Lima Travel Budget 2026
Plan your Lima trip budget with our comprehensive cost breakdown.
Lima is Peru's vibrant capital and largest city, stretching along the Pacific coast where ancient civilizations once flourished.
Daily Budget Overview
Average daily costs for travelers in Lima.
- Basic guesthouse or hostel
- Street food and local eateries
- Public transportation
- Free attractions
- 3-star hotel with amenities
- Mix of local and international restaurants
- Taxis and some tours
- Major attractions
- 4-5 star hotels
- Fine dining experiences
- Private transport and guides
- Premium experiences
Cost Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of typical travel expenses.
🏨 Accommodation
🍽️ Food
🚗 Transportation
🎫 Activities
Budget Planning Spreadsheet
Download our complete budget calculator with cost tracker and saving tips.
Sample Trip Budgets
What to expect at different budget levels for a 7-day trip.
Budget Trip (7 days)
- Hostels/basic guesthouses
- Street food and local eateries
- Public transport only
- Free attractions and walking tours
- Limited souvenirs
Mid-Range Trip (7 days)
- 3-star hotels with breakfast
- Mix of dining options
- Taxis and some tours
- Major paid attractions
- Some shopping and souvenirs
Luxury Trip (7 days)
- 4-5 star hotels
- Fine dining experiences
- Private drivers and guides
- Premium tours and access
- Shopping without limits
Money-Saving Tips
Stretch your budget further with these insider tips.
Eat the menú del día (set lunch) for $3-6 at local restaurants - best value in Lima
Use the Metropolitano BRT bus for $0.50 instead of taxis
Many museums and sites are free or cheap on Sundays
Stay in Miraflores hostels to walk to most attractions
Buy fresh fruit and snacks at Mercado de Surquillo
Use Uber or Cabify apps to avoid taxi overcharging
Book accommodations directly for better rates
Visit the Magic Water Circuit instead of paid entertainment
Free & Cheap Activities
Experience Lima without spending a fortune.
Miraflores Malecón Walk
4km clifftop promenade with Pacific Ocean views
Parque del Amor
Romantic clifftop park with El Beso sculpture
Parque Kennedy
Central Miraflores park famous for its cats and markets
Historic Centre Walking
Explore UNESCO heritage area and Plaza Mayor for free
El Olivar Park
400-year-old olive grove park in San Isidro
Barranco Street Art
Outstanding murals throughout Lima's bohemian district
Chorrillos Beach Walk
Fishing port with pelicans and fresh air
Circuito de Playas
Lima's urban beaches along the Costa Verde
Surquillo Market Visit
Browse Lima's famous food market for free
Larcomar Clifftop Views
Pacific views from Miraflores cliff mall (no purchase needed)
Currency & Payment Tips
Essential information about money matters.
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Exchange at banks or authorized casas de cambio (exchange houses) on Larco Ave in Miraflores
ATMs
ATMs widely available; use ATMs inside banks or supermarkets for safety. GlobalNet and BCP have lowest fees
Credit Cards
Visa and Mastercard accepted at most hotels and restaurants; less common at markets
Tipping
10% at restaurants (check if included in bill); round up for taxis; $1-2/day for hotel housekeeping
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Tourist surcharge at some restaurants (10% service + 18% IGV tax)
- Airport taxi vs. Uber (Uber is 30-50% cheaper from Lima airport)
- Entry fees at archaeological sites ($1-8 each)
- Baggage storage at hostels ($2-3/day)
- SIM card ($5-10 for Claro or Movistar prepaid)
Plan Your Lima Budget
Get our complete budget guide with detailed cost breakdown, budget calculator, and 50+ money-saving tips.
Download Budget Guide