Downtown Lima

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite B&B for weary travelers

Description:

This two-story hotel is two blocks from Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of the Sighs). Each of the five guestrooms has two balconies overlooking the ocean and offers complimentary high-speed Internet. A business center, art gallery, and complimentary Continental breakfasts each morning are among the amenities offered.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

Impressive balconies.

Description:

Located just beside the Cathedral, side to side with the Capilla del Sagrario, this imposing Baroque palace occupies an entire block facing the city's main square, called Plaza Mayor. The place is not only the official residency of the current Cardinal, but also the administrative headquarters for the Catholic church in Peru. There is, however, an area for art exhibitions and open for tour visits (ask your tour guide). But even if you do not get to visit this little museum, the outside façade is a must see, with its outstanding and lavishly carved, dark wood balconies, a remembrance from the Viceroys era.

Description:

Located on the Plaza Mayor, this is one of Lima's most important historic monuments. Although the existent building was constructed in the mid-20th century, it retains elements of colonial design. The pinacotheca is interesting and the library contains veritable treasures including the written act of the city's founding, signed by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Admission is free.

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:

Lovely gardens, imppressive cloisters, full of history

Description:

The construction for the first church and cloisters of the Dominican Order was completed in 1578. The Altar de Los Santos Peruanos—a magnificent neo-classical Altar to The Peruvian Saints is decorated in turquoise and gold. Other highlights include the chapel of San Martín de Porres, the altar to the Virgen del Rosario (Virgin of the Rosary) and the beautiful sculpture made by Italian artist Melchor Caffa of Santa Rosa de Lima. The church boasts one of the most beautiful panelled ceilings in Lima. A museum is open to the public and provides Spanish and English speaking guides, who receive voluntary donations. Admission required for museum.

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:

Another Lima's underrated must-see

Description:

Located very close to Lima downtown, the Cerro San Cristobal (Saint Cristobal Hill) is a 400m high peak from which you can have a privileged, unique panoramic view of Lima: on a clear day, with a little luck, you may see the ships anchored at Callao Bay. Legends say that this hill was named got its name after an indigenous rebellion in 1536, after which a wooden cross was placed at the peak to protect the city. Nowadays there's a huge cross instead and a site museum that houses historic photos and documents of old Lima and related to the cross. But the best is the stunning panoramic view, specially in Summer or Spring. The best time is very early in the morning or late afternoon. You can take a bus at the Plaza the Armas (on weekends), which will take you to the top of the San Cristobal, stay there 20-30 minutes and then bring you back.

Our Local Expert Says:

Chinese restaurants are known as chifas

Description:

Lima boasts the largest Chinese community in South America and in part, they have settled in this traditional Lima suburb, where the main road is the Boulevard de la calle Capitol. It has a striking Chinese arch built in 1971 as a symbol of friendship between Peru and China. It was built out of stone and the bases are covered in marble. One of the main attractions, apart from the significant oriental influence in the architecture, are the Chinese restaurants. These almost always have red lights inside or wooden palace lanterns encrusted with glass, replicas of ones used by the old Chinese emperors. If you want to leave a permanent imprint in this boulevard, the Chinese sells paving stones. You can write whatever message you like, from your name to the date of birth of your first grandchild.

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.

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.

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:

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:

A great choice if you're looking for some fresh seafood

Description:

Chorrillos is not exactly a popular place among first-time visitors, but visiting is a must: from its marina, located on the top of a cliff, you will have the best view of Lima, the Costa Verde beaches and the bay. During a clear day you may also get to see La Punta, located at the other extreme, in Callao port. Chorrillos nowadays attracts some two million beach lovers every summer: its main beaches are La Herradura, Agua Dulce and Playa Pescadores where you can buy very cheap really fresh fish, have lunch at any of its many rustic restaurants, or enjoy a boat ride. Another important spot is the astronomical observatory at the Morro Solar.

Our Local Expert Says:

It's a must-see during summer months

Description:

Actually, this is not a beach, but a complex of beaches lined up one after the other, connected by a road that runs by the sea along several coastal Lima districts; San Miguel, Magdalena, San Isidro, Miraflores, Barranco, and Chorrillos. These beaches are located under cliffs, and before going down you can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the beaches and the ocean; and if you are a surfer, you will find some very good waves here at any time of the year, as well as some very good gourmet restaurants, like La Rosa Nautica, Cala or El Salto del Fraile, for example. Some of the most visited beaches here are La Pampilla, Makaha, Waikiki, Redondo and La Herradura; the most popular is undoubtedly Agua Dulce, in Chorrillos, than can get really crowded in summer, so if you want to experience a real day at the beach for many locals, we suggest you to arrive early. And to take good care of your belongings.

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:

Olive trees planted in the XVII century create a nice ambiance

Description:

This park had its origins in an old, huge olive plantation established during the Viceroyalty years. Visiting means taking a fresh, relaxing break from the stressed city's routines: legends state that the Peruvian Saint San Martin de Porras was one of the founders of this place, which actually used to be part of the Limatambo farm, owned by the Dominican order. Nowadays, it is very popular among families, neighborhood residents and birdwatchers; it is also a usual scenery for newlywed couples, who come here to have their first photos taken here, especially under a legendary tree that is supposed to be more than 300 years old..

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.

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 they are spectacular.

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