Lima is the capital of Peru, a city rich in history and stories. Located on the coast, it offers stunning views. Lima is also a culinary hotspot, with Peruvian cuisine ranking high on global lists of the best cuisines. The city is a blend of old and modern, featuring plenty of vibrant street art.

For many travelers, Lima is the starting point of their journey through Peru. While it’s not the most beautiful or impressive city in Peru, it’s worth a visit if you have the time. We recommend staying for 1 or 2 full days.

Barranco is a lively and creative district. The neighborhood has a cozy atmosphere, colorful streets, and historic architecture. You’ll find many art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers, as well as live music events regularly. Barranco also offers plenty of great restaurants and is a great spot to enjoy a drink in the evening. There are also bars and clubs where you can dance until the early hours.

It’s nice to walk through the neighborhood with a guide who can share the story behind the street art and buildings.

Peruvian cuisine is known as one of the best in the world. It has many different influences and is characterized by a wide variety of ingredients. For example, potatoes originally come from Peru, and there are many different types and sizes. Peru also has more than 100 types of peppers, called "aji" in Peruvian. In the Andes, corn is a staple food, and it comes in many varieties as well. A famous Peruvian dish is ceviche: raw fish or shellfish with lime juice. Lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish with meat, vegetables, and fish, is another popular Peruvian dish. In Lima, you’ll find some of the world’s best restaurants, where you’ll pay a hefty price and need to make reservations in advance. Fortunately, there are also many more affordable fine dining options. We went to the restaurant Nanka and had a wonderful meal there.

Another great way to explore Peruvian cuisine is by taking a cooking class. You'll definitely be able to apply what you learn at home!

El Parque del Amor runs along the coast of Lima and offers a beautiful view of the bay. The park was opened on Valentine's Day in 1993 to celebrate love. Throughout the park, you’ll find arches and benches made of colorful mosaics. There is also a sculpture of two lovers and a fence covered with padlocks. The park is a romantic spot to watch the sunset.

Just a 10-minute walk from the park, you'll find Faro la Marina, a 22-meter (72-foot)-tall lighthouse built in 1900.

Huaca Pucllana is a pyramid located in the middle of a residential neighborhood in Lima. The first stones of the pyramid were laid in the 5th century AD, long before the Inca era. The pyramid was used as an administrative and ceremonial center for the population. At the entrance, you can purchase a ticket for a small fee and book a guide.

Peru has some of the best surf spots for both beginners and advanced surfers. Lima is the ideal city for both levels. The waves off the coast of Lima are very consistent, making it a great place to learn how to surf. During the winter in Lima, from April to October, the waves are even bigger.

The old town, where many colonial buildings can still be found, is just a short drive from the neighborhoods where most travelers stay. In the old town, it's perfectly fine to walk around during the day, but it’s important to stay near the attractions and not wander too far. It’s nice to walk around Plaza de Armas, which is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings. Here you’ll find the presidential palace, the city hall, and the Cathedral of Lima. Plaza San Martin and the Palace of Justice are also impressive.

Mercado de Surquillo is a great place to immerse yourself in local life. The locals buy and sell a variety of products here, from meat and fish to herbs and cheese. It’s also fun to sit at a stall in the market and try some local dishes, such as empanadas or ceviche.