Lykkers looking for a vibrant coastal city filled with charm, history, art, and ocean views will find Lima a fascinating destination.
This capital of Peru offers neighborhoods with completely different personalities—from colorful street murals and coastal walkways to ancient ruins tucked between skyscrapers.
Here’s a handy guide to what to expect, how to get around, where to stay, and what not to miss in Lima.
Centro Histórico: Where the Past Lives On
Ideal For: First-time visitors, history enthusiasts, lively plazas, landmark architecture
Getting There: Take the Metropolitano BRT to Estación Central
Average Stay Cost: €25–50 per night (budget hotels, hostels)
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Lima Cathedral: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM, entry €4
- Museo Central: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM, free entry
- Cemetery Tour: Selected nights, 3.5 hrs, €28 per person
Tips: The area is rich in character but limited in nightlife. Transport can be slow, so plan visits during daylight.
Miraflores: Coastal Charm and Modern Comfort
Ideal For: Ocean views, beach lovers, romantic walks, upscale shopping
Getting There: Hop on bus Ruta C or take a direct taxi from the airport (€10–15)
Average Stay Cost: €50–150 per night (boutique hotels, luxury options, hostels)
Top Attractions:
The scenic Malecón clifftop walkway stretches for kilometers with incredible Pacific views—especially magical at sunset. Parque del Amor is a romantic stop with sculptures and sea views, while the nearby Huaca Pucllana offers a journey into pre-Inca architecture. Don’t miss Museo Larco for a collection of gold and silver artifacts from ancient Peru.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Huaca Pucllana: Wednesday–Monday, 9 AM – 4 PM, €6 entry
- Museo Larco: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM, entry €7
Tips: Miraflores is well-connected by public transport, with frequent buses and safe walking paths. Ideal for families and couples alike.
Barranco: Lima’s Creative Soul
Ideal For: Art lovers, photography, cafés, street murals
Getting There: Take Metropolitano Expreso 1 or cycle from Miraflores via the coast
Average Stay Cost: €35–100 per night (stylish hostels, artistic hotels)
Top Attractions:
Barranco thrives with creativity. Stroll through its colorful streets to see vivid murals and local galleries. Make a wish and walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs without breathing for good luck. The Museo Pedro de Osma and the Museum of Contemporary Art provide insight into both classic and modern Peruvian art scenes.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Museo Pedro de Osma: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM, €6
- Museum of Contemporary Art: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM, €4
Tips: Perfect for an afternoon exploring cafés, local design shops, and sea-view restaurants. Biking tours around Barranco and Miraflores are also popular and affordable (€26).
San Isidro: Green Spaces and Urban Sophistication
Ideal For: Parks, family travel, quiet neighborhoods, coastal walks
Getting There: Use Bus 301 or a short taxi ride from Miraflores
Average Stay Cost: €70–200 per night (upscale hotels, business-friendly stays)
Top Attractions:
San Isidro balances elegance with history. Walk through El Olivar Park’s centuries-old olive trees, or visit Huaca Huallamarca—another ancient adobe pyramid nestled among modern buildings. Art lovers can enjoy performances and exhibits at the PUCP Cultural Center. The Malecon here connects easily to Miraflores and is excellent for cycling or a calm stroll.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Huaca Huallamarca: Tuesday–Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM, entry €2
- El Olivar Park: Open daily, free entry
Tips: Less touristy but incredibly peaceful. Better suited for longer stays or those wanting a quiet retreat.
Getting Around Lima
Public Transport:
The Metropolitano is Lima’s most reliable bus rapid transit system, running north to south through key areas like Centro Histórico, Miraflores, and Barranco. Tickets cost around €0.50 per ride.
Local buses are also frequent but can be confusing. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Beat or InDriver are widely used and affordable.
Discovering the Diversity and Charm of Lima
Lima is a city of contrast and discovery, and Lykkers will enjoy exploring its diverse neighborhoods—each offering its own set of experiences, from coastal sunsets to ancient structures and vibrant street art. Thanks to affordable transport, a range of lodging options, and exciting attractions, Lima promises a memorable journey for every type of traveler.
