Lima, the capital city of Peru, is a vibrant, culturally rich metropolis known worldwide as being one of the true foodie hubs. But besides that, there’s a lot more that the city has to offer; think archaeological sites dating back to pre-Inca times, some of the best bars in Latin America, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and kind-hearted people. But with so much to offer and only a few days to spare, that begs the question: what to do in Lima for 3 days?
What to do in Lima in 3 days: Day 1
Morning
Start your stay in the historic Centro district of Lima, blessed with the best shopping in Peru and sumptuous Peruvian food that won’t break the bank. Lima has some of the richest history in all of Latin America, from the recent colonial past to pre-Inca times. This morning, though, you’ll be starting with the colonial era.
Start off your adventure in the Plaza Mayor, where you’ll find the government palace, Lima Cathedral, and city hall.
Finally, when you start to get peckish, make sure you go to El Chinito Sandwicheria, just off Plaza Mayor. You can get basically any Peruvian sandwich here, but they’re really known for their chiccaron (roasted pork).
Afternoon
Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the cathedral are the Lima Catacombs and San Francisco Covenant. In my opinion, this is one of Lima’s most underrated attractions. It started construction in 1673 and only reached completion just over 100 years later.
The guided tour is split into a few sections. First, you’ll see the Covenant’s library, which features over 25,000 English, Spanish, and Quechua books. It’s not an exaggeration to say the walls in this grand hall are adorned on either side with treasures of humanity, some of which are so old and delicate they can only be handled by the resident monks. In fact, there’s even a Bible here dating back to 1571!
About half an hour later, and many stunning, intricate frescoes later, you’ll be ushered through a low door descending into what seems like a basement. As you descend into the church’s foundations, the first thing you’ll notice is the heat, then the low ceilings, and finally, the rows of human remains. Although this may seem morbid, it’s an interesting glimpse into how Lima was run during Spanish rule. I won’t spoil it for you, but the history is fascinating.
Evening
After a long day spent in the hustle and bustle of central Lima with all its delights, you will want nothing more than to detach, unwind, and enjoy some cocktails and good food. Barrancco is known as Lima’s art district, an equivalent to their version of Soho but more bohemian, cheaper, and with better cocktails.
Lima itself is known for how good their food and cocktails are. Despite the gringo epicentre being in Miraflores, Barranco has better bars, better restaurants, and a better vibe. If I were you, I’d eat at Ayahuasca before heading to Curiyaki tiki bar for cocktails (pre-warning, their drinks are really strong).
What to do in Lima in 3 days: Day 2
Morning
Day two of your adventure in Lima is already here. Today we’re going to start the day in Lima’s most foreigner-friendly area—Miraflores. Miraflores sits on the Pacific coast, with the Malecon (Cliffside walkway) running parallel to the sea a hundred metres below.
Spend the morning walking the Malecon, taking in stunning views over the Pacific Ocean. Theres even a mall built into the Cliffside where you can stop off for some refreshments (my personal favourite is the Haagan Daaz kiosk). Once you’ve had your fill of coastal views and ice cream (if that’s even possible), stop off at Parque del Amor (park of love), which is known for its iconic “El Beso” statue.
Lunch
Miraflores is dime a dozen for western chains like Chillis or McDonald’s, but Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned, and Lima is the epicentre of its food scene. So why not eat as a Peruvian does? When I asked my local friends what they had for lunch, each of them answered exactly the same: ceviche.
For those not in the know, ceviche is raw fish cured in “leche de tigre,” or tigers milk. Don’t worry, there isn’t a battery farm of tigers being milked somewhere in Barancco; leche de tigre is essentially a citrus-based marinade. The acid in the citrus kills all of the bacteria on the fish, making it safe to eat! It’s absolutely delicious and normally comes served with arroz con mariscos, rice with shellfish, and something like calamari.
Evening
For the evening, we’re going to venture back towards Centro, specifically to the park next to the stadium. At Parque de la Reserva, there’s a daily light show from Wednesday to Sunday; it’s only 4 soles for entry (£1) and is genuinely spectacular. Beyond just walking through Instagram photo hotspots, it gives a run-through of Peru’s history and how it was formed.
After this, it’s time for a night on the town. Make your way back down to Miraflores. Most of the lively bars are conveniently located in the same sort of area pictured below. It’s easy to get to, just get a cab to the juxtaposition of Calle Berlin and Calle Bellavista.
It’s completely up to you where you go, but I recommend Mollies (an Irish bar with excellent food and live music) before popping next door to shake a leg. Whaois is the bar next door, a lively dance bar serving up Latin American hits across all genres. It’s a pretty informal place, and it seemed like the only rule was that everyone had to be on their feet and having a good time. Plus, their cocktails are the best in Lima, creatively combining the myriad of Peru’s regional and national ingredients into drinks that are beautiful both visually and in taste.
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Day 3: Peru’s pre-Inca history and culinary excellence
Morning
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Peru has the best history in all of America, without a doubt. Most people know it for the Inca civilization, and with wonders like Macchu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, that should come as no surprise. But prior to the Inca, there’s a millennium of history in this fabled land.
This morning, we’re going to start the day with a day trip to indulge in that history. Just a stone’s throw outside of Lima is the town of Pachamac, named after the “earth-maker” god Pacha Hamaq. This city was first settled around 200 AD and flourished for 1300 years until the Spanish invaded the area.
The archaeological site contains structures from a range of time periods, with the oldest being the Temple of Pachamac, estimated to have been constructed in the 3rd century AD. Most people visit to see the spectacular Temple of the Sun and Pyramids, both built by the Inca.
Lunch
No trip to Lima would be complete without a trip to La Lucha, the infamous purveyors of criolle sandwiches and chichi. It’s a verified Lima institution, with branches all over the city; in fact, there are two or three in Miraflores alone. But the easiest one to find is by “cat park” (aptly named because loads of friendly stray cats live there). There’s a lot more choice here than at El Chinito, but they’re also known for their chiccaron. I personally think Chinto is better, but I’ll let you decide.
Evening
You’ve had a jam-packed few days; I think it’s time for a treat, no? Put on your best clothes and actually iron your outfit for once; tonight we’re going to one of Lima’s many incredible restaurants.
Peru was recently voted as the world’s best foodie destination, and Lima actually has the world’s best restaurant, Central. As much as I would have loved to have tried Central (I was in Lima when it received its award), it was so far out of my budget that it’s hilarious. I actually went to “Astrid y Gaston” for my culinary treat. For those not in the know, Astrid and Gaston are husband and wife and collaborated to create this business, with Astrid handling deserts and Gaston creating the mains.
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Despite both being international chefs, they’re both very involved in the restaurant; in fact, we met Astrid, who came over to our table to ask how everything was. I’ll put some photos below, but I recommend you get the duck with rice for the main course. For the desert, everything is incredible, but the tiramisu was my favourite.
What now?
Well, if you’ve followed this guide to the T, you’ll have just a taste of what this wonderful city has to offer. If you’re anything like me, you will already be planning your return or extending your stay. The truth is what to do in Lima in 3 days? Is a silly question, it’s not nearly enough time to enjoy the sumptuous flavours, glorious history, and stunning views.
If you want to leave the city next, why not read my guide on completing the Annapurna Circuit here.
