7 days in Lima, Peru: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Nestled along the western coast of South America, Lima is the vibrant capital of Peru, boasting a rich cultural tapestry and a lively gastronomy scene. You can spend days exploring its colorful streets, marveling at the diverse architecture, and uncovering the history hidden within its walls. Lima caters to every kind of traveler—from food enthusiasts who’ll treat their taste buds with sumptuous Peruvian cuisine, to history buffs eager to explore pre-Columbian ruins and impressive colonial churches.
Things to consider before arriving to Lima
Affordable cost of living for travelers
Great food, known as the gastronomic capital of South America
Air quality is not the best due to traffic congestion
Lima is a perfect fit for foodies, history lovers, and adventurers
What to bring with you
– Light and warm layers (the climate can be unpredictable)
– Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll want to explore the city on foot)
– Sunscreen and a hat (to protect yourself from the strong sun)
– A reusable water bottle (stay hydrated on your adventures)
Best time of the year to visit Lima
The ideal time to visit Lima is between December and April. During these months, you’ll enjoy warm weather, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. It’s the best time to explore the outdoors, dine al fresco, and watch the beautiful sunsets.
How to get into Lima
1. By air: Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) serves as the main gateway for international flights. The airport is about 11 km from the city center, and you can easily reach it by taxi, shuttle service, or public transportation.
2. By bus: Several bus companies operate routes from neighboring countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, and Bolivia. These buses usually arrive at the Terminal Terrestre Plaza Norte or the Javier Prado bus station.
3. By car: If you plan to drive, be prepared for heavy traffic and be aware of local driving customs. Lima is connected to the Pan-American Highway, which runs along the western coast of South America.
7 day city guide trip to Lima
Day 1 – Historic Lima
Start your day visiting the historic center of the city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace and the San Francisco Church. In the afternoon, head to the vibrant district of Barranco to enjoy the bohemian art scene and its trendy bars and restaurants.
Day 2 – Peruvian cuisine and art
Peru is known worldwide for its diverse and tasty cuisine. Start the day visiting a local market to get a taste of the ingredients used in Peruvian dishes, and then join a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado. In the afternoon, visit the Larco Museum to learn about pre-Columbian art.
Day 3 – Day trip to Paracas
Take a day trip to the Paracas National Reserve to see the stunning desert landscapes and the Ballestas Islands, known as the Peruvian Galapagos for its diverse marine wildlife like sea lions and penguins.
Day 4 – Surf and relax in Punta Hermosa
Take a day trip to Punta Hermosa, a popular surf spot located just a few kilometers from Lima. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and take surfing lessons if you want to try something new. At night, head back to Lima for dinner at a seafood restaurant in Miraflores.
Day 5 – Explore Miraflores and the Huaca Pucllana
Spend the day exploring the district of Miraflores and its attractions like the Kennedy Park, the Love Park and the Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological site in the middle of the city. In the afternoon, relax at the beach or take a paragliding flight over the coast.
Day 6 – Day trip to the Pachacamac ruins
Take a day trip to the Pachacamac ruins, located in the valley of the same name. This ancient site was a religious center during the Inca and pre-Inca times. In the afternoon, return to Lima to enjoy some live music at a bar or club.
Day 7 – Discover the Magic Water Circuit
Spend the day at the Parque de la Reserva, where you can visit the Magic Water Circuit, a colorful fountain complex that offers a beautiful light show at night. In the afternoon, visit the Lima Art Museum to see a collection of Peruvian art.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Lima
If you have more time to spend in Peru, take a trip to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, where you can visit Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites. Another great option is to visit Arequipa, known as the White City for its colonial buildings made of white volcanic stone. Arequipa is also the gateway to the Colca Canyon, a stunning natural attraction where you can see the majestic Andean condor in flight. Both cities can be reached by plane or bus, with multiple departures per day.
