Famous Landmarks in Lima. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing

Iconic Landmarks

Must-visit sites with historical and cultural context

Explore the heart of Lima's heritage, where Francisco Pizarro founded the city in 1535.

Surrounded by significant colonial buildings, including the Government Palace and the Cathedral, the Plaza de Armas a hub for understanding Lima's historical importance.

Landmarks

Government Palace: Official residence and workplace of the President of Peru. Changing of the Guard daily at noon.
The main church of Lima: Grand colonial cathedral with alleged remains of Francisco Pizarro, religious art, and architecture.
Basílica y The monastery of The City by the bay (San Francisco Convent and Catacombs): UNESCO World Heritage site, Architecture from the baroque period, antique library, and catacombs.
Huaca Pucllana: Pre-Incan adobe and clay pyramid in Miraflores. Guided tours insight into ancient civilizations, on-site restaurant.
Parque Kennedy: Central park of Miraflores, known for its resident cat population, artisan market, and lively atmosphere.
El Malecón de Miraflores: Clifftop promenade with panoramic ocean views, parks, and paragliding opportunities.
Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), Barranco: Charming wooden bridge in the bohemian district.

Visitor Information hours, fees, guided options

General Access

The heart Of the city: Open 24/7, free to access.
Government Palace: Exterior viewing free. Changing of the Guard (12 PM daily) free.
Cathedral of Lima: Hours generally 9 AM - 5 PM. Entry fee S/. 10-15.
San Francisco Convent: Hours typically 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM. Entry fee S/. 15-20. Guided tours included.
Huaca Pucllana: Hours usually 9 AM - 5 PM. Entry fee S/. 15. Guided tours mandatory.
Parque Kennedy/Malecón: Open 24/7, free to explore.

Insider tips for best viewing and photography

Plaza de Armas: Best light for photos in morning or late afternoon. Arrive 30-45 minutes early for Changing of the Guard.
Huaca Pucllana: Visit late afternoon for dramatic lighting and cooler temperatures.
Malecón: Sunset views over the Pacific Ocean are spectacular.
Historic Center: Visit early mornings (before 9 AM) for fewer crowds.

San Francisco Convent: Weekday mornings are generally less busy. Malecón: Explore smaller, less-known parks for calmer ocean views.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Museo Larco: 18th-century mansion over a 7th-century pyramid. Vast pre-Columbian artifact collection, ceramics, textiles, erotic pottery.
Museo de la Nación: Large museum covering Peru's history from pre-Columbian times to present day, cultural evolution.
Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI): Comprehensive collection of Peruvian art, pre-Columbian to contemporary.
Museo de Oro del Perú y Armas del Mundo: Large collection of pre-Columbian gold, silver, textiles, and weapons.
Museo de la Inquisición y del Congreso: Former Inquisition headquarters, a grim look into history. Free entry.
Museo Amano: Private museum in Miraflores specializing in pre-Columbian textiles (Chancay culture). Advance booking required.
Museo Pedro de Osma (Barranco): Belle Époque mansion with colonial art from the 16th-19th centuries.

Art Galleries & Performance Venues

Art Galleries (Barranco):
Numerous independent art galleries and artist studios along Avenida Saenz Peñan and around its main plaza. Discover local contemporary art.
Art Galleries (Miraflores):
Some galleries within Larcomar shopping center and larger hotels.
Gran Teatro Nacional del Perú:
Main venue for large-scale cultural performances, including opera, ballet, and classical music concerts.
Teatro Municipal de Lima:
Historic theater in the Centro Histórico, hosting a variety of performances.
Special Exhibits:
Check local listings (El Comercio newspaper or cultural center websites) for current special exhibitions, concerts, and shows.

Historical Sites

Lima's historical sites connect you to its past, from ancient civilizations to colonial power.

Archaeological Sites & Historical Districts

Huaca Pucllana (Miraflores):
A prominent pre-Incan pyramid within the city.
Pachacamac (Day Trip):
Large pre-Incan and Inca archaeological complex south of Lima. Impressive temples, pyramids, and an on-site museum.
Centro Histórico de Lima:
UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, grand plazas, ornate churches, and distinctive wooden balconies.

Barranco:
Well-preserved colonial mansions and art deco buildings, despite its bohemian vibe.
Basílica y Convento de San Francisco:
Iconic church and convent famous for its catacombs and baroque architecture.
Santuario de Santa Rosa de Lima & Iglesia de Santo Domingo:
Significant religious landmarks, drawing pilgrims and demonstrating colonial church architecture.

Circuito Mágico del Agua

A collection of interactive fountains in De park la Reserva. A significant modern landmark with dazzling light and music shows.

Real Felipe Fortress

Large 18th-century fortress in Callao, built to defend the port from pirates. Guided tours on colonial war history.

Natural Attractions

Lima has beautiful parks, coastal views, and nearby natural escapes despite its urban sprawl.

Parks & Scenic Viewpoints

Enjoy green spaces and recreational areas within the city, and breathtaking vistas.

The park of la Reserva (Magic Water Circuit): World's largest public park fountain complex, especially delightful in the evening.
Parque de la Amistad (Friendship Park): In Surco, with a Moorish arch and Peruvian train replica.
Parque El Olivar (San Isidro): Serene olive grove from colonial times, for peaceful strolls.
De parkl Amor (Miraflores): Clifftop park with mosaic walls, poetic verses, and romantic Pacific Ocean views.
El Malecón de Miraflores: Panoramic ocean views from its elevated clifftop position.
Cerro San Cristóbal: Hill with sweeping panoramic views of Lima, view the city's vastness.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the main tourist circuit to discover Lima's lesser-known treasures.

Off-the-beaten-path attractions

Look for unique experiences away from the crowds.

Unique Discoveries

Museo Cementerio Presbítero Matías Maestro: South America's oldest cemetery, an open-air museum with elaborate mausoleums and sculptures.
Barranco's Street Art: Explore murals and graffiti in the backstreets of Barranco, an ever-evolving outdoor gallery.

Local favorites rarely visited by tourists

Experience Lima like a local.

Authentic Local Experiences

Mercado de Surquillo N°1: An authentic local market experience to observe daily life, taste fresh produce, and enjoy local food stalls.
Pasaje Santa Rosa (Centro Histórico): Charming pedestrian alley with unique shops and architecture, a quieter glimpse into the historic center.

Emerging destinations within the region

Discover areas undergoing revitalization.

Callao Monumental

A revitalized historic area within the harbor town of Callao.
It has art galleries, extensive street art, and cultural spaces.
Requires caution; best visited with an organized tour for safety.

Consider a Tour for a secure and informative experience.

Unique photo opportunities

Find distinctive spots for memorable photographs.

Picturesque Locations

The dusk from the Malecón in Miraflores.
The grand colonial architecture of the Historic Center, especially around the Plaza de Armas.
The dazzling light and music show at the Magic Water Circuit.

Capture the culture and scenic beauty of Lima.

Wildlife Viewing

Encounter unique wildlife close to Lima.

Marine Life & Birdwatching

Palomino Islands (Day Trip from Callao): Home to sea lions and seabirds. Tours allow swimming near sea lions.
Pantanos de Villa Wildlife Refuge (Chorrillos): A protected wetland for migratory and local avian species.

Remember binoculars for birdwatching!

Beaches, Lakes, and Waterways

Beaches Costa Verde

Pebble beaches below Miraflores and Barranco (e.g., Playa Makaha, Playa Redondo). Popular for surfing, not typically for swimming or sunbathing.

Lakes

No considerable natural lakes exist within Lima city limits.

Waterways

The Rimac River flows through Lima, though it isn't a tourist attraction.

Plan Your Exploration

Numerous sights are accessible via public transport or a short taxi ride. Consider a Guided tour for convenience and deeper insights.

Famous Landmarks in Lima