A Weekend in Lima

Our Local Expert Says:

The city's best residential and shopping district

Description:

It is the district of gardens and the busiest beaches of the city. Without a doubt, it is also the tourist and hotels district par excellence. Modern, cheerful, colourful, very pleasant to stroll about and enjoy the large commercial areas, parks and green spaces. It is an area of intense artistic and cultural activity which unfolds in the good theatres, cinemas and art galleries; and it is also the site of the pre-Inca temple Hauca Pucllana. Visit its cafés, pubs and restaurants and take in the fresh air at its restored gardens which on Sundays, attracts hundreds of locals and tourists to the painting exhibitions and music events.

Our Local Expert Says:

Very nice view of the Pacific Ocean and a paraglider's paradise

Description:

This is a unique park in Lima, located on Miraflores, along the Pacific Ocean shoreline, and is dedicated to celebrate love: it was inaugurated on Feb. 14, 1993, during St. Valentine's celebrations, placing there a huge sculpture called "The Kiss", by local artist Víctor Delfín. The sculpture represents a couple kissing, and is 12m long and 3m high. This park is located by the Villena bridge, a place where many young couples like to enjoy the sunset by the sea. Also, many newlyweds come here to have their wedding pictures taken. It is located within walking distance from Larcomar Shopping Center and from the Kennedy Park (Miraflores Central Park) and also pretty close from the spot where paragliders use to take off to start their flights over the district.

Our Local Expert Says:

Perfect for all those interested in contemporary art

Description:

Founded in 1984, this gallery is named after a very important local architect, who was also one of the most important art critics in Peru. It is run by the Municipality of Miraflores, and prioritizes young artists with experimental, vanguardists works, either in individual or collective exhibitions. However, special exhibitions dedicated to some of the most famous and important local contemporary artists are also scheduled often. Conveniently located only a block away from Miraflores central park, close to many restaurants and bars, this gallery welcomes some 20,000 visitors per month. Definitely a must if you are interested in modern art. Open Hours: Tue-Sun 11:00 am-10:00 pm. Admission Free.

Description:

This gallery features art from throughout Peru's history as well as supports local contemporary artists through exhibiting their work. It also participates in hosting the Bienal Iberoamericana de Lima (Lima's Iberian-American Biennial). Located on busy Avenida Larco, it lies within the Miraflores tourist circuit, only steps away from the Parque Central (Central Park) and a block from the Galería de la Municipalidad.

Description:

This famous gallery is housed in the same building as the Moll Gallery and opposite the Banco Wiesse Gallery. It stages exhibitions by local and occasionally foreign artists. Forum is one of the most reputable art galleries in Lima, and its location on Avenida Larco in Milaflores puts it within easy reach of any tourist wanting to get a feel for Peruvian culture. Several different exhibitions take place each month, and some work on display is for sale. The gallery is managed by its owner, Mrs. Claudia Polar.

Description:

This small gallery organizes exhibitions and sales on behalf of local artists. Exhibitions consist mostly of paintings and sculptures, and though the work featured is predominantly by younger artists, there are also some famous names on display. Borkas gives you the opportunity to witness the latest trends from a new generation of Peruvian artists. A visit to this gallery is an ideal way to end an art tour of the area.

Description:

This gallery is part of a private art school. Here you will find paintings, sculptures and photographs by local and foreign artists, as well as examples of final coursework by students. Art courses are offered here during the summer. Luis Lama, one of Lima's most famous art critics and director of the Pancho Fierro Gallery also heads this gallery.

Our Local Expert Says:

Special for those fond of history

Description:

If you want to do something different, to learn about other cultures' history, and are definitely not in the mood for much physical activity, you may want to visit this place: it will offer you a complete overview of some of the ancient civilizations that boomed in the Peruvian coast during the Pre Columbian times. The star here is the Chancay collection, that preserves some of the best and most exquisite samples of textiles and weaving from this culture, whose influence is still present in the work of some contemporary artists. Chancay pottery is also an important part of this collection, as well as art pieces from Chimú and Nasca civilizations. To book a visit (the museum is not open all day, and only small groups are allowed) you only need to telephone them. The visit and the guided tour are free, but visitors are expected to tip the museum (this is not mandatory, however).

Description:

This gallery specializes in exhibitions of modern art by national and occasionally foreign artists. Exhibitions generally feature paintings and sculptures, and works on display are for sale. The gallery is situated on Avenida Larco, right in the middle of Miraflores. If you want to visit more galleries in the area, the Galería del Banco Continental and the Galería de la Municipalidad de Miraflores are very close by.

Description:

Near the cliffs you will find a good restaurant, Señorio de Sulco, it is a very well known restaurant in the city and it is in a calm neigborhood. You can try Papa a la Huancaina (you cannot mistake this flavor from the Mantaro Valley, delicious yellow potatoes and a sauce made of fresh cheese and chili) or Huayta Sulcana (a pre-hispanic dish recovered by the Señolío de Sulco, beef cooked in a mud pot with fine aromatic plants and served with sweet potatoes). Go with a friend anytime, you may not want to wait for long to come back, and if you want stay and try all this place has to offer. You do not have to go alone to eat well. - Jorge Arévalo

Our Local Expert Says:

Great for night life

Description:

What was once the number one beach resort in Lima is now a bohemian barrio par excellence-preferred by artists, writers and lovers for its serenity and idyllic atmosphere. The area has flourished again, over the last 15 years and its parks and republican-style mansions have regained past splendour. Cross the Puente de los Suspiros to the scenic pier overlooking the Pacific ocean. Catch a musical or cultural performance in one of the barrio's plazas, stroll along the boulevard and stop in at one of the many bars, such as La Noche.

Description:

Nestled within a historic mansion, this museum has a lot to offer its visitors. Step into the Palacio de Osma and you will find art in all forms, be it linen cloth, wood or metal; glass and leather have not been left out either! And these centuries-old paintings hail from places as far as Italy, Bolivia, Quito, Mexico, and Germany. The gallery hosts temporary exhibitions also. Check the website for more details.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nice place for a romantic stroll

Description:

Built in the late 1800s, this Bridge of Sighs is a landmark in the Barranco district, so called for the lovers who steal away here. The area has quality eateries and food vendors gather here to sell typical local food at affordable prices. Initially the structure stood 44 metres long by three metres wide and eight and one half metres high, but was reduced to ease car traffic flow.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great Peruvian food

Description:

The restaurant moved from an old Barranco house to a traditional house in the upperscale district of Miraflores. Specialized in criollo (creole) food, its chef Luis Felipe Arizola rescues the traditional recipes and wisdom of old chefs to offer a delicious selection of dishes. Try the Buffet Criollo, so you can have a chance to enjoy a bit of everything.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great live shows of Peruvian dances.

Description:

Brisas del Titicaca offer undoubtedly the best folk dance shows for both locals and tourists. Founded almost 20 years ago, the place has significantly grown and improved, with room for some 1,200 spectators. Despite focusing in dances from Peru South Andean highlands, it also features awesome performances of dances from other regions. There onsite restaurant specializes in Peruvian cuisine, and dance shows alternate with local bands that play popular tunes for everyone to dance.

Description:

Located in downtown Miraflores, this quaint four-story inn is five blocks from Miraflores Central Park and eight blocks from Larcomar. All 10 guest suites have a balcony or patio with garden views and are filled with hand carved furniture and local art work. Guests can choose between American, Peruvian, gourmet, country, or Continental cuisine for breakfast, served in the restaurant.

Description:

This is one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Lima, and one which has been notably influenced by French architecture. It was opened on the 28th July, 1921, in honour of the first centenary of the independence of Peru. It possesses great urban development value due to its architectural style and it has a monument to Jose de San Martin. At the moment, the ground is completely covered in paving stones. As part of the restoration and appreciation work which it has undergone, pastoral and republican-style fence posts have been erected and the ornamental streetlamps have been restored.

Our Local Expert Says:

The most important plaza in Peru

Description:

This is the oldest and most traditional spot in Lima. In fact, this is the place where Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded Lima; the first streets built here were the ones surrounding it. It houses the oldest and the most authentic monument in the city, that it, the brass fountain, placed there in 1651. The fountain and the Plaza as well have both survived through earthquakes, social revolts and urban development. Here you will find some very important and historical buildings like the Cathedral, the Archbishopric Palace, the Municipality and the Government Palace. The Official Act of Independence of Peru was proclaimed here, in1821, and the first bullfighting events were also held here. Another interesting spots nearby are the Casa del Oidor, the and very specially the Casa de Aliaga, property of the descendants of one of Lima first founders, still very well preserved. A must-see in your city tour.

Our Local Expert Says:

The remains of conquistador Francisco Pizarro lie here.

Description:

The greatest religious monument in Lima, is first stone was laid by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, soon after Lima's foundation. The interior has 15 chapels, including the one that showcases Pizarro's remains. The Cathedral's latin cross design also features typical the typical baroque architecture, with lots of carvings and marble floorings. Two of the most attractive altars are the ones dedicated to St. Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo and to the Virgen de la Evangelizacion, and also the choir stalls. The sacristy serves also as Museum of Religious Art, that exhibits art pieces and sacred artifacts, as well as liturgical outfits, relics and furnishings.

Description:

This extraordinary architectural work is found in front of the Plaza Major, and was the old house of the Marquis Francisco Pizarro, founder of the city of Lima in 1535. In July 1921, a fire destroyed the main rooms and objects of incalculable value. In 1938, during the government of Mariscal Benavides, the architect Ricardo De La Jara Malachoswsky built a new palace. It is a majestic work, which fulfils all the space and comfort requirements of modern life. The style, mainly baroque, is reminiscent of colonial art in Peru.

Our Local Expert Says:

A visit to the catacombs is a must

Description:

This excellent example of baroque colonial architecture is comprised of the Convent of San Francisco, and the Capilla de la Soledad y del Milagro (Chapel of Solitude and of the Miracle), which has a neo-classical facade. Dating from 1542, an extensive system of catacombs lies beneath. The cloisters are famous for the authentic Sevillian tile work, which was completed in 1620. There is a Museum of Religious Art, the Zurbaran hall and a library. English and Spanish tours are available with a voluntary donation.

Our Local Expert Says:

Editors choice for Chinese restaurant (chifa)

Description:

One of the best and well-known Chifas (local slang for Chinese restaurants) is appropriately situated right in the heart of the Barrio Chino, in the centre of Lima. Hot or cold drinks accompany its colourful oriental dishes. The dining area is spacious and distinctly Chinese. Tourists frequently flock here for the combination Chinese-Peruvian cuisine, after trekking about the nearby historic centre of the city. A delicious Dim Sum and a traditional noodle and dumpling breakfast can be enjoyed when this Chifa opens in the early hours of the morning.

Description:

This man-made viewpoint overlooks the River Rímac, the Estación de Trenes de Desamparados ( Train Station), Cerro San Cristóbal and many colonial residences of the Viceroyalty. It has three amphitheatres for the staging of popular Criollo (Creole) music performances. There are food stands to sample Lima's authentic snacks and desserts. During the city's Iberian-American Art Biennial large-format art pieces are exhibited here.

Description:

This plaza was formerly known as 'Plaza de la Inquisición', although it has also been called 'Plaza del Congreso'. It was here that the terrible tribunal of the famous institution operated during the reign of the viceroys. In front of it, you find the seat of the 'Tribunal del Santo Oficio' which was in operation until 1813, and the 'Congreso de la República'. In 1859, it took on the name Plaza Bolívar, when a replica of the monument to the liberator Simón Bolívar was erected, the original being in Caracas. This small plaza is still the place for mental and physical relaxation, under the leafy canopy of the old trees that surround it.

Description:

The Tribunal del Santo Oficio (Tribunal of the Holy Office) was housed here during the time of the Viceroyalty. The tunnels, secret rooms, torture chambers and underground prisons that held the persecuted, are testimonials to that period of Catholic history known as the Inquisition. The son of a Spanish conquistador, Nicolás de Rivera, originally owned this property in the 17th century. The chapel is well worth seeing for its ornate ceiling.

Our Local Expert Says:

Its anniversary is celebrated on the 30th of August

Description:

Santa Rosa is a much-worshipped figure in Peru; today, her house is a sanctuary that serves as a testimony to her life. The hermitage that she built has been conserved in the garden, and so has the well into which she threw the only key to a chain that she wore round her waist as a sign of penitence. She was declared a saint in 1671 by Pope Clement X. This church was built in her honor in 1670, next to the large house where she was born in 1586.

Description:

It was built in 1901 to meet the demands of the Lima families who wanted to live on the outskirts of the city. They were tired of the classic architectural structure of the front courtyard and central pond, and were fans of French-style buildings. In the old days, this Avenue was lined with splendid old houses and to round it off, four marble urns and four statues depicting the seasons were brought from the Plaza de Armas.The passing of the years has meant that impressive, important buildings have been erected around and along the avenue, transforming it into an extension of the main road. From here, you can admire the Museum of Italian Art, Parque de la Exposicion, the Museum of National Art and Plaza Grau.

Description:

Once a provisions store, Antigua Taberna Queirolo has become a permanent fixture on the drinking scene in Lima. With a steady stream of clientèle since 1880, this distillery cum bar is quaint and old fashioned. They do serve Peruvian fare, but the highlight is definitely the wine and pisco they produce. Join other customers especially the locals, as they spend hours at this neighborhood relic.

Our Local Expert Says:

The place for tequila shots

Description:

A restaurant with a difference. Upon entering, you will receive an open and friendly welcome, and the servers are very attentive to their customers. Si Senor serves the best in traditional Mexican food and drink, and has a colorful, modern atmosphere that will get you out of the old routine.

Description:

Located in downtown Miraflores, this quaint four-story inn is five blocks from Miraflores Central Park and eight blocks from Larcomar. All 10 guest suites have a balcony or patio with garden views and are filled with hand carved furniture and local art work. Guests can choose between American, Peruvian, gourmet, country, or Continental cuisine for breakfast, served in the restaurant.

Our Local Expert Says:

Visit the outskirts of Lima to see pre-Inca ruins

Description:

In April 2002, some real-life "Indiana Joneses" announced the discovery of a tremendous Incan burial ground near Lima. Archeologists uncovered the remains of thousands of mummified bodies and scores of artifacts that date back five centuries. While the site is still being excavated, the nearby Pachacamac ruins are open to the public and a good day trip during the tail end of the dry fall season. Visitors can walk among pre-Incan temples, palaces and dwellings. Intrepid folks who climb the Sun Temple pyramid on clear days are rewarded with a lovely view of the coast. Admission required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Very interesting for those who love history.

Description:

This imposing monument has remained impervious to the ravages of time, and modern civilisation and stands surrounded by the asphalt jungle. The two-story construction is made of adobe with a steep ramp leading to the upper level. Archaeological excavations have unearthed mummies, on display with ancient objects inside the on-site museum.

Our Local Expert Says:

An amazing sight.

Description:

Located alongside the highway is this site containing some 450 ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings). Here it is possible to make out images of spiders, foxes, pumas, alligators and fish; there is also a stone that has the appearance of a man looking towards the constellations in the night sky. Researchers have yet to properly study these remains; people with an adventurous spirit, however, travel to the zone in order to observe, in wonder, the design and stonework of the ancient peoples of Peru. Next to the highway, there are several rural restaurants. From the capital, it takes two hours to get to the site by car and three hours by bus.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful set-up inside the Huaca Pucyana

Description:

La Hamaca, is a three story mansion that caters to the culinary needs of the locals. The restaurant generally serves delicious Peruvian fare but also incorporates the contemporary ones. Try out the traditional specialties like criollo, ají de gallina and tacu tacu-a preparations of rice and beans-they are very satisfying. The interiors command a lot of attention, with antique art deco pieces. Friday and Saturday nights, La Hamaca features dance nights on the third floor-another reason to visit La Hamaca!

Description:

The museum houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, ranging from pre-Columbian to modern Peruvian art and holds its widely attended annual auction benefit. Their Filmoteca de Lima cinema house features art and classic films, and there is a book store and gift shop. The museum also offers courses. Admissionrequired. Private parking is available.

Our Local Expert Says:

Biggest erotic Inca pottery display in the world

Description:

This museum houses impressive collections of ancient Peruvian pottery and metalurgy, including silver and gold objects; but probably its most famous collection is the "Sala Erótica" ("Erotic Hall") and its ancient pottery pieces depicting many sexual practices of Moche's civilization (however minors are not allowed here). The museum has also a nice cafeteria, "Cafe del Museo", a museum shop called "Galeria del Museo", a H. Stern jewellery shop (with pieces inspired in ancient Peruvian cultures) and a alpaca garments shop, "Alpaca 111". General Admission: S/. 30 (Students and under-15 years old, S/. 15). Open Hours: Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm (including holidays).

Our Local Expert Says:

Great display of Inca and Pre-Inca pottery and textiles

Description:

This is the oldest and the most important museum run by the state, due to the huge number (more than 10,000) of artifacts it houses in its exhibition halls and repositories as well: pottery, textiles, metal and stone objects, among many other surprises from ancient Peru history, but also documents and photographs from colonial and republican times. This is a museum commited to researching, conservation and dissemination of Peruvian cultural heritage and knowledge. And this is the museum which displays the Peruvian history´s complete chronology in a clear, didactic way. It is located at a historic building too, since a Spanish Viceroy and two of the Peruvian Independence heros lived here. The museum includes a virtual exhibition room specially intended for children, and in 2010 opened a hall dedicated to the cultures of the Amazon regions. The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English for S/. 15 (for groups of up to 15 people).

Description:

Founded in 1918 this arm of the Universidad Nacional de San Marcos exhibits the flora, fauna and minerals from different regions of Peru. Many of the specimens on display formerly belonged to the Italian collector Antonio Raimondi, who loved Peru and was a passionate researcher of the country's natural resources. The museum caters to student groups but is also open to the public.

Description:

Hidden discreetly behind a nonchalant facade (though one of an antique colonial house), on a busy side street leading to Parque Central, is this warm and chic modern colonial dining room and cozy bar. It continues to be my favorite restaurant in Peru. Gastón Acurio is the celebrity chef of the moment, with a burgeoning empire of fine-dining restaurants not only in Lima but also a handful of other cities on the continent (one opened in San Francisco in spring 2008) and a cooking show on TV. His signature restaurant in the capital is warm and elegant, with high white peaked ceilings and orange walls decorated with colorful modern art. In back is an open kitchen, where Gastón can be seen cooking with his staff, and a secluded wine-salon dining room. The place is sophisticated and hip but low-key, a description that could fit most of its clients, who all seem to be regulars. The menu might be called criollo-Mediterranean: Peruvian with a light touch. Try spicy roasted kid or the excellent fish called noble robado, served in miso sauce with crunchy oysters. The list of desserts -- the work of Astrid, the other half of the husband-wife team -- is nearly as long as the main course menu, and...

Our Local Expert Says:

By far, Barini has the best martinis in Lima.

Description:

Birthday girls drink for free. Excellent bar located in Larcomar. Best Maracuya sour in town. Most action is late at night from Thu to Sat

Description:

Located in downtown Miraflores, this quaint four-story inn is five blocks from Miraflores Central Park and eight blocks from Larcomar. All 10 guest suites have a balcony or patio with garden views and are filled with hand carved furniture and local art work. Guests can choose between American, Peruvian, gourmet, country, or Continental cuisine for breakfast, served in the restaurant.