The 6 best museums in Lima: a non-stop trip back in time
The history and culture of Peru are present everywhere, and one of the best ways to dive deeper is by visiting the best museums in Lima. Some travelers prefer contemporary art, others enjoy the history of the Viceroyalty or want to go back to pre-Columbian times. All you need is a well-planned Lima itinerary to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Maybe you’d like to start your visits in chronological order to gradually understand the history of Peru and the region. Or perhaps you just want to explore the museums focused on art. Don’t feel overwhelmed: in just one or two days, you can visit them calmly and at your own pace. And in the afternoons, you can enjoy a sunset at the best beaches in Lima.
At Rentennials, we help you not only to get there easily, but also to have all the info you need to choose what and when to visit.
Keep reading and find out everything!
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The best museums in Lima
There are over 50 museums in Lima, so choosing which one to visit can be tough. For us, the key is that it suits your interests and gives you a close-up look at the cultural aspect you want to explore.
These are our favorites, but of course, follow your own instincts and venture out to discover more.
Museo Larco: a journey to the pre-Columbian past
The Museo Larco is located in the Pueblo Libre neighborhood, north of Miraflores and close to the port of Callao. It’s a colonial-era mansion from when Lima was the capital of the region. The stars of the place are without a doubt its beautiful gardens. But what truly makes it shine is its vast collection of artifacts from the Moche, Chavín, Nazca, Chimú, and Inca cultures.
It’s 5,000 years of history. Sometimes we think we have to travel far to learn about ancient civilizations, but Peru offers amazing historical surprises.
A collection of erotic art and beautiful gardens
One of the most popular sections is the room displaying erotic pottery from several Indigenous cultures. However, what many also come for are the gardens, a top-notch archive, and a well-curated exhibit.
What else? A first-class restaurant.
Visitor information for Museo Larco
- Ticket prices:General: S/ 50.00Seniors (+60): S/ 35.00Students and minors (under 17): S/ 25.00Children under 8: Free
- Open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Easy access via public transport or rental car
- Includes an audioguide to enhance your visit
- Address: Av. Simón Bolívar 1515, Pueblo Libre (entrance on Navarra 169, across from Parque Larco)
Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú
The MNAAHP is also in Pueblo Libre and has one of the largest collections in Peru, making it one of the best museums in Lima. It is also the oldest museum, founded in 1826, the year it began displaying pieces that explain the country’s history.
Pre-Columbian, colonial, independence, and republican periods. Thousands of years in one place.
What you can see at the Museo Nacional de Arqueología
Pre-Inca mummies, gold objects, colonial portraits, maps, weapons, and textiles made by native peoples. Each room is an immersion into the past that helps visitors truly understand what they’re seeing.
Visitor information for the Museo Nacional de Arqueología
- Free admission
- Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Mondays open at noon)
- Address: Plaza Bolívar, Pueblo Libre 15084
La Huaca Pucllana: an archaeological site in the middle of the city
It might sound strange, but just minutes from downtown Miraflores, you’ll find step pyramids: Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca. Amid the urban noise, here you can pause and connect with the peoples who once lived on these lands. This was a ceremonial site of great spiritual value for the Lima culture.
The preserved prehispanic walls and scenic views are worth seeing. Rituals and offerings to Pachamama are still held today.
What you can see at Huaca Pucllana
Unlike the previous museums, the Huaca Pucllana is an open-air archaeological site. A living space where you can see ruins, ancient paths, stunning views, and—if you’re lucky—local communities continuing their ancestral practices.
You really have to see it to understand.
Visitor information for Huaca Pucllana
- Ticket prices:General: S/15Children and seniors: S/5
- Open every day except Tuesday, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed from 5 to 7 p.m.)
- Address: Ca. Gral. Borgoño cdra. 8, Miraflores 15074
Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI): a journey through art
One of the best museums in Lima is in a historic building downtown. It’s the MALI, located inside the Palacio de la Exposición, a building that offers much more than you’d expect.
Here you can explore everything from pre-Columbian ceramics to contemporary works by modern artists. But the highlight is not just the permanent collection—it’s the temporary exhibits, which are truly exceptional. That’s why many consider it the artistic hub of Lima. Check their cultural agenda before you go.
What you can see at MALI
There’s art of every kind. From ancient ceramics to colonial art, the Viceroyalty, the Independence period, and today’s contemporary scene.
MALI stands out for offering experiences for all audiences and letting people connect with art in their own way.
Visitor information for MALI
- Ticket prices:General: S/ 30Students: S/ 15Children and seniors: Free
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: Parque de la Exposición, close to the historic center
Museo Pedro de Osma: a journey through colonial art at its finest
For lovers of the colonial era, this is one of the best museums in Lima. The Museo Pedro de Osma is located in a colonial mansion in the picturesque Barranco neighborhood. The first thing you’ll notice is the beauty of the house itself. And just wait until you step inside: its furniture, objects, sculptures, and paintings from the colonial period are breathtaking.
Why include it in your Barranco itinerary?
The Barranco neighborhood is a must-see in any Lima itinerary. Walking through its streets, you’ll find art galleries, cafés, and museums like Pedro de Osma. A day full of art and culture.
Visitor information for Museo Pedro de Osma
- Ticket prices:Peruvians: S/ 30Foreigners: S/ 35Children under 10: Free
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 421, Barranco
pedrodeosma.org
Museo del Convento de San Francisco and its Catacombs: an underground journey
In colonial Latin American cities, there’s often a network of underground tunnels that still amazes us. Lima is no exception. Right in the historic center is one of the city’s most visited spots and one of the best museums in Lima: the Convento de San Francisco and its Catacombs.
It’s a baroque architectural gem that houses a stunning library. But the highlight is the catacombs, where the remains of thousands lie. Not for the claustrophobic.
Why visit the Museo del Convento de San Francisco?
Visiting Lima is a trip through the continent’s history, and a place like the Convent helps you understand the colonial period. It’s a historical tour, but also a sensory experience—dim lights, earthy smells, underground corridors. Don’t worry: all visits are guided.
Visitor information
- Ticket price: S/ 20 (includes guide)
- Open daily, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: Very close to Plaza de Armas; walking distance from many other downtown attractions.
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So, which museum in Lima should you visit?
It depends on the traveler. If you’re into archaeology and pre-Columbian history, go for Museo Larco, the Huacas, and the National Museum. Prefer art? Choose MALI and Pedro de Osma. Want something unique? San Francisco and the Catacombs.
All of them offer top-notch exhibitions, restaurants, and services that match your vacation expectations. Plus, they’re accessible for all kinds of visitors.
Can you visit the best museums in Lima in one day?
As you know, we like to recommend slow travel, so you can truly absorb each place. That’s why we suggest splitting the visits over two days, based on neighborhoods.
Tips for exploring museums in Lima
We want your Lima trip to be as rich and memorable as possible, so here are some useful tips:
- Weekdays are less crowded, so go early from Monday to Friday.
- Most museums are closed on Mondays.
- Some days offer free entry—check social media or museum websites for details.
- Always try to hire a guide to better understand what you’re seeing.
- If there’s an audioguide available, don’t hesitate to use it (some tickets include it).
Rent a car with Rentennials and discover Peru’s history
Lima offers endless ways to make your visit unforgettable—but it helps to know what to do in the city. One favorite activity among travelers is exploring the best museums in Lima. At your pace, your way, and enjoying every moment.
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