Flights to Lima with Air France from GBP 566*

* The displayed prices are applicable for one adult. All amounts are in GBP including taxes and surcharges, except where taxes are collected locally at the airport. A booking fee is not applicable, but a payment surcharge may apply. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice, see Air France Price Display for more information.

Lima, Peru's mysterious capital

Lima is the capital of Peru and is also the country's largest city. It is an interesting tourist destination, boasting a complete change of scenery. The city of Lima has a mysterious side to it, that requires us to pay attention to every little detail to get to know it and discover its true personality.

Lima is a town dating back to the time of the Spanish Conquistadors. It was founded in 1535. Its historical centre bears testimony to that period, and its beauty led it to be classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is now home to about ten million inhabitants. It is a major economic, political and cultural hub within the country. In fact, over the last few years, it has expanded greatly.

If you wish to visit Lima, book your flight between December and March. The temperatures are extremely pleasant there. There is very little rain all year round in Lima, yet the overall humidity level reaches its peak between June and December. Visiting Lima during those months will not be as pleasant.

To get to your destination, Air France offers regular flights to Lima. The flight to Lima should take a total of about 14 hours from London, without counting the lay-over time (in Amsterdam or Paris). You will also have to consider the time difference, and put your watch back 6 hours upon arrival.

Once there, locals mostly speak Spanish, but you should be able to get by with English. Find all our advice for preparing your trip and your flight in the best way possible.

Lima, a classified historical heritage

To start off your trip to Lima, discover the city's historical centre. You can begin your tour of the centre by visiting Lima's Main Square. There you can admire the Government's Palace, Cathedral and magnificent colonial fountain. If you get to the main square around lunch time, you can watch the changing of the guards in front of the palace.

Carry on your trip by discovering the city's many religious buildings: the Basilica and San Francisco Monastery are exceptional buildings with beautifully-preserved Baroque architecture. You will also be amazed by the monastery's library and mysterious atmosphere. To finish off in style, discover the catacombs located just beneath the convent. When climbing down into its depths, you will be paying a visit to the several tens of thousands of skeletons lying around you. How thrilling!

If you wish to go back even further in time, head to the large Adobe pyramid dating back to between 300 and 700 B.C. You can admire the many antique ruins and run your hands along the country's deep historical roots.

To finish off your cultural discovery, you can visit the city's many museums. There are several - focusing on history, local culture, art, fauna, flora and even erotic art and bullfighting!

At the end of your busy day walking around Lima, go and relax on the beach or go and admire the city from above. Climb up the San Cristobal hill to discover the beautiful panorama spreading out over the city. Towards the end of the day, beautified by the city's sparking lights, this last stop will be a magical one!

Lastly, you can stop off in the Barranco district. It is famous for its artists and poets. The atmosphere there is festive and the night life is always lively. Discover the many restaurants and bars, to relax in or taste one of the many local specialities. Peru's cuisine is indeed extremely diversified and truly delicious.

For more information on organising your trip:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs