Most travellers come to Peru attracted by one of the World Wonders, Machu Picchu. However, no matter what their final destination is, Lima will always be a step whether at the start or at the end of their trip. In order for you to make the most of your time, Private Lima Tours with Sara recommends you the following must things to do in Lima:
3 Must Things To Do In Lima
1 – A VISIT TO THE HISTORIC CENTER
The Historic Centre of Lima is one of the 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Peru. Lima was for almost 300 years the capital of the richest Spanish colony in the New World. Some of the places worth to visit here are:
- Plaza Mayor or Main Square
Lima´s foundation dates back to 1535. It´s surrounded by impressive buildings such as the Cathedral, the Municipal Palace, the Archbishop´s Palace and the Government Palace. Any day of the year at noon you can watch here the change of guard.
- San Francisco Monastery
A unique place in America since nowhere else you may have chance to visit a long way of catacombs running under a church. These were used as cemetery for more than two hundred years. As a result of recent work done by archaeologists it has been calculated that around 75000 people were buried there.
2 – A VISIT TO LARCO MUSEUM
The following is what you can explore in this private museum, a visit to which is considered to be one of the must things to do in Lima:
- An invaluable collection of pre-Columbian masterpieces
It´s from different cultures dating back 4000 years. With awesome works in precious metals, textiles and ceramics.
- A Gallery of pre-Columbian Erotic Pottery
An explicit portrayal of sexual acts and positions which you won´t be able to see anywhere else.
3 – VISIT TO BARRANCO
This bohemian neighborhood considered the SoHo of Lima has a lot to offer. Strolling around its charming streets you will have chance to enjoy:
- Former mansions of the 19th century
Several of them are converted now in Art Galleries.
- El Puente de los Suspiros or Bridge of Sighs
It´s a long wooden bridge of 1876, built over a narrow lane which runs down to the Pacific Ocean.
- Drinks and shopping
Some of the trendiest bars in Lima can be found here. You can ask for a Pisco Sour in “Ayahuasca” or a craft beer at “Barranco Beer Company”. You can look out for products of independent designers, cloth and beautiful Peruvian souvenirs at “Dédalo” or “Pórtico”.
So remember, Peru is not only Machu Picchu. Since there are so many interesting things to do in Lima Private Lima Tours with Sara will keep detailing them in following blogs. If you want to make the most out of your time in Lima , consider taking a full day private Lima tour for an 8 hour experience of the city’s hightlights with a private guide and driver.
Read more about what to do in Lima in my travel blog The Abroad Files