Lima, Peru 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Historical Lima

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty Peruvian breakfast at Baker’s Café, known for its delicious pastries and sandwiches.
    • Visit the Huaca Pucllana, an adobe Pyramid built by the Lima culture around 500 AD, located in the Miraflores district.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to the LarcoMar for lunch. This upscale shopping mall offers a variety of Peruvian restaurants with stunning ocean views.
    • Explore the Museum of Larco, located within LarcoMar, which houses one of the largest pre-Columbian collections in the world.
    • In the afternoon, visit the nearby Huaca Huallamarca and Parque Kennedy.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Astrid y Gaston for a fusion Peruvian-European dinner. Reservations are recommended.
    • Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon de Miraflores, enjoying the sunset and the clifftop views of the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2: Discover Colonial Lima & Modern Art

  • Morning:

    • For breakfast, visit Tostadura, a popular spot for traditional Peruvian tostadas.
    • Explore the Historic Center of Lima, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Plaza Mayor, Palacio de Gobierno, and the Cathedral of Lima.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch at Canta Rana, a charming restaurant in the historic center serving traditional Peruvian dishes.
    • Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) for an afternoon immersed in modern Peruvian art.
    • Visit the nearby Barranco district, known for its bohemian vibe, colorful street art, and charming cafes.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Maido, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative Nikkei cuisine. Reservations are essential.
    • Stroll along the Barranco boardwalk, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the illuminated bridge.

Day 3: Explore Modern Lima & Pisco Sour

  • Morning:

    • Visit La Factoria for a breakfast filled with Peruvian baked goods.
    • Spend the morning at the Parque de la Reserva, where you can see the famous “Jumping Fountains” and the various sculptures of the Reserve’s Reserve.

  • Afternoon:

    • For lunch, head to Ceviche Huamaré, a popular spot for traditional Peruvian ceviche in the Miraflores district.
    • Visit the Museum of the Inquisition to learn about the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Peru.

  • Evening:

    • Learn the art of making Pisco Sour at a Pisco bar, such as Doble Fuego or Ayahuasca Cocktail Museum.
    • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Central, another Michelin-starred restaurant in Lima, known for its innovative Peruvian cuisine. Reservations are essential.

Things to Know:

  • Lima’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many people also speak English in tourist areas.
  • Taxis are abundant and affordable; always use a reputable company or app.
  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure at all times.
  • Don’t forget to try local delicacies like ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos!

Transportation:

  • Lima has a good public transportation system, including buses and the Lima Metro.
  • Taxis are also widely available and affordable. Always use a reputable company or app to ensure safety.
  • Uber is also available in Lima.