3-Day Solo Culinary and Sightseeing Adventure in Lima, Peru

Lima, Peru

3 days

Miraflores urban town
Monumental Callao
La Marina Lighthouse
Roman bridge in Ponte de Lima
Plaza Mayor in Historic Center

About Lima, Peru

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Lima, Peru's captivating capital. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes, Lima offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, showcasing colonial architecture, grand plazas, and revered museums. Indulge in Lima's renowned gastronomy scene, sampling ceviche and pisco sours. Visit the bohemian district of Barranco, known for its street art, nightlife, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Discover ancient civilizations at the Huaca Pucllana and Pachacamac archaeological sites. Enjoy the coastal views from the Miraflores boardwalk and the stunning sunsets at the El Malecón park. Lima, a city of contrasts, is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center and Pueblo Libre

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and grand cathedrals. Don't miss the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Lima.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in a local restaurant. Try ceviche, a national dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and a glass of Pisco Sour, the national drink.

Afternoon

Visit the Larco Museum, renowned for its pre-Columbian art collection. Explore the beautiful gardens and the unique collection of artifacts from ancient Peru.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering fusion cuisine, combining traditional Peruvian ingredients with international flavors.

Evening

Stroll around the Miraflores district, known for its shopping, gardens, flower-filled parks, and beachfront views. End your day with a visit to the illuminated El Parque del Amor.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the modern district of Barranco, known for its bohemian vibe. Explore the art galleries, colorful murals, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in Barranco. Try anticuchos, skewered beef heart marinated in vinegar and spices, a popular street food in Peru.

Afternoon

Visit the Pedro de Osma Museum, which houses an impressive collection of colonial art. Then, explore the Mario Testino Museum, dedicated to the work of the famous Peruvian fashion photographer.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant with a view of the Pacific Ocean. Try a variety of seafood dishes, including tiradito, a raw fish dish similar to ceviche.

Evening

Take a night tour of the Magic Water Circuit, a park with a series of large fountains that light up at night and offer a spectacular display of water, sound, and light.

Morning

Visit the San Isidro district, known for its residential areas, golf course, and the pre-Incan Huaca Huallamarca pyramid.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in San Isidro. Try lomo saltado, a popular Peruvian dish of marinated steak, onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the pre-Incan ruins of Pachacamac, an important religious center for the indigenous people of the region.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Lima in a restaurant offering a tasting menu of Peruvian cuisine, paired with local wines.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Larcomar, a shopping center located on a cliff with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the nightlife, shopping, and entertainment options.

Attractions in Itinerary (13)

Historic Center of Lima

1
Historic Center of Lima

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Center of Lima is home to beautiful colonial architecture and important historical landmarks.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Presidential Palace

2
Presidential Palace

Also known as the Government Palace, it's the official residence and office of the President of Peru.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Cathedral of Lima

3
Cathedral of Lima

The Cathedral of Lima is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Plaza Mayor of downtown Lima, Peru. It is characterized by its ornate facade and stunning interior, which houses the remains of Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of Peru.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Larco Museum

4
Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is a privately owned museum of pre-Columbian art, located in the Pueblo Libre District of Lima. The museum is housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building. It showcases chronological galleries that provide a thorough overview of 4,000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
El Parque del Amor

5
El Parque del Amor

Located in Miraflores, this park is known for its romantic atmosphere and the famous 'El Beso' statue.

Parks
Landmarks
Bridge of Sighs

6
Bridge of Sighs

A famous wooden bridge located in the Barranco district, known for its romantic significance in Peruvian culture.

Attractions
Landmarks
Pedro de Osma Museum

7
Pedro de Osma Museum

A museum showcasing the finest collection of colonial art from Peru, housed in a beautiful mansion.

Museums
Cultural Experiences

8
Mario Testino Museum

A museum dedicated to the works of the famous Peruvian fashion photographer, Mario Testino.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Magic Water Circuit

9
Magic Water Circuit

The Magic Water Circuit is a series of fountains located in the Parque de la Reserva, a historic 8-hectare (20-acre) park in the downtown district of Lima. Known for its evening laser and water shows, it's a popular attraction for families and tourists.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Huaca Huallamarca

10
Huaca Huallamarca

An ancient pyramid in the heart of Lima, offering a glimpse into the city's pre-Columbian past.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Pachacamac

11
Pachacamac

An archaeological site located 40 kilometres southeast of Lima, Peru in the Valley of the Lurín River. It was an important pilgrimage center in pre-Columbian times.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Larcomar

12
Larcomar

A shopping center located in the Miraflores district of Lima, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.

Shopping
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Barranco District

13
Barranco District

Barranco is a bohemian neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and street art.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ceviche

Ceviche

A classic Peruvian dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, and spiced with ají, chili peppers or other seasonings including chopped onions, salt, and cilantro. It's a must-try when in Lima, Peru.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is a cocktail typical of South American cuisine. The drink's name comes from pisco, which is its base liquor, and the cocktail term sour, in reference to sour citrus juice and sweetener components. It's a traditional drink of Lima, Peru.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado

A popular, traditional Peruvian dish, a stir fry that typically combines marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, french fries, and other ingredients; and is typically served with rice. It's a staple food in Lima.

Causa

Causa

A traditional Peruvian layered potato dish that's usually served cold. The layers often include, but are not limited to, mashed yellow potatoes, avocado, chicken, seafood, and mayonnaise. It's a common dish in Lima.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos

A popular street food in Lima, Anticuchos are skewers of marinated meat, typically beef heart, grilled to perfection. They're often served with boiled potatoes and corn.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada

A sweet Peruvian beverage made from purple corn, a variety native to the Andes mountains, and flavored with pineapple, cinnamon, and clove. It's a traditional drink in Lima.

Aji de Gallina

A delicious Peruvian classic made of sliced chicken covered in a savory yellow sauce made from milk, bread, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Peruvian yellow peppers, and a touch of turmeric. It's a popular dish in Lima.

Picarones

Picarones

A traditional Peruvian dessert that's similar to a doughnut or fritter. Made from squash and sweet potato dough, deep-fried and served with a drizzle of sweet molasses syrup. It's a favorite sweet treat in Lima.

Alfajores

Alfajores

A traditional dessert in Lima, Alfajores are cookies filled with dulce de leche (a creamy caramel-like filling) and dusted with powdered sugar.

Tacu Tacu

A traditional Peruvian dish made from rice, beans, and usually leftover meats. It's a hearty and popular dish in Lima.

Rocoto Relleno

A traditional Peruvian dish from Lima, Rocoto Relleno is a spicy pepper stuffed with a savory meat filling, topped with melted cheese and baked.

Inca Kola

Inca Kola

A sweet, fruity soda that's a favorite in Lima. It's often described as tasting like bubblegum or cream soda.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lima, Peru is during the summer months from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and there's very little rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months of November and May are also good options.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 7

Fri

Battle of Arica

June 29

Sat

St Peter and St Paul

July 23

Tue

Peruvian Air Force Day

July 28

Sun

Independence Day

July 29

Mon

Independence Day (day 2)

August 6

Tue

Battle of Junín

August 30

Fri

Santa Rosa De Lima

October 8

Tue

Battle of Angamos

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 9

Mon

Battle of Ayacucho

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Lima. They are not metered, so it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. There are also taxi apps available such as Uber and Beat, which are safer and more reliable.

Buses are the most popular form of public transportation in Lima. They cover almost every part of the city. However, they can be crowded and the routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

This is a modern bus system with its own lanes to avoid traffic. It has a set route from north to south of the city. You will need to purchase a rechargeable card to use this service.

These are smaller buses or vans that run specific routes. They are cheaper than regular buses but can be crowded and less comfortable.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Beat are widely used in Lima. They are often safer and more reliable than traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Renting a car is an option, but not recommended due to Lima's heavy traffic and complicated road system. If you choose to rent a car, make sure you are comfortable with aggressive driving styles.

Lima has been increasing its number of bike lanes, making cycling a viable option for getting around certain parts of the city. Some areas also offer bike rental services.

Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in areas like Miraflores and Barranco. However, be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PEN

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone011, 5114

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Lima, Peru as a first time visitor

1

Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in many tourist areas and hotels.

3

The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol. It's recommended to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted in Lima, but it's always good to have some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

Lima has a mild desert climate with two distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer from December to April and a cooler, foggy winter from June to October.

6

Summer temperatures range from 77-82°F (25-28°C) during the day and 63-68°F (17-20°C) at night. Winter temperatures range from 59-63°F (15-17°C) during the day and 54-57°F (12-14°C) at night.

7

Lima is in the Peru Time Zone, which is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

8

Tipping is customary in Peru. A 10% tip is standard in restaurants, but you can give more for exceptional service.

9

Public transportation in Lima includes buses, taxis, and the Metropolitano rapid transit system. Be aware that not all taxis have meters, so agree on a fare before getting in.

10

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

11

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and highly regarded worldwide. Be sure to try local dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos.

12

Tap water in Lima is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking.

13

Peru uses a 220-volt electrical system. If your devices use a different voltage, you'll need a converter.

14

Peru has a reciprocal health agreement with some countries. Check if this applies to you and consider travel insurance for any gaps in coverage.

15

Peru's emergency number is 105 for police, 116 for ambulance, and 115 for fire.

16

Peru has strict laws on drug trafficking. Even small amounts of drugs can lead to lengthy prison sentences.

17

Lima has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Be sure to check out the Barranco district.

18

Shopping in Lima offers a mix of modern malls, traditional markets, and artisanal crafts. The Miraflores district is known for its shopping.

19

Peru has a rich cultural heritage with many festivals throughout the year. Check local listings for any events during your visit.

20

Peru has a diverse ecosystem with many opportunities for outdoor activities. Consider taking a day trip to the nearby Andes or Amazon rainforest.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what was said

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mee-da

When looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gwa

When asking for water

Good morning

Buenos días

Bwe-nos dee-as

Greeting someone in the morning

Good afternoon

Buenas tardes

Bwe-nas tar-des

Greeting someone in the afternoon

Good evening

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Greeting someone in the evening

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

When asking for the price

Can I have...?

¿Puedo tener...?

Pwe-do te-ner

When requesting something

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • T-shirts

  • Shorts

  • Long pants

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance information

  • Hotel and/or tour contact information

  • Tickets and reservations

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter and converter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop or tablet (optional)

  • Charger for laptop or tablet (optional)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel-size umbrella

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notebook and pen

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Lima, Peru, it's important to know that the city has a mild desert climate, with two distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer from December to April, and a cooler, foggy winter from June to October. During the summer months, temperatures in Lima can reach up to 84°F (29°C), with high humidity levels. It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Despite the heat, Lima's coastal location means that a cool breeze is often present, so it may be worth packing a light jacket for the evenings. In contrast, the winter months can be quite cool, with temperatures dropping to around 59°F (15°C). The city is often covered in a thick fog, locally known as "garúa", which can make sightseeing a bit challenging. It's recommended to pack warmer clothing, including a jacket and scarf, during this period. Regardless of the season, Lima rarely receives rainfall, so there's no need to pack heavy rain gear. However, the city's high humidity can make the air feel damp, so moisture-wicking clothing can be beneficial. Lastly, Lima's coastal location means that the UV index can be high, even on cloudy days. Therefore, it's crucial to protect your skin with sunscreen, even if it doesn't seem particularly sunny. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Enjoy your visit to Lima!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 19°

January is the warmest month in Lima, with high humidity and occasional rainfall. It's a great time for beach activities.

February

29° / 19°

February continues the summer trend with warm temperatures and high humidity. It's perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

March

28° / 18°

March sees a slight decrease in temperature but remains warm. It's a good time to visit historical sites and enjoy local cuisine.

April

26° / 16°

In April, the weather starts to cool down, making it comfortable for sightseeing. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

May

23° / 15°

May marks the beginning of winter in Lima, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

June

22° / 14°

June is one of the coolest months in Lima, with overcast skies. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's culinary scene.

July

21° / 13°

July is the coldest month in Lima, with temperatures rarely exceeding 21°C. It's a good time to explore the city's architecture and historical sites.

August

21° / 13°

August continues the winter trend with cool temperatures and overcast skies. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy local cuisine.

September

22° / 14°

In September, the weather starts to warm up slightly. It's a good time to explore the city and its surroundings.

October

23° / 15°

October sees a further increase in temperature, making it comfortable for sightseeing. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

November

26° / 16°

November marks the beginning of summer in Lima, with warmer temperatures and increasing humidity. It's a good time to visit beaches and outdoor attractions.

December

28° / 18°

December is a warm month in Lima, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. It's a great time for beach activities and enjoying local festivals.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lima is the capital and the largest city of Peru?

1 of 10

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