Often overlooked as a mere transit point, Lima is a vibrant metropolis that demands at least 48 hours of your time. From the bohemian streets of Barranco to the historic colonial heart of the city, Peru's capital offers a sophisticated blend of world-class gastronomy, ancient history, and stunning coastal views.
This curated itinerary guides you through the best of the "City of Kings," ensuring you experience everything from artisanal coffee and pre-Columbine art to the finest seafood and nightlife the Pacific coast has to offer.
Arrival day
8 a.m.
After arriving at the Jorge Chavez International Airport in Callao, Lima, grab your luggage and set out by private shuttle or by your prearranged airport transfer, to take you to your accommodation in the bohemian district of Barranco or the more upmarket Miraflores. These coastal districts are a tourist favourite and are some of the safest districts of Lima. All ranges of hotels are available and should be nothing less than unique and inspirational!
10 a.m.
Head out for a relaxed and healthy breakfast at La Bodega Verde, a sweet garden cafe with outdoor and pet-friendly seating. Now it’s time for a stroll—but first, coffee. Lima has become a mecca for artisanal coffee houses that feature national and mostly organic beans, and Barranco just happens to host some of the city’s best cafes.
If you’re observant enough, chances are you’ll be able to spot a favourite local artist or two. If you stay in Miraflores, all around the Parque Kennedy are a number of traditional coffee houses and breakfast options.
11 a.m.
Limeños are characteristically nonchalant when it comes to time, as are the majority of Peruvians! Many businesses don’t open until nearly midday in the capital so you can enjoy some of the best artisan shops, galleries and museums in town. Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) in Barranco, or the Huaca Puccllana ruins in Miraflores which are within walking distance of the centres. Stretch your legs as you peruse the local art scene, all the while working up an appetite for one of Peru´s most exquisite delicacies, their cuisine!
Day 1: Afternoon
2 p.m.
Finally, it’s time to sample the world-famous Peruvian cuisine. Lunch is typically the main meal of the day and the portions at any local eatery are usually on the larger side! Barranco is blessed with a number of restaurants with all different types of cuisine, however we recommend a seafood dish or a local Peruvian plate to enhance your full Peruvian experience. Traditional creole plates like” lomo saltado” (stir-fried beef, rice and french fries); “seco con frejoles” (beef stew accompanied by creamy beans) as well as “Aji de gallina” (strips if chicken in a creamy yellow, mild chili sauce), are all local favourites. There are also a handful of decent “cevicheria´s” selling the emblematic national seafood dish if you simply can’t wait to try Peru’s most popular dish!
4 p.m.
Before allowing yourself to fall into a food coma, head north along the malecón, which is the coastal footpath that connects Barranco, Miraflores, and San Isidro—for a gentle stroll with ocean views. If you want to pick up the pace, rent a bike on the Barranco end of the walkway or from any of the 100 rental stations in the Miraflores district, a mere 20-minute walk away. Passing the cliff-side shopping mall of Larco Mar, a skate park, tennis courts, public parks, small cafes and sculptures by Peruvian artists. Finally, end your adventure at the LUM memorial, a Miraflores museum dedicated to exploring the 1980-2000 conflicts between a number of terrorist groups and Peru's government.
7 p.m.
Lima is home to numerous award-winning restaurants and dining at one of these world-renowned dining experiences is a must. On San Martin Street in Miraflores you can find two incredible restaurants: the Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant Maido (voted Latin America’s Best three years in a row) and Rafael, a funky and classy restaurant with a buzzing atmosphere at night. Sharing a similar price range of $70-$90 per person, both of these top-end eateries prove that at least one (maybe 5!) luxury meal is a must on your Peruvian holiday.
Day 2
9 a.m.
If you woke up early and want to catch some waves there are a number of surf schools along the coast. If you are just waking up, a strong coffee and a delicious breakfast can be found in and around Barranco or Miraflores. After breakfast, order a cab to the historic centre of Peru, found about a 40-minute taxi ride away (depending on traffic).
11 a.m.
The bright yellow colonial architecture surrounds central Lima’s main Plaza Mayor. Admire the main square and its central bronze fountain; the Government Palace, protected by guardsmen who perform their changing of the guard at noon each day, accompanied by a brass band; the Archbishop’s Palace with ornate, wooden balconies and next door, lies the 17th-century baroque Cathedral of Lima.
A five-minute walk from the plaza, tour one of the oldest catacombs in all of South America found in the 16th-century San Francisco convent. The underground vaults are said to contain over 25,000 skeletons that have impressively survived the numerous earthquakes for centuries, thanks to its anti-seismic structures. Ask your guide at the convent about the network of secret passageways that criss-cross Lima’s subterranean centre!
2 p.m.
Having returned from underground catacombs, leave Lima’s darker past behind you and move on to a deserved lunch stop. There are an array of dishes from Peru’s gastronomic legacy that have continued to influence even the most famous chefs of today, and these can be sampled at restaurants in the centre of Lima, including Try Restaurante Plaza San Martín, on the plaza of the same name, La Muralla - located near the city’s old wall, or the famous El Cordano, close to the San Francisco convent.
This is probably your final day, so say cheers to the City of Kings with an authentic Pisco Sour from the Gran Hotel Bolivar in central Lima’s Plaza San Martin, arguably the best Pisco sour in all of Peru.
4 p.m.
Take a taxi to Pueblo Libre for a spectacular viewing of pre-Columbine art at Museo Larco. The collection has more than 45,000 works of art that span over a period of 5,000 years. Prepare yourself for the impressive display of incredible ancient erotic pottery. The museum is also home to a lush garden and comfortable cafe.
7 p.m.
The Pacific Ocean manages to maintain the balance in a hectic city, so it is only correct to pay it homage. Say farewell to the coastal capital with a romantic seaside dinner at Cala or La Rosa Nautica, located in Barranco and Miraflores, respectively. Both specialize in contemporary Peruvian cuisine with plenty of seafood options. While La Rosa Nautica has live jazz, an “old-school” vibe and a fantastic location at the end of an old pier, Cala also has a prime location directly overhanging the sea, and offers a more intimate and modern vibe.
10 p.m.
End your final evening in the Barranco neighbourhood, with a live music show at one of the many music venues. La Noche, is the classic choice and optimum night-time spot for Lima locals of all ages. Just remember you will probably have an early flight the next morning!
