Top attractions in Lima for first-time-visitors

Top Attractions in Lima for First-Time Visitors

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Planning your first trip to Peru’s vibrant capital? This guide to the top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors will help you discover the city's rich history, culinary wonders, and stunning coastal scenery. From ancient ruins to lively markets, Lima offers a perfect blend of culture and charm.


Known as the "City of Kings," Lima boasts an array of must-see landmarks. Wander through its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or soak in the beauty of the Miraflores coastline. Food lovers will also fall in love, as Lima is a global gastronomic hotspot, home to world-renowned restaurants and authentic street eats.


Whether you're exploring ancient sites, indulging in Peruvian cuisine, or taking in breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, there are plenty of great attractions in Lima for first-time visitors to enjoy. Get ready to uncover the best this dynamic city has to offer!

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The Top Attractions in Lima for First-Time Visitors: Sightseeing

So, are you ready to explore all of the top attractions in Lima for first-time-visitors? We have visited Lima twice, and have explored a variety of unique things inside and nearby the city.


Peru's capital is a city full of rich culture and history, so you'll definitely want to learn a bit about each place, and save some of the historical sites as your top attractions in Lima as a first-time visitor.


In this guide we're going to share all of the top things to do and see in Lima, categorized by different areas and neighborhoods and type of activity.

❣️ Top Attractions in Lima's City Center

The first place we recommend for first-time visitors, is to head to the city center. This is where many of the top attractions lie, and where you can really enjoy a lot of historical buildings in one small area.

🤩 Muninet Parque La Muralla

Located along the Rimac River, this park is named after the remnants of Lima’s historic wall built in the 17th century to protect the city.


It features manicured gardens, pathways, and a small museum showcasing artifacts from Lima’s early days. Muninet Parque la Muralla is a peaceful spot with pretty views, and a great place to learn about the city's history.


Muninet Parque La Muralla, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Muninet Parque La Muralla, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Muninet Parque La Muralla, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

🗻 Cerro San Cristobal

This prominent hill is the tallest area of the city, and offers panoramic views of Lima. Accessible by car or on foot, it’s topped by a large cross and includes a small museum. It’s particularly stunning at both sunrise and sunset. Unfortunately when we went it was pretty hazy, but it was still beautiful regardless!


Do keep in mind that the neighborhoods going up to the top of the hill are not particularly the nicest or safest, so you may want to hire a tuk tuk or Uber to take you up there.


Cerro San Cristobal, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Cerro San Cristobal, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Cerro San Cristobal, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

❣️ Lima's Main Square

Welcome to the heart of historic Lima! This square is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace. It’s a lively spot to admire Spanish colonial architecture, take part in cultural events, and simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of Peru's capital.

Lima's main square, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

🔔 Basilica Catedral de Lima

Located in the heart of Plaza Mayor (the cenral square), Basilica Catedral de Lima is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Peruvian capital.


Built in the 16th century under the orders of Francisco Pizarro, the cathedral showcases a stunning blend of Spanish Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical architecture. Inside, you can admire intricate altars, beautiful chapels, and the tomb of Pizarro himself.

Catedral de Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Catedral de Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

🏰 Government Palace of Peru

Known as the "House of Pizarro," this building is located in the main square, and serves as the residence & office of Peru’s president. Its ornate façade is a a true beauty when it comes to colonial architecture, and visitors can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard at noon.

Goevermental Palace of Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

🏛 Municipal Palace of Lima

This striking yellow building with white details is also located right in Lima's main square, and is home to the city’s municipal government. Inside, you can visit and admire the beautiful halls filled with historic paintings and sculptures.


Municipal Palace of Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Municipal Palace of Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
Municipal Palace of Lima, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

⛪️ Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo

A must-see for history buffs, this religious complex features beautiful walkways with traditional tiles, a tall bell tower offering city views, and the tombs of Peruvian saints like Santa Rosa de Lima.


Unfortunately it was too early when we visited, but we'd definitely recommend going to the top so you can get panoramic views of Lima's vibrant city center.

Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

💒 Church of Santa Rosa

Dedicated to Peru's patron saint, this charming church is a place of pilgrimage. The surrounding gardens add to its peaceful atmosphere, and people also visit its well to throw a coin and make a wish.

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✝️ Basilica and Convent of San Francisco

The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in Lima is a beautiful colonial-era church known for its Baroque architecture. It features stunning cloisters, an old library, and famous catacombs that once served as a burial site. Visitors come to admire its history, art, and unique underground tunnels.


The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

🏘 Jiron de la Union

This is a lively pedestrian-only street that connects Plaza Mayor to Plaza San Martín, and is probably one of the most happening places in Lima. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a great spot for a stroll and people-watching.

Jiron de la Union, top attractions in Lima, Peru

🗽 St Martin Square

One of Lima’s most iconic squares, this space is dedicated to José de San Martín, a leader in Peru’s independence. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and features a dramatic statue in the center.


St Martin Square, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
St Martin Square, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors
St Martin Square, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors

⛲️ Baños Real Plaza

While a bit outside of the rest of the attraction in the center, this area offers a glimpse into Lima’s local life, with nearby shops and eateries in a more authentic setting.


Pedra do Telegrafo


🌊 Top Attractions in Miraflores

Miraflores is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Lima, and where a lot of tourists choose to say.


Some of the top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors are located in the this area, and it's home to beautiful views, relaxing green areas, and incredible eateries.

🚶🏻 Huaca Pucllana

An impressive archaeological site, Huaca Pucllana is larger and more famous than Huallamarca. Guided tours are the only way to visit, and last around 50 minutes. Guides explain its historical importance, and you'll also see a variety of animals like Peruvian hairless dogs, guinea pigs, and alpacas.


The adjacent restaurant offers an incredible upscale dining experience with views of the ruins, and while we didn't have time to visit, it is certainly on the bucket list for next time!


Huaca Pucllana, top attractions in Lima for first-time visitors