Lima 4 days

Lima's historic heart, surrounded by the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, Archbishop's Palace, and City Hall. Admire the colonial architecture and the central fountain.

• Catch the changing of the guard ceremony at the Government Palace at 11:45 AM on weekdays.
• Look for the intricate wooden balconies on the surrounding buildings.

A magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, this cathedral houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro. Explore its chapels and the museum.

• The interior is as impressive as the exterior; take your time to appreciate the details.

A historic tavern established in 1890, offering a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine and classic Pisco drinks. It's a beloved spot for locals and tourists seeking an authentic experience.

• Try their 'Chita Frita' (fried fish) or 'Lomo Saltado'.
• Sample a Pisco Sour or a Chilcano.

A beautiful 17th-century convent featuring stunning cloisters, a library with ancient texts, and catacombs holding thousands of human remains. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the catacombs.
• The library's collection is impressive, featuring rare manuscripts.

Lima's bohemian district, known for its colorful colonial mansions, art galleries, trendy bars, and vibrant nightlife. Stroll across the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) for romantic views.

• Explore the art studios and independent boutiques.
• Enjoy the street art that adorns many walls.

Experience Lima's renowned seafood scene at a popular ceviche spot in Barranco. Enjoy the freshest ceviche dishes paired with local drinks.

• Try a 'ceviche mixto' for a variety of seafood.
• Pair your meal with a Pisco Sour or a local craft beer.

A romantic park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, famous for its mosaic-covered wall with a sculpture of 'El Beso' by Victor Delfín. It's a perfect spot for photos and enjoying the sea breeze.

• Visit during sunset for spectacular views.
• Enjoy the vibrant flowers and sculptures.

A modern shopping mall built into the cliffs of Miraflores, offering stunning ocean views, a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place to relax and shop.

• Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the restaurants with ocean views.
• Check out the local artisan shops for souvenirs.

An ancient adobe and clay pyramid built by the Lima culture between 200 and 700 AD. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into pre-Inca civilization and has a well-regarded restaurant on-site.

• Guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the history.
• The visitor center has informative displays about the site and its inhabitants.

A scenic cliffside promenade stretching for several kilometers along the coast, perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the ocean vistas. It connects several parks and offers panoramic views of the Pacific.

• Rent a bike from one of the many rental stations.
• Watch paragliders launching from the cliffs.

A world-renowned restaurant by chef Gastón Acurio, offering an exquisite fine-dining experience that celebrates Peruvian ingredients and culinary heritage. It's a must-visit for serious food lovers.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• Consider the tasting menu for a comprehensive culinary journey.

Housed in a pre-Columbian mansion, this museum boasts an impressive collection of ancient Peruvian art, including gold and silver artifacts, pottery, and erotic ceramics. It offers a comprehensive overview of Peru's ancient history.

• Don't miss the 'Erotic Art' gallery for a unique perspective on ancient Peruvian culture.
• The museum's cafe, set in a beautiful garden, is a lovely place for a break.

Explore the elegant streets of San Isidro, Lima's financial and residential heart. Admire its modern architecture, lush green spaces like El Olivar Park, and upscale boutiques.

• Walk through El Olivar Park, famous for its ancient olive trees.
• Observe the contrast between modern skyscrapers and historic haciendas.

A tranquil oasis in the heart of San Isidro, this park is famous for its centuries-old olive trees, some dating back to the colonial era. It's a peaceful spot for a stroll and relaxation.

• Look for the 'Olive Tree of Peace' planted in 1901.
• It's a popular spot for locals to unwind.

Peru's largest art museum, housing a vast collection spanning 3,000 years of Peruvian art, from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary works. Its diverse exhibits make it a cultural highlight.

• Check for temporary exhibitions which often feature international artists.
• The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, a former palace.

Consistently ranked among the world's best restaurants, Central offers an extraordinary gastronomic journey through Peru's diverse ecosystems, from the coast to the Andes and the Amazon. Chef Virgilio Martínez's innovative approach is legendary.

• Bookings are extremely competitive; secure your reservation months in advance.
• The 'Altitude' tasting menu is a signature experience.

A scenic stretch of coastline offering beaches like Waikiki and Makaha. Popular for surfing, paragliding, and enjoying the ocean breeze, it's a vital recreational area for Limans.

• Consider a surf lesson if you're feeling adventurous.
• The beaches are more for activities and views than swimming due to strong currents.

A coastal district south of Miraflores, known for its surf spots and relaxed beach town atmosphere. It's a popular getaway for locals, especially on weekends.

• Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachfront eateries.
• It's a great place to observe local beach culture.

A vibrant local market where you can find an incredible array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's an excellent place to experience Lima's culinary heart.

• Try exotic fruits like lucuma or chirimoya.
• Sample some local cheeses or cured meats.

Enjoy a delicious and affordable Italian-Peruvian fusion meal in a casual setting. Many such trattorias can be found in neighborhoods like Surquillo or Miraflores, offering hearty pasta dishes and pizzas.

• Look for places that advertise 'pasta fresca' or 'pizza a la leña'.
• Many offer excellent value lunch menus.

Experience Lima's cocktail culture at a bar specializing in Pisco. Enjoy expertly crafted Pisco Sours and other traditional Peruvian cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

• Ask the bartender for their recommendations based on your flavor preferences.
• Try different variations of Pisco, like Quebranta or Italia.