Catherine - Savvy Family TravelMany travelers breeze through the capital on their way to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley, not realizing just how much you can do with a day in Lima.
Between the colonial charm of its historic center, the ocean cliffs of Miraflores, and the bohemian streets of Barranco, it’s worth investing one day in Lima in your Peru Itinerary.
One Day in Lima
Planning Your One-Day Lima Itinerary
When to Visit & What to Expect
In Lima, you’ll find pre-Inca ruins surrounded by skyscrapers, colonial churches beside street art, and some of the best restaurants in the world just steps from traditional markets. If you give it even a single day, Lima will surprise you.
The city is never unbearably hot or cold, but summer (December to March) brings clearer skies, while winter can be overcast. If you’re planning a day in Lima during the foggy season, don’t worry—many of the spots on our one day in Lima list are enjoyable rain or shine.
Lima Airport Transport
Lima’s brand new Jorge Chavez International Airport is beautiful and efficient to navigate.
Depending on traffic, it is about 45-60 minutes from Miraflores or 35-55 minutes from Lima’s Historic Center. An Uber or Taxi ride will cost 50-100 soles ($15-30 USD). There’s also a transfer bus for $7 per person.
How to Get Around Efficiently
Traffic is the one thing that might test your patience. Moving from the historic center to the coast takes anywhere from 40 to 70 minutes, depending on the time of day. We found the most efficient option is to take an Uber or a taxi to maximize your short time in the city.
And here’s a local trick: if you find yourself staring at bumper-to-bumper traffic, hail a cab a few blocks over instead—you’ll save precious time.
Where to Stay for One Night in Lima
We based ourselves in San Isidro, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The service at our hotel was a solid 5 out of 5, and it felt central to everything we wanted to do—quiet at night but still close to both Miraflores and the historic center.
If you prefer ocean views, Miraflores is great. For artsy cafés and nightlife, Barranco is your best bet. Stay somewhere that minimizes your commuting time.
Top Rated Hotels:
- San Isidro: Hyatt Centric
- Miraflores: Pullman Lima
- Barranco: 3B Barranco by Katari Hoteles
Morning: Lima’s Historic Center
With just one day in Lima, here’s how to sample the best of the city.
Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas)
From the market, it is walkable to our next stop, the city’s elegant main square, Plaza de Armas.
The star attraction here is the Government Palace, where every day at noon you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony—a full-on display of military precision and Peruvian pride.
Basílica Catedral de Lima (Basilica of Lima)
Sitting right on the Plaza Mayor, the Basilica of Lima is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks — and it’s impossible to miss if you’re exploring the historic center. Its grand twin towers and detailed façade dominate the square.
Inside you’ll find soaring ceilings, gilded chapels, and centuries-old artwork, and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador who founded the city in 1535.
Convent of San Francisco
Just a few blocks from the plaza, the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco is a favorite stop for many travelers.
The convent is famous for its eerie catacombs, tiled courtyards, and massive library stacked with centuries-old books.
More Colonial Architecture and Balconies
The architecture is stunning. Spend another 30 minutes or so exploring the city blocks that surround the main Plaza and drop into a cafe for some snacks. We really enjoyed our bakery from Pasteleria Kimberly.
Optional Add-On: Museo Larco
If you’re ahead of schedule, a taxi ride will take you to the Museo Larco, one of the most beautiful museums in Latin America.
Housed in a colonial mansion wrapped in bougainvillea, it’s known for its stunning pre-Columbian ceramics and gold artifacts.
Afternoon: Lunch and Ocean Views
Lunch
Lima is world-famous for its seafood, and ceviche. If you’re after something fancy, La Mar and Pescados Capitales in Miraflores are both excellent.
For a more local vibe, head to Mercado N°1 de Surquillo, a no-frills market with some of the most authentic plates in town.
For a quick bite that’s also kid friendly, we loved La Lucha Sanguchería, a local sandwich chain.
Other local foods to try are chifa (Peruvian-Chinese fusion), rocoto relleno (spicy stuffed pepper), and my favorite, their lomo saltado.
Explore Miraflores: The Clifftop Gem
Miraflores is clean, walkable, and perched high above the Pacific Ocean.
Start your walk along the Malecón de Miraflores, a long, landscaped park running along the cliffs. You’ll pass Parque del Amor—the “Love Park”—famous for its colorful mosaic benches and ocean-view statue of an embracing couple. You can also meander through the Chinese Park.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider paragliding off the cliffs for a bird’s-eye view of the Pacific—it’s one of the most exhilarating things to do in Lima Peru if the weather cooperates.
Optional: Shopping With a View
For a mix of modern shopping and ocean views, head to Larcomar, the shopping mall literally built into the cliffs. Even if you don’t buy anything, the view alone is worth the stop.
Evening: Barranco’s Bohemian Vibe
Golden Hour at the Bridge of Sighs
From Miraflores, take a short taxi ride south to Barranco, Lima’s artistic neighborhood.
Start your visit at the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros). Legend says if you hold your breath while crossing, your wish will come true.
Barranco’s Colorful Streets
Barranco is a living gallery. You’ll find murals on nearly every wall, vibrant colonial homes, and art galleries tucked into courtyards.
Dinner & Drinks
As the sun sets, grab a table at one of the district’s excellent restaurants. Isolina is a local favorite serving hearty Peruvian comfort food in a nostalgic, old-school setting.
If you’re going big, Central, one of the world’s top-ranked restaurants, but book far in advance!
For drinks, order a Pisco Sour (Lima’s signature cocktail) or a refreshing Chilcano. If you’re avoiding alcohol, Chicha Morada (a sweet purple corn drink) is the perfect alternative.
Have More Than One Day in Lima?
If you’re lucky enough to have more than one day in Lima, you can slow down a bit and really dive into the details that make this city so special. Here are a few ideas to fill your second day (or justify staying even longer).
Pucllana Site Museum (Huaca Pucllana)
In Miraflores, you’ll find Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca pyramid made of adobe bricks that feels wildly out of place between the surrounding modern buildings. You can take a short guided tour or simply admire it from the restaurant next door.
This pre-Inca pyramid was built entirely from adobe bricks and once served as a ceremonial and administrative center.
Navy Lighthouse (Faro la Marina)
Perched high on the cliffs of Miraflores, the Navy Lighthouse is one of Lima’s most recognizable coastal landmarks.
Food Tour or Cooking Class
Book a guided food tour or a cooking class that includes market visits and tastings of classic dishes. Don’t miss Peruvian coffee, artisanal chocolate, or the uniquely flavored lucuma ice cream—it’s only found in Peru!
Souvenir Shopping
If you want to take a piece of Peru home, check out my post on the best souvenirs from Peru — it breaks down the top buys and how to spot genuine pieces.
Mercado Central (Central Market)
If you’re a morning person, take advantage of your early start by hitting Mercado Central before heading to the Plaza Mayor. By late morning, it gets very crowded, and street traffic around the market slows to a crawl.
Lima with Kids
You can find kid-friendly fun with a day in Lima. Here are my kids’ favorites:
Parque Kennedy (Kennedy Park)
Right in the heart of Miraflores, Parque Kennedy is one of Lima’s most famous gathering spots — and yes, it’s the park with all the cats you’ve probably heard about. Dozens of friendly strays lounge on benches, weave between market stalls, and soak up attention from locals and tourists alike. Beyond the cats, it’s also a lively hub surrounded by cafés, street vendors, and weekend craft fairs. If you’re staying nearby, it’s a great place to grab a churro or empanada and just people-watch. We stopped by in the evening when the lights came on and musicians set up around the park — it felt like a little slice of daily life after a busy day of sightseeing.
Choco Museo
If you have even a passing interest in chocolate (and who doesn’t?), make time for the Choco Museo. There are a few locations around the city, including one in Miraflores and another in Barranco. Here, you can learn about Peru’s cacao-growing regions, sample different varieties of chocolate, and even make your own chocolate bar in a workshop. It’s fun, family-friendly, and smells amazing the moment you walk in.
Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua)
The Magic Water Circuit is a huge park filled with choreographed fountains, colorful lights, and music. The main show runs after dark and features fountains that move in sync with Peruvian music and projected visuals once per hour. Do not buy tickets in advance, or you’ll end up paying a premium. (Kids under 5 are free.)
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Safety and Scams to Watch For
Lima is generally safe in tourist areas like Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco, but always keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid flashing cash and use registered taxis or ride apps.
Money, Language, and Etiquette
You’ll need a mix of cash (soles) and a credit card. Street vendors and taxis are usually cash-only.
A few simple Spanish phrases—like gracias (thank you) and cuánto cuesta? (how much?)—go a long way.
Packing Essentials for a Day in Lima
- Light layers (the weather changes quickly)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for coastal walks
- Portable charger
- Umbrella or jacket in winter months
- Small coins for public restrooms
- eSim for data connection
Frequently Asked Questions: Spending A Day in Lima
Is one day in Lima enough?
Yes, if you plan it well! As an American, we are typically limited to 2 week vacations with work, so we are used to prioritizing our adventures and could only commit a day in Lima in our 2 week Peru itinerary. One day gives you a solid sample of the city’s highlights.
What should I not miss in Lima?
The historic center, changing of the guards, ceviche, the Malecón, and Barranco’s evening energy.
How far is the airport from Miraflores?
Typically 40–60 minutes by taxi.
What should I do on a rainy day in Lima?
If Lima’s signature fog or drizzle rolls in, swap outdoor plans for indoor ones.
- Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI)
- Browse boutiques and cafés at Larcomar
- Reserve Bank Museum in Lima, also known as the Central Museum (MUCEN) – FREE
Can I see Lima safely at night?
Yes—stick to well-lit, popular areas like Barranco or Miraflores and use rideshare apps to get around.
Final Thoughts: Why Lima Surprises First-Time Visitors
Even if you’re just passing through, one day in Lima will get you a feel for its rhythm, its flavors, and its history.
Where to next?
From Lima, you can continue your journey south to:
- Arequipa – the White City of volcanic stone
- Puno and Lake Titicaca – for high-altitude culture and life on the water
- Paracas or Huacachina – for desert dunes and penguins
- Cusco and the Sacred Valley – the heart of the Incan world
Check out our 2-week Peru itinerary to find out how to fit all these incredible destinations and a day in Lima into one trip!
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Catherine – Savvy Family Travel
My favorite pastime is finding fun, interesting experiences to share with family and friends.
I’m a mom of two energetic and curious boys who have endless patience with my tendency to over plan activities on our family vacations. My tireless husband, Troy, provides comic relief, is our favorite photographer, and expert navigator.
I’m a firm believer that travel with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. It can be affordable, epic, and, dare I say, even relaxing!
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