Historically the “City of Kings,” the Peruvian capital (pop. 8 million) was founded in 1535, and today serves as main gateway to Peru’s many attractions. It is a city of fine museums and magnificent Pre-Columbian collections, including the Gold Museum (Pre-Columbian gold), National Archaeology & Anthropology Museum (art and archaeology), the Larco Herrera Museum (world class collection of ancient ceramics), and the intriguing Museum of the Inquisition. Oceanfront Lima has beaches, modern residences and gardens in the Miraflores and San Isidro districts. Downtown is more colonial with wide boulevards and centuries-old plazas.

Recommended stay
One to two nights

Best time to go
Lima is a year ‘round destination because of mild temperatures. During winter (May- November), most days are overcast with persistent coastal fog.

What to do
• Walking tours: The colonial quarter is a fantastic area to visit on foot
• Museums: Lima boasts some of the finest museums in all the Americas
• Pachacamac: Intriguing Inca ceremonial site just outside Lima