After the peaceful charm of Cusco, Lima greeted me with a completely different energy. The city presents a unique combination of historic colonial architecture and modern coastal vibes.
I checked into the Wyndham Hotel, which was a perfect choice with a stunning rooftop pool bar and amazing city views. 🍹
🎒 Day 6-8 (Apr 5-7): Stay in Lima
- Activities:
- Roam around the Plaza Mayor de Lima (Lima Main Square), visit the Government Palace of Peru, Casa de la Literatura Peruana (House of Peruvian Literature), Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima (Basílica and Convent of San Francisco)
- Check out Chinatown
- Enjoy the beautiful music water fountains performance at Circuito Magico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit)
- Parque John F. Kennedy (Kennedy Park) and Parque 7 de Junio (Miraflores Central Park)
- Stroll along the Malecón de Miraflores (Miraflores Boardwalk), check in at the Love Park, Espigón Waikiki, Beach Viewpoint and Lacomar, watch the sunset by the coastline
- Walk around the Barranco District, take photos of the murals, and cross the Bridge of Sighs without breathing to have your wish fulfilled
- Eats:
- Ceviche and Chaufa at El Mundo Del Cerdo
- Lomo Saltado at Tanta
- Chicken Empanada and Lucuma Juice at Delicass
Day 6 – First Day in Lima
Started my Lima trip by exploring the historic heart of the city, with Lima’s Main Square (Plaza Mayor) as the starting point. The square is surrounded by architecture such as the Government Palace of Peru and the House of Peruvian Literature (Casa de la Literatura Peruana). The Basílica and Convent of San Francisco (Basílica y Convento de San Francisco) was particularly fascinating.
I then walked to Chinatown in the afternoon, it was way bigger than I thought. The evening brought me to the Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Magico del Agua), a large scale of music water fountains located in the Reserve Park (Parque de la Reserva). Watching the colourful water streams dancing under the moonlight, this place is perfect for families and couples.
Day 7 – Miraflores
The Miraflores district quickly became my favorite part of Lima. My morning started with a peaceful stroll from Kennedy Park – was surprised by spotting so many cats in this park. Then I walked my way to the Love Park (Parque del Amor), breathing in the fresh Pacific Ocean breeze. Walking along the Malecón de Miraflores, the entire area is so clean, with therapeutical blue and green. The trendy Larcomar shopping center is perched right by the ocean, you can’t find a better spot than that. Had my lunch at Tanta, accompanied by spectacular ocean vistas.
Spent my afternoon in the Barranco district, immersing myself in the creative graffiti that lightened up the neighborhood walls. Navigating through the artsy streets, I came to the famous Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros) – and yes, I managed to cross the bridge in one breath! The area is filled with beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, making it a perfect blend of historic charm and modern artistic spirit.
Day 8 – Last Day in Lima
My last day in Lima was more of a free-activity day. I stayed in a cafe near the hotel to fully breathe in the local vibes, chatting with friendly locals who shared their stories and perspectives about their city. It was the perfect way to wind down my Peru adventure before catching my flight back to Toronto the next day.
🎒 Day 9 (Apr 8): Lima ➡️ Toronto
Looking back at my time in Lima, the city is a fascinating blend of modern energy and colonial heritage. What makes Lima truly special is how it seamlessly combines creative expression with historical preservation, while maintaining its authentic character.
I really enjoyed my time in Peru. While Cusco attracted me with its ancient Incan/Andes spirit, Lima showed me a vibrant blend of modern energy and colonial heritage. The people here perfectly reflect this unique balance – down-to-earth and genuine, embracing progress while staying true to their cultural roots. This authenticity is embedded in every aspect of their being – from the incredible cuisines and the rich culture, to their warm and sincere interactions with visitors. In today’s fast-paced world, finding such genuine cultural preservation and human connection feels rare and precious, and that’s what made this solo travel so special.
👛 Expense Breakdown
| Category | Activity | Date | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Toronto – Lima | 3/31 – 4/8 | CA$680.21 |
| Transportation | Lima – Cusco | 4/1 – 4/4 | CA$260.10 |
| Stay | Stay in Cusco | 4/1 – 4/4 | CA$223.50 |
| Stay | Stay in Lima | 4/4 – 4/8 | CA$376.04 |
| Transportation | Cusco – Machu Picchu (PeruRail Expedition) | 4/3 | CA$173.38 |
| Attraction | Machu Picchu Ticket | 4/3 | CA$138.41 |
| Transportation | Uber in Cusco and Lima | 4/1 – 4/8 | CA$50.87 |
| Other | Restaurants and souvenirs | 4/1 – 4/8 | US$200.00 |
| TOTAL | CA$2,173.66 |
📚 Related Posts
- 🇵🇪 Lima Travel Guide 2024: Complete 3-Day Itinerary
- 🇵🇪 Cusco Travel Guide 2024: The Ultimate 4-5 Day Itinerary
- 🇵🇪 How to Visit Machu Picchu in One Day from Cusco: My Complete Guide
- 🇵🇪 Taste of Peru: Must-Try Local Peruvian Food🍽️
- 🇵🇪 Peru Travel Guide 2024: Things to Know Before You Go
- 🇵🇪 9 Days Solo Travel in Peru: Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu (Part 2)
- 🇵🇪 9 Days Solo Travel in Peru: Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu (Part 1)
📸 Check out my full photo album here for more visual stories of my Peru adventure:
With Peru now a cherished memory, I look forward to my next solo travel adventure, wherever it may take me. 🤗
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Get Your Planner Here: ⛰️ Peru Cusco & Lima 9-Day Travel Itinerary Planner
