Lima, Peru 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lima, Peru

Day 1: Arrival & Miraflores District

  • Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport.
  • Check-in at a hotel in the Miraflores district (recommended: Hotel Casa Andina Premium Miraflores).
  • Explore Larcomar, a shopping center with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and local Peruvian stores.
  • Visit the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe pyramid from the Lima Culture.
  • Evening: Dine at La Mar Cebicheria (Michelin-starred restaurant offering delicious ceviche).

Day 2: Historical Center & Barranco District

  • Morning: Visit the Historical Center of Lima, including Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, and San Francisco Monastery.
  • Afternoon: Head to the charming Barranco district, known for its bohemian vibe and colorful streets. Stop by the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros) and the iconic Chabuca Granda Park.
  • Evening: Dine at Astrid y Gastón (Peruvian fusion cuisine by celebrity chefs Gastón Acurio).

Day 3: Museum Day

  • Visit the Museum of the Nation to learn about Peruvian history and culture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Larco Museum, known for its vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts.
  • Evening: Relax at Park Kennedy or explore the nightlife in Barranco district.

Day 4: Lima’s Beaches & Surfing

  • Spend the day at one of Lima’s beautiful beaches, such as Waikiki, Punta Hermosa, or the more secluded Balneario el Silencio.
  • If you’re a surfer, consider taking surf lessons from local instructors.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood in one of the beachfront restaurants.

Day 5: Modern Lima & Parque de la Reserva

  • Morning: Visit the Modern Art Museum (MALI) and the Gold Museum.
  • Afternoon: Head to Parque de la Reserva to see the famous “Japanese Gardens” and the 14 fountains of the Circuit of Water.
  • Evening: Explore the nightlife in Miraflores or Larcomar.

Day 6: Day Trip to Pachacamac

  • Take a day trip to the archaeological site of Pachacamac, an ancient pre-Inca and Inca complex located about an hour outside Lima.
  • Evening: Return to Lima and enjoy your final night in the city at your leisure.

Day 7: Departure

  • Depending on your flight time, squeeze in some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Lima’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and a light rain jacket.
  • The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).
  • Spanish is the predominant language in Peru, but many people in tourism areas speak English.
  • Taxis are widely available, but use trusted companies like Taxi Mel or Taxi Maxi for safety.
  • Remember to try local dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos.

Transportation:

  • Lima has a reliable metro system (Metropolitano) connecting various districts, including Miraflores, Barranco, and the Historical Center.
  • Taxis are another option for getting around the city, although be sure to use trusted companies or apps like Cabify.
  • For day trips outside of Lima, consider organized tours or renting a car with a GPS.