What to see in Lima in one day? The 12 most important places

Lima is the capital of Peru, a land full of treasures from the past, such as Machu Pichu or the Sacred Valley.

Few travelers decide to visit the country just to see the capital. However, this is the gateway to one of the most spectacular travel destinations in the world. You won’t spend much time on the streets of Lima, so we have prepared a small guide that will show you what to see in Lima in one day.

The best views from the waterfront in Miraflores

The route with the sights to see in Lima in one day should start with the Miraflores district and the waterfront promenade of the same name. You will probably live in this neighborhood, which is the safest in the city and full of parks and gardens. It also has its own beach.

The promenade, the Malecón de Miraflores, is 5 km long and passes the Malecón de la Marina, the Cisneros and the Malecón de la Reserva. A route along the cliffs of the Costa Verde. Without a doubt one of the best views the city has to offer.

The Park of Love

Since we’ve talked about what to see in Lima in a day and we’ve started with Miraflores, the best way to fill the time is to stroll through Parque del Amor, the city’s most famous park. The sculpture “The Kiss” by Victor Delfin is outstanding.

Larcomar, first stop

The walk we suggested with which you start the morning may have made you hungry so you can take a break at the Larcomar shopping center. It’s one of the largest and busiest malls in Lima and you’ll love its gastronomic offerings. Have a pisco sour. You can’t leave Lima without trying this drink. Of course, don’t forget about ceviche.

Huaca Pucllana

We continue our trip near the Miraflores district to visit the most important monuments of Lima in one day. In this case we recommend this pre-Hispanic archaeological center with a ceremonial character.

It consists of a large truncated pyramid and the lower buildings surrounding it.

When you’ve finished your visit, it’s time to go downtown.

Main Square or Plaza de Armas

The historic center of the Peruvian capital is undoubtedly a must-see for anyone wanting to see something in Lima in a day. This is where most tourists concentrate, and not just on a whim.

Plaza de Armas is the city’s most iconic square, and you can get there from Miraflores either by taxi or by bus (they call them colectivos there).

This square is home to some of Lima’s most imposing buildings, such as the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Church of El Sagrario and the well-known equestrian statue by Francisco Pizarro.

It’s worth just walking across the square, but don’t forget to see the inside of the buildings that make it possible.

Lima Cathedral

Unlike many European cathedrals, the Lima Cathedral combines several architectural styles, such as the Renaissance style on the facade, which also features Plateresque details, and the Neoclassical style in the towers. Inside, the ceiling stands out, depicting a night sky full of stars in the style of the small French chapel, the Madeleine.

Municipal Theater of Lima

To take advantage of all there is to see in Lima in one day, you have to leave the Plaza de Armas behind and go to the Teatro Municipal. It dates from 1915 and is one of the oldest buildings in the area.

San Martin Square

This square celebrates Peru’s independence and pays homage to its architect, José de San Martín. If you are interested in places of great historical importance, you cannot miss this one.

Government palace

Back in the Plaza de Armas, your eyes will be drawn to the neo-baroque main facade of the Government Palace, but don’t miss the side facade, which is neo-colonial in style.

The Palacio de Gobierno is not only the headquarters of this organization, but also the Presidents of Peru live here, including in their time Francisco Pizarro and the liberator Simón Bolívar.

Convent of St. Francisco

The San Francisco Monastery and its catacombs are key points on any list of what to see in Lima in a day.

The catacombs can be compared to those of Paris and are considered Peruvian historical heritage. It is estimated that they house the human remains of more than twenty thousand people and their state of preservation is simply amazing.

Mauerpark

When you exit the catacombs, go to the Parque de la Muralla. You are about to conclude your visit to Lima and should clear your head before saying goodbye.

Bridge of Sighs

The last stop of things to see in Lima in a day is very close to Miraflores district. So if you’re staying there, it’s the perfect place to land.

It is a wooden bridge that leads to a viewpoint from which you can say goodbye to the sea and Lima with a beautiful view. You should visit them at sunset to enjoy the illumination.