interactive fountains. By night there are illuminated shows. If you do happen to visit here, make sure you pack a towel and some dry clothes as you are bound to get wet.

El Circuito Magico

 

You can't miss the San Francisco Monastery. The Baroque architecture makes it stand out from other buildings in Lima. It features gilded altars and a variety of religious art. You must take a catacombs tour as well. It will take you to the inner depths of the monastery. It's estimated that around 75,000 bodies are located here.

San Francisco Monastery

 

This upscale location is full of trendy restaurants, bars and clubs. It really gives visitors a different look at Lima. While here travelers tend to walk to the coastal cliffs of El Malecon. Located on the seafront, visitors can see some of the most spectacular views of the area, rent a bike to explore one of the bike paths along the coastline or go paragliding. Also not far away is Barranco. Even though it's small, it is home to many cafes and restaurants. It's also where many of the local poets call home. A must see while in Barranco is the Bridge of Sighs. This wooden bridge starts at the top of the beach's stone steps and winds its way down.

Miraflores

 

Built anywhere from 300 to 700 AD, this is one of the most well known historic sites in Peru. This impressive brick pyramid features ancient ruins that visitors can tour. Onsite there's even an eatery, Restaurant Huaca Pucllana, that features regional dishes for those looking to splurge on a meal.

Huaca Pucllana

 

Located right in the middle of the historic center of the city, Francisco Pizarro founded Lima in this very spot in 1535. Onsite is a colonial fountain and the even more impressive, Palacio de Gobierno which acts at the home to the president of Peru. While here, try to hang around through midday so that you can catch the changing of the guards. Other buildings worth viewing here are the Catedral de Lima and the Municipal Palace.

The Plaza De Armas

 

It's not uncommon for travelers to have a negative impression of Lima. With the congestion of the city, it's difficult for visitors to get past all of this and really take in the sights. However, if you do plan appropriately and spend enough time in Lima you can see why it's been referred to as the City of Kings. There are quite a few things to do and see in Lima for the patient traveler.


This hill is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Lima. It will give you a panoramic view of the entire city. It can easily be reached by bus or taxi from the Plaza de Armas. For travelers that visit the Cerro San Cristobal on a clear day, they can get a picturesque view of the sea.