15 EPIC Things to Do in Lima in 2025

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Now, Lima is one of the few capital cities that offers incredible oceanfront cliffs with unparalleled picturesque views over the Pacific Ocean. It’s a global culinary powerhouse, too, home to some of the world’s best restaurants, and it’s also the birthplace of ceviche. Throw in pre-Inca ruins, vibrant art scenes, and its historical heart of Spanish South America, and you have the makings for a truly unforgettable trip to Peru.

Let’s get into the best things to do in Lima…

1. Paraglide Over Lima’s Coastline

So I thought I’d kick off the best things to do in Lima with a little something to get the adrenaline pumping – paragliding! It’s a thrilling way to experience Lima from above, complete with breathtaking views of Peru’s capital. Miraflores is one of the best spots to do this, where experienced pilots take you on a journey overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The weather is generally steady and the winds are mild most of the year, so it’s perfect for both beginners in tandem and more experienced paragliders. As you soar above the cliffs and coastline in the thermals, you’ll be treated to views of the local parks, beaches, and cityscapes. This really gives you a completely unique perspective of the bustling city below, with journeys generally lasting about 10 – 15 minutes.

2. Cycle Your Way Through Miraflores and Barranco

Now, who doesn’t love a good old leisurely cycle as you take in the sights, sounds, and smells of a new city? I think cycling is such a great way to do some cardio and explore, as you can also cover way more ground than if you were on your own two legs. In Miraflores, there are great bike paths along the cliffs, with stunning views over the Pacific Ocean as well as the famous Parque del Amor. Plus, some of the best hostels in Lima are here too.

From there, you can head south towards Barranco, Lima’s bohemian neighbourhood. It’s known for its colourful street art, colonial architecture, and chilled-out vibe. Here, you can explore the streets and make regular stops at spots like the iconic Peunte de los Suspiros and one of the many lively cafes along the way. The route is mostly flat, so it’s perfect for all levels of riders, from complete novices all the way to experienced riders.

3. Sandboard at the Famous Huacachina Oasis

If you’ve ever given it a bash, you’ll know that sandboarding is a proper blast. And doing it at the famous Huacachina Oasis is a must-do activity for you thrill-seekers out there! The desert oasis is known for its towering sand dunes, some reaching up to 500 meters high, making for the ultimate exhilarating experience.

Most visits to the dunes involve an adrenaline-pumping dune buggy ride, which in itself is epic! Local guided tours include your equipment, and you’ll often have a guide to help you out if you’re a novice. After an action-packed day, you can also relax by the lagoon or simply enjoy the sunset over the dunes with an ice-cold beer or pisco sour. Absolutely unreal vibes.

4. Go Swimming with Sea Lions

Looking for one of the best ocean-based things to do in Lima? Well, how about a trip out to the Palomino Islands near Lima for an exhilarating wildlife experience, swimming with sea lions? The tours generally depart from the Port of Callao and head out to the small islands, which large colonies of sea lions call home. The journey also includes views of El Fronton and San Lorenzo Islands and takes about 90 minutes.

Then it’s jumping into a wetsuit, popping on a life jacket, and grabbing a mask and snorkel before getting in and amongst the friendly, curious, and playful sea lions. Tours typically last around 2.5 hours, including both the swimming and sightseeing aspects. If you’re someone who is prone to seasickness, I’d recommend taking along some tablets to ensure you have a sick-free day!

5. Explore Lima’s Historic Centre on Foot

Lima’s historic center is a captivating journey through time, as you will get to witness centuries of Peruvian heritage in a small area. The Plaza Mayor, aka Plaza de Armas, is the founding square of the city, surrounded by plenty of architectural gems. Buildings like the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral will all have you oohing and aahing as you walk past.

You’ll also get to walk the Jiron de la Union, which is a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes. The iconic street also connects the colonial city to the new republic in Lima. Then there’s the Casa de Aliaga, a colonial mansion that has been continuously inhabited by the same family since 1536! A great spot for a scenic break is the Alameda Chabuca Granda, a stunning riverside promenade that often features live music and cultural events.

6. Eat Your Way Through Delicious Peruvian Cuisine

It’s no secret that Peruvian cuisine is some of the most delicious cuisine in the world. The rich blend of global influences, including Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese, means two things: bold flavours and diversity. And it is when it comes to Lima, it’s casually known as the gastronomic capital of South America. It’s casually home to the former number 1 restaurant in the world, Central, as well as other Michelin-starred restaurants.

But Lima offers such an array of dishes that reflect the cultural heritage and diversity in Peru. You can expect to find the famous ceviche in all its glory, made with fresh Pacific Ocean fish, marinated in fresh lime juice. So SO yum. Then you’ll find hearty lomo saltado and delicious street food like anticuchos. There’s so much to taste, and a food tour is a great way to sample many of the national and regional dishes!

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7. Visit the Larco Museum

For those who enjoy a good old museum outing, the Larco Museum is one of the top things to do in Lima. It’s a premier institution that is dedicated to Peru’s pre-Colombian heritage, founded in 1926 by archaeologist Rafael Larco Hoyle. I mean, just the building is worth a visit in its own right. It’s housed in an 18th-century mansion that was built on top of a 7th-century pyramid. Pretty cool history if you ask me.

The collection spans over 5000 years of Andean history, and there are some 45,000 artefacts inside. The permanent exhibition is also chronologically and regionally organised and showcases some of the most well-known cultures such as the Moche, Nazca, and Inca. Located in the Pueblo Libre district of the city, the Larco Museum is both an extensive and immersive look into Peru’s archaeological past. It’s a real must-see for history buffs.

8. Learn to Surf in Lima’s Fun Waves

Surfing in Lima is downright awesome! The city attracts both local and international surfers throughout the year with its offering of consistent waves and a variety of breaks for both beginners and experienced surfers. Popular spots include Punta Roquitas, Makaha, and the well-known Costa Verde, all easily accessible and offering reliable conditions, especially in the winter months.

A fun thing to do in Lima if you’re stopping over for a few days is to learn to surf in the city’s forgiving waves. The surf culture is laid back and packed full of passion, and there are plenty of surf schools eager to get you up and riding. If you’re a competent surfer, there are plenty of rental shops where you can grab a wetsuit and a board and shred some of the more advanced spots like La Herradura.

9. Watch the Magic Water Circuit Show

Whenever something has made it into the Guinness World Record Book, you know it’s worth visiting! The Magic Water Circuit show in Parque de la Reserva is a captivating nighttime attraction that is made up of 13 cybernetic fountains. They combine water, light, music, and laser projections to create some epic shows that should be right up on your list of things to see.

The main piece, known as the Fuente de la Fantasia, is the most spectacular of them all. A 120-meter-long water screen that displays dynamic multimedia projections. It’s honestly something that cannot be missed. Some of the other highlights include the Túnel de las Sorpresas, where you can walk through tunnels of water and the Domo Andante, a dome-shaped fountain with unique visuals.

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10. Wander Through Lima’s Bohemian Barranco District

Barranco is one of Lima’s most artsy districts, known as the beating Bohemian heart of the city. It’s stacked with vibrant culture, romantic charm, and of course, colonial architecture. Funnily, it was formerly one of Lima’s elite seaside resorts but has since evolved into a hub for artists, musicians, and other creatives. You can expect cobblestone streets, colourful murals, and historic mansions that all come together harmoniously in a more laid-back atmosphere.

There are also plenty of art galleries to visit, with Museo de Arte Contemporaneo being one of the most popular amongst art lovers. There is also an incredibly lively nightlife scene with plenty of hip and happening bars, restaurants, and cafes to visit. But one of the best things to do in Barranco is to watch the sunset at Puente de los Suspiros (the Bridge of Sighs). It’s nothing short of magical!

11. Stroll the Malecon in Miraflores

Looking for a bit of serenity and serene vibes when visiting Lima? Then, taking a leisurely stroll on the Melacon should be right up there for you. Melcaon is a picturesque clifftop promenade that stretches along the Pacific Ocean, offering sweeping views over the ocean and sunsets that are to die for. You’ll find public art, vibrant gardens, and well-maintained walking paths that invite runners, cyclists, and couples alike.

You’ll also find Parque del Amor along the way, complete with its romantic sculptures and stunning mosaic walls. Did someone say photo opt? Overall, it’s such a great place to sit, reflect, and even meditate or simply a great spot for a slow stroll as you ponder the meaning of life and take in all the beauty around you.

12. Catch the Sunset at Parque del Amor

Watching the sunset from Parque del Amor, a coastal park perched high above the ocean in Lima, is one of the more romantic experiences you can have in the city. Not only will you be treated to incredible panoramic views of the city’s coastline, but also the golden sun setting over the sea. Depending on the area you stay in Lima, you should deffo come down here for sunset.

There is also a stunning sculpture that sits as the centrepiece of the park, known as “El Beso” or “The Kiss” in English. The piece, by Peruvian sculptor Victor Delfin, depicts the passionate embrace of two lovers. It’s also surrounded by colourful mosaics and romantic phrases in Spanish and Quechua to add to the romantic vibes. Bonus is that it’s one of the free things to do in Lima, so you can keep those Peruvian Sol for the next activity.

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13. Sip On Pisco, Peru’s National Spirit

Now, I’m sure you’ve heard of the world-famous Pisco Sour cocktail, a beloved balance of sweet, sour, and strong flavours. The cocktail uses Pisco as the base, which is a traditional South American brandy produced in both Peru and Chile. It’s made by distilling grape juice from specific grape varietals, but the secret is that it is only distilled once. Why you ask? Well, preserving original flavours is the number one priority here.

No trip to Lima would be complete without sampling one of the famous cocktails, watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. But one thing to note is that locals really take pride in their Pisco, as it is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. So you can expect nothing but a smooth taste of Peruvian craftsmanship and tradition. I’ll take two please.

14. Visit Museo de Arte de Lima

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI) is one of the country’s premier cultural institutions, housed in the Palacio de la Exposicion. The building itself is such a visually stunning location – a 19th-century building constructed from iron and glass, designed by Italian architect Antonio Leonardi. Inside, you’ll find some 17,000 artworks that span over 300 years of Peruvian history. It’s definitely extensive to say the least.

There are also some incredible permanent galleries that showcase pre-Colombian textiles, ceramics, and metalworks. These are symbolic of the diverse history of Peru, combining Moche, Nazca, and Inca cultures. It’s truly fascinating! You’ll also find republican-era art with pieces by Pancho Fierro and Jose Gil de Castro, as well as modern and contemporary art collections by Jorge Eduardo Eielson and Fernando de Szyszlo.

15. Marvel at the Incredible Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is a pre-Colombian archaeological site located in the heart of Miraflores, dating back to around 500 AD. It was built by the Lima culture as both a ceremonial and administrative centre. The site boasts an impressive adobe pyramid that is by far the most striking feature, constructed with handmade clay bricks. The bricks are arranged in a distinctive “bookshelf” style as a preventative measure against earthquakes. Pretty cool, eh?

Visiting the former religious and political site offers you a great insight into Lima’s ancient past. It’s somewhat of a juxtaposition against the backdrop of the modern city behind. The site offers a museum, guided tours, and even a fine dining restaurant overlooking the ruins. Fancy combining Peruvian history and cuisine?

Navigating your way around Lima is a pretty painless process thanks to a variety of transport options available, all suited to budgets and travel styles. The city is pretty vast and spans a large distance, but it’s well-connected and easy to navigate once you have your bearings.

Here are some of the main ways to get around Lima:

Metropolitano Bus

The Metropolitano bus is a rapid transit bus system in Lima that runs on its own dedicated lanes within the city. It connects key districts like Miraflores, Barranco, and the historic centre. While it can get pretty crowded during peak times, it’s super affordable and fares cost less the $1 per trip.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

While taxis are plentiful in Lima, ride-sharing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Beat are a lot safer and generally affordable. Short trips within the city can cost as little as $3 – $5 per trip, while longer trips between districts or to the airport can set you back between $15 and $25 a trip.

Micros and Combis

Micros and combis are Lima’s traditional minibuses – a cheap and frequent mode of transport. They’re great for locals but can be a bit tricky for foreigners to navigate due to a lack of signage. If you’re a more adventurous traveller, I’d definitely recommend giving them a bash!

Electric Scooters and Bikes

These eco-friendly options are becoming increasingly popular in Lima and can be rented directly through apps like Lime or Muvo. They’re also a super fun way to explore the city and are far more efficient than walking or cycling.

Walking and Cycling

Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro are all pretty pedestrian-friendly and offer scenic bike and walking paths. The Malecon is also an extremely popular spot for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike and offers panoramic views over the Pacific. Depending on where you stay in Lima you can get around easily on foot.

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Here are some of the most commonly asked questions I get when it comes to things to do in Lima:

From ridiculously delicious food and a buzzing culture to ocean views and historical and cultural depth. Lima is a city that has so much to offer as you peel back its layers and uncover a plethora of unforgettable experiences.

This coastal capital has a way of getting under your skin in the best way possible. Maybe it’s those golden sunsets along the Malecon or those bites of ceviche that are like little angels moonwalking on your tongue. Heck, maybe it’s the colonial grandeur of Plaza Mayor or simply the warmth of the people making you feel welcome.

Whatever it is, Lima is not just a stopover – it’s a destination. Period. And one that should be on your list to discover and explore!

Safe travels – Peru’s captivating capital awaits!

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