Founded as the City of Kings and home to the oldest institution of higher learning, and a city inhabited before the Incas arrived, this is Lima. After 2 days in Lima, you would love the vibes of the various cultures that are different, yet sync in perfect harmony.
Before exploring the most popular district, Miraflores, we take you through the must-visits in Lima’s Historic Center. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its main monuments which we visited were:
- Plaza Mayor
- Basilica and Convent of San Francisco of Lima
- Lima Metropolitan Cathedral
- Torre Tagle Palace
- Huaca Puccllana
- Faro La Marina
And, if you are up for an adventure, head to Huacachina, the beautiful oasis surrounded by dunes in southwestern Peru.
Let’s dive in!
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Where is Lima?
This is the City of the Kings, the gastronomic capital of South America, and the only capital city in the Americas that faces the Pacific Ocean, this is Lima. The city lies within the flat terrains of the Peruvian coast and within the valleys of the Rimac, Lurin, and Chillon rivers.
Lima has a desert climate with subtropical temperatures with two distinct seasons, summer from December to April and winter from June to October. The weather transitions from warm to cool during the months of May to June.
The society is influenced by European, Andean, Asian, and African cultures due to its colonization, immigration, and the local population. In terms of architecture, the balconies of Lima are a cultural heritage that was from the Viceroyalty of Peru era.
Today, Lima is Peru’s industrial and financial center and is home to the largest export economy in South America with San Isidro being the city’s financial hub. According to the Mastercard Newsroom, Lima is ranked fifth in terms of international visitors.
History
The earliest known pre-Incan were the first to settle in what is now Lima. These tribes were from the Maranga and Lima tribes whose identities and culture remain to this day. It was during those times that the Pachamac site was built around 200 AD.
By the 15th century, these communities were part of the Inca Empire until the Spanish conquest of Lima. The conquest was led by Francisco Pizzaro who is regarded as the founder of the city of Lima. He named it the “City of Kings”.
Lima’s prestige grew as it became the seat of the Viceroyalty of Peru. The city prospered as it expanded its trade network across America, Europe, and East Asia. However, a major earthquake in 1687 was the turning point for Lima.
The Republic of Peru was formed when Peru became independent from the Spanish monarchy in 1821. By the early 20th century, the reconstruction and remodeling of important government buildings began.
With a developing tourism economy, medieval Spanish fortifications, beautiful beaches, and two zoological parks, there is so much to see and do in Lima. Whether it is relaxing by the beach or exploring ancient monuments, Lima has something for everyone.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of South America (except Venezuela), the United States, Mexico, and Canada do not require a visa to enter Peru. Other nations whose citizens do not require a visa are European Union, Switzerland, South Africa, and Asia.
For citizens from Asia, the specific nations are Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. Tourists from these countries can stay up to a maximum of 90-days.
Citizens from the countries not listed above require a tourist visa which is applied at the Peruvian Consulate. The required documents include an application form, a valid passport, a round-ticket trip, hotel reservations, and tourist package reservations.
The official visa application form is on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage. The form is bilingual as it is in Spanish with English in brackets. You would need to print out this form and submit it at the Peruvian Consulate in your country.
You can check the Consular Offices Abroad website to find the nearest Peruvian consulate or embassy in your country.
Are 2 days in Lima enough?
Yes, 2 days is just about the right to visit Lima. Our 2 days in Lima itinerary would help you maximize your time spent while giving you an authentic walkabout of the city’s historic center.
Day 1: Historic Center
On day 1 of our 2 days in Lima, we walk through the historic center and spend time admiring the architectural wonder of these buildings which date back to the 17th century. We begin the day at the Archbishop’s Palace and end our day at the Government Palace.
Archbishop’s Palace of Lima
The first of our 2 days in Lima is at the Archbishop’s Palace of Lima. This is the residence of the Archbishop of Lima and is the administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lima.
The design of this building was inspired by the Torre Tagle Palace and consists of a baroque design. The interior is ornate and houses the sculpture of Santa Barbara, the patron saint of Cuba.
How much is the entrance fee to the Archbishop’s Palace of Lima?
The entrance fee for adults is S/15 ($4) while students enter for S/5 ($1.30) while a joint ticket for the cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace is S/20 ($6). The opening hours are from 9 am to 8.45 pm from Monday to Sunday.
Basilica and Convent of San Francisco of Lima
The second of our 2 days in Lima is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco of Lima. This is a must-visit for three reasons. The first is for its extensive library that has over 25,000 books and about 6,000 parchments from the works of the Jesuits and Benedictions.
The second reason is for its catacombs that contain about 70,000 remains in different rooms. The bones are classified and displayed in an “artistic” manner. The third reason is its beautiful dome in the Mudéjar style with wood from Costa Rica.
Is there a San Francisco in Peru?
Yes, there is a San Francisco in Peru. It is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco of Lima.
How much is the entrance fee to the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco of Lima?
The entrance fee for adults is S/15 ($4) while university or technical students enter for S/8 ($2) and children enter for S/3 ($1). The opening hours are from 9 am to 8.45 pm from Monday to Sunday.
The Plaza Mayor
The third of our 2 days in Lima is the Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas. This square is considered the historic birthplace of the city of Lima as it was here that Francisco Pizzaro designed and designated the location to build this plaza in 1535.
What is special about the Plaza Mayor in Lima, Peru?
Plaza Mayor is special because it is the historic city center of Lima. This square contains architectural and iconic landmarks that date back to the 17th century.
What buildings are in Plaza de Armas?
The buildings on the northern side of Plaza de Armas are the Government Palace while the western side has the Park of the Flag, the Municipal Palace of Lima, the Club de la Union, and the beginning of Jiron de la Union.
The southern side contains the Olaya Passage and the Headquarters of the Caretas Magazine. On its eastern side are the Archbishop’s Palace, the Casa del Oidor, and the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral.
What is the oldest building in Plaza Mayor, Peru?
The oldest building in Plaza Mayor, Peru is the Cathedral of Lima or the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral which was completed in 1622 and still stands today. The youngest building is the Municipal Palace which was completed in 1944.
Lima Metropolitan Cathedral
The fourth of our 2 days in Lima is the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral. This cathedral is located on the east side of Plaza Mayor and was built on the site of the Inca shrine to Puma Inti and the Cuscoan prince, Sinchi Puma.
Among the many chapels in the cathedral, are the Crypt of Francisco Pizzaro, the founder of Peru. You can find the Coat of Arms of Lima on the walls of his tomb. His remains were found with a woman and two children who are believed to be his family.
The Chapel of San Juan Evangelista, whose left wall contains the tomb of Ribera the Elder, the first mayor of Lima is also worth are stop as it is said that his tomb is the most beautiful within the cathedral.
Where is the Cathedral of Lima?
The Cathedral of Lima is located in Jirón Carabaya, Plaza Mayor in downtown Lima. Its location is within the historic city center of Lima.
What is the name of the Cathedral in Lima, Peru?
The name of the Cathedral in Lima is the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral or its official name, the Basilica Metropolitan Cathedral of Lima and the Primate of Peru.
Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo
The fifth of our 2 days in Lima is the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo. This convent is about 5-minutes from the Plaza Mayor. This iconic landmark is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary.
This church is significant as it is the resting place of three Peruvian saints. These are Santa Rosa de Lima, San Juan Marcias, and San Martin de Porres. Another place worth visiting is the library which houses over 25,000 books.
How much is the entrance fee to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo?
While entry to the Church is free, an entrance fee of S/15 ($4) is charged for adults and S/8 ($2) for students on presentation of a valid student identification card.
Government Palace
The sixth of our 2 days in Lima is the Government Palace or the House of Pizzaro. This palace is the official residence of the President of Peru and the seat of the Executive Branch of the government.
Although the first palace was built by Francisco Pizzaro, the current buildings date back to the 1920s. Among the must-visits is the Sevillian Patio which features glazed tiles from Seville, Spain.
Another must-visit is the Golden Hall which is the largest and grandest hall in the palace. It is in this hall that foreign ambassadors present their credentials to the President and ministers take their oath.
The other places to visit are the Tupac Amaru II Room, the Jorge Basadre Room, the Admiral Miguel Grau Room, and the Peace Room.
Why is the Government Palace in Peru important?
The Government Palace in Peru is important because it has served as the official residence of the President and the seat of the Peru Government since the Viceroyalty came to an end.
What type of government does Peru have?
The government of Peru is a unitary state and a presidential representative democratic multi-party system. The Constitution of Peru established the current government in 1993.
Travel Tips
The Government Palace is usually closed to the public. However, you can check at the Public Relations Office for any free scheduled tours of the building. The palace is open from 9 am to 8 pm. The changing of the guards’ ceremony is between 11.45 am to 12.20 pm every day.
Day 2: Miraflores
This residential and upscale district was founded after the Battle of Miraflores during the Pacific War. Miraflores has a marine climate with frequent low clouds during winter. Huaca Pucclana is the only pre-Incan ruin in this district.
Huaca Puccllana
The seventh of our 2 days in Lima is Huaca Puccllana. This adobe and clay pyramid was built from seven staggered platforms and was used as a ceremonial and administrative center for the Lima Culture.
While the large spaces were used to conduct meetings and storage areas, the pyramid structure was used for religious rites. The remnants of the Wari Culture were also found here with this site being the primary burial site for nobility.
Is Huaca Puccllana free?
No, Huaca Puccllana is not free. There is an entrance fee of S/15 ($4) while the reduced rate for children between the ages of 5 to 12 years, higher education students, teachers, and persons with disabilities is S/7.50 ($2) per person. Children below the age of 5 years enter for free.
What are huacas in Peru?
Huacas are a monument or a natural location that is used for religious purposes and rituals. According to the Quechua, Huaca refers to the “temple of the idols”. For example, Lake Titicaca is a Huaca mayor as it is a revered lake in the Andes.
According to Incan belief, huacas can be anything that has supernatural abilities. These include waterfalls, mountains, lakes, palaces, pilgrimage, and sacrificial grounds.
How many UNESCO sites does Peru have?
Peru has 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with the City of Cuzco and the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Pichhu being the first two to be listed in 1983.
Larcomar
The eighth of our 2 days in Lima is Larcomar. This is a shopping center in Miraflores and is located on the cliff next to the ocean. With 80 shops, this is a shopper’s paradise as guests can browse to their delight.
Some Peruvian brands which can be found here include Kuna, Sol Alpaca, and Joaquim Miro. The international brands include Guess, Swatch, Gap, Converse, and Timberland. The PeruRail office is also located here.
Faro La Marina
On the ninth of our 2 days in Lima is Faro La Marina or La Marina Lighthouse, an active lighthouse built on the cliffs that overlook the Pacific Ocean. This lighthouse stands at a height of 108 feet and was originally constructed in Punta Coles.
The lighthouse is beautifully painted dark blue with two white bands and consists of a high iron tower, a gallery, and a lantern that blinks three white flashes, over 15 seconds.
BONUS: Huacachina
The tenth and last of our 2 days in Lima is Huacachina. This oasis is about 191 miles or a 4-hour drive from Lima. Huacachina is also known as the “Oasis of America” as it is the only desert oasis in the Americas. You can make a visit to this beautiful place as an extension to your 2 days in Lima.
According to local legend, a beautiful Incan princess was walking on the dunes of the present-day Huacachina. As she was admiring herself, she caught the gaze of a hunter in her mirror. She fled and dropped her mirror which broke into pieces and became a tiny pool in the desert.
Is Huacachina man-made?
No, Huacachina is not man-made, it is a natural desert oasis, circled by palm trees and has attracted tourists for more than 70 years.
Is Huacachina natural?
According to NASA, Huacachina is natural as it is formed by water from underground aquifers that seep through the sand. This means that palm trees, eucalyptus, and carob trees can grow abundantly in this area.
How many people live in Huacachina?
According to Discovery Channel, Huacachina has a permanent population of 100 people.
What are the best places to stay in Lima?
While Lima is one of the largest cities in Peru, deciding where to stay can be a headache. This is why we have done the guesswork for you. From the high-end tourist area of Miraflores to the bohemian Barranco, read on for our recommended hotels.
Miraflores
This district is a tourist destination on its own. With a marine climate and the only district to have a pre-Incan ruin, the Huaca Pucclana, Miraflores is a hub for cultural, and archaeological. It is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Peru.
Tierra Viva Miraflores Centro
The Tierra Viva Miraflores Centro is a quaint hotel with 42 rooms and is within walking distance to Parque Kennedy, the Indian Market, and is less than a mile to Huaca Pucclana. Each room is equipped with a high-pressure shower, desk, and connecting rooms are available.
Some positive reviews mention that the staff was attentive and helpful, the breakfast was excellent, the rooms were spotless, and the beds were comfortable. Other reviewers mention the convenient location and the beautiful terrace where breakfast was served.
Ayenda La Luna Inn
The Ayenda La Luna Inn is a boutique hotel that has a 24-hour front desk, free Wifi, private parking, and a bar. Each room is equipped with a safety deposit box, a flat-screen television, and a private bathroom with a shower.
Some of the reviews mention the spotlessly clean rooms, the excellent internet availability, and a helpful and amazing owner. Other reviews mention the reasonable room size, the comfortable bed, and the excellent location that was within walking distance of the many bars and restaurants nearby.
Iberostar Selection Miraflores
The Iberostar Selection Miraflores is a 214-room 5-star hotel that is about 800 meters from Larcomar. Each room comes with a work desk, a minibar, a hairdryer, and a safety deposit box. Some reviews include a comfortable bed, a gorgeous rooftop, and plenty of options for breakfast. Book the panoramic sea view on the 12th floor for the “wow” factor of a stunning view.
Other reviews mention friendly, helpful, and kind staff as well as the fabulous room and lovely welcome by the staff. Although the pool may be small, the rooftop bar views make up for it.
Historic Center
The Historic Center of Lima or Cercado de Lima is another tourist district in Lima. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was founded by Francisco Pizzaro. He named Lima the “City of Kings” and is known for its high concentration of historical monuments.
For first-timers, the city’s iconic landmarks are within the Plaza Mayor. From the majestic mansions of the House of Oidor, the House of Pilatos, and the House of Aliaga to the Convent of Santo Domingo and San Francisco, spending your time here is worth it.
Sheraton Lima
The Sheraton Lima Hotel is a 437-room 4-star hotel that is within a mile of Plaza Mayor. Each room is equipped with the usual toiletries and all rooms enjoy city views and come with a private balcony.
Some reviews include friendly staff, an excellent buffet breakfast, and the hotel within walking distance to the museum and the central square. The hotel also provides a shuttle service to Miraflores.
Hotel Diamond Lima
The 22-room Hotel Diamond Lima is a 3-star hotel that is an easy 5-minute walk to Plaza Mayor and an 11-minute walk to the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco. The hotel’s facilities include a 24-hour front desk, airport shuttle, and daily housekeeping.
Each room comes with free WiFi, a work desk, a hairdryer, and a safety deposit box. Some reviews mention the hotel’s excellent location which is within walking distance of the Historic City Center while other reviews mention helpful staff and clean rooms.
La Quinta de Amat
La Quinta de Amat is a boutique hotel located in Rimac, the historical and traditional area of Lima. All rooms come with free WiFi, private bathrooms, a work desk, air conditioning, and cable television.
Some reviews mention clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. Other reviews mention that the location is within walking distance to Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the Church and Convent of San Domingo.
Barranco
This is Lima’s artistic and bohemian district. If you are looking for anything related to Peruvian arts, music, designers, and photographers, this is where you go to find them.
From the sea, take the Bajadas de Los Banos walkway and you will then reach Puente de Los Suspiros or the Bridge of Sighs. Keep walking and you will see a statue of Chabuca Granda, a native of Barranco.
Chabuca Granda is known for her song, La Flor de la Canela, or the Cinnamon Flower which is now the unofficial anthem for Lima. Among the top sights in this district is Parque Kennedy, crossing the Bridge of Sighs, and exploring street art found all over the district.
Trendy Host Connect
Trendy Host Connect is beautifully designed apartments in a residential condominium block. Each of the rooms is equipped with furnished kitchens, free WiFi, air conditioning, and cable television. The downside is that guests would have to pay a cleaning fee to clean the rooms.
The positive reviews mention the modern, bright, and airy rooms with views of the city and mountains. Other reviews mention the excellent location that is near many restaurants and bars and is good for short stays in Lima.
Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel
Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel is a 22-room hotel in a beautifully restored 1920s mansion. All rooms come with flat-screen LED television, free WiFi, a safety deposit box, air conditioning, and heating. Guests also can rent bikes for free.
Some positive reviews mention the excellent location, friendly and accommodating staff as well as the large bedrooms with oversized towels and a wonderful library. Guests also love the small garden for lounging and the rooftop bar for relaxing at the end of the day.
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels is a 9-room boutique hotel that is an easy 8-minute walk to the Bridge of Sighs. All rooms come with free WiFi, premium bedding, blackout drapes, and air conditioning. A safety deposit box is available at the Front Desk.
Some positive reviews mention that the rooms were big and quiet while the location of the hotel was excellent. Other reviews mention the wonderful staff and lovely breakfast. Guests also loved the spacious rooms and the beautiful garden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Lima
We have answered some additional questions which you may have about Lima and Peru. We hope you find this information useful!
Do they speak English in Lima, Peru?
English is not widely spoken in Lima beyond hotels and tourist areas. The official language in Peru is Spanish which is spoken by at least 84% of the population, and Quechua is spoken by about 13% of the population.
Aymara is the most spoken language with at least 1.7% of the population speaking the language. This language is spoken by the natives of Lake Titicaca and near the border of Bolivia. Hence, it would be good to learn some basic phrases during your 2 days in Lima.
Some basic phrases which could prove useful in Lima are Hola for “hello”, Cómo estás? for “how are you?”, and no hablo Espanol for “I don’t speak Spanish”.
Why does Lima get no rain?
Lima does not get much rain as it is in the rain shadows of the Andes. The Humboldt Current or Peru Current are trade winds that blow from East to West which then flow upwards as they reach the Andes mountain ranges.
As the winds cool, rain and snow fall on the eastern side of the mountain ranges, thus leaving Lima with high levels of humidity and very little rain.
How far is Macchu Picchu from Lima?
Macchu Picchu is 313 miles from Lima with a driving distance of about 16 hours. While a bus may be the cheapest way to get there, it is by no means comfortable. A train ride to Macchu Pichhu is not only an amazing experience, but it is also the fastest.
Why is Lima called the Octopus?
Lima is called the Octopus because the metropolitan city of Lima spreads far and wide, without any fixed form, like an octopus.
What is the best time to visit Lima, Peru?
With its location near the Pacific Ocean and near a desert, Lima’s weather is classified as a subtropical desert climate. This means summers are hot and sunny while winters are foggy with a persistent morning drizzle.
The best time to visit Lima is during the summer months from December to April. During these months, you can expect sunny skies with few clouds. Be prepared for loads of tourists everywhere. It is best to make advanced reservations for accommodation.
If you are visiting Lima on a budget, then the best time to visit is during the winter months of May to November. You can expect light rain and misty fog during your trip. If you are headed to Macchu Picchu, the dry winter months of June to August are the best time to visit Lima.
What are three typical Peruvian meals?
The three typical Peruvian meals that are a must-eat in Lima are Ceviche, Pollo a la Brassa, and Lomo Saltado. Tamales are also another local dish you must try when in Peru. Be sure to include these traditional eats during your 2 days in Lima.
Ceviche
The first typical Peruvian meal is Ceviche. This typical Peruvian dish is made from fresh fish that is cured in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers. As this dish is prepared raw, it is best to consume it immediately.
There are three best places to have ceviche in Lima. Our first choice is La Mar Cevicheria where the ceviche melts in your mouth with a burst of tantalizing flavors. The restaurant is known for its flawless service and delicious desserts.
Our second choice for the best ceviche in Lima is Sonia’s. This restaurant is almost 80 years and maintains its traditional fishermen’s house where its owners eat and breathe fish. Alberto Fujimori and Alejandro Toledo were some of its famous guests.
Our third choice for the best ceviche in Lima is El Mercado. Although it is pricey, the ceviches and cocktails are worth waiting for. The staff are polite, and attentive, and would help with recommending a few dishes that would make your trip here memorable.
Pollo a la Brasa
The second Peruvian meal is Pollo a la Brasa or charcoal chicken is another staple dish of Peru. This dish was created by Roger Schuler, a Swiss immigrant that could not return home during World War II and eventually settled in Lima.
His family maintains the traditional rotisserie chicken using recipes handed down through the generations. You can taste the authentic Pollo a la Brasa at their restaurant, Granja Azul at two locations in Lima, either in Santa Clara or San Isidro.
Another best place to have Pollo a la Brasa in Lima is at Don Tito. This restaurant was born with the aspiration to serve the best-grilled chicken in Peru. This place is known for its large crowd during the weekends. A bonus is that the service is excellent as well.
Lomo Saltado
The third Peruvian meal is Lomo Saltado. This is Peru’s national dish that is true to its Peruvian-Chinese origins. The ingredients include marinated sirloin strips with soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. The strips are then stir-fried with onions, scallions, potatoes, and parsley.
One of the best places to have Lomo Saltado in Lima is at Doomo Saltado where their specialty is Lomo Saltado. The staff is friendly and their Japanese cuisine is also worth trying.
Another restaurant with the best Lomo Saltado in Lima is Panchita in Miraflores. The food portion here is huge and good. Hence, reservations are required. The staff are also friendly and can converse in the English language.
The last place for the best Lomo Saltado in Lima is Isolina. Be sure to arrive early or make a reservation as this restaurant is always full. The food here comes in huge portions and has excellent service. You can never go wrong at a place where the locals go to eat.
EXTRA: Tamales
The fourth typical Peruvian meal is Tamale. This Mesoamerican dish was believed to have originated as early as 5,000 BC and was used by the Mayan, Aztec, Olmec, and Toltec civilizations during hunting, traveling long distances, and supporting their armies.
Is Lima worth visiting?
It’s a YES from us. While most travelers use Lima as a stepping stone to Cusco and Macchu Picchu, spending a few days in the beautiful city is worth it. Here’s why we recommend visiting and spending at least 2 days in Lima.
- The largest city in Peru. Lima is not only the capital city, but it is also the largest in Peru and the only capital city close to a beach. This means that you can expect beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a history as old as time.
- The food. Lima is also the gastronomic capital of Peru. From ceviche to Pisco, there is so much to eat. With an ocean at its doorstep, you are guaranteed the freshest seafood.
- The nightlife. If you are going to party, head to Miraflores and party like a Peruvian. Head to Pizza Street in Miraflores or La Plaza in Barranco for all-night partying. After all, the party only starts after 11 pm.
- Historical buildings. Lima is not called the City of Kings for nothing. From large-colonial buildings to Moorish-style buildings, Peruvian architecture is as unique as the country itself.
- Shopping. Larcomar is probably the only shopping complex in the world that faces the Pacific Ocean. This means you get stunning views and good bargains, all in one place.
These are just some of the reasons why we love Lima. So, instead of just cruising through Lima, why not spend a few days taking in the Peruvian vibes, beaches, and culture. Lima is a destination on its own.
