What to see in Lima in one day?

Visiting Lima, the capital of Peru, can be an enriching experience, even if you only have one day to explore it. This vibrant city blends the old with the new, offering a variety of tourist attractions that allow you to enjoy its culture, history, and gastronomy.

Charms of Lima’s Historic Center

Plaza Mayor

Start your tour at Plaza Mayor, the heart of Lima’s Historic Center. Surrounded by iconic buildings, this square is an excellent starting point to learn about the city’s colonial history.

Cathedral of Lima

Visit the Cathedral of Lima, located in Plaza Mayor. This cathedral, built in 1535, houses the tomb of Francisco Pizarro and is an impressive example of Peruvian colonial architecture.

Government Palace

Near the Cathedral is the Government Palace, the official residence of the President of Peru. Although you can’t enter without a guided tour, you can observe the changing of the guard, which is an interesting spectacle.

Church and Convent of San Francisco

A short distance from Plaza Mayor, you will find the Church and Convent of San Francisco. This complex is famous for its catacombs, which you can visit on a guided tour, and its ancient library.

Flavors of Lima

The city boasts a wide variety of restaurants and food stalls offering a great variety of typical Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and anticuchos, among others.

In Lima, you can enjoy a gastronomic tour, as the city is considered one of the most diverse and delicious in the world due to the mix of cultures it has received throughout its history. This fusion is reflected in its varied gastronomic offerings, which include indigenous, Spanish, African, Asian influences, and more recently, fusion cuisine. Here are the most famous dishes of Peruvian gastronomy, collectively known as the “Flavors of Lima.”

Ceviche

Ceviche is one of the most emblematic dishes of Peruvian gastronomy. It is made with fresh fish marinated in lemon juice and accompanied by onion, chili, and other ingredients. This refreshing and flavorful dish is a delight you cannot miss. It perfectly reflects the freshness of marine ingredients and Lima’s vibrant seasoning.

Lomo saltado

Lomo saltado is a dish made with beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and chili, accompanied by French fries and rice. This dish is a clear example of the fusion between Peruvian and Chinese-Cantonese cuisine, known as “chifa.” The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among locals and tourists.

Chicken chili

Ají de gallina is a dish made with shredded chicken breast cooked in a creamy yellow chili sauce, milk, and bread, and served with boiled potatoes and rice. This comforting and flavorful dish has a slightly spicy touch from the yellow chili. It is a clear example of the richness and complexity of Peruvian cuisine.

Causa stuffed

Causa rellena is a typical dish from the coastal region of Peru. It is prepared with yellow potatoes cooked and mashed, mixed with yellow chili, lemon, and other ingredients to form a kind of dough that is filled with chicken, tuna, or seafood. This dish is served cold and is ideal as an appetizer or main course. Its light and refreshing taste is perfect for Lima‘s warm climate.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are skewers made with beef heart, marinated in a mixture of red chili, cumin, garlic, and vinegar, and grilled. They are usually served with boiled potatoes and creole sauce. This dish is a classic of Lima’s street food and is popular at parties and celebrations. Its smoky and spicy flavor is irresistible.