Start your day exploring the historic downtown area of Lima. Visit the Plaza de Armas de Lima, the main square of Lima, surrounded by the iconic Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop's Palace of Lima, all of which boast stunning architecture and history. Stop by the San Francisco Monastery and Catacombs, known for its beautiful baroque architecture and fascinating catacombs.
After lunch, head to the Parque Kennedy, a popular public park in the Miraflores district. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with street performers and vendors selling local crafts. Walk over to the Larcomar shopping center, a beautifully designed mall on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where you can shop at high-end stores, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy the view from the terrace.
End your day by visiting the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pyramid located in Miraflores surrounded by a large adobe brick wall. Take a guided tour to learn about the history, architecture, and culture of this pre-Incan site, and enjoy a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant that has a stunning view of the illuminated ruins.
Start your day at the Museo Larco, one of the top museums in Lima, located in the Pueblo Libre district. It houses an extensive collection of Peruvian pre-Columbian art and artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, and precious metals. The museum is located in a beautiful colonial mansion with lush gardens that you can explore.
After lunch, head to the Parque de la Reserva, also known as the Magic Water Circuit. This large public park features 13 impressive water fountains that offer interactive light and sound shows that are perfect for a night out with family and friends.
End your day by exploring the bohemian district of Barranco. Stroll along the Bajada de Baños, a charming pedestrian street lined with brightly colored houses and eclectic art galleries. Visit the Bridge of Sighs, a romantic spot that offers a beautiful view of the sea.
It is recommended to use taxis to get around Lima. Make sure to use authorized taxi companies or apps like Uber and Cabify to ensure your safety and avoid scams. Taxis can cost between S/10 and S/30 depending on the distance, and most drivers do not speak English, so it's helpful to have a map or address written down ahead of time. Buses and the Metropolitano, Lima's bus rapid transit system, are also available and cost around S/2, but they can be crowded and confusing for foreigners.
If you have more than 2 days, consider visiting the Peruvian National Museum, the Plaza San Martin, or taking a food tour to sample Lima's renowned culinary scene. If you have less than 2 days, skip Huaca Pucllana and spend more time exploring the Barranco District or the Magic Water Circuit.
The main airport in Lima is the Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), located 11 km northwest of the city center. It's the main hub for international flights and provides access to several destinations within Peru. Another option is the FAP Pedro Canga Rodríguez Airport (TBP), located in Tumbes, which serves domestic flights only.