Lima in 3 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Lima is the most important city in Peru and is not only a destination in itself but also a popular choice as a base for discovering other sites in the country, such as Machu Picchu, Mancora or the Huacachina Oasis, so it is common for tourists to have few days in the Peruvian capital to get to know it. If that is your case, this article will give you some tips for your visit.

Some of the best things to do in Lima during 3 days include touring the historic centre and the main buildings in the area, walking around Miraflores, which is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods of the city, and the Malecón, and visiting the Larco Museum, as well as discovering the local gastronomy, which is one of the most interesting in the world.

For the first day of your tour of Lima I suggest a walk through the Historic Centre of the city, which is the oldest area and home to some of the most emblematic buildings of the Peruvian capital. In addition, in the nearby area you can visit the Cathedral, which is a must-see architectural monument, the Plaza de Armas and the San Francisco Monastery.

Tour the Historic Centre of Lima

A tour of Lima's historic centre will allow you to delve into the history and culture of one of the oldest cities in the Americas. This fascinating place, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is home to a large number of monuments and historical sites that reflect the grandeur of the city's colonial and vice-royal past.

In the Historic Centre you can take one of the best tours of Lima, on a guided tour of the main sites in the area. There you can admire the Government Palace, which is the official residence of the president of Peru, and the Archbishop's Palace, a beautiful building with colonial architecture.

In this area you will discover colonial mansions, charming squares and carved wooden balconies that are a distinctive symbol of Lima's architecture. You can also visit the Casa de Aliaga, one of the oldest mansions in America, still inhabited by the same family since the 16th century. In addition, you will also find local food stalls and a wide variety of bars in the centre.

Walk around the Plaza de Armas

Within the Centro Histórico I suggest you take some time to walk around the Plaza de Armas, which is the cultural heart of the city. This iconic square, also known as the Plaza Mayor, is the meeting point and epicentre of Lima life.

The square's well-kept gardens and colonial benches will draw your attention, inviting you to rest and contemplate the surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic central fountain, which adds charm and freshness to the place, and if you plan to visit Lima in December you will see it decorated with Christmas lights.

The Plaza de Armas is also a meeting point for locals and visitors alike, and it is common to find street performers, artisans and traditional food vendors. You can take the opportunity to try some typical dishes such as the famous anticucho or buy souvenirs that reflect Peruvian culture.

Visit the Cathedral of Lima

Visiting the Cathedral of Lima will allow you to immerse yourself in the local history, which is not only related to the colonial past but also to the Catholic faith. This religious building, located in front of the Plaza de Armas, is a cultural testimony of Peru. Since its construction in the 16th century, the cathedral has witnessed important events and has left an indelible mark on Lima's identity.

Upon entering the Cathedral you will marvel at its colonial architecture. Its tall columns, wide arches and beautiful stained glass windows will offer you an unmissable view. Every corner of the building has a story to tell, from the side chapels to the main nave, where you can appreciate valuable works of religious art in a visit that will take you approximately 2 hours.

The Cathedral of Lima also houses important relics and treasures, including the Sagrario Chapel, where the largest silver tabernacle in Latin America can be found. In addition, the Cathedral is home to the tomb of the conquistador Francisco Pizarro, a figure of great historical significance for Peru.

Visit the Monastery of San Francisco

If you want to take a trip back to Peru's colonial past you can visit the Monastery of San Francisco, which is a religious complex built in the 17th century that bears witness to the history and architecture of the city during the time of the Spanish conquest. With its imposing cloisters, elegant arcades and magnificent church, the monastery is a site that captivates all visitors alike.

At the monastery, which is located next to the Cathedral of Lima, you can admire the cloisters, the gardens and a central fountain that is still in operation. The baroque style arcades adorned with intricate architectural details are a sample of the mastery of the artisans of the time and it is an ideal place to take a quiet stroll and admire its beauty during the tour, which lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours.

One of the main attractions of the San Francisco Monastery is its library, considered one of the oldest in America. It houses thousands of books and historical documents, some of which date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. In addition, the monastery has underground catacombs, which were used as a cemetery during the colonial era and which you can explore during your visit.

For the second day of the tour I propose a walk around the historic centre of Lima, which includes the Pacific coast from the stately Miraflores neighbourhood, the eclectic Malecon that begins the extensive Costa Verde and the picturesque district of Barranco, which is considered one of the most popular areas of the Peruvian capital.

Walk around the Miraflores neighbourhood

A walk through Miraflores will take you into the seaside district which is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, its views of the Pacific Ocean and its wide range of restaurants, shops and tourist attractions. This neighbourhood is considered the most luxurious in Lima and also one of the most beautiful, especially for its architecture that combines traditional palaces with modern constructions, many of them luxury hotels.

From every corner of Miraflores, which is built high above the sea, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the beaches. You can also walk along the promenades to discover the attractions of the coast. This area also has numerous parks and green areas, ideal for relaxing and picnicking outdoors.

Miraflores is also known for its lively nightlife and culinary offerings. Its streets are lined with restaurants, bars and cafés offering a wide variety of traditional dishes and international cuisine, so you can find some of the best gastronomic tours in Lima. Shopaholics will find shopping paradise here, with numerous art galleries and shopping malls.

Walk along the Malecón and its promenade

If you want to see the majesty of the Pacific Ocean with an unmissable panoramic view, you cannot miss the Malecón, which is the part of the seafront promenade that mostly covers the Miraflores neighbourhood and stretches for several kilometres.

Along the Malecón you will find numerous parks and green areas, perfect for resting, having a picnic or simply relaxing while contemplating the sea between excursions. The parks offer open spaces, manicured gardens and artistic sculptures that enhance the walking experience. In addition, the Malecon has pedestrian walkways and cycle paths, making it an ideal place for a bike tour.

One of the highlights of the Malecon tour is the famous Parque del Amor, with its iconic sculpture El Beso (The Kiss). This romantic spot offers a vantage point with a view of the ocean and is especially popular at sunset, when the colours of the sky merge with the sea.

Get to know the picturesque district of Barranco

Barranco is a picturesque seaside neighbourhood known for its bohemian spirit, cobblestone streets, colourful mansions and vibrant arts and culture scene. As you walk through Barranco, you will appreciate the fusion of the traditional and the modern, creating a unique atmosphere that will captivate you from the very first moment.

One of the distinctive features of Barranco are its streets filled with street art and murals that embellish its facades, especially if you plan to visit Lima in summer, when the sun is inclement. Every corner seems to tell a story through its colourful paintings and graffiti. In addition, the district is home to numerous art galleries and cultural spaces that showcase and promote local talent.

Barranco is also known for its nightlife and lively bohemian atmosphere. Its streets are often lined with live music venues, bars and restaurants offering a wide variety of options for a fun evening out. In addition, the district has the famous Bridge of Sighs, a romantic icon of the area, which invites visitors to take a stroll and enjoy the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

Keep in mind that Barranco is one of the largest districts in Lima, so you will need between 2 and 3 hours to walk around it at your leisure. From Miraflores you can get there by public transport or on Lima's tourist buses.

For your last day in Lima I suggest a tour of the Larco Museum, which has one of the largest and most important exhibitions in Peru and is an unmissable journey into the origins of Latin American indigenous civilisations, and a walk through the Parque de la Imaginación, as well as opting for a culinary excursion to delve into the local cuisine, which is some of the tastiest in the world.

Visit the Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is the guardian of Peru's pre-Columbian history and culture. Housed in a beautiful 18th century colonial mansion, this museum houses one of the most complete and outstanding collections of pre-Inca and pre-Columbian art in the country. Its galleries display thousands of ancient objects, from ceramics and textiles to jewellery and sculptures, giving visitors a unique insight into the civilisations that populated the Peruvian territory before the arrival of the Spanish.

At the Larco Museum you will find an exhibition that showcases the artistic mastery and worldview of its creators. The vivid colours, intricate designs and meticulous details of the ceramics and textiles convey the creativity and ingenuity of these ancient civilisations.

The Larco Museum is also famous for its collection of pre-Columbian erotic art. This unique aspect of the museum offers a fascinating and lesser-known insight into sexuality and intimate life in ancient cultures. Through these works, visitors can appreciate how these civilisations understood and represented love, fertility and life in all its dimensions.

Tour the Imagination Park

The Parque de la Imaginación is a themed attraction located in the district of San Miguel that offers an experience that combines science, technology and creativity, making it not only an interesting activity for adults, but also an ideal place to visit with children if you are planning a family trip to Lima. With its interactive exhibits and playful activities you can explore, experiment and let your imagination run wild.

In the park you will find exhibits and themed areas ranging from physics and biology to astronomy and robotics. You can take part in experiments, challenges and games that allow you to learn in a fun, hands-on way. From creating giant bubbles to discovering the secrets of gravity, every corner of the Imagination Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the world around us.

The park also has outdoor areas, gardens and green spaces that invite you to enjoy moments of recreation and relaxation. In addition, it offers special shows and activities that take place regularly, such as scientific demonstrations and theatrical presentations.

Take a gastronomic tour to get to know the local cuisine

Taking a gastronomic tour in the Peruvian capital will allow you to embark on an unparalleled culinary journey through the gastronomic epicentre of Latin America. Lima is world-renowned for its rich and diverse culinary offerings, which combine traditional flavours with international influences. During the gastronomic tour, you can explore local markets, taste authentic dishes and discover the secrets of Peruvian cuisine.

The tour usually starts in Lima's markets, such as Surquillo Market or San Isidro Market, where you can find fresh ingredients and learn about the typical products of the region. Expert guides will share with you knowledge about local products, their culinary uses and their importance in Peruvian gastronomy.

After visiting the markets, you will have the opportunity to taste emblematic dishes of Peruvian cuisine in selected restaurants. From ceviche, the country's star dish, to lomo saltado and aji de gallina, the flavours and aromas of Peruvian food unfold in a unique sensory experience. In addition, some gastronomic tours offer the chance to learn how to prepare Peruvian dishes in cooking classes with renowned local chefs.