Discover the Best Museums in Lima: Uncover History, Art & Culture

Lima, which is often thought of as a stop on the way to Machu Picchu, is much more than a transit hub; it is a thriving metropolis rich in culture, history, and art.

Whether you're interested in ancient artifacts or contemporary art, museums in de Lima are great places to learn about Peru's fascinating history. Each one tells a unique story, and with so many to discover, there is something for every inquisitive tourist.

Are you prepared to embark on a cultural journey?

Before visiting the best museums in Lima, take a moment to appreciate the city's dynamic vitality. There's a lot to see and do in Barranco, from the vibrant Plaza de Armas to the creative streets. If you need more ideas, check out 15 unique activities to do in Lima to make the most of your trip. However, museums in Lima are essential for thoroughly understanding the city's history. Many provide fascinating insights into pre-Hispanic art, history, and society, offering you a picture of Peru before modern times. Are you ready to dive in? These are the best museums in Lima you must visit.

The Larco Museum, located in the charming area of Pueblo Libre, is a must-see for history enthusiasts. This museum, housed in a stunning 18th-century home surrounded by lush gardens, provides an unmatched glimpse into Peruvian history over the past 5,000 years. One of the standout features? The Erotic Gallery features pre-Hispanic erotic pottery. This collection, contrary to popular belief, focuses on how ancient Peruvians used art to celebrate fertility and life. Beyond the provocative ceramics, you'll find sparkling gold and silver items, complex jewelry, and magnificent textiles from ancient Peruvian nobles. Don't miss the storage section, where thousands of antique items are stacked and visible – it's a unique look behind the scenes of a museum. Pro tip: After viewing the museum, stop by the Larco Museum Café for a snack. The garden setting makes it one of the most tranquil dining venues in town.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC Lima) is located in the center of Barranco, Lima's most artistic quarter. It's more than just a venue to enjoy art; it's a hub for great ideas. The museum houses a constantly changing collection of installations, paintings, and sculptures by local and international artists. But what truly separates MAC Lima is its colorful atmosphere. The outdoor spaces serve as cultural centers, holding live music, culinary festivals, and social events, making it far more than just a museum. Pro tip: Come around sunset to observe the museum's glass front reflect the golden hues of the Lima sky.

The museum takes you back in time, with displays spanning from pre-Hispanic ceramics to Spanish colonial art and startling modern pieces. The neoclassical palace itself is almost as stunning as the artwork inside. MALI also keeps things new by hosting temporary exhibitions of both local and foreign artists. If you’re planning a full day exploring downtown Lima, you might want to check out Lima in a day: The best things to do, see, and eat. Pro Tip: If you schedule your visit perfectly, you may be able to join one of MALI's late-night events or seminars, which provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

The Museum of Italian Art in Lima may surprise you with its magnificent collection of European treasures. This hidden treasure, which is located in the heart of Pueblo Libre, displays the splendor of Italian art from the Renaissance to the Baroque. Some of Italy's best painters and sculptors are in the museum's collection; their creations introduce Europe to Peru. If you want a more comprehensive experience of art while in Lima, this museum provides a nice contrast to the pre-Columbian and modern art seen in other local museums.

Pro tip: Relax in the museum's tranquil courtyard. After being surrounded by European art, it's the perfect location to unwind.

For those who enjoy the uncanny, the San Francisco Monastery provides a glimpse into Lima's dark history. A frightening underground network of catacombs lies beneath the abbey, with thousands of human bones arranged in geometric patterns. It's interesting and scary. The monastery above ground is equally captivating, with gorgeous religious art and an amazing library brimming with old writings. Pro tip: Take a guided tour to get the whole experience. The stories behind the catacombs will give you goosebumps and provide perspective for what you're witnessing.

The Amano Pre-Columbian Textile Museum, hidden away in Miraflores, is a must-see for anybody interested in fabric art. This modest museum exhibits one of the world's largest collections of pre-Hispanic textiles, highlighting the brilliance of ancient Peruvian weavers. Textiles from cultures such as the Chancay, Paracas, and Inca provide insight into the workmanship required to create the elaborate patterns and brilliant dyes. Pro Tip: The museum is small, so allow around an hour for your visit. Then, take a stroll along Miraflores' stunning shoreline.

The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru offers a comprehensive view of Peru's history, from ancient civilizations to the present republic. The museum's notable items, such as the Tello Obelisk and Raimondi Stela, are important for comprehending Chavín culture and the ancient Andean civilization. Pro Tip: Every first Sunday of the month, admission is free — a great opportunity to visit another museum!

The Pedro de Osma Museum, located in the scenic Barranco area, provides an elegant glimpse into the past. The museum is housed in a lovely colonial palace and displays a private collection of Peruvian colonial art, such as religious paintings, silverwork, and antique furniture. The mansion's architecture is a spectacular example of Art Nouveau, with stained-glass windows and marble floors adding to the overall ambiance.

Pro Tip: After touring the museum, go through Barranco's bohemian streets. Colorful paintings and comfortable cafes make for an ideal post-museum treat.

The Lima Museum of Art was founded by famed Peruvian photographer Mario Testino and is dedicated to displaying his most famous photographs, which include images of Princess Diana, Kate Moss, and other cultural icons. The museum also hosts exhibitions that highlight contemporary Peruvian art, culture, and indigenous peoples, as well as a unique blend of modern photography and traditional Peruvian art.

Pro tip: Testino's photographic collection changes periodically, so return for a fresh perspective.

If you want something new and out of the way, check out the Electricity Museum in Barranco. This small but fascinating museum depicts the history of electricity in Peru, with ancient appliances and transformers on display. The original 1904 tram car, a remnant of Lima's historic electric train system, is the main attraction. It's a rare look at the city's transportation history. Pro Tip: Best of all, entrance is free, and the museum is only a short walk from Barranco's main square, making it an easy addition to your agenda.

Museums in Lima give you a close-up glimpse into the city's fascinating history and vibrant art culture. You may be gazing at ancient artifacts at the Larco Museum, walking through the darkened tombs of the San Francisco Monastery, or looking at contemporary masterpieces at MAC Lima, there is always something for every curious traveller.

So whenever you find yourself in Lima, take some time to stop by the best museums in Lima. For more action outside of Lima, look no further than the Explore Peru Tour with Follow Alice—it's the most delicious way to sample Peru's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and legendary heritage.