Explore LimaExplore Lima
MirafloresMiraflores
Miraflores is one of the most popular areas in Lima and a great place to walk around. Visit Parque del Amor for ocean views, stroll along the coastal cliffs, or stop by Larcomar for shopping, restaurants, and sunset views.
BarrancoBarranco
Barranco is Lima’s bohemian neighborhood, known for colorful streets, delicious coffee spots, art galleries, and great nightlife.
Centro HistóricoCentro Histórico
Lima’s historic downtown, Historic Centre of Lima, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can visit the Plaza Mayor, the Lima Cathedral, and the Monastery of San Francisco, famous for its catacombs. We would recommend doing a tour with a tour guide!
Mercado 1 de SurquilloMercado 1 de Surquillo
You can buy local products and fruits. Go nuts and try fruits you would never find in the USA: Guanabana Lucuma Aguaymanto Granadilla Chirimoya Camu Camu I would recommend Mercado #1 or #2 de Surquillo. (Surquillo is another Lima district that is right next to Miraflores)
Rooftop RecsRooftop Recs
Non-hotel based: Celeste, Saria Ski bar, Ambar Hotel based: Belmond, Hotel B, Pullman, Nau (Intercontinental Hotel, Fairfield (Marriott), -Amador
Day Trips From LimaDay Trips From Lima
Paracas and Huacachina Oasis About 3–4 hours south of Lima, Paracas is known for beautiful coastal scenery and wildlife. Many visitors take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, where you can see sea lions, penguins, and many seabirds. The Huacachina is a unique desert oasis surrounded by sand dunes, located about 4–5 hours from Lima. Visitors often go sandboarding or dune buggy riding, and the sunsets over the dunes are spectacular. You can check the Get Your Guide app and find the best option for you.
Coffee HolicsCoffee Holics
Peru is known for producing excellent coffee, and Lima has a great café culture - so this is not the time for Starbucks (we say this with love). If you enjoy coffee, we recommend taking some time to explore local cafés during your visit. Peruvian coffee is typically grown in the Andes and Amazon regions and is known for its smooth flavor and balanced acidity. Personal recommendations: Puku Puku (Julia's favorite!) Ancestral Caleta Dolsa Raiz Ciclos Aromia
Authentic BreakfastAuthentic Breakfast
Here are a few classics and well known places you have to try: La Lucha : Classic Peruvian sandwiches. My personal favorite: Lechón a la leña El Chinito: Pan con chicharron (crispy pork, sweet potato, and onion salad served in fresh bread). They also sell tamales. Tamales in Peru are made with corn dough filled with chicken or pork, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. They’re commonly eaten in the morning with coffee.
Criolla Peruvian CuisineCriolla Peruvian Cuisine
If you're looking to try some authentic local cuisine we recommend checking out the following restaurants: Isolina Chicho Panchita La Picanteria Merito La Ultimate Torre
Chifa CuisineChifa Cuisine
Peruvian-Chinese Fusion: Titi Lung Fung Song
Nekkei CuisineNekkei Cuisine
Japanese - Peruvian Fusion: Osaka Maido Shizen Tomo
Must Try Peruvian DessertsMust Try Peruvian Desserts
While you're exploring Lima - don't forget to try local desserts Alfajores (Julia's favorite!) Mazamorra morada Arroz con leche Picarones Turrón de Doña pepa Suspiro a la limeña
Restaurant Huaca PucllanaRestaurant Huaca Pucllana
For a truly unique dining experience, visit Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, set beside an ancient pre-Incan pyramid. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine in a one-of-a-kind setting—especially at night when the ruins are lit up.
Osaka Pardo y AliagaOsaka Pardo y Aliaga
A landmark of Lima’s culinary scene, Osaka blends Japanese precision with bold Peruvian flavors in an award-winning Nikkei dining experience. Known for its inventive menu, elegant atmosphere, and outstanding seafood, it is a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking one of the city’s most memorable meals.
CentralCentral
Central is one of the world’s top restaurants, offering a unique tasting menu inspired by Peru’s diverse ecosystems. It’s an unforgettable culinary experience - perfect for a special night in Lima. This one is a splurge!
MaidoMaido
For an unforgettable dining experience in Lima, we recommend Maido, a world-renowned Nikkei restaurant blending Peruvian and Japanese flavors. Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura’s tasting menus are a journey through Peru’s culinary diversity and creativity—perfect for food lovers looking for something truly special. Reservations are recommended well in advance.
KjolleKjolle
An acclaimed restaurant led by Peruvian chef Pía León that celebrates the vibrant flavors and biodiversity of Peru with creative, beautifully presented dishes. It’s known for its exciting tasting menus and has been recognized as one of Peru’s top restaurants in prestigious Latin American rankings.
Astrid y GastónAstrid y Gastón
Fine-dining restaurant founded in 1994 by renowned chefs Gastón Acurio and Astrid Gutsche, it is widely credited with spearheading the global recognition of contemporary Peruvian cuisine. Located in the historic Casa Hacienda Moreyra, the restaurant blends heritage architecture with modern culinary innovation.
Paco YonquePaco Yonque
An amazing experience. Each corner of the restaurants tells you a little bit of its origin and story.
Mayta RestauranteMayta Restaurante
A contemporary Peruvian restaurant by chef Jaime Pesaque, Mayta offers a refined tasting menu that highlights ingredients from across Peru with creativity and precision. Frequently ranked among the world’s best, it’s a beautifully modern take on Peruvian cuisine—perfect for a special night out.
PanchitaPanchita
A beloved restaurant by chef Gastón Acurio, Panchita celebrates traditional Peruvian comida criolla in a warm, lively setting. Known for its generous portions and comforting classics like anticuchos, lomo saltado, and rotisserie meats, it’s the perfect place to experience authentic local flavors in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.