3-Day Lima Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Got a long weekend? Lima is one of those rare destinations where three days is enough to experience the highlights, discover a couple of hidden corners, and still feel like you had a real vacation — not a sprint.

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local flavor so you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Before You Go: Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Best time to visit	December to April (Lima's summer with sunshine)
Currency	Peruvian Sol (S/.)
Language	Spanish
3-day budget (mid-range)	$180
Climate	Arid desert coast with mild temperatures year-round and heavy coastal fog (garúa) from May to November

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & First Impressions

Morning

Arrive in Lima and head to your accommodation in the Miraflores — seaside cliffs with parks, restaurants, and ocean views neighborhood — the best base for a short trip thanks to its central location and walkability. Drop your bags and grab a quick breakfast or brunch at a local cafe.

Afternoon

Start with Plaza Mayor and Lima Cathedral, Lima's most iconic landmark. Arriving in the early afternoon means you avoid the morning rush while the light is still excellent for photography. Budget about 2 hours here to explore fully.

After that, walk to Huaca Pucllana pyramid — it is close enough to reach on foot and offers a completely different experience. The contrast between these two sites captures the essence of Lima.

Evening

Head to the Centro Histórico — colonial plazas, churches, and catacombs district for dinner. This is where locals go, and the prices reflect it. Order Ceviche — raw fish cured in lime juice with red onion, chili, and sweet potato — it is the signature dish of Lima and the perfect way to begin your culinary journey.

Day 1 budget estimate: $54

Day 2: Deep Dive Into Lima

Morning

Rise early and head to Barranco bohemian district before the crowds arrive. The first hour after opening is golden — fewer visitors, better light, and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Grab a mid-morning coffee in the Callao — port district with emerging street art and Monumental Callao project area and people-watch for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments are unplanned.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Larco Museum. This is one of Lima's cultural gems and deserves at least 90 minutes of your time. If you are feeling adventurous, detour to Monumental Callao — former port warehouses converted into galleries and murals nearby — most tourists walk right past it.

Next, stroll through the San Isidro — upscale dining and Huaca Huallamarca ruins neighborhood. Try Anticuchos — grilled beef heart skewers from street carts from a street vendor — it costs a fraction of what restaurants charge and tastes just as good (arguably better).

Evening

Tonight is your splurge dinner. Find a well-reviewed restaurant in the Miraflores — seaside cliffs with parks, restaurants, and ocean views area and order Aji de Gallina — shredded chicken in creamy yellow pepper sauce. A mid-range dinner with drinks will run about $18 per person.

After dinner, take an evening walk — Lima has a completely different energy after dark. Barranco — live music bars, peñas with folk music, and craft cocktails

Day 2 budget estimate: $66

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell

Morning

Use your final morning to see what most tourists miss. Head to Circuito Mágico del Agua — evening fountain light show in Parque de la Reserva — a spot that rewards early risers with quiet beauty and authentic Lima charm.

Pick up souvenirs at Mercado Indio — handicrafts, textiles, and alpaca goods in Miraflores. Skip the airport gift shops — the markup is brutal and the selection is generic.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

End your trip with a leisurely brunch featuring Lomo Saltado — stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, and french fries and a final coffee. Take a last photo from Miraflores Malecón at sunset overlooking the Pacific Ocean before heading to the airport.

Day 3 budget estimate: $48

3-Day Budget Summary

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation (3 nights)	$21	$63	$240
Food (3 days)	$18	$54	$180
Activities	$12	$36	$120
Transport	$9	$27	$60
Total	$60	$180	$600

Pro Tips for a 3-Day Trip

1. Stay central. With only three days, commuting from the outskirts wastes precious hours. Miraflores — seaside cliffs with parks, restaurants, and ocean views is your best bet.
2. Pack light. A carry-on means no baggage claim wait — you gain 30–45 minutes on arrival.
3. Pre-book the big attractions. Skip-the-line tickets for Plaza Mayor and Lima Cathedral can save you an hour of queuing.
4. Eat one meal at a market. Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than a sit-down restaurant.
5. Do not over-schedule. Two or three activities per day is plenty. Leave room for serendipity.

Is 3 Days Enough for Lima?

Three days will not cover everything, but it will cover enough to give you a genuine feel for the city. You will hit the highlights, eat the essential dishes, and — if you follow this itinerary — discover at least one spot that makes you feel like a local. For most travelers, that is the sweet spot.

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