Are you wondering what to do in Lima for a couple of days? Perhaps you are on your way to visit Cusco and considering what to do in the capital of Peru. Here is my list of the best things to do in Lima in two days.

Recommended Hotels in Miraflores, Lima:

1. AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores (overlooking the Pacific Ocean)
2. Aloft Lima Miraflores (prime location)
3. Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco (mid-range hotel in the heart of Miraflores)
4. Hotel Carmel (excellent Budget Hotel)

Recommended Hotels in Barranco, Lima:

1. Hotel B (Relais & Chateaux Collection)
2. Casa Republica Barranco (set in a 1920’s beautiful mansion)
3. Second Home Peru (home of a world-famous Peruvian painter)
4. Viajero-Kokopelli Barranco Hostel (trendy hostel set in a historic house in a central location)

Book in advance your Private Transfer from the airport to your hotel

Day One

1. The Historic Center

To reach Lima Center from Miraflores or Barranco, which are the best places to stay in Lima, it can take between 20 and 30 minutes depending on traffic.

One of the best things to do in Lima is to visit its historic center, a World Heritage Site. This recognition was due to its originality and high concentration of historic monuments from the Spanish era. The following spots are at a walking distance from each other.

Plaza San Martin

San Martin Square took shape in the early 20th century with French Neoclassical buildings.

In 1921 a statue of General San Martin who proclaimed the independence of Peru was placed in the square. A llama sits on the statue’s head due to a translation error – “flame” was mistaken for “llama.”

Jirón de la Unión

This was once South America’s most elegant street. Many of large colonial mansions were demolished for drab buildings until UNESCO declared the area a heritage site in 1988.

Church of La Merced

At the 6th block of Jirón de la Unión stands this colonial era church with a beautiful facade. Inside, to the right, you will find a silver heart-covered cross left by the faithful for Father Urraca. He was a 17th-century priest, to whom his devotees attribute miracles. They usually touch the cross for the purpose of asking for his protection.

Museo del Banco Central de Reserva del Peru (Mucen)

A visit to the basement and vault of this museum will not take more than half an hour. A small exhibition of pre-Columbian ceramics and gold artifacts can be found there. A great way to get a glimpse of pre-Columbian art in case you have limited time to visit bigger museums in Lima. Admission free.

Torre Tagle Palace

The Palace was built in the 18th century by a Spanish marquis. It showcases balconies of cedar from Nicaragua, which offered residents a view of the street. Today, it houses an office of the Ministry of Foreign Relations.

Church of Saint Peter

Visit the Church of Saint Peter, one of the best things to do in Lima. This colonial 17th century church was remodeled in the 20th century. Its altars are covered in gold leaf, making it one of the most beautiful churches in Lima. It gained worldwide fame when Prince Christian of Hanover married here a Peruvian girl in 2018.

Plaza de Armas (Main Square)

Here Pizarro founded Lima in 1535. Almost 300 years later, General San Martin proclaimed here the independence. Around the Plaza you will see:

• The Cathedral, built in 1535 over a former Inca Temple of the Sun

• The Archbishop´s Palace, a Museum of Viceregal Religious Art

• The Government Palace, featuring a daily Guard Change at noon

• The Lima City Hall, painted in mustard color, the typical colonial color

La Casa Aliaga

It is the only house in South America that has been occupied by the same family since the 16th century. It is the home of the 17th descendant of conqueror Jeronimo de Aliaga. Part of the house is open to the public. One of the best things to do in Lima is a visit to the Casa de Aliaga. You will get a glimpse into the original furniture, paintings, the chapel, a Sevillian patio, the conqueror’s sword and more.

Convento de Santo Domingo

A beautiful church with the highest tower in Lima, offering great views of the surrounding area. A peaceful convent with a library, and chapels dedicated to three saints of Lima.

Museum and Catacombs of San Francisco

A big part of the colonial convent became a museum, housing artistic treasures, beautiful courtyards, and an impressive library with over 25,000 books.

The catacombs, which served as Lima’s cemetery until the 19th century and hold over 30,000 burials, are underground. They are unique as the only open catacombs in the Americas. So be sure to add a visit here to your list of the best things to do in Lima in 2 days.

2. Miraflores

During your stay in Lima you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from the Miraflores’s cliffs.

The Costa Verde Promenade

The Promenade boards big part of Miraflores over the cliffs in front of the Ocean. Along its way you have some iconic places such as:

The Love Park

This is a lovely place to take nice photos with your partner. Its colorful mosaics are reminiscent of Gaudi’s art. In the middle of the park stands a sculpture called “The Kiss,” created by Peruvian artist Victor Delfin. The location for paragliders to take off is also very close by.

Larcomar

It’s a shopping mall built over the cliff as well as a great place from where to watch the sea and the surfers. Also it’s a very popular spot to observe the sunset.

Kennedy Park

A nice space to hang around for locals and tourists alike. A spot for artists to sell their art pieces. You can also indulge with some local pastries from the vendor stalls. The local Church forms part of the area. The park is also home to dozens of loving cats.

3. Barranco

This is Lima’s bohemian and romantic district and home to artists, writers, and musicians. Consequently, Barranco has come to be known as the SoHo of Lima. Its streets boast beautiful 19th century mansions. These serve now as museums, art galleries, boutique hotels, coffee shops, ice cream shops, and pubs.

The Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros)

This wooden bridge is Barranco’s iconic landmark. The belief is that when couples cross it holding hands, they will stay together forever.

Mural Art

The streets of Barranco are a must-see for art lovers, since they have been filled with a colorful display of art by well-acknowledged exponents of mural painting. This is definitely one of the best things to see in Lima if you have two days there

Day Two

For a second day in Lima we suggest a visit to any of the following places:

1. The Sacred Citadel of Pachacamac

This archaeological site is located about 45 minutes south of Lima. It spans a vast complex of approximately 500 hectares, or 1235 acres, and was once an active oracle and religious shrine for approximately 1200 years. The site features several temples, buildings, and a square.

Visiting the site is estimated to take around half a day. It is recommended to do so with a guide in order to fully appreciate the experience.

2. Huaca Pucllana

This a pre-Inca complex located in the heart of Miraflores. It consists of a 25-meter-high pyramid and a set of courtyards and plazas.

The admission fee includes a 45-minute guided tour inside the complex. It is closed on Tuesdays.

3. Museo Larco

One of the best things to see in Lima in 2 days is the exhibition at the Museo Larco. It boasts an impressive assemblage of pre-Columbian gold and silver jewelry. Besides, there is a gallery showcasing pre-Inca erotic pottery. Additionally, visitors also have access to thousands of additional pieces of pottery at the museum’s warehouse.

Where to Stay in Lima

Miraflores and Barranco, both in the southern part of the city, are the most appropriate places to stay in Lima. These are the recommended areas to stay in Lima before heading to Cusco or when coming back from there.

Driving from the airport (LIM) to Miraflores takes approximately 45 minutes, and Barranco is about 5 minutes more. Feel at ease since your arrival by booking a private car to pick you up from the airport to the city center.

Miraflores

AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores enjoys an unbeatable location in Miraflores and stunning views of the lush green cliffs, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Besides, the top-roof restaurant Insumo is considered one of the new best restaurants in town.

Book a stay at AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores here

Aloft Lima Miraflores also boasts a prime location close to the best coffee shops and nightlife. It is close to the Balboa Strip Mall, which has a great gastronomic offer and various fashion stores. It is also conveniently located next to Mercado 28, a vibrant food hall featuring a diverse array of choices.

Book a stay at Aloft Lima Miraflores here

Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco is an excellent mid-range hotel in the heart of Miraflores, in close proximity to the boardwalk, Larcomar shopping center, prominent art galleries, and the well-known “Parque Kennedy”.

Book a stay at Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco here

Hotel Carmel is a budget hotel with excellent service and located in the heart of Miraflores. An American breakfast buffet is served at no extra cost.

Book a stay at Hotel Carmel here

Barranco

Hotel B is a Boutique Hotel which forms part of the Relais & Chateaux collection. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern design, resulting in a stunning aesthetic. The hotel is conveniently located in the Barranco neighborhood, within walking distance to the promenade, art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. Hotel B is a true sanctuary for all senses.

Book a stay at Hotel B here

Casa Republica Barranco is a Boutique Hotel set in a 1920’s beautiful mansion just one block from the sea view. Nestled in a quiet street near top restaurants, galleries, and nightlife, it is the ideal escape from the bustling city.

Book a stay at Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel here

Second Home Peru is located right on the coast, this guest-house boasts breathtaking views. It is the residence of world-famous artist Victor Delfin. Not only will you have the chance to admire his artwork throughout the property, but you may even have the opportunity to meet him in his studio. Exploring the hotel and its art collection is a delight, by far.

Book a stay at Second Home Peru here

Viajero-Kokopelli Barranco Hostel is set in a stunning historic building transformed into a trendy and fashionable hostel in the heart of Barranco. It offers spacious and cozy rooms ranging from private to dorms, with an affordable food and drinks menu available throughout the day. The hostel’s incredible bar, music, and planned activities in the evenings provide guests with an authentic taste of Peru.

Book a stay at Viajero-Kokopelli Barranco here

When to Go to Lima

The best time to visit Lima is the summer season, which runs from December to April. The average temperature during this time is between 71.6°F (22°C) and 82.4°F (28°C). The rest of the year is characterized by humidity and overcast weather.

During the winter months of June to August, the temperature ranges from 60°F (16°C) to 68°F (20°C).

Since Lima is the second driest city in the world after Cairo, it rarely rains. But there may be occasional drizzles during the winter months from June to September.