It's true that a trip to Perú represents a certain budget, especially if you've already started with Machu Picchu and Cuzco and feel your vacation budget slipping away... Rest assured, there are countless things to do and see in Lima without spending much at all! The capital, often overlooked by tourists who focus on the country's secondary cities, can leave many visitors unsure of what to explore.

To make the most of "free Lima," you shouldn't just wander through the city's streets (the historic center and Barranco) or stroll along the cliffs of Miraflores. We'll show you 5 great ideas for things to do during your stay in Perú without breaking the bank!

1. The National Museum

The National Museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian archaeological artifacts of great significance, with remnants spanning from prehistory through the Inca era. The museum's concept is quite engaging, offering a sort of chronological journey through Peruvian history. Free of charge, this museum also features fascinating temporary exhibitions. It's located in the San Borja district at Javier Prado Este 2465 and is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

2. The Inquisition Museum

The Inquisition Museum, as its name suggests, focuses on the entire period of the Inquisition, a very dark chapter in Peruvian colonial history. Numerous rooms recreate daily scenes from that era, including the library, torture chamber, audience hall, inquisitorial court, dungeons, and more. Truly fascinating and deeply enriching! The museum is located at Plaza Bolivar, Jiron Junín, 548.

3. Chorrillos and Morro Solar

The Chorrillos district is absolutely worth visiting for its authenticity. It's a former fishing village just a short distance from Barranco and Miraflores that transformed in the early 20th century into a luxury seaside resort for Lima's high society. Many surfers enjoy heading to La Herradura beach to catch the waves.

The Chorrillos district also offers a range of activities, including a large market filled with the finest fruits, vegetables, fish, and regional products. It's also possible to visit for just 8 soles a protected wildlife reserve called Pantanos de villa, which is home to birds, insects, fish, reptiles, rodents, and more.

Morro Solar is another interesting spot with breathtaking views across all of Lima. You won't miss it on the landscape, especially at night when an enormous illuminated cross several meters high is visible for kilometers around. Since this year, an immense 37-meter-high Christ with outstretched arms is also visible and changes colors throughout the night.

4. The Government Palace

The heart of the Peruvian state is the Palacio del Gobierno, the residence of the Peruvian President. This magnificent building, which was Pizarro's residence during the early colonization period, sits on the main plaza of the capital, Lima. It's possible to visit the Palacio del Gobierno occasionally. In fact, you can visit the President's residence for free every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, but only by booking in advance. If you don't happen to make the visitor list, you can always observe the changing of the guard from Monday to Saturday at noon sharp!

5. Free or Nearly Free Theme Parks!

• Parque de la muralla

The Parque de la Muralla is a charming park containing the remnants of the old protective wall of Lima, dating back to the 17th century. The park is perfectly positioned to extend your visit, just 5 minutes from the Government Palace and near the Rimac River. It even has a museum inside. The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 8 PM, at Jiron Amazonas, cuadra 1. Parque de la Muralla offers a variety of enjoyable activities including a small theater, playground, mini zoo, shops, and a restaurant.

• Parque de las aguas

Parque de las Aguas is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as featuring the largest network of fountains in a public park in the world. You absolutely must visit this incredible park during a trip to Perú to enjoy fabulous water features with sound and light shows. Entry is free during the day, but the most magical moment is undoubtedly at night, when you'll only need to pay 4 soles! For more information on Parque de las Aguas.

• Parque de los olivos

During a visit to Lima, you may pass through the San Isidro district. If you do, take time to stroll through Parque del Olivar, a true haven of peace. This park contains over 1,500 olive trees, many over a century old, with the oldest dating back to the arrival of the Spanish in Perú! The park is very peaceful and inviting for relaxation on benches near the fountain.