Top 11 free (or nearly free) activities to explore in Lima

Situated on the Pacific Coast and boasting numerous fine dining options, metropolitan Lima could easily be seen as pricey.

However, this glamorous Peruvian capital, affectionately called the City of Kings, offers many activities that fit a tight budget. From museums to mountains, pre-Inca pyramids to stunning vistas, Lima has a variety of free attractions. Here are the highlights.

1. Explore Museo de Arte de Lima on a Tuesday

Housing over 3000 years of Peruvian artistry, Lima’s Museum of Art (MALI) ranks among the city’s finest galleries. Visitors can enjoy vast collections of pre-Columbian textiles, Colonial artwork, Republican furnishings, and contemporary pieces from Tuesday to Sunday.

Smart travelers can take advantage of free entry on Tuesdays and the buy-one-get-one-free deal on Sundays (admission is S/30 or $7.95).

2. Experience the local art scene at free galleries

Lima is constantly welcoming new galleries, reflecting the city’s commitment to cultivating fresh talent. Most local galleries offer free entry, making them perfect for discovering emerging artists.

You can also embark on a self-guided tour of nearby galleries. For instance, Impakto and Revolver are just a few blocks apart in the San Isidro district.

In Miraflores, art enthusiasts can explore multiple galleries in the area, such as Ginsberg Galeria, Galería Forum, and the Instituto Cultural Peruano Norteamericano showroom.

3. Enjoy stunning views from the malecón

Spanning approximately 6 miles (10km) along Lima's cliffs, the malecón is the breathtaking coastal walkway featured in every postcard and travel article about the Peruvian capital.

Meandering through several tourist-favored districts, it provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, often populated by surfers. Best of all, access is completely free. Locals enjoy hours walking its paths, and there's a designated bike lane for those who prefer cycling.

4. Wander through Bosque El Olivar

Picture yourself surrounded by over 1500 olive trees, inhaling the fresh air they have been producing since they were planted around 400 years ago.

Walking through the natural and historical splendor of Bosque El Olivar (Olive Tree Forest) is a true privilege, and it's completely free of charge.

Walk along the brick paths from one side of the park to the other, passing by a large pond filled with koi fish, before finding a grassy spot to relax on.

Nestled in the upscale San Isidro district, Bosque El Olivar is bordered by the municipal library, the San Isidro Cultural Center, and the lesser-known Museo Marina Nuñez del Prado.

5. Ascend San Cristobal for a sweeping view of Lima

Cerro San Cristobal may not compare to the majestic mountains of southern Peru, but it stands as the highest hill in the capital at 400m.

A hike up this hill rewards visitors with a breathtaking panorama of Lima—provided you choose a clear day for your trek.

From the heights, you can catch glimpses of Downtown Lima, the National Stadium, and the Plaza de Armas among other landmarks. For safety, it’s advisable to avoid visiting Cerro San Cristobal after dark due to theft concerns.

6. Experience romance at Parque del Amor

Parque del Amor (Love Park) is a beloved public space in Miraflores, popular with couples who aren’t shy about displaying affection. Located along the malecón, it’s easily recognizable thanks to El Beso, a striking sculpture of a couple in a loving embrace.

With its grassy lawns and a wavy wall adorned with vibrant mosaics, this park is a must-visit even for those exploring alone. A nearby stand offers coffee, fresh juices, and sandwiches, making it a perfect spot for a picnic, whether with a companion or solo, as paragliders glide overhead.

7. Museo de la Electricidad

Situated in the trendy Barranco area, the Museo de la Electricidad (Electricity Museum) is a small yet engaging destination that families will enjoy.

With pulleys, buttons, light switches, and more, visitors can explore the history and generation of electricity in Peru. Since there's no admission fee, you can treat yourself to some gelato at the nearby gelateria with the money you save.

8. Explore Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca pyramid

Despite Lima's modern appearance, the city cannot conceal its rich historical roots. Take Huaca Pucllana, for instance.

This adobe pyramid, built around 400 CE, served as both an administrative and ceremonial center for the ancient Lima civilization. Conveniently located in the Miraflores district, you can explore this historic site and its remarkable museum for S/15 ($3.97).

9. Explore Casa de la Literatura Peruana

Housed in a former train station in Lima's Historic Center, the House of Peruvian Literature boasts an array of books highlighted by vibrant stained glass windows.

A rich collection of literature transports visitors through the eras of significant national authors. The stunning space is free to enter, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

While in the vicinity, make sure to visit the nearby Presidential Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) to witness the daily changing of the guard around noon.

10. Explore the catacombs of the Monasterio de San Francisco

Beneath the Historic Center of Lima lies one of the oldest and largest catacombs in South America. Originally serving as Lima's first makeshift cemetery, around 25,000 crypts are situated under the 16th-century San Francisco monastery.

Visitors can join a guided tour through the labyrinthine pathways (which were uncovered less than a century ago) for S/20 ($5.27). Spend a haunting afternoon marveling at the intricate arrangements of bones.

11. Magic Water Circuit

Opened in 2007, Lima’s Circuito Mágico del Agua is a spacious outdoor park beloved by families and couples alike. During the day, kids can enjoy a small train ride that takes them through the park, showcasing several of the 13 active water fountains.

In the summer, strolling under the arching fountains is a fun and refreshing way to cool off. However, the main attraction begins at sunset when colorful lights dance upon the splashing water.

Open daily, entry to the Magic Water Circuit costs just S/4 ($1.06).