Discover Lima's historic and gourmet gems with these recommendations
Lima, the coastal capital of Peru, is a city woven with threads of colonial history and a tapestry of culinary delights. As you meander through its streets, the city unfurls its storied past, revealing a spectrum of tastes as varied as its scenery. Be ready to be enthralled by Lima's seamless fusion of historic charm and gastronomic creativity.
Step back in time in Central Lima
Central Lima is a living museum, rich with colonial architecture and plazas echoing the past. On your first day, explore Plaza Mayor, the old city's core, home to the opulent Government Palace and the stunning Cathedral of Lima. Be sure to visit the San Francisco Monastery, renowned for its catacombs that weave a web of history beneath the city streets.
Savor Peruvian flavors
Peru's cuisine is a vibrant mix of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. On day two, begin a culinary journey at a local market to taste exotic fruits such as lucuma and cherimoya. For lunch, savor ceviche at a seaside restaurant. In the evening, join a pisco sour tour to discover the stories behind Peru's beloved national drink.
Artistic expressions in Barranco
On your third day, let Barranco's bohemian spirit enchant you. Wander through this vibrant arts district, where galleries, colorful murals, and unique artisan shops abound. Take a leisurely walk along the cliffside paths to soak in the stunning ocean vistas. Relax in a quaint cafe by day and, as evening sets in, immerse yourself in the energetic nightlife with bars echoing traditional Peruvian music.
Unearth Pre-Columbian History
Spend your fourth day at Museo Larco, showcasing an impressive pre-Columbian art collection. Witness the depth of Peru's ancient cultures through artifacts that narrate a history predating the Spanish. Later, visit Huaca Pucllana, a significant adobe pyramid in Miraflores, and step centuries back into a time where these civilizations thrived, leaving behind legacies that stand tall to this day.
Coastal escapes and sunset views
After a journey filled with cultural discoveries and gastronomic pleasures, unwind on your last day by Lima's picturesque coastlines. Stroll through El Malecon park system in Miraflores, where the views are breathtaking, or lounge on Costa Verde's sandy beaches. There, you can watch skilled surfers navigate the waves as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with colors of farewell.