We sat down with Steve Solosky, widely known for his small group tours across Europe, Canada and South America, to learn how to make the most of a weekend in Lima, Peru.
According to The Professor, “Lima feels more European than most European cities.” With its colonial architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and world-class cuisine, Lima offers a unique blend of history and modern culture that makes it one of South America’s most exciting destinations!
A weekend in Lima should begin in the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is highly walkable, making it easy to explore its grand plazas, colonial churches and government buildings (I also feel like starting any city from its centre gives your brain a start in the sensing of where things are).
Exploring Lima’s Historic Centre
A weekend in Lima should begin in the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is highly walkable, making it easy to explore its grand plazas, colonial churches and government buildings (I also feel like starting any city from its centre gives your brain a start in the sensing of where things are).
Here are some of its main buildings:
Just outside the historic district is the Larco Museum - one of Lima’s cultural highlights. Set in an 18th-century mansion, it showcases a vast collection of Inca artifacts and pre-Columbian art, making it a must-see for history lovers!
For a change of pace, spend time in Lima’s most charming neighbourhoods:
When visiting Lima on his small group tours, Steve recommends staying near Kennedy Park at the Jose Antonio Deluxe Hotel.
- Lima Cathedral & Pizarro’s Tomb: Located on the Plaza Mayor, this impressive cathedral also houses the final resting place of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro.
- Presidential Palace: If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the colourful military parades outside.
- Archbishop’s Palace: A stunning example of colonial architecture, worth visiting for its ornate balconies and historic interiors.
- Basilica and Convent of San Francisco: Famous for its baroque style and fascinating catacombs.
- Basilica y Monasterio de Santo Domingo: A favourite of Steve, this peaceful site is where St. Rose of Lima once walked.
Museums Beyond the Centre
Just outside the historic district is the Larco Museum - one of Lima’s cultural highlights. Set in an 18th-century mansion, it showcases a vast collection of Inca artifacts and pre-Columbian art, making it a must-see for history lovers!
Strolling Through Miraflores & Barranco
For a change of pace, spend time in Lima’s most charming neighbourhoods:
- Miraflores: Known for its ocean-front parks, upscale shopping and the lively Kennedy Park.
- Barranco: A bohemian district filled with colourful murals, art galleries, and cafes. Perfect for an evening stroll or a romantic dinner!
Where to Stay in Lima
When visiting Lima on his small group tours, Steve recommends staying near Kennedy Park at the Jose Antonio Deluxe Hotel.
Its central location makes it easy to explore both the historic and modern sides of the city.
No trip to Lima would be complete without sampling its world-class cuisine. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world:
Spending a weekend in Lima, Peru, means immersing yourself in a city where history, culture and gastronomy come together. Whether walking through its European-style plazas, exploring world-class museums or savouring top-rated cuisine, Lima promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller!
Dining in Lima: A Culinary Capital
No trip to Lima would be complete without sampling its world-class cuisine. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world:
- ConSuLado Vegano: traditional Peruvian food without the cruelty;
- El Jardín de Jazmín: Peruvian fusion (fused with the west), located in the centre of Miraflores;
- Gastronomía Vegana: another traditional Peruvian place, highlights include saltado and leche de tigre!
Final Thoughts
Spending a weekend in Lima, Peru, means immersing yourself in a city where history, culture and gastronomy come together. Whether walking through its European-style plazas, exploring world-class museums or savouring top-rated cuisine, Lima promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller!
But why stop in Lima? Check out our guide on how to explore Peru without an itinerary - it's a slow travel guide and we hope you find it useful! (Image source is Unsplash: 1, 2 and 3)
