The 2 Best Museums in Lima

Lima, the sprawling capital of Peru, is a city rich in culture and history. With its museums boasting impressive collections of art, artifacts, and history, it’s no wonder that Lima has quickly become a mecca for museum enthusiasts from around the world. From the pre-Columbian era to contemporary art, Lima’s museums offer visitors a glimpse into Peru’s past and present. In this post, we’ll share the best museum visits that Lima has to offer, so grab your walking shoes, and let’s go exploring!

1. Larco Museum and a Pre Inca Pyramid Visit

Check out Larco Museum and a Pre Inca Pyramid Visit

The Larco Museum offers a fascinating look into Peru’s ancient history with a collection of over 30,000 artifacts on display. On this small-group tour, you’ll explore the museum with a knowledgeable guide who will provide engaging commentary on the collection of textiles, gold, and silver. With a maximum group size of 14 people, you can enjoy a personalized experience with pick up and drop-off included from select Lima districts. Choose a morning or afternoon start time to fit your schedule, and relax in an air-conditioned vehicle. This tour also includes admission to the Larco Museum, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Lima’s best museums.

2. City Tour Catacombs and Larco Museum 8 Hours Lunch Included

Check out City Tour Catacombs and Larco Museum 8 Hours Lunch Included

Discover Lima’s underground world and Larco Museum in this full-day tour. After being picked up from your hotel or apartment in Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, Lima Downtown, Chorrillos, Surquillo, San Borja, Santiago de Surco, Pueblo Libre, Jesus Maria, Magdalena del Mar, San Miguel, Rímac, Breña, or Lince, board the air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable tour guide.

First stop is the famous Museo Larco, where you can marvel at the pre-Columbian artifacts and pottery collection. Spend 2 hours exploring the museum before heading to Centro Historico de Lima for 1 hour of free admission to visit historical sites like Plaza Mayor, Cathedral of Lima, and San Francisco Church.

The next stops include the charming San Martin Square and the must-visit Catacombs at the Monastery of San Francisco, which houses an extensive network of underground tunnels and crypts. Your tour will also take you to other notable landmarks like the Love Park and Huaca Pucllana archaeological site.

Enjoy a delicious lunch included in the tour before heading back to your hotel or apartment, or to the airport of Lima or Callao Cruise terminal. This tour offers pickup and drop-off services from several different locations within Lima, but be sure to check if your accommodation is included before booking. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the tour/activity can accommodate a maximum of 14 travelers.

1. What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lima?

Lima has a mild climate with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Lima is from December to April when the weather is sunny, and the skies are clear. This also coincides with the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can also visit during the offseason, from May to November, when you’ll find fewer tourists and more affordable prices.

2. What is the Currency Used in Lima?

The currency used in Lima is the Peruvian Sol. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit small markets or street vendors.

3. Is Lima Safe to Visit?

Lima is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any big city, it’s important to take precautions, such as not walking alone at night, keeping your valuables safe, and being aware of your surroundings. The tourist areas in Lima, such as Miraflores and Barranco, are some of the safest neighborhoods in the city.

4. What are the Must-Visit Attractions in Lima?

Lima is a city full of history and culture with many attractions to see. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

The Historic Center: Visit the Plaza Mayor, the Presidential Palace, and the Cathedral.

The Larco Museum: See an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts.

The Magic Water Circuit: Enjoy a beautiful water and light show at night.

The Barranco District: Explore the colorful streets and bohemian atmosphere of this trendy neighborhood.

The Miraflores Boardwalk: Take a walk along the coast and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

5. What Should I Eat in Lima?

Lima is known as the gastronomic capital of South America, with a diverse and delicious cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Lima include:

Ceviche: A dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and served with onions, corn, and sweet potato.

Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries.

Papa a la Huancaína: Boiled potatoes covered in a creamy sauce made with cheese and yellow chili pepper.

Anticuchos: Grilled beef heart skewers served with potatoes and corn.

6. What is the Drinking Water Situation in Lima?

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Lima. It’s best to drink bottled water or use a water filter. Most hotels offer bottled water to their guests, and you can buy bottled water at supermarkets and convenience stores throughout the city.

7. What is the Public Transportation Like in Lima?

Lima has a variety of public transportation options, including buses, taxis, and the Metropolitano bus system. The Metropolitano is a fast and efficient bus system that runs along dedicated bus lanes in the city. Taxis are also widely available but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in.

8. What Should I Pack for my Trip to Lima?

When packing for Lima, it’s important to consider the weather, which is usually mild and sunny, but can sometimes be cool and cloudy. Some essential items to pack include:

Sunscreen and sunglasses: You’ll need them to protect yourself from the strong sun.

Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes.

A light jacket or sweater: It can get chilly in the evenings, especially during the winter months.

Cash and credit cards: Bring some cash and credit cards for shopping and dining.

9. Can I Use Uber in Lima?

Yes, Uber is available in Lima and is a popular and affordable way to get around the city. Other ride-sharing apps, such as Cabify, are also available in Lima.

10. What Should I Know About Peruvian Customs and Culture?

Peruvians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. When greeting someone, it’s common to give a kiss on the cheek, or a hug, depending on the person’s gender. It’s also customary to shake hands when meeting someone for the first time. Tipping is expected in restaurants and for taxi drivers, but it’s not necessary to tip in small markets or street vendors.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Lima

Lima is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. From stunning architecture to delicious food, there’s a lot to see and experience. However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. In this guide, we’ll give you some ideas on how to spend your time as a tourist in Lima.

1. Visit the Historic Center of Lima

The Historic Center of Lima, also known as the “City of Kings,” is the heart of Lima’s historical and cultural heritage. The area is home to beautiful colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Some of the must-see attractions include:

Cathedral of Lima: Built in the 16th century, this stunning cathedral has a Baroque-style facade.

San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs: This monastery dates back to the 16th century, and the catacombs are believed to hold the remains of over 70,000 people.

Municipal Palace: This building served as the administrative center of Lima during the colonial period and now houses the Municipal Museum of Lima.

2. Explore the Barranco District

Barranco is a charming and bohemian district located south of Lima’s downtown. The area is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture, art galleries, cafes, and bars. Some of the must-visit places in Barranco include:

Bridge of Sighs: This wooden bridge is a famous landmark in Barranco and offers fantastic views of the ocean and the surrounding area.

MATE – Mario Testino Museum: This museum features the work of Mario Testino, a world-famous fashion photographer born in Lima.

Park of Love: This park is famous for its romantic sculpture “The Kiss,” which depicts two lovers embracing each other.

3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Lima is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine, with influences from Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese cultures. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Ceviche: This dish is made with fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, red onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.

Lomo Saltado: This dish is made with beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and French fries, and served with rice.

Papa Rellena: This dish is made with mashed potatoes stuffed with seasoned ground beef, onions, and boiled eggs.

4. Visit the Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is located in the Pueblo Libre district and features a vast collection of pre-Columbian art. The museum is housed in an 18th-century mansion and features artifacts from different cultures such as the Moche, Nazca, and Inca. One of the most impressive collections is the erotic pottery collection, which showcases the ancient cultures’ attitude towards sexuality.

5. Walk Along the Malecon

The Malecon is a 6-mile stretch of the coast that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The walkway is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can stop at different beaches and parks along the way. Some of the must-visit places include:

Parque del Amor: This park is located in the Miraflores district and features romantic sculptures and mosaic designs.

Waikiki Beach: This beach is perfect for surfing and offers some of the best waves in Lima.

Chorrillos Fish Market: This market is famous for its fresh seafood and ceviche.

Conclusion

Lima is a fantastic city to visit with many things to see and experience. The Historic Center of Lima, Barranco, local cuisine, the Larco Museum, and the Malecon are just some of the many places you can visit. Make sure to plan your trip in advance, and don’t forget to take lots of photos!

The 2 Best Museums in Lima