My Favourite Things to do in Lima: Peru
Lima is the kind of city that makes me smile.
Cloudy and misunderstood. There's something refreshing and attractive about its charcoal cliffs sweeping across the shoreline. Chaotic traffic bordering the coastline, a city clouded in history, exquisite gastronomy, eye-catching murals splattered with street art and culinary delights. If you're thinking about skipping Lima... don't.
Most travellers spend a day and head to Cusco. A vibrant city, with cute cafes, restaurants and bars formed part of my reason for staying here longer than the typical day.
Here are a few of my favourite places in Lima.
Where to stay: Popular picks
| Boutique Hotel in Miraflores | Humano, Lima, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel |
| Budget-friendly in Miraflores | The Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast |
| Historic mansion in Barranco | Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels |
Looking to know more about Lima's neighbourhoods?
Head to the local Sunday organic market
Each Sunday, local producers from all over Lima gather to sell unique combinations of local produce ranging from hummus made from Tarwi beans, Muña Cambucha (a type of beer without alcohol), fresh vegetal drinks made from Lucuma, and so much more...
My hosts had their own stalls and invited me to come to wander around the market with them. I got to taste pretty much everything, and my only regret was that I was leaving the next day and couldn't stock up!!
The market is located on Avenida San Martin, next to Parque de Los Heros. It's one of my favourite markets I've been to so far on my travels!
Sunday market with my hosts
Take a stroll down the Malecón
After the hustle and chaotic bustle at the altitude of La Paz, there is something serene and calm about being in Lima. By the sea with the sound of crashing waves, going for a walk down the Malecón is a great way to relax for an afternoon and enjoy beautiful ocean views.
If you would like to see Lima from above, paragliding is a pretty cool way to experience this.
Sunset on the Malecon
Visit the trendy neighbourhood of Barranco
Spend some time wandering around Barranco, one of Lima's coolest neighbourhoods. I loved walking around here, admiring the colourful street art, and spending afternoons in different coffee shops.
It's a great place to wander on foot for a few hours and soak up another side of Lima.
Wander the green spaces in Miraflores
I loved going for a stroll through all the different parks in Miraflores. There are lots of lovely green spaces by the Malecón, as well as the popular Kennedy Park. And if you’re looking to get off the beaten path, it’s worth taking a look at doing a free tour in the neighbourhood.
Listening to the waves crashing as I took a walk along the coast was one of my favourite things to do.
My fave coffee shops
When in Peru, you can't miss out on some great coffee! It's no coincidence that Lima is full of charming, cute cafes serving a delicious cup of your favourite brew.
Mo Bistro: If you're looking for the perfect place for a Sunday brunch, then head to Mo Bistro. Sourcing natural, seasonal and the freshest ingredients, menus are created each month.
The sweet potato waffle is amazing!!
Sunday Brunch at Mo Bistro
La Panetteria Barranco: This cute little cafe actually has two locations opposite each other. Nestled in the hip suburb of Barranco, you'll probably wander past this place and wonder why it's so packed.
There are options for both vegetarians and vegans, and I loved how the staff took the time to explain the menu!
La Bodega Verde: I stopped by here for a quick coffee and only wish I had more time to spend in this cosy little cafe. A great ambience with yummy food and outdoor space, so enjoy some laptop time or chill out for an afternoon.
Dedalo Arte & Artesania: If you're looking for some souvenirs to take home, you'll find an array of work by artisans sold at a fair price. The coffee shop in the back has some delicious treats with space to sit outside.
Cute as ever!!
Get a reservation at one of Lima's top restaurants
If I ever go back to Lima with a sizeable budget, indulging in the city's world-class cuisine is a must-do!
Whether it be Central or Maido, currently number 6 and 7 in the world for best restaurants, or Astrid y Gaston, getting an advance reservation is a must!
The foodie capital is a melting pot of Peru's diverse culture and culinary creativity, making it one of the most exciting places to eat in the world. I'm not kidding when I say I would probably just fly back to Lima one day to eat at one of these restaurants!
Explore Lima's historic centre
Spend a day wandering around Lima's historic centre and admiring its beautiful colonial architecture. If you love exploring old buildings and historic streets, it's worth adding to your Lima itinerary.
Although after dark, the area is known for feeling less comfortable safety wise, so I’d keep that in mind.
Old Town, Lima
Go surfing
If you're into surfing, Lima has plenty of opportunities to get in the water. I noticed lots of surfers while walking along the Malecón, and there are several beaches and surf schools where you can give it a go.
MATE - Mario Testino Museum
Founded by Mario Testino in 2012, it aims to provide a platform for Peruvian artists to showcase their work to audiences worldwide.
I had no idea that Mario Testino is from Lima. It's amazing to experience the iconic and vibrant photography taken through decades of work, especially some of his earlier photos.
Update: Unfortunately the Mario Testino museum has since closed. I’m leaving it in my blog as it was a really great place to visit. Hopefully they open it back up again one day.
Get some self-care
After 6 weeks of hiking and trekking in Peru, my body, especially my feet, needed some care.
I spent hours researching online. One of my hosts recommended Toque X in Miraflores for some waxing and pedicure time.
Where to stay in Lima
The two main areas I’d recommend for a first visit are Miraflores and Barranco. Both are popular with travellers, feel relatively safe, and have plenty of cafés, restaurants and places to explore on foot.
You can read a more detailed guide on where to stay in Lima here.
Where to stay in Miraflores
Humano, Lima, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Beautifully designed, it’s a couple of blocks from Kennedy Park and has several amenities, including a pool.
The Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
A budget-friendly option, if you're looking to get your own private room, this friendly little B&B might just be perfect for you. Great rooms in a central location within walking distance to many sites in town.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores
In a quiet and secure area, rooms are tastefully decorated with handcrafted furniture. A stylish and comfortable boutique hotel, it’s a great place to relax in the heart of Miraflores.
Hotel Indigo Lima Miraflores
Elegant and stylish, the restaurant serves Peruvian cuisine. It’s close to all the restaurants and shops and has a modern amenities.
Pariwana Hostel Lima
Another budget-friendly option, it's centrally located in Miraflores and sociable without being a party hostel.
Where to stay in Barranco
Viajero Lima - Barranco
Budget-friendly, with beautiful historical architecture, it’s in a really good location, and the walls and ceilings are stunning.
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels
In a restored mansion from the 1920s, it’s located close to the ocean on a quiet street.
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While for some travellers, Lima might be a transit hub on the way to Cusco and the rest of Peru, I think the city deserves a couple of nights, or three... or four... With its vibrant foodie scene, historic architecture, Pacific coastline and neighbourhoods that are great to take a stroll around, there’s plenty to keep you busy.