How many days do you need in Peru?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Peru, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Peru?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Peru. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day Adventure in Peru: Exploring Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu

Day 1: Explore Lima

Lima, Peru on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Panchita

Enjoy traditional Peruvian breakfast dishes including tamales and fresh coffee at Panchita, a popular local spot known for its authentic flavors.

PEN30, 1h

9:30am

Visit Plaza Mayor

Explore the historic center of Lima, featuring the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great introduction to Peru's colonial past.

PEN0, 1h30m

11:30am

Larco Museum

Discover pre-Columbian art and artifacts with over 45,000 pieces that chronicle Peru's cultural history. The museum opens at 9:00am and closes at 10:00pm.

PEN30, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at La Mar Cebichería

Sample fresh ceviche, a staple of Peruvian cuisine, at one of Lima’s best seafood restaurants open from 12pm to 5pm.

PEN60, 1h

3:00pm

Walk along Miraflores Boardwalk (Malecón)

Enjoy ocean views, parks, and public art along this scenic cliffside walkway, perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

PEN0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Central Restaurante

Dine at one of Latin America’s top restaurants, offering innovative dishes that highlight Peru’s biodiversity. Make sure to book ahead; open from 7pm.

PEN200, 2h

Find Hotels in Lima

Day 2: Cusco and History

Cusco, Peru on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Cusco

Take an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Flights operate frequently throughout the day.

USD100, 1h20m

9:30am

Breakfast at Jack’s Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with options including eggs, pancakes, and local specialties in the heart of Cusco.

PEN25, 1h

10:30am

Visit Sacsayhuamán

Explore this impressive archaeological complex with massive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. Open daily from 7am to 7pm.

PEN70, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pachapapa

Taste traditional Andean dishes such as alpaca steak or roasted guinea pig in a charming courtyard setting. Open until 10pm.

PEN50, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

Explore this famous Inca temple partially converted to a colonial church, symbolizing the fusion of cultures. Open 7am–5:30pm.

PEN40, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll Cusco Plaza de Armas

Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the main square, surrounded by museums, shops, and historic buildings.

PEN0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen

Enjoy contemporary Peruvian cuisine in a casual yet stylish environment, featuring local ingredients and fresh flavors.

PEN60, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Cusco

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour

Sacred Valley, Peru on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast provided by your hotel to prepare for a full day of touring.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Full Day Sacred Valley Tour

Visit Pisac Market and ruins, Ollantaytambo Fortress, and experience local culture and craft markets. The tour typically lasts 8-9 hours, starting early.

USD50, 9h

12:30pm

Lunch in Urubamba

Enjoy a traditional buffet lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley, featuring Andean dishes and fresh ingredients.

PEN40, 1h

6:00pm

Return to Cusco

Travel back to Cusco after the day tour, allowing time to rest and relax before dinner.

Included in tour, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Green Point

Dine at a popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant offering creative and healthy Peruvian dishes in Cusco.

PEN40, 1h

Find Hotels in Sacred Valley

Day 4: Machu Picchu Experience

Machu Picchu, Peru on June 14, 2025

5:30am

Train to Aguas Calientes

Take the early morning train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The train takes about 3.5 hours.

USD100, 3h30m

9:30am

Breakfast in Aguas Calientes

Have a light breakfast at a local café such as Indio Feliz, famed for fresh juices and coffee, open from 6:30am.

PEN20, 45m

10:30am

Visit Machu Picchu

Explore the iconic Incan citadel with a guided tour to learn about its history and significance. The site is open from 6am to 5:30pm.

USD70, 4h

3:00pm

Return to Aguas Calientes

Descend back to the town of Aguas Calientes for refreshment or shopping before the train ride back.

Included, 30m

5:00pm

Train back to Cusco

Board the afternoon train returning to Cusco to rest after the exciting day.

USD100, 3h30m

9:00pm

Dinner at Cicciolina

Enjoy a delicious dinner of Mediterranean and Peruvian fusion dishes in Cusco, open until 11pm.

PEN70, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Machu Picchu

Day 5: Cusco Relaxation

Cusco, Peru on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Museo del Café

Taste exceptional local coffee paired with baked goods at this cozy café near the Plaza de Armas.

PEN20, 1h

9:30am

Visit San Blas Neighborhood

Explore this artsy neighborhood known for its artisan workshops, galleries, and charming streets.

PEN0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar

Relish creative Peruvian dishes with views of the Plaza de Armas, perfect for a leisurely midday meal.

PEN60, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Museo Inka

Discover artifacts from the Inca civilization and learn more about Cusco’s rich historical heritage. Open 9am–6pm.

PEN40, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Shopping

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel or shopping for souvenirs such as alpaca textiles and jewelry.

Variable, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at MAP Café

Have an elegant final dinner inside the Pre-Columbian Art Museum featuring gourmet dishes and a refined ambiance.

PEN90, 2h

Find Hotels in Cusco

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Adventure in Peru: Exploring Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu

Day 1: Explore Lima

8:00am

9:30am

11:30am

1:30pm

3:00pm

6:00pm

Day 2: Cusco and History

7:00am

9:30am

10:30am

1:00pm

3:00pm

5:00pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour

7:00am

8:00am

12:30pm

6:00pm

8:00pm

Day 4: Machu Picchu Experience

5:30am

9:30am

10:30am

3:00pm

5:00pm

9:00pm

Day 5: Cusco Relaxation

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:00pm

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