Welcome to your complete guide to Lima! A capital city where rich history, culture, and culinary delights blend to create a memorable adventure. From the vibrant streets of Miraflores to the colonial charm of Barranco, to the upscale shopping and dining in San Isidro. Lima offers a wide range of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Lima has been high on my list ever since its food scene began exploding. I recently had the opportunity to spend a week here and that was the perfect amount of time to explore the sites (and of course the food!). Join me through my favorite neighborhoods, where I point out must dos and eats along the way. I love how the Pacific Coast plays a character in the Lima experience, not so different from my home state of California. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, surfer or simply seeking wanderlust, this city has something for everyone. Grab your passport and let’s explore the heartbeat of Peru in this complete guide to Lima!
Your City Guide to Lima
Getting to Lima
• The Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima serves as the primary gateway to the city. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Lima from various international destinations.
• It is possible to travel by land from neighboring countries such as Ecuador, Bolivia or Chile. This would require multiple modes of transportation and can be time consuming. But if this is the style of the trip you are crafting, go for it!
Where to Stay
• I loved staying in the Barranco District for the vibrant artistic scene, bohemian charm, colorful murals and cozy cafes. With its eclectic mix of colonial architecture, trendy shops, and lively nightlife, Barranco offers a unique experience full of culture, history, and modern flair.
• My second choice would be Miraflores where stunning ocean views and sandy beaches are the backdrop. Dive into aquatic adventures like paragliding over the Pacific, surfing Costa Verde, or simply strolling along the scenic Malecón. Miraflores is the perfect base for seaside exploration, wonderful coastal cuisine and relaxation.
Eats
Well y’all, Lima is a haven for mind-blowing food. With its abundance of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and unique local ingredients ~ combined with a rich culinary history steeped in timeless traditions, Lima has earned a reputation as one of the world’s top culinary destinations. With a week on my hands + dining alone at every meal, I could only eat so much. Needless to say, I made a dent in my ‘wishlist’ with enough uncharted territory that a return trip is an order. Here are my recs.
On the Swanky-er Side
• La Mar Cerbicheria – coming in at #42 on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023 this seafood joint does not disappoint. The atmosphere, welcoming staff, on-the-house appetizers, live music and food were all memorable. Situated in Miraflores, this hot spot is only open for lunch and they do not take reservations. I ordered the ‘off menu’ veg ceviche and was in heaven!
• Cala Restaurant & Lounge – with a focus on local ingredients and a location right on the Pacific Coast in Barranco, dining at Cala is an impressive experience. The cozy yet stylish decor adds to the charm, we loved their veggie ceviche.
• Isolina Taberna Peruana – ranked #73 on Latin America’s Top 100 restaurants, they serve hearty dishes inspired by classic recipes. With their dedication to preserving culinary traditions and a commitment to exceptional service, Isolina promises a top-notch taste of Peru’s rich gastronomic landscape. I chose the Causa Escabechada, a traditional Peruvian dish with perfectly cooked potatoes topped with onions, olives and marinated vegetables.
• Cosme – well appointed in the classy San Isidro District, Cosme ranked #50 on Latin America’s top 50 list. Here traditional Peruvian dishes are elevated to new heights, promising a dining experience that is comforting and exciting. From the carefully curated decor to the ambiance set by music and lighting, Cosme ensures that every sense is engaged, making for an unforgettable evening. I tried the penne pasta with red pepper sauce, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pesto. This is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever tasted.
Simple & Loved for Good Reason
• El Muelle Cevicheria – a cornerside seafood restaurant in Barranco loved by locals and travelers. A down to earth appeal, where the atmosphere is welcoming and the food speaks for itself. I ordered a traditional Causa ~ a cold appetizer or main with mashed yellow potatoes seasoned with lime juice, oil, and chili peppers layered with avocado and a protein. This has newly become one of my favorite dishes.
• Canta Rana – around the corner, you will find Canta Rana exuding a similar laid-back charm with its cozy interiors and welcoming atmosphere. Here, patrons can savor traditional Peruvian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood dishes like ceviche, tiradito, and stews. They are all prepared with the utmost care and attention to flavor. Here I ordered a ceviche, thoughtful they have veggie options too, order what you wish, I do not think there is a wrong choice!
*Dive into more of the juicy details in our ‘Lima’s Most Delicious Eats‘ article here!
Drinks
• Épicerie Dasso – grab a drink between shopping and eating here in San Isidro. The charm is just that of a European cafe, queue the people watching.
• Selectos Ibéricos – a corner-side Spanish tapas and wine cafe. I liked the simplicity of rolling up and having a glass of wine before or after dinner without any fuss.
• Hotel B – inspired by Barcelona, Spain this gorgeous boutique hotel is housed inside a renovated mansion dating back to the 20th century. I enjoyed all the art along the way as I walked up to the vibrant roof deck for a mezcal paloma. This a great place with a prime location in Barranco to stay as well!
Cafes & Treats
• Coleccionista Coffee – I felt inspired to work outside of my apartment in Lima and was so happy when I found Coleccionista in Barranco. This stylish cafe is full of art, great coffee and a ‘stay as long as you like’ vibe.
• La Bodega Verde del Sol – another gem with a welcoming feel. I enjoyed their juices, coffees and healthy food options. With seating outside or inside and good internet, this a perfect place to get work done outside of the house.
• Pastelería San Martín – a renowned bakery known for its delicious pastries, especially Turron. This Spanish and Latin American treat is made with sugar, honey and toasted nuts combined to form a nougat-like confection. There are a few locations throughout the city to choose from.
Grocery Shopping
If you are staying for a while and want a few groceries for the house, these markets are a great place to start.
• Greta Natural Market – a health-focused market with few locations around the city.
• La Calanderia – a quaint health food store in the Barranco District. Stocked with a variety of healthy options, a bulk bin section and beauty products.
• Happy Cows – around the corner from La Calanderia lies Happy Cows. Here I bought fresh veggies and fruits at great prices.
• Ecovive – another market dedicated to clean ingredients. Head here for unique crackers, cookies, fresh vegetables and even hummus! It was hard to find hummus in Lima, so when I did I made sure to note the store. 😁
Shopping
I wasn’t in the shopping mood but I had to because it was summer in Lima and I did not have the right clothes. I was happy to find these boutiques as they had stylish well-made options. All located in San Isidro District; head to The Hangar, El Closet De Mi Hermana & Bassika for wonderful options within minutes of each other.
Barranco To-Dos
I spent a lot of time in Barranco because my apartment was there along with that ‘bohemian village’ feel I crave. Here are some to-dos. Make sure to look up other art galleries and happenings as there is so much to be discovered.
• Bridge of Sighs – located in Barranco this wooden bridge, built in the 19th century, spans a narrow alleyway and is adorned with colorful bougainvillea flowers. The perfect backdrop for an IG photoshoot.
• Bajada de Baños – this historic cobblestone street leads down from the Bridge of Sighs to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Lined with colonial-style buildings, art galleries, and cafes, this lively street is a must stroll in Barranco.
• Dédalo – a renowned artisanal market known for its eclectic mix of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and local artwork. Wander from room to room in this immersive artful shopping experience which celebrates Peru’s rich culture. You can spend hours here, especially since they provide tasty provisions at their lovely open-air cafe. #stayawhile
• Barranco Beaches – known for their rugged cliffs and secluded coves which provide a tranquil and secluded beach experience. The beaches in Barranco are usually less crowded than Miraflores and are popular among surfers and beachgoers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Outdoor Activities
• Plaza de Armas – this city center is the historic heart of Lima adorned with stunning architecture, a vibrant atmosphere, and cultural importance. There are tons of shops and outdoor areas, you could easily spend a few hours here.
• Bosque El Olivar – located in the heart of the San Isidro District, this serene park is known for its expansive olive groves and peaceful walking paths. I enjoyed resting under a shady olive tree while listening to the birds sing.
• Kennedy Park – located in Miraflores this bustling park and urban oasis is known for its upbeat atmosphere, street food, surrounding cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s also famous for its resident cat population, hanging with the cats is a particularly fond memory of mine. 😺
• Malecón de la Reserva – this almost 4-mile-long coastal walkway runs along the coastline of Lima, connecting the districts of Barranco and Miraflores. It offers spanning views of the Pacific Ocean, with pedestrian pathways, parks, gardens, restaurants, cafes and recreational areas along its route. A popular spot for jogging, cycling, and strolls this is an outdoorsy way to experience the city. I would not miss it!
• Miraflores Beaches – boasting wide sandy beaches, bustling promenades, and plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. The beaches in Miraflores, such as Playa Redondo and Playa Makaha, are popular for sunbathing plus activities like swimming, surfing, paragliding and skateboarding.
Endless Options
As you can see there are endless options for activities and eats in Lima. It is a huge capital city, so it has that vibe ~ if you can dream it you can experience it. I enjoyed being on a new stretch of the Pacific Coast, soaking in a fresh perspective. Whether you’re indulging in bold plates of food, strolling along the Malecón, or exploring local art and culture, Lima promises an unforgettable passport to celebrate the richness of Peruvian history and culture. With this complete guide to Lima, you now have a curated blueprint to begin planning your trip.
Lima, thank you for the warm hospitality, unforgettable food, commitment to art and for holding one of my favorite coastlines. ¡Hasta pronto!
xoxo, Bekah
PS ~ Not to overwhelm you, but when planning your trip remember Cusco is a 1.5 hour flight from Lima and opens up the door to discovering the Incan Empire! I spent 3 weeks there and only scratched the surface, more on Cusco soon.
PSS ~ If you missed our ‘Lima’s Most Delicious Eats’ article be sure to catch it here!
