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Welcome to Lima, the capital city of Peru! With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, Lima is one of the most popular destinations in South America. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey exploring the best places to visit during your three-day stay in Lima.
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Introduction to Lima, Peru
Is Lima safe?
Lima is the biggest city in Peru, so crime is naturally higher. It doesn’t feel like an unsafe city to be in, but there are some precautions you should take.
- Don’t walk alone at night, get an Uber or taxi instead
- Always put away your valuables when using public transportation or walking around.
- Book your accommodations in safe neighborhoods
- Try to avoid public transport in rush hour, as it will be crowded and you’re more likely to be pickpocketed
How to get to Lima
The easiest way to get to Lima is by plane. You’ll be flying into Jorge Chavez International Airport. You can fly here directly from Amsterdam, Paris, Madrid and a lot of major cities in North, South and Central America.
If you’re traveling around from neighboring countries, you can reach Lima by bus. This is a popular and affordable way to get around South America.
How to get from Lima Airport to Lima City
The airport is around 15km away from the popular Miraflores district, where you’ll most likely be staying. You can get here by bus, but it would take you over an hour. It’s much more convenient to get a taxi from the airport. When you get out of the arrivals area, there are a few different options where you can book your journey. It will take between 30-45 minutes.
Where to Stay for 3 Days In Lima
There are plenty of options to suit all budgets and preferences when you’re choosing where to stay during your 3 days in Lima. We recommend staying in the San Isidro or Miraflores neighborhoods if you want to be close to the historic center and main tourist attractions. These areas offer a wide range of hotels, from luxury five-star hotels to budget options.
San Isidro is known for its upscale hotels and restaurants, while Miraflores is known for its trendy bars and nightlife. If you prefer a traditional experience, consider staying in a boutique hotel in the historic center.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores
Hotel Antigua Miraflores is the perfect choice for a comfortable and convenient stay in Lima. The Love Park and Miraflores Central Park, are a stone’s throw away, while Waikiki Beach and the South Pacific Ocean are also located nearby. Located in a tranquil and secure location, Hotel Antigua is near the best restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
How to get around Lima
To get around Lima, we recommend using taxis or ride-sharing apps such as Uber or Cabify, which are safe and affordable. Or, you can also use the public transportation system. This includes the Metropolitano bus rapid transit and the Lima Metro.
To use the bus, you’ll have to buy a card first which costs around $1. Multiple people can use the same card, which you’ll top up with credit and use to enter the bus platforms.
It’s also an easy city to get around on foot. The main areas are safe and walkable, with popular attractions close to each other.
If you don’t want to go around by foot, renting a bike is another option. It’s a flat city and has wonderful cycle lanes, as well a a public bike sharing service called CityBikeLima.
How to Spend 3 Days In Lima
Day 1: Exploring Lima’s Historic Center
Lima’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see attraction for any visitor. Start your day by visiting the Plaza Mayor, the main square in Lima. This square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and is the perfect spot to take in the city’s history and culture.
Next, visit the Cathedral of Lima, which was built in the 16th century. It’s considered one of the most important religious sites in the country. The cathedral is home to numerous works of art, including a painting of the Last Supper by Diego Velázquez.
After that, tour the San Francisco Monastery. It’s home to an impressive collection of religious art, as well as underground catacombs that hold the remains of over 70,000 people.
For lunch, head to a local restaurant to try some of Lima’s famous cuisine. We recommend trying ceviche, lomo saltado, or arroz con pollo. Then, visit the Mercado Central, one of the city’s most popular markets. Here you can shop for fresh produce, local handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Day 2: Experiencing Lima’s Culture
Lima has a vibrant culture, with a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Start your day by visiting the Larco Museum, which has one of the most extensive collections of pre-Columbian art in the world. Here you’ll see pottery, textiles, and gold and silver jewelry from the Inca and other ancient civilizations.
In the evening, watch a Peruvian dance show, which showcases the country’s traditional music and dance. You can find several venues in Lima that offer these shows, such as the popular Dama Juana restaurant.
For dinner, try some Peruvian food at one of Lima’s many restaurants. Some popular dishes to try include ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew, and anticuchos, skewered beef heart.
Day 3: Enjoying Lima’s Natural Beauty
Lima is not only known for its history and culture but also for its stunning natural landscapes. After breakfast visit Parque del Amor, a park overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s famous for featuring a large sculpture of two lovers embracing.
Next, walk along the Malecon, a coastal promenade with breathtaking views of the ocean and city. Stop for lunch at a seafood restaurant and try some of Peru’s famous seafood dishes, such as ceviche or chupe de camarones.
End your day by visiting Huaca Pucllana. This is an ancient archaeological site that was built by the Lima culture around 500 AD. The site features a large pyramid made of adobe bricks and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history.
3 days in Lima: Map
3 days in Lima FAQs
Is 3 days enough in Lima Peru?
3 days is a perfect amount of time to spend in Lima. You’ll have a chance to see the best of the city, but of course, if you want to stay longer you’ll still enjoy your time.
Is it worth stopping in Lima?
Yes, we think Lima is definitely worth visiting. It offers a different experience to other popular cities such as Cusco, and it’s the perfect destination for those who want to explore the unfiltered culture.
3 days in Lima: Conclusion
In just three days, you can experience some of the best that Lima has to offer. From its historic center and vibrant culture to its stunning natural landscapes, Lima is a city that has something for everyone. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this beautiful city. Safe travels!
