Where to Stay in Lima
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Lima is a huge city, and figuring out where to stay can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting. I remember planning my 1 day in Lima and having absolutely no idea which neighbourhood made the most sense for sightseeing, safety and atmosphere.
After staying in Lima, I quickly realised how much your experience depends on where you base yourself. I ended up in a beautiful area filled with music, incredible restaurants, and coffee shops, and it completely changed how I felt about the city.
Whether you’re looking for ocean views, lively streets, or a more central location, this guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Lima and exactly who each neighbourhood is best for.
A Complete Guide on Where to Stay in Lima For First-Timers
In this guide, I break down the three best areas to stay in Lima for first-time visitors. I stayed in Barranco and loved it. If you enjoy hip, artsy vibes with cool bars and cafes, it’s my top pick. Another popular choice is Miraflores, just a short distance away, with a lively, beachy feel that’s perfect for visitors who want a more polished, convenient base.
Where to stay in Lima: Barranco – My top recommendation
Barranco was the area that completely changed how I felt about Lima. I arrived a little sceptical and unsure what to expect, and instead found myself staying in a colourful, music filled neighbourhood packed with great cafes, excellent restaurants and bars and a relaxed, creative energy that made it easy to slow down and enjoy the city.
Barranco feels more local and intimate than other parts of Lima, without feeling unsafe. I loved how walkable Barranco was, especially in the evenings, when the streets come alive with live music and people heading out for dinner or drinks. I even saw dancers practicing in the main square.
Barranco is best for: Couples, solo travellers, coffee lovers, creatives and anyone who wants to stay in a smaller area with character rather than one with a big-city feel.
Why stay in Barranco:
- Very close to the ocean
- Within walking distance to Miraflores (I walk there in around 30-45 minutes along the coast)
- Artsy, laid-back vibe with colourful streets
- Amazing café scene with really great coffee!
- Feel less crazy than other areas
One thing to keep in mind: Barranco is a little further from some of Lima’s major tourist sights, so you may need the occasional Uber or taxi. I ended up catching the bus to get Downtown to do a free walking tour which took around 1 hour one way.
Where I stayed in Barranco:
This is where I stayed during my time in Lima, and I’d happily stay here again. It was beautifully designed and cozy, with a great rooftop bar and restaurant, and there was live music playing often while we were there. I also loved how walkable the location was, with the main square and plenty of great cafes just a short stroll away.
The only downside for me was that the showers were often cold, which is fairly common in budget accommodation in Lima. If having reliable hot water and a little extra comfort is important to you, I’d recommend choosing one of Barranco’s boutique hotels instead.
My top pick if you want charm and location: Hotel B
If you’re looking for something more upscale in Barranco, Hotel B is my top recommendation. This hotel is elegant and set inside a beautifully restored colonial mansion with gorgeous design details throughout.
It also has its own restaurant and bar, and it’s often described as the place to be on a Saturday night. You get the atmosphere and location Barranco is known for, with a noticeably higher level of comfort and service than budget accommodation.
Where to stay in Lima: Miraflores
Miraflores is Barranco’s next door neighbour and one of Lima’s most popular areas to stay. While I was staying in Barranco, I was able to walk to Miraflores along the Malecón de Miraflores, a scenic coastal boardwalk that runs along the cliffs above the beaches. It’s especially beautiful around sunset.
Compared to Barranco, Miraflores felt bigger, busier and more polished. There are more high-rise buildings, modern hotels and a noticeable more touristy feel. That said, there are some really nice shops and restaurants here, particularly along the coast and it’s a great area if you like having everything close by.
Miraflores is best for: Shopping, travellers looking for luxury accommodation, international dining, and anyone who wants a lively neighbourhood with beach vibes.
Why stay in Miraflores:
- Great food scene from high end restaurants to casual cafes.
- right next to some of Lima’s most popular beaches – great if you are interested in surfing or spending time by the ocean.
- Great shopping
- Modern, well developed and comfortable feel
One thing to keep in mind: Miraflores is generally more expensive than Barranco. While it’s lively and busy, it doesn’t have quite the same creative, special feel that Barranco does.
My top pick in Miraflores: AC Hotel by Marriot Lima Miraflores
If you’re looking for comfort, style and a central location, the AC hotel by Marriot in Miraflores is a great choice. The rooms are super sleek, it has great amenities including a gym, a Buffet and à la carte breakfast and an incredible rooftop bar with views of the ocean.
It’s close to the Malecón – I remember walking past it and thinking how fancy it looked! It’s also right near the main shopping area, and some of Lima’s best restaurants, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want comfort and convenience.
Where to stay in Lima: Downtown Lima
Downtown Lima is the heart of the city. It’s full of history, colonial architecture, grand plazas and some if the city’s most iconic landmarks. Even if you don’t stay in Downtown, it’s worth it to visit during the day.
Compared with Barranco and Miraflores, Downtown Lima is much busier, nosier and less geared towards tourist. It is a lot like any other city, but full of history. The streets are bustling with activity and while there are plenty of shops and restaurants, it has more of a local corporate feel to it than scenic like Barranco and Miraflores.
Downtown Lima is best for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, budget conscious travellers and anyone wanting to stay in the city centre.
Why stay in Downtown Lima:
- Access to the city’s historic sites and museums
- Tends to have more budget friendly options
One thing to keep in mind: Downtown Lima is lively and authentic but can feel chaotic and less safe after dark. If it’s your first visit, I recommend keeping your stay short and not wandering around aimlessly at night.
My top pick in Downtown Lima: Sheraton Lima Historic Center
If I were to stay in Downtown Lima, the Sheraton Lima Historic Center would be my choice. It’s within walking distance to a lot of the main sights including San Martin Square, Museum of Peruvian Art and the Main Square. The hotel also has a sundeck and pool and there is great shopping right next door, making it a convenient base for exploring the historic centre of Lima.
Where I would stay next time I visit Lima
I would 100% hands down go back to Barranco and definitely with Dave next time because I feel like he’s missed out (he didn’t join me on my last trip to Peru). Although I loved the hostel that I stayed at, I would love to stay somewhere a little more luxurious with hot showers like Hotel B.
I had SUCH a magical trip to Peru and have visited quite a few different places! Here are some more guides to help you plan your trip of a lifetime:
- How to Spend a Magical 3 Days in Cusco
- Best Day Trips From Cusco, Peru
- Things to do in Cusco for First-Timers
- Unique Places to Stay in Cusco
- Is Cusco Worth Visiting?
- An Incredible Lima 1 Day Itinerary
- Best Things to do in Lima Peru
- Is Lima Worth Visiting: My Honest Review
- Where to Stay in Huacachina
- How to Get to Huacachina from Lima
- Best Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco
- Is Huacachina Worth Visiting: My Honest Review
- Is Rainbow Mountain Worth It? What I’d Do Differently After Visiting
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