WHAT TO DO IN LIMA
Things to Do in Miraflores, Lima
1. La Huaca Pucllana Ruins
Visit Huaca Pucllana, an old pyramid made of mud bricks in the middle of Miraflores. It was built over 1,000 years ago and shows a different side of Lima’s history. Learn more about Lima culture, spot alpacas, and enjoy a breathtaking view from the Huaca’s top. On sunny days you can even see the pacific from there. Guided tours in Spanish and English are available , so you can choose your favorite. For getting a tour you have to make a reservation in advance, you can do it at the Huaca Pucllana entrance or also on the following link.
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Address
Ca. Gral. Borgoño cdra. 8, Miraflores 15074, Peru
Opening hours
Wednesday – Sunday
9 am – 5 pm
Website
https://museos.cultura.pe/museos/museo-de-sitio-pucllana
2. Kennedy Park
A paradise for cat lovers and if you are one (just like us) then you definitely have to go there. The park itself is very beautiful and what makes it unique is the fact that here you will be able to share the park with many cats. Additionally, you can enjoy various small events like dancing or singing, surrounded by many restaurants.
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3. Pizza Street
Located in front of Kennedy Park, comes this small street alive at night with lights and music. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying snacks and drinks and to get in contact with locals and other travelers who love to party!
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Address
VXH9+8FQ Miraflores, Peru
4. Bajada Balta
The Bajada Balta path is leading to the beach, offering an instagrammable view like on a postcard.
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Address
VXF8+438 Miraflores, Peru
5. Larcomar Shopping Center
Enjoy a cool shopping experience at Larcomar, conveniently located in front of the Marriott Hotel. This place has many restaurants offering different meals, coffees, desserts, and more, all of this with a perfect view to the ocean. And, of course, don’t miss the chance to explore the many stores for a nice shopping experience. We loved also to eat a crepes or to have a happy hour drink at TGI Fridays.
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6. Malecon of Miraflores
Here you will have a perfect view from the cliffs offering stunning panoramas of the Pacific Ocean. As you walk all the way along the Malecon you will find parks, sport fields, and other attractions like the Parque del Amor or the Chinese Park. If you like adventures there’s the option of paragliding ( starting from $75.00 to $90.00 U.S. dollars), which is a very popular activity in this area of Lima. The Malecon is also an ideal spot to catch a breathtaking sunset.
7. Parque Chino - Chinese Park
This park gives you the feeling of being in Asia. Opened during the Bicentennial of Peru’s independence, it celebrates 172 years of Chinese immigration and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Peru and China. It’s a nice place to come and very easy to combine with the Parque del Amor.
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Address
Mal. Cisneros, Miraflores 15074, Peru
Opening hours:
9 am – 8:30 pm
8. El Parque del Amor - The Park of Love
El Parque del Amor is for many a romantic spot featuring nice ocean views, beautiful mosaic walls, and the famous “El Beso” sculpture by Victor DelfĂn. It was for us an ideal place to relax some time.
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Things to Do in Barranco, Lima
10. Mafalda
The first time we saw Mafalda was during our walking tour of the San Telmo neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Mafalda is famous for her witty and insightful commentary on social and political issues, shown through the lens of an innocent yet precocious child. In 2023, this Argentinian comic character came to Lima, and we saw her again right on the Roque Saenz Peña boulevard, just across from the Barranco Malecon. The lines are not that long here so you can get a perfect pic. This Mafalda is the eighth of its kind worldwide and the fourth outside of Argentina.
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11.Plaza de Armas de Barranco
This place is in the heart of Barranco and is a little Plaza. There’s a lovely church and a library surrounded by bars and restaurants. The plaza hosts small fairs almost every week so just let you surprise! You will find things from jewelry to Pisco. Sometimes, you can even find some events. We were lucky to see a Marinera dance contest, a beautiful traditional Peruvian dance. It was a fantastic experience, and Malte learnt more about my culture. Those unexpected moments really add a special touch to exploring a new place.
12.Surfing in Lima
Yes! You can try this out in Lima. Whether you are a beginner or a surfing pro, Barranco is the perfect spot for lessons. While Miraflores offers some options, Barranco hosts the majority of surfing schools for all skill levels. You can just head to the beach and ask for a class (priced at $30.00 U.S. dollars for private lesson and $22.00 U.S. dollars for group classes ). We didn’t try this out here because we had some more time in Peru so we did surfing in Mancora (a beach town in the north).
13. Bridge of the Sighs
Right across from Barranco Plaza on the right side, there’s a spot we absolutely love. It’s not just a beautiful bridge; it’s also magical. According to a Peruvian legend, all you have to do is hold your breath and go across. Guess what? You can make a wish, and it will come true! Plus, if you’re with someone you love, the love you share is said to last forever. So, take a deep breath, make that wish, and let the magic of this place work. It’s like a fairytale come true in Barranco! Yes, we did this already.
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14. Ermita Church
Built in the 18th century, this charming chapel is located at the end of the Sighs Bridge. The church has the particularity that only the front part is looking good because sadly many years ago there was an earthquake in Lima, and it got some serious damage in the back side. However, you can still take a lovely photo from outside because the church itself is closed. We’re all hoping to see this beautiful church fully restored one day.
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15. Mirador Catalina
Many people miss out on this hidden place because they’re not sure how to get there. Let us tell you the secret, there’s a hidden viewpoint right next to the Ermita Church. Just follow Ermita Street. here, you will spot a place full of locks. Keep going that way, and you will reach this amazing viewpoint. Yes! It can get a bit busy on the weekends, but hey there are a couple of restaurants there too. And guess what? Two of them even face the ocean! we recommend the Acantilado de Barranco Restaurant. Trust us, it’s worth it for a better view and some relaxation.
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Things to Do in Downtown, Lima
17. Chinatown
Starting your Lima downtown tour here is a great idea, although, to be honest, it can be a bit shocking at first. Chinatown was bigger in the past; nowadays, it’s mainly one street with a typical Chinese arch and two big lions. It is surrounded by many Chifas (Chinese-Peruvian restaurants) and take-away food options. There are also many stores around. This spot is perfect for trying some snacks like Siu Mai (a type of dumpling) and other delicious treats. You can read more about the amazing food in Lima in our Lima food guide.Â
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19. San Francisco Church
The church is located in old Lima, more popularly known as the historic center of Lima. The church was built by the Franciscans in the 17th century, so as you can imagine, it has a lot of history. In fact, it was originally used as a cemetery. Nowadays, you can visit the church and catacombs with a guided tour. The price is 20 soles (approximately 5.50 dollars), and tours are available in both Spanish and English.
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Address
XX3F+V59, Jr. Lampa, Lima 15001, Peru
Opening hours
Monday – SundayÂ
9 am – 6 pm
20. Plaza de Armas
Visiting the main plaza in Lima is a highlight you shouldn’t miss. Here, you’ll find the Cathedral, Government Palace, and Municipality, all featuring impressive and well-preserved architecture. The area has beautiful streets, and the large, car-free plaza is perfect for walking and taking photos. Don’t miss the “Lima” lettering for a great photo. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
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Our Free Lima Sightseeing Map
To assist with your trip planning, we’ve created a free Lima sightseeing map featuring all the must-see spots from our article. This interactive map helps you navigate the city’s top attractions and hidden places. Feel free to share it with fellow travelers and explore Lima like a local!
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