Lima International Airport is a stopover point for many visitors to Peru just to explore Machu Picchu. Because the attraction of the "lost city" is so great, many people forget the "city of emperors" - Lima. The capital, Lima, has a distinctive blend of modern, densely populated neighborhoods with an old-world charm. Leave the airport and spend 24 hours in Lima experiencing its cultural and historical beauty. This special tour of South America will be just for you.
Get a safe taxi
When you leave the airport, many private taxi companies will have lucrative greetings for you. To get to the CBD from Jorge Chasvez airport, it will cost you 60 to 65 PEN (equivalent to 18-20 USD) taxi fare. Another option that many travelers think about is Uber. At the airport there is a free wifi connection and you can order a quick ride. When everything is ready, you just head straight to the center of Lima.
Go to the center
Lima's historic center is a great place to start your day visit. If arriving by taxi, ask the driver to drop you off at Plaza San Martín. This is a monument built in honor of the Peruvian liberator Don José de San Martín. This famous building has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
In addition to taxis, you can reach the center in just 20 minutes by a modern bus system called Metropolitano. From the castle wall, walk along Jirón de la Unión straight to the Plaza de Armas, and you'll come across the city's main square. Jiron de la Unión used to be the gathering place of intellectuals, the upper classes of Peruvian society. They often come and chat with each other at the cafes and bars on the street. Today, its cultural values still exist and are an attraction for tourists touring South America.
Plaza de Armas
This is where Francisco Pizarro found Lima on January 18, 1535. He built a building that is now the presidential palace. Surrounding the Plaza de Armas are three buildings representing the three powers that rule the country: executive power (Government Palace), religion (Lima Cathedral) and local government (City Palace).
Near the presidential palace are travel agents that offer local guided tours. The schedule of the tour is quite simple. They will take you to the hilltops around Plaza de Armas for the view. You will be able to admire the entire city and see the whole Pacific Ocean. San Cristóbal Hill has the best view. The ancient Peruvians called it "apu" - meaning mountain of gods.
Once you're done with the sights, you'll need to recharge some energy. Traditional restaurant Cordano, located behind the presidential palace, or San Martín Plaza, Peru's most patriotic restaurant. The reason for that name is because the restaurant's dishes and drinks are named after national heroes. The creativity of this restaurant made them famous throughout the country. And to tour South America, every visitor wants to visit San Martín Plaza.
Barranco and Miraflores
The next destination on your South American tour itinerary is Barranco or Miraflores. Both are vibrant districts full of art and music. But perhaps Barranco is a good choice for an afternoon stroll. And Miraflores for a night of fun filled with surprises.
Walking around the neighborhood, you stroll along the beach and spend time admiring the murals. End your walk with a beer at Juanitos or Bar Piselli - the bar next to the main square to enjoy. The best time is when the sun goes down, you can see the entire bay from Bajada de Baños.
In the evening, head to Tanta restaurant in Miraflores for authentic Peruvian food. If time permits, take a taxi to Plaza Kennedy, the lively downtown area of Miraflores. Some famous bars you can go to are Nuevo Mundo Draft Bar or La Emolientería. Miraflores has a colorful nightlife. Various genres of music such as salsa, pachanga and electronica are played in every bar.
Look forward to coming back
Miraflores is a great place to end your day in Lima. The city of Lima sinks into the night with the sounds of silence. Lima is not as vibrant or flashy as many other capitals. But the harmonious combination of many architectural styles gives Lima a special charm. South America tour still has many attractive destinations. The one-day journey to one destination will continue. Follow Migola Travel to discover more cities and unique cultures.
