Lightpocketed in Lima

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.

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:

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:

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.

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:

Popular with locals

Description:

This excellent cevicheria in the heart of Barranco is well known around Lima. Many of the customers visit the restaurant regularly. The walls are adorned with old photos of the owner, his family, and friends. The owner Vicente will often be seen chatting with the customers. Almost every type of Lima seafood dish is served here. There are more than a dozen preparations of sea bass. The Chicha Morada is served chilled and some of the best around.

Description:

This old mansion, which dates back to 1903, is a historic monument that has been converted into a friendly youth hostel. With spacious dorms and affordable prices, it is perfect for backpackers and young travelers. It has a charming Irish bar, and the added advantage of being located in the middle of Barranco, a former beach resort. This area retains much of the architecture of the turn of the 19th century, when the wealthy urban families would arrive by tram to loll away the summer days in their mansions by the shore. Today, Barranco is a favorite spot for artists and those seeking nightlife.

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:

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:

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.

Description:

El Muelle is just a few blocks from Barranco's main square and the famous Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs). It offers a wide variety of exquisite fish and seafood dishes, including the famous cebiche, which consists of shellfish and squid. It is also the ideal place in Barranco to enjoy a beer in the fresh air without paying extortionate prices. Average cost per person: 25 soles.

Description:

This old mansion, which dates back to 1903, is a historic monument that has been converted into a friendly youth hostel. With spacious dorms and affordable prices, it is perfect for backpackers and young travelers. It has a charming Irish bar, and the added advantage of being located in the middle of Barranco, a former beach resort. This area retains much of the architecture of the turn of the 19th century, when the wealthy urban families would arrive by tram to loll away the summer days in their mansions by the shore. Today, Barranco is a favorite spot for artists and those seeking nightlife.

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:

Preferred by young, bohemian artists,

Description:

The long, narrow couple of rooms that is Juanito's looks not unlike any other bodega in Lima. It has a bar that extends the entire length of both rooms and a few tables that always seem to be filled. It's the décor, but the atmosphere here that draws a crowd. This dive bar known for the artsy/intellectual clientele that have been frequenting the place for decades. Tables of friends with a dozen bottles of beer are a common sight. It opened in the 1960's and has been popular ever since. Good country ham sandwiches are served out in napkins all night long.

Description:

Initially a Bohemian drinking hole, this bar slowly has become a dynamic gathering place with lovely decor and a cosmopolitan ambiance. Nearly every night brings a live music performance, with rock music and jazz sounds predominating. The bar also hosts occasional film and video presentations, book readings, and art and photography exhibits. A small cover fee is charged when live music is scheduled. Performances usually start around 10p, but call ahead or check the Web site to confirm programming.

Description:

This old mansion, which dates back to 1903, is a historic monument that has been converted into a friendly youth hostel. With spacious dorms and affordable prices, it is perfect for backpackers and young travelers. It has a charming Irish bar, and the added advantage of being located in the middle of Barranco, a former beach resort. This area retains much of the architecture of the turn of the 19th century, when the wealthy urban families would arrive by tram to loll away the summer days in their mansions by the shore. Today, Barranco is a favorite spot for artists and those seeking nightlife.

Our Local Expert Says:

Calm sea with lots of bars and restaurants

Description:

It's a nice U-shaped beach with clean sand that is thicker than usual, so it does not stick to your skin too easily. Its waters are blue, transparent, and very cold; this beach is one of the most visited because it does not have big or strong waves. So it's perfect for relaxing and for certain water sports. But watch your step when you enter into the waves, because the sea gets deep very quickly. Also, there are many small bars, clubs and nightlife spots, so this beach is mostly preferred by young people seeking for party, rather than by families with children: now and then some clubs take the party outside, to the beach itself. There is lots of parking space (the usage fees are regulated by the local municipality, and it's usually a flat fee) and its restaurants offer dishes prepared with seafood provided by local fishermen.

Description:

Characterized by an extremely lively atmosphere, this is Lima's Brazilian spot par excellence. Located in the heart of Miraflores, the bar's pleasant terrace overlooks the Parque Kennedy (Kennedy Park). The waitresses are very friendly and display all the vivacity associated with Brazilian culture. People come to this bar for well-made caipirinhas and other tasty drinks, but those who visit on a Saturday can sample feijoada, a typical Brazilian dish made with beans.

Description:

This is one of Barranco's best and busiest bars for locals and travelers alike. It use to be a hotel, but now houses three bars under one roof. This includes a large, shady, outdoor patio, which connects to an 18th century colonial house (which has a bar) and another large room (also with a bar). The basement hosts live music, readings, and other arts events. There is often a DJ that spins to the mass of people wanting to dance into the morning. During the day, you can also come here for a bite to eat.

Description:

This old mansion, which dates back to 1903, is a historic monument that has been converted into a friendly youth hostel. With spacious dorms and affordable prices, it is perfect for backpackers and young travelers. It has a charming Irish bar, and the added advantage of being located in the middle of Barranco, a former beach resort. This area retains much of the architecture of the turn of the 19th century, when the wealthy urban families would arrive by tram to loll away the summer days in their mansions by the shore. Today, Barranco is a favorite spot for artists and those seeking nightlife.