Car Hire Lima
Mini guide to Lima
Lima, Peru's capital, possesses an interesting combination of old Spanish architecture, excellent museums, exciting nightlife and mystical atmosphere. These assets, combined with its proximity to some of the most beautiful countryside and coastline in South America, explain Lima’s appeal as a holiday destination.
Plaza Mayor is the center of Old Lima and was previously known to the conquistadores as the Plaza de Armas. The Palacio de Gobierno, completely renovated in 1938, was (local legend) Pizarro’s house and where he was assassinated in 1541. Nearby is the Renaissance-style Cathedral, rebuilt several times after falling victim to natural disasters, which houses the impressive Museum of Religious Art. Adjacent is the Archbishop’s Palace, while nearby is the 16th century church and monastery of Santo Domingo, containing the tombs of Santa Rosa de Lima and San Martin de Porres.
Other attractions of note around the city are the Casa de Osambela, the Museo de Arte, the Museo Nacional de Antropología y Arquelogía, the Museo de La Inquisición, several magnificent colonial mansions, the Jesuit Church of San Pedro, the famous catacombs of the Church of San Francisco, and the spectacular 18th century Torre Tagle Palace.
As the capital city of Peru, Lima abounds in first-class accommodation and excellent restaurants. For sumptuous cuisine, charming cafes and exciting nightlife, head to the affluent suburb of Miraflores.
Numerous opportunities are available to explore the area around Lima on short excursions. To the north lie the Chillón valley, with its Temple El Paraiso, the beach resort of Ancón, and the Chancay valley, while south along the coast are the famous ruins of Pachacamac, with its Temple of the Moon, Convent of the Sun Virgins, and Sun Temple. Other coastal areas of interest are Callao, La Punta Barranco, Castle of Real Felipe, and the Costa Verde, while inland are the magnificent sights of Marcahuasi, Cajamarquilla, Puruchuco, and Tarma.
Lima's international airport, Jorge Chavez, is the main hub for flights to the Andean countries from North America and Europe. Transportation from the airport into the city is convenient and reliable.
