Peruvian food is considered by many to be the best South American cuisine. I agree. That should make Lima the culinary capital of South America by default.
The Promenade of the Naval Heroes (Paseo de los Héroes Navales) is located a few blocks south of Plaza San Martín in the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city center of Lima. It’s a long park filled with sculptures, bushes, and flowers.
The capital of the Spanish Empire in the Americas and the Viceroyalty of Peru couldn’t have a grander plaza than Plaza Mayor in Lima. With its trademark yellow buildings, balconies, cathedral, and presidential palace, there may not be a finer example of a Spanish plaza in the world. The plaza is fitting for Lima’s nickname, “The City of Kings”.
San Francisco Convent (Convento de San Francisco) is one of the most important and most visited monasteries and churches in Lima. It was built in 1557 and rebuilt in 1672 after an earthquake, and was finally completed in 1774.
The historic center of Lima has some beautiful colonial churches dating from the 16th century. They’re included in the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the city.
The UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city center of Lima has several of interesting sites, beautiful architecture, and plazas. Unfortunately, many of the buildings were closed because my visit fell on Peru’s Independence Day. The city center is easily accessible via the Lima Metropolitano.
Plaza San Martín opened on July 28, 1921, the 100th anniversary of Peru’s independence. It’s located within Lima’s UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city center.
Lima’s bohemian district lies in the neighborhood of Barranco. It’s a beautiful area popular with artists, musicians, and Lima’s elite. It is reached easily on the Metropolitano at Bulevar Sation (Estacion Bulevar).
I’ll be honest. There’s not a whole lot to see in Miraflores, but I love the vibe of this upscale Lima neighborhood. For me, it’s the best place to stay, has some great places to eat, shopping, beaches, and a lot of entertainment options. It’s also easy to get around on foot in Miraflores.
I hated Lima when I first visited in 2009. I gave it a second chance in 2014 and I’m happy I did. It has improved dramatically since my first visit. It’s easier to get around, there are better restaurant choices, and it was much safer the second time around. What a difference a few years makes!