Lima, known as the City of Kings for its rich history, is a vibrant metropolis located along the Pacific Ocean. Today, it is also famous as the Gastronomic Capital of the Americas, a title it has earned through excellence and creativity.
Spending your vacation in Lima means enjoying an unmatched culinary scene, being surrounded by colonial architecture, strolling along modern seaside promenades, visiting plazas full of tradition, and discovering beaches rich in marine life.
In this guide, we will introduce you to the must-see tourist attractions in Lima. At AndeXperience Travel Agency, we invite you to discover the Peruvian capital in an authentic and memorable way.
Lima is vast, but its main tourist attractions are clearly concentrated in three areas:
the Historic Center (Viceroyalty era), Miraflores (Modernity and Leisure), and Barranco (Bohemian and Artistic spirit).
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is where the city of Lima was founded in 1535. Here, you will find colonial palaces, baroque churches, and remnants of pre-Inca cultures.
Considered the founding site of Lima, this square is the historical and political heart of the city. Surrounding it are:
This plaza is the perfect starting point to explore Lima’s historic center.
An essential stop for travelers interested in history, architecture, and the mysteries of colonial Peru.
This important and lively pedestrian street connects Plaza Mayor with Plaza San Martín, linking two of Lima’s most iconic landmarks. Along the way, you will find traditional shops, cafés, historic buildings, and old wooden balconies, all accompanied by the vibrant rhythm of daily life. It is an ideal place to experience local culture and admire republican-era architecture.
Traveler’s Tip:
Did you know that the current Government Palace was built over an important pre-Hispanic settlement? Before the arrival of the Spaniards, this site was the residence of Curaca Taulichusco, leader of the Rímac Valley. Although Lima was not an Inca city like Cusco, its territory was inhabited by pre-Inca cultures and later incorporated into the Tawantinsuyu, the Inca Empire. This space represents the historical continuity between ancient local civilizations and the viceroyal era that shaped modern Lima.
Recognized as one of the world’s culinary capitals, Lima—and Peru as a whole—offers everything from fine dining experiences to vibrant local markets filled with biodiversity. In recent years, Lima has gained international recognition for its fusion cuisines—Andean, Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese—known as Nikkei and Chifa cuisine.
There are many gastronomic tour options in Lima that invite travelers not only to taste dishes but also to understand the value chain—from sourcing ingredients to the final dish. These tours often include:
Lima consistently hosts several restaurants ranked among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. For an exceptional fine dining experience, these are the top restaurants you should book months in advance
| Restaurant | Culinary Focus | Key Concept |
| Central | Peruvian biodiversity (ecosystems) | Led by Virgilio Martínez. An immersive experience mapping Peru’s diverse altitudes. |
| Maido | Nikkei (Peruvian–Japanese fusion) | Directed by Mitsuharu Tsumura (Misha), famous for creative sushi and Nikkei-style stews. |
| Astrid y Gastón | Contemporary Peruvian cuisine | The restaurant that put Peru on the global culinary map, founded by Gastón Acurio. |
Lima’s coastal districts represent the city’s modern and bohemian side, offering a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere that complements the historic center with gastronomy, street art, and ocean views.
Miraflores is Lima’s main tourist and hotel district, surrounded by restaurants and green spaces. Must-visit spots include:
Barranco is Lima’s trendiest district, filled with colonial mansions converted into art galleries, cafés, cultural spaces, stylish bars, and boutique hotels.
Important Note:
For safety and convenience, use taxis recommended by your hotel, ride-hailing apps, or formal transportation services. Lima’s traffic can be intense, so plan your transfers in advance.
| Topic | AndeXperience Recommendation |
| Accommodation (Luxury / Boutique) | Miraflores and Barranco are the best districts to stay in—safe, central, and vibrant. |
| Transportation | Use taxi apps (Uber, Cabify, etc.). Avoid street taxis for greater safety. |
| Safety | As in any large city, keep valuables secure, especially in the Historic Center. |
A gastronomic tour in Lima can vary widely. A fine dining experience at top restaurants such as Central or Maido typically costs between USD 150 and USD 300 per person (tasting menu). Daily meals at high-quality restaurants in Miraflores or Barranco usually range from USD 20 to USD 50.
Lima is not just a gateway to Peru; it is a destination that demands to be explored with curiosity, appetite, and an open mind. From the colonial grandeur of its historic center to the art and fine dining of its coastal districts, the city offers an unmatched blend of history and modernity.
If you are wondering what to do in Lima, Peru, and want a seamless experience, trust local expertise.
Discover this unforgettable journey with AndeXperience Travel Agency.
We are your expert operator, specializing in crafting personalized Lima travel guides and securing reservations at the best restaurants for an unforgettable gastronomic tour.
Company name: Andexperience Travel Agency S.A.C.
Ruc: 20614773210
Copyright © 2026. AndeXperience Travel. All Right Reserved
