Lima 10 days

Lima's main international airport. Upon arrival, you'll find various transport options to reach your accommodation.

• Consider pre-booking a taxi or using a ride-sharing app for a fixed price.
• Ensure your accommodation is in a safe district like Miraflores or Barranco.

The historic heart of Lima, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop's Palace. Admire the colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

• Watch the changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace (daily at 11:45 AM, though check schedule).
• Take a moment to appreciate the ornate balconies of the surrounding buildings.

A traditional 'huarique' (local eatery) offering authentic Peruvian dishes in a casual setting. Known for its hearty portions and local flavors.

A remarkably preserved adobe and clay pyramid dating back to the Lima culture (200-700 AD). Explore the site and its museum to learn about pre-Inca civilizations.

• Guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history.
• Go in the morning to avoid the midday sun.

A bustling local market where you can find an incredible variety of fresh produce, exotic fruits, meats, cheeses, and local snacks. A great place to experience Lima's culinary diversity.

• Try some of the fresh juices or 'picarones' (fried dough fritters).
• Be prepared for a lively and sometimes crowded atmosphere.

Showcasing a comprehensive collection of Peruvian art from pre-Columbian times to the present day. Its impressive building is also worth admiring.

Consistently ranked among the world's best, Central offers an innovative culinary journey through Peru's diverse ecosystems. Reservations are essential and must be made months in advance.

• Book your table online at least 3-6 months in advance.
• Consider the tasting menu for the full experience.

Lima's bohemian district, known for its colorful colonial mansions, vibrant street art, independent galleries, and lively nightlife. Wander through its charming streets and discover hidden gems.

• Start at the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs).
• Explore the art galleries on Jirón Saenz Peña.

A popular spot in Barranco offering fresh and delicious ceviche, a quintessential Peruvian dish. Enjoy a variety of seafood preparations in a relaxed atmosphere.

• Try the 'Leche de Tigre' (tiger's milk), the marinade from ceviche, often served as a shot.
• Pair your ceviche with a Pisco Sour.

This museum showcases the vibrant work of renowned Peruvian photographer Mario Testino, featuring fashion, portraiture, and cultural imagery. Housed in a beautiful mansion.

A stylish bar set in a stunning old mansion in Barranco, known for its creative cocktails and lively ambiance. Perfect for enjoying a night out with music and dancing.

A romantic park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, famous for its mosaic wall and the 'El Beso' sculpture by Victor Delfin. It's a great spot for photos and enjoying the coastal breeze.

A stunning cliff-top promenade stretching for kilometers along the coast. Ideal for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying panoramic ocean views. It connects several parks, including Parque del Amor.

• Rent a bike from one of the stands along the Malecón.
• Look out for paragliders launching from the cliffs above.

A renowned cevichería by chef Gastón Acurio, offering an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes, including various ceviches, tiraditos, and causas. Expect vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
• Don't miss the 'Ceviche Clásico' or the 'Chupe de Camarones'.

A modern, cliffside shopping mall with a unique architectural design. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment, all with stunning ocean views.

Immerse yourself in Peruvian cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours, often including a market visit.

• Book in advance, as popular classes fill up quickly.
• Look for classes that include a market tour for a more authentic experience.

Housed in a beautiful 18th-century vice-royal mansion, this museum boasts an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian art, including gold and silver artifacts and erotic pottery. The gardens are also lovely.

• Allow ample time to explore the extensive collections.
• The museum café offers a pleasant setting for lunch or a break.

A popular restaurant in Barranco serving traditional, hearty Peruvian comfort food in a rustic tavern setting. Known for its generous portions and authentic flavors.

• Share dishes, as portions are quite large.
• The 'Seco de Cordero' (lamb stew) is a highly recommended signature dish.

A stunning coastal desert reserve with dramatic cliffs, beaches, and diverse wildlife. Explore its unique landscapes and observe marine life.

• Book a tour that includes transport from Lima and covers the reserve.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

Known as the 'Galapagos of Peru,' these islands are teeming with wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and numerous seabirds. Boat tours offer close-up views.

• Wear a windbreaker or jacket, as it can be breezy on the boat.
• Keep an eye out for the famous 'Candelabro' geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula.

Most day tours to Paracas include a stop for lunch at a local restaurant, often featuring fresh seafood from the coast. Enjoy a simple meal before returning to Lima.

A tranquil oasis in the upscale San Isidro district, famous for its ancient olive trees, some over 400 years old. It's a beautiful place for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.

A charming shop in Barranco (easily accessible from San Isidro) selling high-quality Peruvian handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and art. A great place to find unique souvenirs.

• Look for pieces made by local artisans.
• The shop also has a lovely café.

A well-preserved adobe pyramid dating from 200-600 AD, located in the heart of San Isidro. It offers a glimpse into Lima's ancient past amidst modern skyscrapers.

One of Lima's most iconic restaurants, offering a refined dining experience with creative interpretations of Peruvian cuisine. Set in a beautiful colonial mansion.

• Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
• Explore their tasting menus for an immersive culinary journey.

A large museum dedicated to the history and cultures of Peru, with extensive exhibits on pre-Columbian civilizations, the Inca Empire, and more recent history. It's less crowded than some other museums.

A weekend market (typically Saturday and Sunday mornings) where local farmers and producers sell fresh organic produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. A vibrant community hub.

• Check their official website or social media for exact operating hours and location.
• Great place to sample local delicacies and buy gourmet products.

A grand square in the historic center of Lima, featuring a monument to General José de San Martín. It's surrounded by impressive early 20th-century architecture.

A historic and elegant restaurant located near Plaza San Martín, serving classic Peruvian and international dishes since 1905. It's a Lima institution with a beautiful old-world ambiance.

• Enjoy a Pisco Sour at the bar before your meal.
• The 'Bife de Chorizo' is a popular choice.

A popular beach in Miraflores known for its surfing conditions and lively atmosphere. It's a great spot to watch surfers or enjoy the sun and sea.

• Consider taking a beginner surf lesson here.
• Rent a chair and umbrella if you plan to relax for a while.

A highly regarded seafood restaurant offering creative and fresh dishes, with a focus on sustainable fishing. Excellent for a sophisticated lunch by the sea.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for lunch.
• Try their various preparations of corvina (sea bass).

Continue exploring the Malecón, perhaps venturing further south towards the district of Barranco, or simply enjoying the cliffside views and public art.

• Enjoy an ice cream or coffee at one of the many cafes along the Malecón.
• Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

An elegant restaurant with breathtaking ocean views, specializing in seafood and Peruvian fusion cuisine. It's a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

• Book a table with a view in advance.
• The ambiance is particularly magical at sunset.

Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Miraflores. The streets around Parque Kennedy and the artisan markets offer a wide selection of crafts, textiles, and local products.

Enjoy a final Peruvian meal at a local cafe, perhaps trying a 'menu del día' for an affordable and authentic experience.

Depart from Lima. Allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.

• Ensure you have your passport and flight details ready.
• Consider purchasing any last-minute gifts at the airport shops.