The international gateway to Peru, Lima is impossible to avoid if you’re planning on going anywhere in this fascinating country. Many people land in the capital and promptly move on, eager to begin their journey. But there are countless reasons to hang around and enjoy this vibrant city. Spend a weekend in Lima, and you’ll get to find out what everyone else is missing!
In Peru’s capital, you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. Here, you can opt to explore the modern, cosmopolitan side of the city with its gorgeous parks, world-class restaurants, and high-octane nightlife, or step back in time and discover centuries-old ruins, ancient plazas, and historic churches.
What makes this city stand out from the others in South America is its distinct melting pot vibe. Lima has a long history of immigrants arriving from all over Africa, Asia, and Europe. This international feel has recently been enhanced with more recent migrations from the coastal regions of Peru, the Amazon, and the Andes, resulting in a fascinating combination of cultures and heritage.
To help you get the most out of your 3 days in Lima, we’ve put together the ultimate travel itinerary. It includes the best ways to get around the buzzing city to help you save time, as well as all the amazing attractions you’ve absolutely got to check out. We’ve also added some of our favorite places to eat and drink, plus a handful of extra recommendations if you manage to work your way through our suggestions faster than you thought. Enjoy!
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How to Spend a Weekend in Lima, Peru
Getting Around Lima
Walking is one of the best ways to get around Lima if you’re only covering a short distance. Not only can you avoid waiting for scheduled public transport, but this method allows you to get closer to the real Lima and see much more than you would on the road.
For something a little quicker, walk to Malecón de Miraflores and hop on one of the bikes that are available for rent. There are official bike lanes along the coastal path, but you’ll rarely find them anywhere else in the city – so stay alert.
If you’re covering a long distance, the local bus service is your best bet. Look out for the blue signs that say “Paradero” – these are bus stops. Corredor Azul is one of the newest and most efficient bus systems, with four routes stretching from Barranco to Rimac. Unlike most other local buses in the city, you can check Corredor Azul’s schedule online.
The Metro de Lima is a speedy alternative to the bus. It links 12 districts, including many of the popular tourist zones. It’s a great choice if you’re staying in Miraflores or Barranco and want to visit the historic center. You can check all the routes and times online.
Lima Itinerary – Day 1
Start your 3-day trip to Lima by exploring the historic center. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this part of the city invites you to immerse yourself in another time and discover some of the most impressive architecture that Peru has to offer.
Breakfast at Montcafé
Head to Montcafé for a hearty breakfast that will set you up for the day. This cute coffee shop has plenty of seating inside with floor-to-ceiling windows so you can people-watch while you decide what to order.
Here you’ll find a fantastic selection of hot and cold coffees. You’ve got to try the caramel frappé – it’s delicious! If it’s too cold for a frappé, the caramel cappuccino is a great alternative.
As well as the coffees, the menu is filled with stuffed croissants and sandwiches, empanadas, and baked foods. The Empanada de Lomo Saltado (a type of local pork pastry) is superb, as are the Apple Crumble Waffles.
Explore Plaza de Armas
Next up on your Lima itinerary is Plaza de Armas (also known as Plaza Mayor). The city’s main square, Plaza de Armas has been located in the heart of the historic center since 1535 and was where Peru’s independence was declared. No matter when you visit, the square is always bustling with locals going about their lives and visitors snapping pictures.
In the center of the square stands a remarkable bronze fountain that dates back to 1650, although it’s been restored several times over the centuries. The square also features the Monument to the Heroes of Independence, which was erected in the 19th century.
Try and time your visit for 11:45 am – this is when the changing of the guard ceremony is held on the eastern side of the square in front of the Government Palace. It takes place every day of the week and lasts for around 30 minutes.
Check Out the Catacombs of the Basilica San Francisco
When you’re done exploring the Plaza de Armas, move on to the Basilica San Francisco and its catacombs. The Baroque-style Roman Catholic church was completed in 1774 and has weathered a number of devastating earthquakes. Restoration works were always carried out, so the church still looks spectacular today.
Inside the basilica, you’ll find the library, home to more than 25,000 English, Spanish, and Quechua books, some of which date back to the 16th century. Make sure you seek out Ruben’s Passion of the Christ painting. It’s from the 17th century and shows Jesus and his disciples eating guinea pigs! You’ll never see anything else like it.
Head below the foundations of the church, and you’ll discover the largest catacombs in South America. Over 25,000 people were buried here and forgotten until they were rediscovered in 1947. When the catacombs were opened, the archaeologists sorted through the skeletons and separated the bones into categories, which is how they’re laid out today.
Just steps away, you’ll find Perú Gourmet – the place to go for some of the best local food you’ll find in Lima. Everything on the menu is superb. If you can’t make up your mind, we suggest the Ají de Gallina (a rich and creamy chicken stew) or Ceviche Perú Gourmet (ceviche made from white fish and shrimp marinated with passionfruit).
Round off your meal with a Pisco Sour. Perú Gourmet has a massive selection of them. If you visit after 4 pm, you’ll get to take advantage of all kinds of happy hour deals, too!
Experience the Magic Water Circuit
When the sun starts to set, make your way over to the Magic Water Circuit. This hugely popular attraction is made up of 13 interactive fountains enhanced by all kinds of impressive light shows and beautiful sounds. It’s the largest water park in the world and is a wonderful place to end your first day in Lima.
Some of the fountains spray water a staggering 260 feet high! If you’re short on time, head straight to the Fantasy Fountain – this fountain boasts one of the most impressive shows out of the circuit. Lasers and images are projected onto the water, taking you on a virtual tour of Peru. It’s amazing!
Lima Itinerary – Day 2
The next destination on your weekend trip to Lima is Barranco. This neighborhood is one of the coolest, trendiest parts of the city that’s brimming with chic art galleries, independent cafes, and fabulous boutiques.
Breakfast at Páqu Art Café in Barranco
Start your second day with a delicious breakfast at Páqu Art Cafe. This coffee shop is so stunning that you could easily mistake it for an art gallery.
Original framed drawings line the walls, huge cartoon-style pieces hang around the tables, and the foamy cappuccinos are made even better with fantastic latte art! There’s even a little gift shop on-site where you can buy beautiful pieces of artwork you definitely won’t find anywhere else.
The food is just as beautiful as the cafe, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. You can choose between everything from grilled cheese sandwiches, smashed avocado toast, and caprese sandwiches to gorgeous açai bowls, overloaded bowls of oatmeal, and cheese boards.
Visit the Bridge of Sighs
When you’re ready to get going, head straight for the Bridge of Sighs. On your way, be on the lookout for Lima’s impressive street art and murals. Barranco’s busy streets are bursting with incredible works of art, providing you with ample photo opportunities.
The Bridge of Sighs is a simple wooden bridge built in 1876 that quickly became a meeting point for poets and philosophers. The bridge got its name because couples would kiss on the bridge, causing them to sigh with happiness. It doesn’t look that impressive, but it’s one of the most emblematic parts of the city.
Head below the bridge and you’ll find Bajada de los Baños, an old walkway that people once used to reach the beach. Today, it’s a bohemian hangout that’s filled with people selling all sorts of weird and wonderful gifts. It’s also home to plenty more examples of the city’s mesmerizing street art.
Walk along the street, and you’ll discover old buildings painted in all sorts of bright colors, giving the place a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Some of the buildings have been family homes for generations, while others have been transformed into bars, pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
At the end of Bajada de los Baños, you’ll find yourself at the beach. Although the water is unsuitable for swimming, it’s a lovely place to snap some pictures!
Treat Yourself to a Cone at Heladería Speciale
If you didn’t grab a snack while walking along Bajada de los Baños, swing by Heladería Speciale and order a frozen treat. Here, you can enjoy ice cream cones and tubs, as well as sundaes and specials like banana splits and other amazing creations.
There’s a huge range to choose from, including strawberry, cappuccino, vanilla, chocolate, turrón, coconut, lemon, passionfruit, and dried fruit, with a number of limited-edition flavors throughout the year. If you don’t feel like an ice cream, baked goods are available here, too.
Next up on your 3-day Lima itinerary is MAC Lima. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) is one of the most important galleries in Peru and a fantastic place to visit, whether or not you consider yourself to be an art fan. With a curious, shiny silver sculpture floating over water, even the outside of the museum looks intriguing!
The collection spans a huge range of artistic mediums, including video art, photos, installations, sculptures, and paintings created by Peruvian and international artists. As well as the permanent exhibitions, MAC Lima also offers regular temporary exhibitions and activities you can join in with. If you need a break, there’s a cafe on-site where you can grab a drink and reflect on the art you’ve just seen.
Dinner at La Cuadra de Salvador
End the second day of your 3-day trip to Lima with a decadent dinner at La Cuadra de Salvador. This sensational steakhouse does one-of-a-kind meat-based dishes you’ve never heard of but will definitely want to try. Steak nigiri, beef gizzards with chimichurri, and beef spring rolls are just three examples.
The entrée selection is more traditional, with classics such as tomahawk steak, New York steak, and porterhouse steak served along with prime rib, skirt steak, and picaña. Definitely order the truffle butter as a side for your steak – it’s incredible!
Lima Itinerary – Day 3
Spend the final day of your 3-day Lima vacation in Miraflores. One of the most beautiful parts of the city, Miraflores is much more contemporary and lively than the other districts, dotted with shopping malls, wide-open spaces, and dazzling views.
Visit the Huaca Pucllana Site Museum
Despite being largely modern, Miraflores is home to the ancient Huaca Pucllana Site Museum. This centuries-old Peruvian pyramid complex dates back to pre-Inca and even pre-Columbian civilizations, making it a fascinating point of interest. It offers you a unique opportunity to explore the ancient cultures that once thrived in the area and gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s pre-Columbian heritage.
Huaca Pucllana is one of the oldest and most important pyramids here. It’s believed to have been built sometime between 200 AD and 700 AD for ceremonial and administrative purposes. You can recognize it from its stepped pyramidal structure made from adobe bricks that houses a number of squares and platforms that were used for ancient rituals.
After a morning diving into the past, zoom into the present for an innovative and creative lunch at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana. Just a short walk from the Huaca Pucllana Site Museum, this superb restaurant takes ancient Peruvian recipes and transforms them for modern palates using the latest ingredients and cooking techniques.
Here you can choose from decadent dishes such as beef carpaccio with pesto, Peruvian pumpkin ravioli, crayfish chowder, and classic arroz con pato (duck with rice). If you’re in the mood for something closer to home, the restaurant also offers burgers and salads with delicious Peruvian twists.
Enjoy the Hustle and Bustle in Parque Kennedy
If you’re an animal lover, you can’t pass up the chance to visit Parque Kennedy. This large park is known for being home to a huge population of stray cats. Local volunteers do an excellent job of taking care of the furry creatures, almost all of which are friendly and happy to be petted by strangers.
The weekend is an excellent time to visit Parque Kennedy. This is when the park is busiest and there’s almost always something going on. From craft markets laden with handmade trinkets to live music concerts and talented street performers, there should be something going on when you visit.
Check Out Parque Del Amor
If you’d rather avoid cats, check out Parque Del Amor instead. Known in English as Love Park, this gorgeous green space is covered in benches decorated with colorful mosaics that were inspired by Parc Güell in Barcelona.
The centerpiece of Parque Del Amor is the Monumento al Amor Eterno (Monument to Eternal Love). This iconic sculpture consists of a large mosaic and a beautiful statue of a couple embracing.
Throughout the park, you’ll find romantic quotes from famous Peruvian poets, including Ricardo Palma, whose words celebrate the theme of love. Another notable feature is the sculpture titled “El Beso” (“The Kiss”) by the Peruvian artist Victor Delfín. This sculpture, depicting a couple locked in a passionate kiss, is a beloved symbol of love.
Walk or Bike along the Malecón de Miraflores
As your trip to Lima comes to a close, head to Malecón de Miraflores and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk that runs along the cliff edge. From here, you can see all across the Bay of Lima and out to sea.
Malecón de Miraflores stretches on for around 6 miles (9.5 kilometers), from Parque del Amor in the north to the Larcomar shopping mall in the south. If you’re not up for such a long walk, consider renting one of the bicycles that are dotted along the route and you’ll zoom along the boardwalk in no time at all.
Dinner at Larcomar
When you arrive at Larcomar, you’ll be spoiled for choice with places to grab a drink or something to eat. This shopping mall boasts everything from big international chains to smaller, more local restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Peruvian cuisine, pizzas, burgers, salads, seafood, grilled meat, or dessert, you’ll definitely find it here.
More Places to Eat & Drink in Lima
A true pioneer of contemporary Peruvian cuisine, Astrid y Gastón is arguably the best restaurant in Lima:
Set inside a 300-year-old colonial mansion, the sensational restaurant offers a la carte and tasting menus that transform typical Peruvian cuisine into something magical. Head Chef Gastón Acurio takes classic dishes like guinea pig and transforms them into something you’ll be dreaming about for weeks.
Carnaval is known for dishing up some of the very best cocktails in Lima:
Run by an incredibly talented mixologist with years of experience, this spectacular bar shies away from typical cocktails in favor of house specialties that use all kinds of unique ingredients. If you like the sound of elderberry liqueur, cocktails poured into skull-shaped glasses, and handmade bar snacks worthy of a Michelin star, this is the place for you.
A regular on “The World’s 50 Best” list, Central is a must-visit if you’re a fan of tasting menus:
This foodie’s dream-come-true serves up hours-long tasting menus made up of 17+ courses, inviting you on a journey that covers every part of Peru, from 60 feet below water to the top of the Andes. Here, you can try unusual ingredients, like piranha, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else!
What to Do If You Have More Than 3 Days in Lima
Chinatown
Chinatown (Barrio Chino) is a fantastic place to visit in Lima when you want to change things up a little. Definitely off-the-beaten-track, this neighborhood is bursting with stores, bars, and restaurants selling all kinds of Chinese wonders. Lima has a surprisingly large East Asian community, and because of this, their Chinatown is pretty huge, too.
Faro de la Marina
An active lighthouse in Malecón de Miraflores, Faro de la Marina is a wonderful place to snap some pictures. This spot is hugely popular among paragliders, so if you show up on an afternoon on the weekend, you’ll get to watch them dance through the sky on the winds.
Makaha Beach
If you feel like getting out of the city, head to the beach in Miraflores and sign up for a surfing class. Makaha Beach is known for its excellent waves, which can reach up to 16 feet high! Suitable for people of all levels, this tour only ever works with small groups, so you’ll receive all the personal attention you need to take your skills to the next level.
Andres del Castillo Museum
If the weather takes a turn for the worse, spend a few hours at the Andres del Castillo Museum. One of the best museums in the city, Andres del Castillo highlights Peru’s close links to the mining industry through beautiful minerals and fascinating exhibits on geology. As well as the dazzling stones, the museum also features a section dedicated to Chancay ceramic art and pre-1532 textiles.
Palomino Islands
For a fun day out from Lima, take a trip to the Palomino Islands. These fascinating islands form an archipelago that provides a safe haven for countless seabirds and sea lions. Sign up for a guided tour, and you’ll even get the chance to swim with wild sea lions! The islands are just a 90-minute boat trip away from Lima, so you should have no problem squeezing the journey into your 3-day itinerary.
We hope you enjoy your 3-day trip to Lima! Should we add something else to our 3-day Lima itinerary? Let us know in the comments.
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