The Open Road Travel

Situated on the county’s Pacific coast, Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru. It is a diverse city, which features both modern and historical attractions, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.

That is why we have narrowed down the very best spots, to help you plan the perfect travel itinerary when you visit Lima for yourself.

The city of Lima was settled in January 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizzaro and is not only the largest city in Peru but also the second-largest city anywhere in the Americas, behind Brazil's Sao Paulo.

Lima covers over 1,000 square miles and it accounts for about one-fourth of the total population of Peru.

Not only does the city's rich archaeological, cultural, and historical landmarks attract visitors from all over the world, but Lima is also a top spot for foodies.

The city is South America's capital of gastronomy, and the is home to some of the best South American cuisine and at least a third of the top 15 best Latin American restaurants in the world.

Lima is considered to have a desert climate, and with virtually no rainfall during the year, it is the second-driest capital city in the world, only after Cairo, Egypt.

Since Lima is in the Southern Hemisphere, December to March are the summer months offering very hot temperatures and sunshine, making this the best time to visit Lima.

This is the time of year that you will catch Lima at its best, so I would suggest planning your trip to the city during these months if you want to experience it in all its glory.

Lima consists of 43 districts, meaning it can sometimes be incredibly difficult for first-time visitors to navigate. Choosing where to stay can be a little overwhelming, due to the city’s size, and there are so many different places to explore.

I’m going to give you 4 of the best areas to stay in Lima, to hopefully help make planning your trip a little easier.

Located along the coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Barranco is one of Lima’s three main districts. This is an area known for its Bohemian feel and artsy vibe, and plenty of artists, musicians, and designers live and work in this area of the city.

Barranco is also home to the majority of Lima's vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, and live music venues stay open into the early hours of the morning and feature entertainment for all kinds of individuals.

This undoubtedly makes Barranco the best area to stay in Lima for nightlife. Not only is the nightlife appealing, but the area is also home to Lima’s best bars and some of its greatest restaurants, as well as cosy, tucked away coffeeshops.

In the charming streets of Lima’s coolest neighbourhood, walls are filled with street art, and the buildings are bold and colourful.

Many of the buildings in this area are a little more run down compared to other neighbourhoods in the city. This, however, just adds to the charm of the area and means prices are usually lower, especially when it comes to accommodation.

This helps to make Barranco the best area to stay on a budget.

Beyond this, there are plenty of other reasons why Barranco is so popular with visitors.

For example, if you’re interested in more traditional sights, the area has many spots you’d enjoy.

The Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) is one of the district's most famous landmarks. Built in 1876 to span a small gap over a gorge, the bridge is a favourite place for couples as well as artists, writers, and poets, just a short walk from Barranco’s main square.

The main square is where most of the action takes place, including fairs and live music. It is a lovely spot to stroll around and is surrounded by colourful flowers, fountains, memorials, and statues, as well as charming colonial buildings.

Stay In Barranco If:

• Nightlife is a priority
• You are travelling on a budget
• You like an area with a Bohemian feel
  

Located on a residential street in Barranco, this laid-back bed and breakfast offers comfortable accommodation and is just a 7-minute walk from the beach.

The modern, minimalist rooms are bright and airy and feature free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a bathroom with a shower. Hairdryers are available on request.

Guests are free to make use of the microwave and refrigerator in the guest kitchenette and free tea and coffee are available 24/7.

A delicious, custom breakfast is included in all room rates and is served in the dining room. You will also find several coffee shops, bars, and some great restaurants just a short walk away.

The reception desk is open 24 hours a day and offers luggage storage and a security deposit box. Private parking is available on site and an airport shuttle service is offered for a fee.

Lima Centre, also known as the Historical District, is right in the heart of the city. Whether you choose to stay in this area or not, you will more than likely end up visiting the historic centre during your trip.

It is not surprising, given its name, that the area is bursting with historic attractions, and the entire area is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lima Centre is home to most of the city’s spectacular colonial attractions, as well as some lovely green spaces, all within easy walking distance.

One attraction in this area is Lima’s most iconic building, the 16th century Basilica Cathedral Of Lima.

With its exquisite facade and its spires of Neoclassical design, the grand building is definitely worth a visit. It is also home to the Religious Art Museum, which displays religious artwork, including paintings and sculptures.

Another of Lima’s most visited tourist attractions, besides the Cathedral, is the Convent of San Francisco. It is one of the most important examples of colonial design in Peru and its beautiful Baroque-style architecture is a must-see spectacle.

One of the most notable features of this building is its catacombs, which are considered the largest in the entire continent, as well as the best preserved.

Over 25,000 people were buried in the catacombs and today you can see many human bones, all arranged and neatly organised to form patterns.

With the attractions I’ve just mentioned all being situated in this district, it is no wonder that Lima Centre is the best area to stay in Lima for history lovers.

Due to its historical nature, the area is mainly a pedestrian-only zone. This has been a good thing for many nearby businesses, such as bars, shops, and cafes, as they have been able to thrive, thanks to so many visitors constantly strolling by.

Aside from the historical attractions, there is a good range of dining and retail options in the area. So, whether you enjoy dining out or shopping, Lima Centre is guaranteed to have something to suit all tastes.

Stay in Lima Centre if:

• You want to be near the main attractions
• It is your first visit to Lima
• You want good public transport connections
• You are interested in history
  

Located just a 6-minute walk from the spectacular Cathedral Of Lima, Hotel Diamond Lima features modern, allergy-free rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, minifridge, safe, and air-conditioning.

Rooms also boast a private bathroom with a shower and upgraded rooms add whirlpool tubs. Room service is available, and the property can also provide guests with family rooms and a children's playground.

There is a chic restaurant and bar on-site and a complimentary à la carte or American breakfast is offered to guests.

The hotel has a 24-hour front desk, free private parking, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

The nearest airport to Hotel Diamond Lima is Jorge Chavez International, which is 6.8 miles away (10.9 km).

Pueblo Libre, formerly known as Old Magdalena, is located near the western coast of the city, and is a peaceful district, despite still being in the heart of the city.

The middle-class neighbourhood is incredibly safe, making Pueblo Libre the best area to stay in Lima for families.

With the area being a largely residential area, you will get to experience a more traditional side to the city, as you will be mainly surrounded by locals during your stay. Despite this, Pueblo Libre still has several amenities designed specifically for tourists.

With a perfect mixture of history, museums, and its proximity to the beach, Pueblo Libre has something for everyone to enjoy. For starters, the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru, is the largest and oldest museum in the country.

It is located within the mansion of legendary Peruvian liberator Simon Bolivar and houses more than 100,000 artifacts that span from prehistoric times to the present day, giving an overview of the entirety of Peru’s cultural history.

There are also numerous other museums and galleries located within the district.

Pueblo Libre also has many green areas where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll or have a picnic on a sunny day.

Another popular attraction in the area is The Cross Of The Traveller (La Cruz del Viajero). This monumental cross was erected in 1579 by Catholic missionaries and was somewhere that travellers would stop to ask for protection.

With Pueblo Libre being a more relaxed and quieter location, prices of accommodation tend to be quite low. However, there is a much more limited choice of accommodation than in other neighbourhoods. Therefore, you will need to plan your trip well in advance.

Stay In Pueblo Libre If:

• You’d prefer to stay in a quieter area
• You are travelling with a family
• You want to visit the oldest and largest museum in Peru
  

Ayenda Casa Aika offers simple, comfortable rooms with chic décor.

All rooms feature all the necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, minibar, and fans. Rooms at Ayenda Casa Aika also have private bathrooms and a free continental breakfast is provided.

There is no restaurant on-site, but the hotel is in good proximity to restaurants and shops.

Located 9 km from Jorge Chavez International Airport, an airport shuttle is offered at the hotel for a fee.

Located to the south of the city centre, Miraflores is one of the most affluent districts and one of the most popular for casual tourists.

Featuring plenty of tourist amenities like bars, restaurants, and attractions, Miraflores offers a little bit of everything, making it the best area to stay in Lima for first time visitors.

Its location means you have easy access to both the beaches and the historical part of Lima, so you’ll have plenty of different things to do if you decide to stay in Miraflores.

Not only does the area boast stunning landscapes and nice parks, but it also offers indoor entertainment like nightclubs and department stores, where most shoppers in Lima congregate.

If you don’t feel like shopping amongst the crowds, then why not take a stroll or ride a bike along the scenic boardwalk, the Malecon.

The 6-mile-long coastal path offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and gives you stunning views of the coastline and ocean, as well as plenty of cafes, restaurants, and parks to visit along the way.

One of these parks is the landscaped Parque Del Amor. One of the most beautiful gardens in Miraflores, Parque Del Amor is filled with flowers, mosaic walls, and features a huge sculpture of a kissing couple.

As for more cultured offerings, the Huaca Pucllana are the ruins of an ancient Incan clay pyramid, built from seven staggered platforms.

Huaca Pucllana held significance mainly as a burial site for the nobility. Tours are available or you can visit on your own. The historical site is a must-see for anyone visiting the capital.

Lastly, Miraflores is the perfect location for anyone wanting to spend a few days relaxing at the beach or surfing the waters. There are plenty of vendors renting surfboards or offering surfing lessons, so why not give it a try while you’re there?

Stay In Miraflores If:

• You prefer traditional tourist destinations
• You enjoy shopping
• You want to visit the beach
• You want a diverse range of things to do on your trip
  

This stunning, 5-star hotel is located just 2 km from the Huaca Pucllana ruins and is available at a fraction of the price you would expect from such a place.

The modern hotel offers warmly decorated rooms that feature exposed wood beams. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, minifridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Rooms also have air-conditioning for your comfort and a safe for your belongings. Upgraded rooms have sitting areas and suites add whirlpool tubs, saunas, kitchenettes and/or separate living rooms.

A breakfast buffet is complimentary, and guests can enjoy regional gourmet dishes served in the polished restaurant with a bar. There is also a café on-site which serves light snacks and treats.

Guests can make use of the hotel’s gym and heated swimming pool with a waterfall, or can book a massage and relax in the sauna room. Parking at the hotel is also complimentary.

The city of Lima is a fantastic destination to visit and one of the safest cities in South America, featuring some of its richest history and culture.

With wonderful beaches, great shops and restaurants, plus fascinating historical attractions, Lima has a bit of everything and is a destination I would highly suggest visiting.

Hopefully, after reading this article, not only will you agree, but you will also know the best areas to stay in Lima to meet your own needs and wants. With that being said, you can now start to get things booked, so that you can enjoy an unforgettable trip to the Peruvian capital.