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"Step out into the sun and explore Malecón & Pacific Cliffs. February is an ideal time to visit Lima. Immerse yourself in a blend of modern culture and local traditions."
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
Why Visit Lima?
Lima captivates as South America's undisputed culinary capital and gastronomic powerhouse where world-leading restaurants like Central and Maido (both consistently ranking on The World's 50 Best Restaurants list) brilliantly reinvent Peruvian cuisine using Amazonian and Andean ingredients, the powerful Pacific Ocean crashes dramatically against Miraflores district's clifftops where colorful paragliders launch above dedicated surfers, and magnificent colonial baroque churches in Centro Histórico preserve Spanish viceregal grandeur from centuries when Lima ruled all Spanish South America as viceroyalty capital. Peru's massive capital and primary gateway (pop. approximately 10 million Greater Lima metro area, one of South America's largest cities) sprawls endlessly along arid coastal desert—notorious gray garúa fog blanket envelops the city roughly May-November creating persistent overcast gloom, yet finally breaks to brilliant sunshine December through April revealing blue skies.
The exceptional food scene draws serious global culinary attention: prestigious Central and Maido rank among World's 50 Best Restaurants (tasting menus now typically run well over $212 / PEN 712 per person at the very top spots), while phenomenal ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili, and onions, Peru's national dish) achieves absolute perfection at seaside cevicherías from around S/30-60 soles (roughly $8.25–$18 / PEN 28–PEN 59), and smoky anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers, street food classic) sizzle on corner grills. Lima's remarkable reinvention from genuinely dangerous 1980s-90s Shining Path terrorism hub into internationally recognized foodie destination powerfully showcases Peru's impressive post-conflict renaissance and economic growth. Upscale Miraflores serves as primary tourist base—the spectacular clifftop Malecón boardwalk stretches scenic 6 kilometers above Pacific beaches (water is cool, roughly 15-21°C / 59-70°F most of the year—great for wetsuit surfers, but chilly for casual swimmers), tree-filled Parque Kennedy hosts weekend artisan craft markets and famous street cat colonies, and modern Larcomar outdoor shopping center dramatically clings to cliffside offering ocean-view dining and shopping.
Yet Lima's authentic cultural soul genuinely lives beyond comfortable Miraflores: bohemian Barranco neighborhood showcases colorful colonial mansions converted to contemporary art galleries, romantic Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) overlooks Pacific creating postcard moment, and weekend nights fill with live música criolla and Afro-Peruvian rhythms in traditional peñas venues. The UNESCO-listed Centro Histórico's grand Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas) centers on ornate Lima Cathedral and imposing Palacio de Gobierno where presidential guards change ceremonially daily at noon (free to watch), while San Francisco Monastery and Convent's eerie catacombs house an estimated 25,000+ skeletons and skulls arranged in underground ossuaries (guided tours $4.12 / PEN 14). Impressive museums include Larco Museum's exceptional 45,000-piece pre-Columbian ceramic collection spanning 5,000 years of Peruvian cultures including famous erotic pottery room (around S/50 adults), MALI (Museo de Arte de Lima) showcasing Peruvian art from ancient through contemporary, and Museo de la Nación covering Peru's diverse cultures.
Yet Lima primarily serves as essential gateway city rather than final destination—convenient domestic flights reach Machu Picchu via Cusco (1.25 hours), Sacred Valley's Inca sites, Amazon jungle lodges near Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos, Nazca Lines overflight tours, and Arequipa's colonial white stone architecture. The distinctive Peruvian cuisine beyond ceviche includes lomo saltado (stir-fried beef, Chinese-Peruvian fusion), ají de gallina (creamy chicken), causa (layered potato), papa rellena, and essential pisco sour cocktails (grape brandy, lime, egg white, bitters) consumed at sunset with ocean views. Visit December-April for warmest sunniest weather (22-29°C / 72-84°F) when Lima finally escapes garúa fog revealing blue skies perfect for clifftop walks and outdoor dining—avoid June-November when persistent fog and drizzle create depressing gray atmosphere (15-19°C / 59-66°F) though this is winter/spring in Southern Hemisphere.
With remarkably affordable prices for such renowned cuisine (excellent meals $11–$21 / PEN 36–PEN 71, budget travel $47–$82 / PEN 158–PEN 277/day possible), clifftop paragliding, surfing culture, fascinating historical layers from Inca through colonial to modern, and serving as unavoidable hub for Machu Picchu pilgrims making 1-2 day Lima stopover essential, Lima delivers world-class culinary excellence, Pacific coastal scenery, colonial baroque architecture, and gateway access to Peru's Andean and Amazonian wonders making it South America's gastronomic epicenter worth visiting for food alone despite sometimes gloomy coastal fog.
What to Do
Coastal Lima & Miraflores
Malecón & Pacific Cliffs
The Malecón boardwalk stretches 6 km along clifftops above the Pacific Ocean, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply watching the sunset. It's free and open 24/7—the stretch from Parque del Amor (Love Park, with its kissing statue and colorful mosaics) to Larcomar is the most scenic. Paragliders launch from the cliffs (tandem flights around $71–$100 / PEN 237–PEN 336 for 10–15 minutes). The beaches below (Playa Waikiki, Playa Makaha) are popular with surfers but the water is cold year-round. Go in late afternoon (17:00–19:00) for golden hour light and fewer crowds. Street vendors sell anticuchos and picarones. Safe to walk day and night in Miraflores.
Parque Kennedy & Artisan Markets
The heart of Miraflores with its famous colony of street cats (dozens roam the park). Free to visit—locals gather here day and night. On weekends and evenings, artisan markets set up selling jewelry, textiles, and crafts (bargaining acceptable). Street performers, musicians, and families create a lively atmosphere. Surrounding streets have cafés, ice cream shops, and restaurants. The Mercado de Miraflores food court nearby offers cheap, authentic meals ($4.71–$7.07 / PEN 16–PEN 24). It's a safe, central meeting point. Go in the evening (19:00–21:00) when locals stroll and the market is at its liveliest.
Larcomar Shopping Center
An outdoor shopping mall built into the Miraflores cliffs with ocean views from every level. Free to enter and wander—shops include international brands, Peruvian crafts, and bookstores. The food court and restaurants (ranging from fast food to sit-down) offer Pacific-view dining. It's touristy but the location is spectacular, especially at sunset. Expect prices 20–30% higher than elsewhere. Go in the evening for sunset over the ocean, or grab a pisco sour at one of the bars. It's a 5-minute walk from Parque Kennedy and connects to the beach below via stairs or an elevator.
Museums & Colonial Lima
Larco Museum
An excellent pre-Columbian art museum housed in an 18th-century mansion with beautifully landscaped gardens. Entry costs about $14 / PEN 47 for adults (students around $7.07 / PEN 24). The collection spans 5,000 years of Peruvian ceramics—Moche, Nazca, Chimú, and Inca. Don't miss the erotic pottery gallery (Sala Erótica) showcasing ancient Moche ceramics depicting... well, everything. The museum is open daily 09:00–19:00, making it perfect for afternoon visits. Allow 1.5–2 hours. The on-site restaurant serves upscale Peruvian cuisine in the gardens. It's in Pueblo Libre, about 35-50 minutes from Miraflores by taxi depending on traffic ($4.24–$5.65 / PEN 14–PEN 19).
Centro Histórico & Plaza Mayor
Lima's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, ornate balconies, and baroque churches. Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas) has the Cathedral (entry around $8.25 / PEN 28), Archbishop's Palace, and Government Palace with the changing of the guard at noon daily. San Francisco Monastery's catacombs (about $5.89 / PEN 20 entry, guided tour only) hold skeletal remains of an estimated 25,000 people in underground tunnels—eerie but fascinating. Allow 2–3 hours for the Centro. Go during the day—the area can be unsafe after dark. Take official taxis or Uber in/out. Combine with seeing colonial balconies on Jirón de la Unión pedestrian street.
Food & Barranco
Ceviche & Peruvian Cuisine
Ceviche is Peru's national dish—raw fish (usually sea bass) marinated in lime juice with chili, onions, and cilantro, served with sweet potato and corn. Eat it for lunch (noon–4pm), never dinner. Good spots: La Mar Cebichería in Miraflores ($14–$22 / PEN 47–PEN 75), Chez Wong (reservation-only, cash only, $35–$47 / PEN 119–PEN 158, legendary), or market cevicherías for around $7.07–$9.42 / PEN 24–PEN 32. Beyond ceviche, try lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), ají de gallina (creamy chicken), and anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers from street carts, $2.95–$4.12 / PEN 9.89–PEN 14). High-end dining: Central (tasting menu around $459 / PEN 1,543), Maido (from $365 / PEN 1,226), or Astrid y Gastón (book months ahead). Pisco sours are the classic cocktail ($5.89–$9.42 / PEN 20–PEN 32).
Barranco Neighborhood
Lima's most bohemian and artistic neighborhood south of Miraflores, with colonial mansions, street art, and creative energy. Walk across the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs)—legend says holding your breath while crossing makes a wish come true. The neighborhood is free to explore—art galleries, MATE (Mario Testino photo museum, about $8.25 / PEN 28), and the waterfront Bajada de los Baños steps to a small beach. Evening brings live music at peñas (traditional music venues) and bars. Ayahuasca (cocktail bar in a colonial mansion) and Barranco Beer Company are popular. Safe to walk day and night. Go late afternoon to explore, stay for sunset and dinner.
Gallery
Travel Information
Getting There
- Airports: LIM
- From :
Best Time to Visit
December, January, February, March
Climate: Warm
Entry Requirements
Entry rules vary by passport
Check requirements| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26°C | 21°C | 6 | Excellent ((best)) |
| February | 27°C | 22°C | 9 | Excellent ((best)) |
| March | 27°C | 22°C | 8 | Excellent ((best)) |
| April | 25°C | 21°C | 3 | Good |
| May | 23°C | 19°C | 0 | Good |
| June | 22°C | 18°C | 0 | Good |
| July | 21°C | 18°C | 0 | Good |
| August | 21°C | 17°C | 0 | Good |
| September | 21°C | 17°C | 0 | Good |
| October | 22°C | 18°C | 1 | Good |
| November | 23°C | 18°C | 1 | Good |
| December | 24°C | 20°C | 3 | Excellent ((best)) |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Historical avg. 2020–2025
Travel Costs
Per person per day, based on double occupancy. 'Budget' reflects hostels or shared accommodation in high-cost cities.
💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (February 2026): February 2026 is perfect for visiting Lima!
Practical Information
Getting There
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) is 12km northwest in Callao. Airport Express bus to Miraflores $4.36–$5.89 / PEN 15–PEN 20 (45 min). Uber/Cabify $12–$20 / PEN 40–PEN 67. Official taxis more expensive. NEVER use unlicensed taxis—kidnappings occur. Lima is Peru's hub—flights to Cusco (1.25hr), Arequipa (1.5hr), Iquitos Amazon (2hr). Buses reach all Peru (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa).
Getting Around
Uber/Cabify essential—never use street taxis (kidnapping risk). $2.95–$7.07 / PEN 9.89–PEN 24 typical rides. Metropolitano BRT bus system (red stations) covers main routes (around $0.88–$1 / PEN 2.97–PEN 3.36). Combis (minibuses) chaotic and unsafe for tourists. Walking works in Miraflores/Barranco but watch for sidewalk holes. Traffic horrific—budget extra time. No metro reaches tourist areas. Rent cars pointless—traffic and aggressive drivers.
Money & Payments
Peruvian Sol (PEN, S/). Exchange rate: $1 ≈ 3.36 PEN. Cards accepted at restaurants, hotels, chains. ATMs widespread—Interbank/BCP/Scotiabank. Cash needed for markets, small shops. Tipping: 10% in restaurants often included as 'servicio,' around $1.47–$2.95 / PEN 4.95–PEN 9.89 for tour guides, round up taxis. Many places accept USD but give change in soles.
Language
Spanish is official. English limited outside upscale hotels and tourist restaurants—learn basic Spanish essential. Younger staff in Miraflores speak some English. Translation apps helpful. Peruvian Spanish clear and slower than other dialects. Quechua spoken in highlands.
Cultural Tips
Ceviche etiquette: eat for lunch (noon-3pm), not dinner. Pisco is national pride—always order pisco sours. Tipping: servicio (10%) often included—check bill. Safety: use apps for all taxis, never street hails. Garúa fog depressing June-November—bring layers. Don't drink tap water. Altitude: Lima at sea level, but prepare for Cusco (3,400m). Street food mostly safe if busy. Peruvians friendly but reserved. Late dining—lunch 14:00, dinner 20:00–22:00.
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Perfect 3-Day Lima Itinerary
Miraflores & Coast
Centro Histórico & Barranco
Food & Culture
Where to Stay
Miraflores
Best for: Ocean cliffs, world-class dining, safe streets, paragliding, Parque Kennedy
Barranco
Best for: Bohemian art scene, nightlife, Bridge of Sighs, craft bars, galleries
Centro Histórico
Best for: Colonial architecture, Plaza de Armas, catacombs, museums, authentic Lima
San Isidro
Best for: Business district, upscale restaurants, Huaca Huallamarca, quiet luxury
Callao / La Punta
Best for: Street art (Callao Monumental), seafood, off-beaten-path, Real Felipe fortress
Popular Activities
Top-rated tours and experiences in Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- Official tourism boards and visitor guides
- GetYourGuide and Viator activity data
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This guide combines personal travel experience with comprehensive data analysis to provide accurate recommendations.
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