10 Vibrant South American Cities Every American Needs to Experience

3. Lima, Peru: Culinary Capital with a Historic Heart

Lima stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, especially on the plate. As the continent’s culinary capital, the city boasts three of Latin America’s Top 50 Restaurants, alongside bustling street markets and mouthwatering cevicherías along the Pacific coast. In the historic center, colonial facades surround the elegant Plaza Mayor, while the nearby Barranco district pulses with art galleries and bohemian bars. Lima’s food scene is accessible for every type of traveler, offering guided tours and vibrant street eats for all budgets. For Americans, English-speaking guides are easy to find, and the city’s main districts are walkable and welcoming. Recent investments in tourist infrastructure make navigating Lima smoother than ever. Whether you’re sampling fresh seafood or wandering museum halls, Lima seamlessly blends old-world grandeur with bold new flavors.