Lima, the City of Kings

With the most fascinating history, the capital of Peru, Lima is a great place to start your holiday. The city is full of contrasts with the historic center and the modern seaside suburbs. A few days should be spent exploring and understanding the metropolis and the largest city in Peru, Lima. No article on Lima would be complete without mentioning the food scene. The city of Lima features some of the top restaurants in the world and you must try the wonderful mix of foods on offer. Let’s take a look at Lima, the history, what to see, where to stay and where to eat.

History

Lima has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years, blending ancient civilizations, colonial power and modern transformation. The Lima we see today was founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535 and was given the name, The City of Kings. It was the most important city of the time in South America. It quickly became a wealthy city because all the silver that was extracted from Bolivia and passed through the port of Callao.

Today you can still see the colonial architecture with baroque churches, monasteries, universities, like the University of San Marcos, the oldest in the Americas and elegant mansions.

What to see in Lima

There is much to see and explore in Lima with a great mix of ancient ruins, Spanish architecture, great culture and of course world class cuisine. Here is what we recommend not to miss when in Lima.

1. The Center of Lima, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find the main square, The Plaza de Armes, featuring the Lima Cathedral, the Presidential Palace. Not far from the square see the Plaza San Francisco with its wonderful Monastery, take a tour and discover the Catacombs and the central courtyard.
2. Miraflores, is the center of modern Lima, here you can walk or take a bike along the cliff top promenade and enjoy the ocean views. Along the way visit the Parque del Amor for some of the best sunset views over the Pacific.
3. The artistic and bohemian district of Barranco, one of the most colorful parts of Lima, explore the street art, art galleries and the yummy cafes. See the Puente de los Suspiros, the bridge of sighs, for the perfect photo opportunities.
4. The Museo Larco, the best museum in Lima to learn about the ancient Peruvian cultures. The museum is famous for its display of erotic pottery, not to be missed. The building and the gardens are also a feature of the Museo Larco.
5. Peruvian Cuisine, in recent years, Lima, is now known as the gastronomic capital of the world, you must try dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado and the anticuchos. Try some of the famous restaurants like Central, Maido or Astrid y Gaston.
6. Parque Kennedy, located in the Miraflores district of Lima, the park is a hub of activity. A great place to see the work of local artists and the park is surround by restaurants and bars. Parque Kennedy is famous for the cats that live in the park.
7. Huaca Pucllana, here you will find a large pre-Inca adobe pyramid in the heart of Miraflores. Take a guided tour to hear the history of the ruin and about the culture that built Huaca Pucllana.
8. Magic Water Circuit, located in the Parque de la Reserva, the park is the largest fountain complex in the world, it features music, light and water shows and is to be visited at night to be appreciated.

Where to stay in Lima

The range of accommodation in Lima is mind boggling. There are options for all budgets in the neighbourhoods of Miraflores of Miraflores, Barranco and the Center of Lima. Here we will give you some options for budget to 5-star luxury

1. Budget, Selina Miraflores, a hostel-hotel with private and dorm rooms. The Selina features frequent events, a bar and co-working spaces. Great for younger travelers and digital nomads
2. Budget, Kokopelli Hostel, a great place to meet fellow travelers in the best location in Miraflores. The Kokpelli has a rooftop bar popular place for backpackers.
3. Midrange, Tierra Viva Miraflores, comfortable, modern rooms in a great location. The breakfast is outstanding and the staff very friendly.
4. Midrange, Casa Republica Barranco, this boutique hotel is housed in a 1920 mansion, the hotel has a stylish design and a wonderful atmosphere, perfect for couples and solo travelers.
5. Luxury, JW Marriot, Miraflores, this ocean front 5 Star hotel has stunning sea views. The hotel features a fitness center, pool and 5 Star dining.
6. Luxury, Hotel B, Barranco, this is considered Lima’s top luxury boutique hotel, an art filled mansion with a gourmet restaurant and wonderfully designed rooms. Great for art lovers.

Where to Dine

Lima has been for many years on of the top food destinations in the world, with a delicious mix of indigenous, Spanish and Asian flavors. Take a look at the list below, some recommendation for great food in Lima.

1. High End, Central, Barranco, has been voted the best restaurant in the world and features an innovative Amazon to Andes tasting menu. You will need to book months in advance to get a table.
2. High End, Maido, Miraflores, Nikkei cuisine, a mix of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, regularly in the worlds top 10 restaurants you will need to book in advance
3. High End, Astrid y Gaston, San Isidro, fine dining housed in a wonderful 17^th Century mansion. Traditional Peruvian food with a delightful twist.
4. Midrange, La Mar, Miraflores, a famous ceviche and fresh seafood place, that is open at lunchtime, no reservations needed, great atmosphere.
5. Midrange, Isolina, Barranco, great lunch spot for Peruvian and international food. Isolina features rustic, home style dishes like lomo saltado and seco.
6. Budget, Punto Azul, Miraflores, a very popular and affordable ceviche and seafood place. You may have to wait for a table at lunchtime but worth the wait.
7. Budget, El Chinito, several locations, classic Peruvian sandwiches, try the chicharron. Great for breakfast or a quick easy lunch.

Lima is a great place to spend a few of your days. But with all large cities all over the world there are certain parts of Lima that may be considered less desirable. Stick to the main tourist areas and you will be safe. At night always use safe taxis and it is not a great ideal to walk the streets alone.

Contact one of our Wayna Trekkers travel advisors for advice on your trip to Peru and don’t forget to include the wonderful city of Lima.