Peru

Lima

Lima: grey skies, ceviche, and cliffs above the Pacific.

Local time: UTC-5
Population: 9.7M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Affordable

Food$$$$$About $24 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $60 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $2.7 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇵🇪 PEN =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

LIMJorge Chávez International AirportMain gateway, in Callao about 8 km straight-line from the centre.

How	Cost	Time
AeroDirecto public busCity routes, including Miraflores (Sur route)	S/2-5	1-3 hr
Cheapest but slow and the airport area is dodgy at night.
Airport Express busMiraflores (four stops)	S/20 one way	45-60 min
Hourly; last bus leaves at 10 PM.
Taxi (certified desk inside)Centro Histórico	S/50-65	30-50 min
Green Taxi and Taxi365 desks are safe; prices are inflated.
Taxi (outside terminal grounds)Miraflores	S/25-35	30-50 min
Cheaper but less safe; avoid touts outside the airport.
Uber / ride appMiraflores or centre	S/25-45	30-50 min
Verify driver name and plate; some fake drivers wait outside.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Lima

Getting around

Ride apps or agreed-price taxis for most trips; walk in Miraflores and Barranco.

MetroLine 1 is elevated and runs north-south east of the centre. It misses most tourist areas, so it is rarely useful for visitors.
BusMetropolitano is a fast bus rapid transit with dedicated lanes. Card costs S/4.5 and the fare is S/2.50. City buses and combis are cheap but confusing; agree the fare first.
Taxi / ride apps ★Uber, DiDi and Cabify work in Lima; check the driver name and plate before getting in. Street taxis have no meters: agree the price first and confirm soles, not dollars.
Rental carDriving is chaotic. Only rent if you plan to leave the city; parking and traffic are hard.
Walking ★Fine in Miraflores and Barranco, and bike lanes are growing. Use care in the historic centre at night.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights let you split the historic center and Larco Museum from Miraflores and Barranco, without extra rest days or fine dining stretching the trip.

Best for

FoodCeviche, causa and long lunches in Miraflores and Barranco.
HistoryColonial plazas, catacombs and pre-Inca ruins in the centre.
CultureMuseums, street art and Barranco's bohemian nights.

Weather by month

25°20°Jan🌧 4d

26°21°Feb🌧 5d

25°21°Mar🌧 7d

24°19°Apr🌧 2d

22°17°May

20°15°Jun

19°15°Jul

19°14°Aug

19°15°Sep

20°15°Oct🌧 1d

21°16°Nov

23°18°Dec🌧 2d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Mild desert coast: warm and sunny December to April, cool and grey May to November. Rain is rare; the fog is the main weather story.

Best time: December to AprilWarm days around 23–26°C and little rain. Best for the beach and long walks.
Grey season (May to November)Cool, damp fog called garúa. Highs drop to about 19–22°C and the sun is rare. Pack a jacket.
Very little rainMost months see zero rain days. March is the wettest with about 7 days, still light.
Cold seaThe Pacific here is chilly most of the year. Swimming is for the brave; beaches south are warmer in summer.
Layers, not umbrellasMornings are damp and cool even in summer. A light jacket and comfortable shoes work all year.
Sun in summerDecember to April the sun is strong. Use sunscreen and a hat on the malecón and at ruins.

Landmarks 17

Must-see · 5

1
Plaza Mayor de Lima
The historic heart of Lima and a UNESCO World Heritage site, lined with the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop's Palace. Visit in the morning when the light is best and crowds are thinner; it's a short walk from the central bus and metro stops.
2
Cathedral of Lima
A grand colonial cathedral holding the tomb of Francisco Pizarro and impressive religious art. Modest dress is recommended; entry is ticketed and includes the museum, so allow about an hour.
3
Monastery of San Francisco
Famous for its catacombs and a library of ancient texts, this is one of Lima's most atmospheric religious sites. Guided tours run frequently; go early to avoid queues and bring a light jacket for the cool underground.
4
Huaca Pucllana
A striking adobe pyramid from the Lima culture, right in the Miraflores district. Evening visits are especially scenic with the site illuminated; book a guided tour in advance as access is by tour only.
5
Pachacamac
A vast archaeological complex of temples and pyramids south of the city, once a major pilgrimage center. It's best visited in the morning; bring sun protection and water as the site is exposed and large.

Cultural

Palace 3

Old Town 1

Bridge 1

Christian 2

Ancient Site 3

Museum 3

Historical Square 1

Activities

Food 1

Football Stadium 2

Plans

Lima rewards visitors with world-class food, colonial history, and a dramatic coastal setting. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Food

A single day of eating well: market first, ceviche at lunch, pisco and Barranco at night.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 111

Day 1

Market, ceviche and Barranco

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 111

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to enter · food extra

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Go early for the freshest produce and juice stalls. Bring small cash.

Open Morning to early afternoon · check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 14 min · ≈ PEN 13
2

11:00–12:00 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Walk off breakfast along the cliffs before lunch.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
3

12:30–13:30 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Book ahead in Miraflores. Ceviche is a lunch dish; many places close by late afternoon.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 16 km · ≈ 52 min · ≈ PEN 45
4

15:30–17:00 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

About 20 minutes by taxi from Miraflores. Wander the streets and murals.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi · 368 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

17:30–18:30 · ≈ PEN 60–120 per tasting

Pisco sour tasting

Ask for a tasting flight. Eat something first.

Open Afternoon and evening
Taxi · 548 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ PEN 8
6

19:00–22:00 · Drinks ≈ PEN 25–45

Barranco nightlife

Dinner and drinks. Busiest Thursday to Saturday.

Open Evening into late night, Thu–Sat

Day trip · History

The colonial centre on foot in the morning, pre-Inca ruins in the afternoon.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 66

Day 1

Centro Histórico, then Huaca Pucllana

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 66

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Start here in daylight. The square is the heart of the old city.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 158 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

09:50–10:35 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

On the square. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Generally open daily, shorter hours on Sunday
Taxi · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
3

10:40–11:00 · Exterior free · interior visits by arrangement

Government Palace Landmark quest

View from the square. Check on the day for the guard change.

Open View from the square any time · interior check on the day
Taxi · 252 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
4

11:15–12:15 · Modest entry fee · check on the day

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

A few minutes' walk. The catacombs tour fills up; check on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–17:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
5

13:00–14:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch, then a taxi to Miraflores, about 25 minutes.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ PEN 30
6

15:30–16:45 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Guided visits only. Late afternoon is cooler; check on the day for evening slots.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day

1 night · History

The colonial centre on foot, then pre-Inca ruins before you fly.

Stay: Miraflores. Safe, walkable and central for visitors. Parks, cafés and the cliff-top malecón are close; most tours pick up here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 195
Hotel: PEN 180–550

Day 1

Centro Histórico on foot

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 104

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34
1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Start here in daylight. The square is the natural meeting point.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 158 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

10:00–10:45 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

On the square. Shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Generally open daily, shorter hours on Sunday
Taxi · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
3

11:00–11:20 · Exterior free · interior visits by arrangement

Government Palace Landmark quest

View from the square. Ask locally about the guard change; it is not every day.

Open View from the square any time · interior check on the day
Taxi · 252 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
4

11:45–12:45 · Modest entry fee · check on the day

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Short walk away. Catacombs are the highlight; check opening hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–17:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
5

13:30–14:30 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch, then a taxi back to the hotel.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34

Day 2

Ruins, then the airport

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 91

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ PEN 10
1

09:30–10:45 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

In Miraflores. Morning is cooler; some evening slots exist, check on the day.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ PEN 26
2

11:30–13:30 · Entry fee · check on the day

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Short taxi to San Isidro. Indoor, so good whatever the weather.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–22:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ PEN 20
3

14:00–15:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Last lunch before the airport. Allow plenty of time for traffic.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34

1 night · Culture

Our pick for most visitors: museums and the old centre one day, Barranco's nightlife the next.

Stay: Miraflores. Safe, walkable and central for visitors. Parks, cafés and the cliff-top malecón are close; most tours pick up here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 234
Hotel: PEN 180–550

Day 1

Museums and the old centre

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 131

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 10 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ PEN 30
1

10:00–12:00 · Entry fee · check on the day

Larco Museum Landmark quest

In San Isidro. Indoor and easy to enjoy in any weather.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–22:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ PEN 19
2

13:00–14:30 · Entry fee · check on the day · free slots sometimes

Lima Art Museum (MALI) Landmark quest

Taxi to the Centro Histórico. Closed some weekdays, so check on the day.

Open Closed some weekdays · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
3

15:00–15:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Short walk. Best in daylight.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 15 km · ≈ 51 min · ≈ PEN 45
4

16:00–16:20 · Free

Bridge of Sighs, Lima Landmark quest

A few minutes on foot from the square.

Open Open 24 hours
Taxi · 282 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

17:30–19:30 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Taxi to Barranco. Afternoon into evening is the liveliest time.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ PEN 17

Day 2

Cliffs and a last look

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 104

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ PEN 16
1

09:30–10:10 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Huaca Huallamarca Landmark quest

In San Isidro. Daytime only, check on the day.

Open Daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 19 min · ≈ PEN 17
2

11:00–12:30 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Cliff walk. Watch paragliders overhead on a clear day.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
3

13:00–14:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch in Miraflores before you head on.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

First-timers who plan the day around lunch: markets, ceviche and Barranco evenings.

Stay: Miraflores. Safe, walkable and central for visitors. Parks, cafés and the cliff-top malecón are close; most tours pick up here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 225
Hotel: PEN 360–1,100

Day 1

Arrive, Miraflores and the cliffs

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 110

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ PEN 10
1

10:30–11:30 · Free to enter · food extra

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Go early for the busiest stalls. Fruit and juice stands are the highlight.

Open Morning to early afternoon · check on the day
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 36 min · ≈ PEN 32
2

12:30–13:30 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Classic lunch. Many ceviche places close by late afternoon and on Sunday.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
3

15:00–16:30 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Easy cliff-top walk. Wear layers; the sea breeze picks up.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ PEN 16
4

18:30–19:30 · ≈ PEN 60–120 per tasting

Pisco sour tasting

Short taxi to Barranco. Ask for a pisco sour and a chilcano.

Open Afternoon and evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ PEN 16

Day 2

Old town flavours, then Barranco

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 115

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34
1

09:30–12:00 · Free tours tip-based · paid tours ≈ PEN 40–80

Centro Histórico walking tour

Morning departure. Book ahead and confirm the meeting point.

Open Daily, morning and afternoon departures
2

12:15–13:00 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Stay in the square for photos. Watch your belongings in crowds.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ PEN 11
3

13:15–14:15 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch near the centre or back in Miraflores, depending on your taxi time.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 16 km · ≈ 52 min · ≈ PEN 45
4

16:30–18:30 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Bridge of Sighs and the murals. Livelier as evening starts.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi · 225 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

19:00–22:00 · Drinks ≈ PEN 25–45

Barranco nightlife

Dinner and drinks. Busiest Thursday to Saturday.

Open Evening into late night, Thu–Sat
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 18 min · ≈ PEN 17

2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

Colonial squares, catacombs and pre-Inca ruins, grouped by neighbourhood.

Stay: Miraflores. Safe, walkable and central for visitors. Parks, cafés and the cliff-top malecón are close; most tours pick up here.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 319
Hotel: PEN 360–1,100

Day 1

Centro Histórico on foot

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 104

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34
1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Start here in daylight. The square is the natural orientation point.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 158 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

09:50–10:35 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

Shorter hours on Sunday. Dress respectfully.

Open Generally open daily, shorter hours on Sunday
Taxi · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
3

10:45–11:05 · Exterior free · interior visits by arrangement

Government Palace Landmark quest

View from the square. Ask locally about the guard change before you plan around it.

Open View from the square any time · interior check on the day
Taxi · 252 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
4

11:15–12:15 · Modest entry fee · check on the day

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

The catacombs are the draw. Confirm opening hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–17:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
5

13:00–14:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch in the centre or back in Miraflores.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 11 km · ≈ 39 min · ≈ PEN 34

Day 2

Miraflores and San Isidro ruins

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 215

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ PEN 10
1

09:30–10:45 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Morning is cooler. Guided visits only; check times on the day.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
2

11:15–11:55 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Huaca Huallamarca Landmark quest

Short taxi away. A small adobe pyramid in the middle of the city.

Open Daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ PEN 21
3

12:30–14:30 · Entry fee · check on the day

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Cool indoor break. The café is good for lunch.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–22:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 37 km · ≈ 1 h 55 min · ≈ PEN 98
4

15:00–17:30 · Entry fee plus museum · check on the day

Pachacamac Landmark quest

Big outdoor site; bring water and a hat. Daytime only, so go before it closes.

Open Daytime only · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 27 km · ≈ 1 h 27 min · ≈ PEN 74

2 nights · Culture ★ Recommended length

Museums, street art and a Barranco night, with the old town in between.

Stay: Barranco. Bohemian streets, galleries and nightlife. Good for food and music; quieter and cheaper than Miraflores.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 265
Hotel: PEN 300–960

Day 1

Old town culture and art

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 192

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 15 km · ≈ 51 min · ≈ PEN 44
1

09:30–10:15 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Morning light is best for photos.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 191 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

10:20–10:35 · Free to admire from outside

Archbishop's Palace of Lima Landmark quest

Exterior only. Look up at the wooden balconies.

Open Exterior always visible
Taxi · 15 km · ≈ 51 min · ≈ PEN 45
3

10:45–11:05 · Free

Bridge of Sighs, Lima Landmark quest

Short walk. Daytime is calmer.

Open Open 24 hours
Taxi · 13 km · ≈ 45 min · ≈ PEN 40
4

11:30–13:00 · Entry fee · check on the day · free slots sometimes

Lima Art Museum (MALI) Landmark quest

Closed some weekdays; check before you go.

Open Closed some weekdays · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
5

13:15–14:15 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch, then a slow afternoon.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 15 km · ≈ 51 min · ≈ PEN 45

Day 2

Miraflores, Barranco and a night out

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 73

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 6 km · ≈ 22 min · ≈ PEN 20
1

10:00–11:15 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Book a slot; evening visits are also offered.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
2

12:00–13:30 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Walk the cliffs, then lunch nearby.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ PEN 16
3

15:30–17:30 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Murals, the Bridge of Sighs and small galleries.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi · 368 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
4

18:00–19:00 · ≈ PEN 60–120 per tasting

Pisco sour tasting

Evening tasting before dinner.

Open Afternoon and evening
Taxi · 548 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

19:30–22:30 · Drinks ≈ PEN 25–45

Barranco nightlife

Dinner and drinks. Thursday to Saturday is liveliest.

Open Evening into late night, Thu–Sat
Taxi back to your hotel · 426 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8

3 nights · Food

Eat your way through Lima: market mornings, long ceviche lunches and Barranco evenings.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 194

Day 1

Arrive, Miraflores cliffs and ceviche

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 81

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

15:00–16:30 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Easy first walk along the cliffs. Watch the paragliders.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
2

13:00–14:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Ceviche is a lunch dish. Most places close by 16:00 and many shut on Sunday.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 16 km · ≈ 52 min · ≈ PEN 45
3

18:00–20:00 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

About 15 minutes by taxi from Miraflores. Streets get lively after dark.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening

Day 2

Market morning, then pisco

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 93

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to enter · food extra

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Go early for fruit stalls and juice counters. Bring small cash.

Open Morning to early afternoon · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ PEN 10
2

11:30–12:45 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Short taxi from the market. Day visits and some evening slots, so check on the day.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ PEN 30
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Second ceviche lunch, or try causa and anticuchos.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00
Taxi · 15 km · ≈ 51 min · ≈ PEN 44
4

18:00–19:00 · ≈ PEN 60–120 per tasting

Pisco sour tasting

In Barranco. Book ahead for a tasting flight.

Open Afternoon and evening
Taxi · 548 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

20:00–23:00 · Drinks ≈ PEN 25–45

Barranco nightlife

Dinner and drinks. Busiest Thursday to Saturday.

Open Evening into late night, Thu–Sat

Day 3

Centre food and history, then fly

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 20

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–11:30 · Free tours tip-based · paid tours ≈ PEN 40–80

Centro Histórico walking tour

Morning departure. Covers the main square and colonial streets.

Open Daily, morning and afternoon departures
Taxi · 428 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

12:00–13:00 · Modest entry fee · check on the day

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Roughly 09:00–17:00, so check on the day. Catacombs are underground and cool.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–17:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ PEN 12
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Last lunch in the centre or back in Miraflores before the airport run.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00

3 nights · History

Colonial plazas, catacombs and pre-Inca ruins, grouped by area to save taxi time.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 229

Day 1

Centro Histórico on foot

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Start early before the heat and crowds. Open 24 hours but best in daylight.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 220 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

10:00–10:20 · Exterior free · interior visits by arrangement

Government Palace Landmark quest

View from the square. Ask about the guard change, if scheduled.

Open View from the square any time · interior check on the day
Taxi · 259 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
3

10:30–11:15 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

Generally open daily, shorter hours on Sunday.

Open Generally open daily, shorter hours on Sunday
4

11:30–11:45 · Free to admire from outside

Archbishop's Palace of Lima Landmark quest

Exterior only, right on the square.

Open Exterior always visible
Taxi · 219 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
5

12:00–13:00 · Modest entry fee · check on the day

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Roughly 09:00–17:00, so check on the day. A short walk from the square.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–17:00 · check on the day

Day 2

Museums and ruins in San Isidro

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 181

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:10 · Small entry fee · check on the day

Huaca Huallamarca Landmark quest

Small adobe pyramid in the middle of the city. Morning is cooler.

Open Daytime · check on the day
Taxi · 31 km · ≈ 1 h 37 min · ≈ PEN 83
2

11:00–13:30 · Entry fee plus museum · check on the day

Pachacamac Landmark quest

Daytime only, so check on the day. Big outdoor site with little shade, so bring water and a hat.

Open Daytime only · check on the day
Taxi · 37 km · ≈ 1 h 55 min · ≈ PEN 98
3

15:30–17:30 · Entry fee · check on the day

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Roughly 09:00–22:00, so check on the day. Cool indoor galleries after the ruins.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–22:00 · check on the day

Day 3

Barranco and the coast, then fly

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–10:20 · Free

Bridge of Sighs, Lima Landmark quest

Daytime is best. Small bridge in the heart of Barranco.

Open Open 24 hours
Taxi · 282 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
2

10:30–12:30 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Murals, old houses and the Bajada de Baños.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 17 min · ≈ PEN 16
3

13:00–14:30 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Late-afternoon light is best, but this fits before the airport run.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight

3 nights · Culture

Museums, street art and Barranco nights, with the historic centre on a morning tour.

Tickets & tours: ≈ PEN 0
Taxis: ≈ PEN 165

Day 1

Arrive, MALI and the centre

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 19

1

14:00–15:30 · Entry fee · check on the day · free slots sometimes

Lima Art Museum (MALI) Landmark quest

Closed some weekdays, so check on the day.

Open Closed some weekdays · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ PEN 11
2

16:00–16:15 · Free to see from outside

Torre Tagle Palace Landmark quest

Exterior only, a few blocks away. Daylight is best.

Open Exterior always visible
Taxi · 512 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ PEN 8
3

16:30–17:15 · Free

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Golden-hour light on the colonial facades.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight

Day 2

Ruins, museum and Barranco night

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 74

1

10:00–11:15 · Entry fee · check on the day · night visits cost more

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Day visits and some evening slots, so check on the day.

Open Day visits and some evening slots · check on the day
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ PEN 26
2

14:00–16:00 · Entry fee · check on the day

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Roughly 09:00–22:00, so check on the day. Café is good for a break.

Open Daily, roughly 09:00–22:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 14 km · ≈ 46 min · ≈ PEN 40
3

17:30–19:30 · Free

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Afternoon into evening is the best time.

Open Any time · livelier in the evening
Taxi · 225 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ PEN 8
4

20:00–23:00 · Drinks ≈ PEN 25–45

Barranco nightlife

Thursday to Saturday is liveliest.

Open Evening into late night, Thu–Sat

Day 3

Walking tour and the coast, then fly

Tickets ≈ PEN 0 pp · taxis ≈ PEN 72

1

09:00–11:30 · Free tours tip-based · paid tours ≈ PEN 40–80

Centro Histórico walking tour

Morning departure. Good orientation if you skipped the centre.

Open Daily, morning and afternoon departures
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
2

12:30–14:00 · Free

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Late afternoon and sunset are best, but this fits before the airport.

Open Open 24 hours · best in daylight
Taxi · 12 km · ≈ 41 min · ≈ PEN 36
3

14:00–15:00 · ≈ PEN 35–70 per plate

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Lunch before heading to the airport. Most ceviche places close by 16:00.

Open Lunchtime, roughly 11:00–16:00

Swap in instead

Add a day for Pachacámac ruins and the beach suburb of Punta Hermosa south of the city.
Swap one city day for a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas, about 3 hours south by bus.
Food lovers can add a cooking class or a market tour at Surquillo or Mercado de Magdalena.

Getting around

Metro Line 1 is elevated and runs north-south east of the centre; it misses most tourist areas.
Metropolitano is a fast bus rapid transit with dedicated lanes; card costs S/4.5, fare S/2.50.
City buses and combis are cheap but confusing for visitors; agree the fare first.
Uber, DiDi, and Cabify work in Lima; verify driver name and plate before getting in.
Taxis have no meters; agree the price before you ride, and confirm soles not dollars.
Driving is chaotic; walking is fine in Miraflores and Barranco, and bike lanes are growing.

Where to stay

Miraflores · ≈ PEN 180–550 a night
Safe, walkable and central for visitors. Parks, cafés and the cliff-top malecón are close; most tours pick up here.
Barranco · ≈ PEN 150–480 a night
Bohemian streets, galleries and nightlife. Good for food and music; quieter and cheaper than Miraflores.
San Isidro · ≈ PEN 250–700 a night
Business district with leafy streets and upscale hotels. Calm at night; a short taxi to Miraflores and the centre.
Centro Histórico · ≈ PEN 100–350 a night
Closest to the Plaza de Armas, cathedral and museums. Busy and less polished at night; check your street.

Food & drink

Try ceviche at lunch, not dinner: it is a midday dish. A set lunch (menú del día) costs about S/15–30.
Book a top restaurant like Central or Maido weeks ahead; cheaper spots in Barranco are walk-in friendly.
Criollo classics: lomo saltado, ají de gallina and anticuchos (grilled skewers) from street stalls in the evening.
Coffee and sweets: try a picarón (fried dough with syrup) and local coffee in Miraflores.
Tap water is not for drinking; buy bottled water. Be careful with raw street food if your stomach is sensitive.

Tips

Lima is one of the world's culinary capitals; eating ceviche here is a mandatory experience
Do not drink the tap water; stick exclusively to bottled or boiled water
Traffic is notoriously aggressive and gridlocked, so always build buffer time into your plans
Stick to safer tourist districts like Miraflores and Barranco, especially after dark
The sky is famously grey for half the year, but the sunsets over the Pacific in summer are spectacular

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Plaza Mayor de Lima

Cathedral of Lima

Monastery of San Francisco

Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center
Visit the catacombs beneath San Francisco
729 reviews · 4.7 rating

Entry includedHistoric center

Lima City Tour: Historic Center, Love Park & Catacombs

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (729)

$20View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Ceviche

Taste up to 14 Peruvian flavors
Visit local markets and eateries
941 reviews · 4.9 rating

Food tastingsLocal guide

Peruvian Food Tour with Up to 14 Flavors

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (941)

$105View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Pachacamac

Guided tour of the Pachacamac archaeological site
Visit the on-site museum
119 reviews · 4.7 rating

Hotel pickupSite museum

In Lima: Pachacamac Archaeological Sightseeing Tour and Site Museum with Hotel Pickup

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (119)

$80View tour

Swim with sea lions at Palomino Islands
Yacht cruise off the coast
1,893 reviews · 4.9 rating

Boat tourWildlife

Palomino Islands, Sea Lions Swim & Yacht Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (1,893)

$69View tour

Souvenirs

Alpaca wool scarf

PEN 180–4001 piece · shop prices

A soft scarf made from Peruvian alpaca fiber, a traditional material of the Andes that Lima's shops sell widely.

Where: KUNA or Sol Alpaca, Miraflores

Check that the label says 100% alpaca fiber.

Peruvian cacao

PEN 30–602 bars of 70 to 100 g · estimate

Chocolate made from cacao grown in Peru, a country known for its many cacao varieties.

Where: ChocoMuseo, Miraflores

Choose the origin and cocoa percentage that suits your taste.

Pisco

PEN 50–120750 ml bottle · estimate

Peru's national grape brandy, used in the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.

Where: Wong supermarket or airport duty-free

Buy at a supermarket or the airport duty-free shop.

Flights

Hotels

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eSIM

Get an eSIM for LimaStay connected in Peru from day one · Airalo

1 GB3 days$4.5 USDSelect plan →2 GB15 days$8.5 USDSelect plan →20 GB30 days$41.5 USDSelect plan →

Compare all 3 plans · choose data and duration

Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in LimaDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 17

Must-see · 5

Plaza Mayor de Lima

Cathedral of Lima

Monastery of San Francisco

Huaca Pucllana

Pachacamac

Cultural

Palace 3

Old Town 1

Bridge 1

Christian 2

Ancient Site 3

Museum 3

Historical Square 1

Activities

Food 1

Football Stadium 2

Plans

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Pisco sour tasting

Barranco nightlife

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

Government Palace Landmark quest

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Lima Art Museum (MALI) Landmark quest

Bridge of Sighs, Lima Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Barranco nightlife

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Pisco sour tasting

Barranco nightlife

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

Government Palace Landmark quest

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Larco Museum Landmark quest

Lima Art Museum (MALI) Landmark quest

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Bridge of Sighs, Lima Landmark quest

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Huaca Huallamarca Landmark quest

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Mercado N° 1 de Surquillo

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Malecón and cliff walk, Miraflores

Pisco sour tasting

Centro Histórico walking tour

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Barranco neighbourhood walk

Barranco nightlife

Plaza Mayor de Lima Landmark quest

Cathedral of Lima Landmark quest

Government Palace Landmark quest

Monastery of San Francisco Landmark quest

Ceviche lunch Landmark quest

Huaca Pucllana Landmark quest

Huaca Huallamarca Landmark quest