Lima in 2 Days: everything you need to know

If you are wondering what to see and do in Lima, let me tell you that it is a very interesting city, with hundreds of activities to do and a great number of monuments, palaces and ruins to visit. All these spaces are full of history, which goes from the pre-Inca period to the present day. There are many options, and while 2 days may seem like a short time to explore a city, Peru's capital is unique in that you can explore it largely on foot.

From the ruins of Huaca Pucllana, dating back to pre-Columbian times, to the Miraflores boardwalk, or the Plaza Mayor in Lima, the city is perfect for getting lost and discovering its timeless charm. It also has some excellent museums that trace the region's past, with artefacts and artefacts that are hundreds of years old. That's why I've put together an itinerary specially designed to help you get the most out of your 2 days in Peru's capital - join me!

Start your first day in Lima with a must-see walk through its picturesque old town, then visit the coast and some of its amazing history. I've come up with a tour of the main sights, so wear comfortable shoes because... Here we go!

Lima's main square

Upon arrival, and after your transfer from Lima airport, there is no better place to start your tour than the historic heart of the city. Around the Plaza Mayor you will be able to see, among other things, the Cathedral of Lima. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a place of pilgrimage and devotion for the Catholic faithful in the region. This imposing structure is a must-see if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture. Built in the 16th century, Lima Cathedral is one of the main examples of colonial architecture in Peru.

Its façade reflects the influence of Renaissance and Gothic styles, with elaborate ornamental details that are captivating. The interior houses a wealth of artistic and religious treasures. Of particular note are the impressive carved wooden altars, adorned with gold leaf, which narrate biblical passages and venerated saints. The main altar, dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption, is a masterpiece of sculpture and goldsmithing. Numerous paintings and frescoes depicting religious scenes can also be admired.

Basilica and Convent of San Francisco

Just a 15-minute walk from the Plaza Mayor, you will find the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco. This beautiful church and convent houses an impressive network of underground catacombs, one of its highlights. Descending a stone staircase, you can immerse yourself in a labyrinth of underground corridors that house the remains of numerous archbishops and important personalities of the colonial era. This space, while it may seem macabre, is absolutely fascinating.

The religious complex, built in the 17th century, is one of the most important and emblematic destinations in the city, and offers an absolutely unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and mystery it holds. Definitely a must-see if you are passing through Lima.

In addition to the church and catacombs, the complex also houses a historic library with a vast collection of ancient books and important documents. This library is considered one of the most important in Latin America and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lima Museum of Art (MALI)

Just a 20-minute walk from the San Francisco Convent is the incredible Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), which houses a large collection of Peruvian art from pre-Columbian to contemporary times. The museum is housed in an impressive neo-colonial style building, located in the Parque de la Exposición. Its collections span thousands of years of history and offer a unique insight into the artistic evolution of Peru.

You can see the permanent exhibits, with unique archaeological pieces, such as ceramics, textiles, sculptures and gold and silver objects. These works of art reveal the technical skill and artistic sophistication of ancient Peruvian cultures. In addition, highlights include works from the Nazca culture, famous for its mysterious lines in the desert.

The museum also houses an important collection of colonial art, reflecting the fusion of European and indigenous traditions during the period of the Spanish conquest. Visitors can admire colonial paintings, sculptures and altarpieces depicting religious and everyday themes of the period. These works of art are a window into Peru's colonial past and show the influence of European culture in the country.

Miraflores Malecon

In the afternoon, I suggest you take bus 301 to the incomparable Malecón de Miraflores. Walk along the Malecon and admire the breathtaking sea views, as well as the famous Larcomar shopping centre. This beautiful promenade along the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean offers breathtaking views, lush green areas and a variety of activities to enjoy.

The Malecon stretches for several kilometres, with ample green areas, parks and manicured gardens that invite you to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Here you will find open spaces for picnics, outdoor sports or just sitting and contemplating the tranquillity of the sea. In addition, many of the parks along the Malecón have sculptures and public art, which add an artistic and cultural touch to the landscape.

Parque del Amor

One of the landmarks along the Malecón is the Parque del Amor, which pays homage to love and romance. This park features a famous sculpture called "El Beso", created by the renowned Peruvian sculptor Victor Delfin. The place is popular with lovers, and offers a romantic spot to enjoy the sea views, beautiful gardens and inspiring art.

In addition to its natural beauty and green spaces, you will find a wide range of dining options here, with restaurants, cafes and ice cream parlours where you can savour delicious Peruvian food while enjoying the sea views. There are also small kiosks and food stalls offering local specialities such as fresh ceviche, anticuchos and picarones.

Huaca Pucllana

Just a 15-minute walk from Parque del Amor is Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pre-Inca archaeological site located in the heart of the Miraflores neighbourhood. It is an ancient adobe pyramid dating back to the time of the Lima culture, which flourished between the 5th and 8th centuries A.D.

Huaca Pucllana is a fascinating place for those looking to immerse themselves in Peru's rich pre-Inca history and culture. The pyramid, built of handmade adobe, stands out for its imposing structure and intricate architectural design. As you explore the site, you will marvel at the terraces, courtyards and platforms that soar into the sky, giving you a breathtaking view of the surrounding cityscape.

It is believed that the site was used for religious and political rituals, and was also a place of residence for the ruling elite. Archaeologists have uncovered human burials, offerings and pottery remains, providing valuable insights into the burial practices and beliefs of the Lima culture.

End this first day in Lima with an intimate dinner in an unbeatable location: Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, where you can savour the best Peruvian gastronomy. And if you're still hungry for more, you can sign up for one of Lima's great gastronomic tours, an unforgettable experience for your palate.

For this second and last day in the city of Lima I propose a tour through the history and art of Peru. You'll explore the bohemian neighbourhood and the Parque de la Reserva, among other things, so get ready because here we go.

La Reserva Park

Head to the district of El Rimac to visit this beautiful park, known for its famous magical water circuit. Parque de la Reserva has entered the Guinness Book of Records for being the public park with the most fountains in the world. I recommend you to enjoy its light and colour shows. Definitely one of the things you can't miss if you visit Lima. It is a perfect place to enjoy Lima in summer.

Also known as the Parque de las Aguas, it is one of the most popular destinations in the city and offers a memorable experience for those who visit it. As mentioned above, one of the highlights of the Parque de la Reserva are its spectacular water fountains. The park is home to the famous "Magic Water Circuit", a set of 13 ornamental fountains that combine water, lights and music in a breathtaking visual spectacle.

Each fountain has its own design and theme, and some even allow visitor interaction, such as the Fountain of Wishes, where you can toss a coin and make a wish.

Barranco District

About a 25-minute walk from the Parque de la Reserva, you'll find Lima's bohemian quarter: the Barranco district. Like a sort of Montmartre in Lima, here you can enjoy its vibrant artistic atmosphere, colourful streets, art galleries and theatres. The Barranco Cultural Centre is a focal point for cultural events, exhibitions and artistic presentations.

In addition to its coastal location, the district is known for its colonial architecture and picturesque cobblestone streets. Strolling through the streets of Barranco allows you to appreciate the beauty of the colourful colonial houses and well-preserved historic buildings. One of Barranco's most prominent attractions is the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), an iconic wooden bridge built in the 1870s. Surrounded by history and romantic legends, the bridge is a popular place to take a stroll and enjoy the panoramic views of the district.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

If you are a contemporary art lover and want to see the work of some of Peru's leading artists, I recommend a visit to the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC).

Located about 15 to 20 minutes from Barranco, the MAC houses an impressive collection of contemporary art spanning a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, installations and audiovisual media. Permanent and temporary exhibitions feature works by Peruvian and international artists, offering a fascinating insight into current artistic trends and expression.

The architectural design of the MAC building is most appealing. The modern, avant-garde building was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, who sought to create a space that would dialogue harmoniously with its urban surroundings. The design includes a glass façade that allows natural light to enter, creating a bright and dynamic atmosphere inside.

Beach circuit

Finish your second and last day in Lima with a stroll along its incredible beaches. Peru's capital has a beautiful coastline and several beach resorts along the Beach Circuit. You can enjoy a nice walk along the beach, practice water sports or just relax in the sun.

Some of the most popular beaches near Barranco include Playa Makaha, Playa Las Piedritas and Playa Los Yuyos. A perfect day trip if you plan to visit Lima in December, as remember this is precisely when summer starts in Peru.

Makaha is located in the district of Miraflores, and is a very popular beach with surfers. The waves at Makaha are ideal for surfing and you can also find surf schools in the area. Although with only 2 days in Lima you may not have enough time to enjoy the beaches to the fullest, it is well worth taking a look at them, and maybe, you will start thinking about coming back.

The city of Lima is perfect for sightseeing on foot, as many of its main attractions are located in the city centre. However, from there to the coast, the Malecón de Miraflores and other places of great tourist attraction, you have about 1 hour walk, so it is convenient to take a bus or the metro. There is only one metro line in Lima, which runs through almost the entire city with 26 stations, so it's worth it.

If you're used to using apps like Cabify or Uber, Lima is perfect for this, as they are very practical and affordable. Buses can also be a good option, lines like the 301 are perfect for getting around the city safely and quickly.

Many of the places I've mentioned are included in the route of some of Lima's best tourist buses, so if you want to get a general idea of the city's charms, it might be a good idea to sign up for this citytour.

As you can see, Lima is a city full of options for an incredible few days. Here you can explore its history, pre-Columbian art, parks, vibrant cultural life and indulge in the exuberant flavours of Peruvian cuisine, with ceviche being the most characteristic dish. Either way, you'll find that visiting Lima is a unique and unforgettable experience. I hope you found the itinerary interesting, I can only say have a good trip!