The 10 Best Tourist Places in Lima
May 26, 2026
Lima is much more than a stopover city. Peru’s capital hides a cultural, historical and natural richness that surprises both locals and visitors. From its Historic Centre declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site to its natural reserves and hidden beaches, Lima has something for everyone.
In this guide we bring together the 10 places you can’t miss when visiting Lima, ranked by what they represent for a complete tourist experience of the city.
How much time do I need to explore Lima?
To visit the main attractions of the historic centre at a relaxed pace, you’ll need at least 2 days. If you want to include natural destinations like the Pantanos de Villa wetlands or a getaway to Lunahuaná, consider extending your visit to 4 or 5 days.
- 1
LimaLarco Museum
The Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre, Lima, houses one of the world's most complete collections of pre-Columbian art, with more than 45,000 pieces of gold, silver, and ceramics.
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LimaPlaza de Armas of Lima
The Plaza Mayor of Lima is the historic heart of the capital, surrounded by the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Municipal Palace, and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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LimaLima Cathedral
Lima Cathedral on the Plaza Mayor is an imposing 16th-century colonial Baroque temple, a National Historic Monument that holds the remains of Francisco Pizarro.
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LimaPuente de los Suspiros
The Puente de los Suspiros in Barranco is Lima's most romantic bridge, immortalized by Chabuca Granda's music and surrounded by bohemian atmosphere, colorful colonial houses, and ocean views.
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LimaLos Pantanos de Villa
Los Pantanos de Villa in Chorrillos is a wildlife refuge with more than 200 migratory bird species, just 40 minutes from downtown Lima.
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LimaReal Felipe Fortress
The Real Felipe Fortress in Callao is one of the largest colonial fortresses in the Americas, witness to battles for Peru's independence and pirate attacks.
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LimaEl Olivar Forest
El Olivar Forest in San Isidro, Lima, is a historic park with more than 1,500 centuries-old olive trees, declared a National Historic Monument in the heart of the city.
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LimaPalomino Islands
The Palomino Islands in Callao are home to the largest sea lion colony in the Peruvian Pacific, with tours that allow you to swim alongside them in the open ocean.
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LimaSan Lorenzo Island
San Lorenzo Island off the coast of Callao is the largest island on the Peruvian coast, with military history, abundant marine wildlife, and archaeological remains from past eras.
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LimaLunahuaná
Lunahuaná in the Cañete Valley, 3 hours from Lima, is famous for its white-water rafting, artisan wineries, and imposing Andean landscape.
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