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Often overlooked on many a tour, the capital of Peru, Lima is a destination that you should not miss. This thriving metropolis has much to see and do and is worth a few days of your holiday time. All international flights arrive into Lima, so book some tours and stay at one of the many wonderful hotels located all through the capital. The Lima food scene is out of this world, be amazed by the choice of food that is on offer, try cuisine that you have never experienced, prepared by world class chefs. Here we give you all best information and Travel Guide for Lima.
Unlike the highlands of Peru, which the best time to visit is April to November. The best time to visit Lima is in the coastal summer from November to April. The skies are clear and the temperature is warm and tropical. The coast has many beaches to discover and in the north of Peru many beach resorts. The rest of the year in Lima is grey and damp, covered in a fog coming from the sea. The temperature is low and a bit bone chilling.
Located in the center of Lima, the San Francisco Convent is a baroque style church that features catacombs that are home to hundreds of thoughtfully arranged human bones. See the historic texts in the library and the wonderful Spanish tilework in the serene courtyard garden.
Home of the Peruvian government the main square of Lima, features painted neo baroque and neoclassical architecture. You can visit the Cathedral and see the changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace. If you get a chance visit the Plaza at night, see the plaza lit up, a delight for the photographers.
The center of Lima features some of the most colorful Spanish colonial buildings in South America. Most of the buildings feature beautifully built and carved wooden balconies. These balconies are a crucial part of Lima’s history. It is because of these balconies that the historic center of Lima was declared a UNESCO heritage site.
A great way to understand all the Peruvian cultures is to visit the Larco Museum. Located in a 18th Century mansion. The museum features over 30000 Peruvian artifacts. You can also visit an impressive store room that houses pieces not on display. Another bonus of the museum is the Larco café for a delicious lunch in the courtyard.
The Park holds the Guinness world record for the largest fountain complex in a public park. So, as you can imagine the park is impressive. The shows feature a mix of laser, lights and water. There are shows at 7.15pm, 8.15pm or 9.30pm daily. Take your camera for some spectacular photos.
Larcomar is a beautiful shopping mall built into the cliffside, with the best ocean views that Lima has to offer. Shop at some of the best stores in Lima or enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean.
These modern seaside suburbs are where you will find the trendy Limenos. During the day take a coastal walk on the Costa Verde. Para gliding is popular as well as the many restaurants and cafes to stop for lunch. At night both suburbs come to life with fine dining and clubs to dance the night away.
Kennedy Park in Miraflores is home to hundreds of cats that are taken care of by the local community. The cats lounge around the park and don’t seem to mind the hundreds of tourists that visit daily. Don’t forget to look up in the trees to locate more of the four-legged beauties.
While in Lima you must try some of the delicious food. Lima is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Featured in this list are Central and Maido, both have Michelin Stars and both will cost you just shy of US$200 per person. If you are a foodie, you must try at least one of these.
If you love to dance than you simply must go to Sargento Pimienta on a Tuesday night. The club has salsa dancing for all levels. Teachers are on hand to offer their services for anyone willing to learn. Later in the night bands play Salsa music where you can practice your skills.
Being a large city there are many choices as to where to stay, your budget will also dictate where you stay. These days most people stay in the popular seaside suburbs of Miraflores or Barranco taking day tours into the historical center of Lima. Here are some recommendations for hotels with different budgets.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores, offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, close to the Parque de Amor and Central Park with nightly folklore shows. Near to the beach.
Casa Andina Standard Miraflores San Antonio is located in the quiet, residential neighborhoods of Miraflores. It offers free parking and is walking distance from restaurants and trendy bars. Free Wi-Fi internet service is available throughout the property.
Costa del Sol, Lima City offers a magnificent and year-round outdoor pool on the top floor, which at night turns into, Saria, city’s trendy new Sky bar. Free Wi-Fi access is available, and guests are offered a buffet breakfast with a healthy café corner daily.
Radisson Red Miraflores Located in Lima, 1.1 km from Playa Redondo, Radisson RED Miraflores provides accommodation with a terrace, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. The property is around 7.2 km from Museum of the Nation, 10 km from San Martín Square and 10 km from Museum of the Santa Inquisicion. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
JW Marriott features luxurious accommodations with a Pacific Ocean view and an outdoor swimming pool. Situated in Miraflores district with a seafront location and next to Larcomar Shopping Mall. There are modern and spacious rooms at JW Marriott Hotel Lima. Additional services include a Wi-Fi connection.
Crown Plaza Lima, featuring an indoor pool, a hot tub, and gym facilities, Crowne Plaza Lima offers stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi and plasma TV in upscale Miraflores district. Lima city center is a 15-minute drive away. Fully carpeted, rooms at Crowne Plaza Lima are bright and spacious. All of them have air conditioning and minibars.
Unique spices, products and techniques feature as well as what Peru has to offer. Combinations featuring native quinoa and spicy yellow pepper. All local produce with a fusion of international and Peruvian cuisine. The owner is renowned Peruvian Chef Gaston Acurio, who has championed the Peruvian food movement around the world. Acurio has around 11 restaurants around Peru. Astrid and Gaston are located in Miraflores.
The restaurant is located in Lima’s bohemian district, Barranco. Best known for its stews, the owner follows in the footsteps of his mother who had the restaurant La Red, a Lima institution, he has revived her recipes from Lima’s past. Dishes like the famous Lomo Saltado feature at Isolina.
A popular spot for lunch in Peru for fresh caught fish. You will need to get there early as sometimes there are lines for a table grow out the door. No reservations are taken so you will need to get there early. The restaurant offers various ceviche options and a fried fish and seafood platter.
Don’t miss out on a stay in Lima, so much to see and do, something for everyone in the Peruvian capital. Sightseeing, shopping, rest, eat or dance the night away. Learn about the fascinating ancient cultures. Lima is a great start to any Peruvian vacation.
More information about Machu Picchu here!
