Museo Larco
#2 in Best Things To Do in Lima
Details
scorecard
- 4.0Value
- 5.0Facilities
- 4.0Atmosphere
Named after the collector and father of Peruvian archaeology, Rafael Larco Hoyle, the Museo Larco boasts the world's largest private collection of pre-Columbian art. Housed in an 18th-century mansion, the museum fascinates visitors, who say the historic treasures housed within provide insight into the many indigenous cultures that once thrived in Peru. The collection includes more than 50,000 ceramic pots, as well as an extensive collection of gold and jewelry, including ceremonial headdresses.
The museum also features a well-known collection of erotic pottery that dates back thousands of year. (For families bringing little ones, this exhibit is secluded from the rest of the museum and is located across the garden.)
You'll also find a popular open-air cafe on-site, which travelers say is a good option for lunch or dinner.
You can find the Museo Larco on the southwest portion of the Historic Center and Avenida Simón Bolivar west of the Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Peru. The museum is open seven days a week (including holidays) from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission costs 30 sol (about $9) for adults and 15 sol (about $4.50) for children. For more information, check out the museum's website.
More Best Things To Do in Lima


#1 Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor)
Known as the birthplace of Lima, the Plaza de Armas (also known as Plaza Mayor) functioned as the heart of the Spanish colony dating back to 1535. Travelers say it's a must-see for every first-time visitor to Lima.
Located in the historic center of Lima, this main square is full of photo ops. Although none of the original structures stand, the current architecture is still photo-worthy. You won't be able to miss the bright yellow Municipal Palace, as well as the bronze fountain that dates back to the early 1650s.
Known as the birthplace of Lima, the Plaza de Armas (also known as Plaza Mayor) functioned as the heart of the Spanish colony dating back to 1535. Travelers say it's a must-see for every first-time visitor to Lima.
Located in the historic center of Lima, this main square is full of photo ops. Although none of the original structures stand, the current architecture is still photo-worthy. You won't be able to miss the bright yellow Municipal Palace, as well as the bronze fountain that dates back to the early 1650s.
Explore More of Lima
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.