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Where to Stay In Lima: 5 Best & Safest Districts (2025)

Much more than just a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu, Lima is a hub of gastronomic excellence, fascinating history, and a blend of modernity and tradition that makes it stand out from the crowd.

The underrated Peruvian capital has enough art to keep culture vultures happy, architecture to please beauty lovers, and culinary innovation for even the most dedicated foodies. In short, it's well worth a visit.

Lima isn't a city if you're seeking quiet relaxation – it's noisy, traffic-ridden, and chaotic, but that adds to its unique charm. Tourist-friendly without losing its authenticity, you can expect dramatic coastal views (it's a city on the beach!) and tons of art galleries and museums.

It's not always the easiest city to navigate, but if you're willing to put in the time to get to know its various neighborhoods, it's well worth it. Plus, since Lima is often overlooked for more famous South American capitals like Bogota or Buenos Aires, this hidden gem remains on the list of more affordable destinations.

Some parts of Lima are much more appealing than others, however, so choosing the right neighborhood to stay in is a must. I've put together a list of my favorite neighborhoods in this South American gem, from the beach-side Miraflores to the luxurious San Isidro with its luxury hotels with spacious rooms to Barranco, a nightlife hub that's home to artists and hipster culture.

I've got you covered accommodation-wise, too, with a guide to hotels for all budgets, whether you're looking for an outdoor swimming pool or complimentary breakfast.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Lima

Aerial view of lighthouse of Miraflores, in Lima, Peru.

Miraflores (my top pick!) – This upmarket beach neighborhood is equal parts elegant and trendy and a tourist's paradise. It's one of Lima's safest neighborhoods and you won't be short of places to eat, drink, and shop, including quirky independent spots.

Centro Historico – If sightseeing is your thing, the Centro Historico is the ideal spot to soak up the Peruvian capital's history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, all the main sights are within walking distance of one another in the historic center, which offers plenty of free walking tours to see the impressive colonial buildings.

Barranco – Just outside of the city's historic core you'll find Barranco, the capital's bohemian center with nightlife offerings that will keep you busy until the early hours of the morning. Home to the city's artists, the streets of Barranco are lined with colorful buildings, friendly coffee shops, and quirky craft beer hangouts.

San Isidro – This upmarket, residential area is home to some of the best luxury hotels in the area, with amenities like a rooftop terrace or swimming pool. Here, you'll also find boutique stores and fine-dining restaurants that show off the best of Peruvian cuisine.

San Miguel – San Miguel is a charming residential spot – not as tourist-friendly as the likes of Miraflores and Centro Historico – but close to Lima Airport, making it perfect for business travelers and those on a short trip. There's an attractive boardwalk here, too, and plenty of friendly locals.

1. Where to Stay in Lima for the First Time: Miraflores

Aerial view of Miraflores in Lima, Peru.

Miraflores is arguably the most popular neighborhood in all of Lima. Charming, pretty, and with plenty to do (as well as almost unlimited spots to eat and drink), Miraflores has some awesome coastal views as well as proximity to all of the capital's most impressive sights.

I highly recommend you find a hotel in the neighborhood for your stay in Lima!

Attracting both backpackers and families on vacation, Miraflores is tourist-friendly, and one of the neighborhoods in the city where you're most likely to encounter many English speakers. It's also pricier than many other Lima neighborhoods, but still much cheaper than capitals in Europe or North America.

As well as being the beating heart of the city, Miraflores has a surprising number of natural spaces, from green parks to the Pacific Ocean itself. It's the perfect spot for a coastal walk or run in the park when you want to take a break from exploring colonial sights and ancient ruins. Parque Kennedy, aka Cat Park, is famous for being home to felines, so if you're a cat lover, flock there for some quality time with cute kitties.

Miraflores manages to be busy without being hectic, with plenty of opportunities for a peaceful beachfront walk. It's not the place to stay if you want to escape the tourists, but if you're happy to be among travelers, it's definitely the go-to destination for first-time visitors.

This vibrant barrio is also one of the safest parts of Lima, so while you'll still need to keep your belongings safe, you can walk around with minimal worries.

Things to Do in Miraflores

Thanks to Miraflores' beachfront location, taking a walk overlooking the ocean is a must-do while you're in the area. The Parque del Amor is one of the city's prettiest green spaces as is Cat Park, a feline-friendly park that's the perfect spot for a midday picnic.

Upmarket Peruvian-Japanese restaurant Maido is a popular eatery for dinner, but there's really no shortage of places to eat and drink in this neighborhood.

Finally, if you have some cash left over in your budget for retail therapy, enjoy Lima's outdoor mall, Larcomar Shopping Centre.

Best Area For:

  • First-time visitors

  • Staying close to the Pacific Ocean

  • Tourist sights

  • Places to eat and drink

  • Couples and families

Best Hotels to Stay in Miraflores

($$$) Hotel Antigua Miraflores
($$)
Arawi Miraflores
($)
Hotel Las Palmas

2. Where to Stay in Lima for Sightseeing: Centro Historico

Wide view of Basilica Cathedral located in the Plaza Mayor in Lima, Peru

The historic center, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect spot for history lovers and culture vultures. Home to architecture, buildings, and museums that help visitors journey into Peru's past, it's the best neighborhood for sightseeing, making it popular with tourists and backpackers looking to understand the Lima of old. Political fans will also find key government buildings here.

Home to the Plaza de Armas de Lima, which is the birthplace of the city of Lima, as well as other architecturally significant monuments, Lima still retains a lot of colonial architecture, making it one of the most beautiful capital centers in South America. If you've visited and liked Colombia's Cartagena, you'll love this historical district in Lima.

One of the best things about staying in the Centro Historico is that it's surprisingly affordable even when picking a luxury hotel – the other popular tourist spot, Miraflores, is much more expensive in terms of both accommodation and cost of living.

You can find plenty of mid-range hotels in the Centro Historico that will put you right in the heart of the city's sights for an affordable price. Plus, despite its tourist-friendly reputation, it's still authentically Peruvian.

The historic center isn't the safest part of town, so I wouldn't recommend walking around in the dark – get a cheap taxi or Uber, instead.

Things to Do in Centro Historico

The best way to see the Centro Historico is with a walking tour, there are plenty on offer on sites like Viator or TripAdvisor, with some hostels even offering free tours. Plaza de Armas is the center's main square and well worth exploring, and the Government Palace is a must-see for politics lovers.

Take a tour of the Catacombs (creepy, but interesting!) in the San Francisco Monastery and continue your exploration of religious sites by checking out the Cathedral Basilica of Lima.

While this isn't for the faint of heart, those with a morbid curiosity should visit the Museum of the Inquisition to learn more about torture devices from centuries past.

Best Area For:

  • Sightseeing

  • Mid-range hotels

  • Walking tours

  • History lovers and colonial buildings

Best Hotels to Stay in Centro Historico

($$$) Sheraton Lima
($$)
Hotel Diamond Lima
($)
Hotel Paris Lima

3. Where to Stay in Lima for Nightlife and Hipster Vibes: Barranco

The Plaza de Barranco, also known as the Municipal Park of Lima - Peru.

Lima's bohemian district, Barranco, is probably my favorite district in the city. Home to the capital's most artistic residents, it's a hub of nightlife, where the drinking starts late and goes on into the early hours of the morning – accompanied by some tasty Peruvian cuisine, of course.

There are plenty of independent art galleries and I think the streets of Barranco itself are like an art gallery with colorful buildings as well as impressive street art. It's one of the prettiest neighborhoods to stroll around when you find yourself with a free afternoon.

Barranco effortlessly oozes cool – you're most likely to find vegan eateries and vintage clothing stores in this Lima district, as well as dive bars serving quirky cocktails. It's a hipster haven, with all types of accommodation from pared-back hostels to luxury boutique hotels.

One of my favorite things about the neighborhood is how it transforms. By day, you'll see walking tours in awe of the colorful streets and digital nomads hanging out at Wi-Fi brunch spots. By night, Barranco transforms, as locals and tourists alike pack out the streets sipping affordable craft beers and Pisco sours. Whatever time or day, the area has an artistic and bohemian vibe.

In terms of safety, Barranco is mostly safe, but you should keep an eye on your belongings anyway because there's a risk of theft in every big city. Avoid walking around in the dark – the taxis are cheap enough that you shouldn't have to.

Things to Do in Barranco

The main thing to do in Barranco is to enjoy the nightlife, starting the night sipping on craft beer at the Barranco beer company.

Not to be outdone by Venice, Lima has its own Bridge of Sighs built in 1876, not far from the Playa Los Yugos where you can spend an afternoon taking in the sun during Peru's summer season.

You'll also find the Lima Museum of Contemporary Art, a must-visit for modern art lovers.

Best Area For:

  • Hipster vibes

  • Bohemian bars

  • Nightlife

  • Groups of friends

Best Hotels to Stay in Barranco

($$$) Hotel B
($$)
Casa Republica Barranco
($)
Lima Wari Hotel Boutique

4. Where to Stay in Lima for Luxury: San Isidro

Aerial view of the San Isidro golf course in Lima, Peru.

Home to luxury hotels and the Lima Golf Club, this neighborhood is strictly for Lima's most affluent residents. If you're looking to stay somewhere safe while avoiding the more chaotic hustle and bustle that can be found in the historic center and downtown Lima, head to San Isidro. It's relaxing, luxurious, and perfect for couples and families.

As you'd expect from Lima's most luxurious neighborhood, you'll find tennis courts, shopping malls, golf clubs, and exclusive hotels. It's not exactly budget-friendly, but if you want a luxury vacation for a cheaper price than you'd find in North America, San Isidro might be your perfect destination.

Its green spaces provide the perfect base for afternoon strolls, while skyscrapers and swanky apartment buildings make this skyline stand out against the more historic parts of Lima with its colonial-style architecture.

While I love the relaxing vibes of San Isidro, some groups of friends or backpackers might find it a little dull with its lack of obvious sights and toned-down nightlife.

Things to Do in San Isidro

San Isidro isn't awash with historical sights, but there are plenty of modern amenities to enjoy in this affluent area. Green space, Bosque El Olivar, is one of the city's most beautiful parks, complete with a koi fish pond and olive groves.

If retail therapy is your thing, stroll along to Avenida Conquistadores, a street lined with shops and a mix of high-end and boutique stores where you're sure to tick things off your shopping list. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum is home to the Peruvian ruins of a pyramid, and well worth checking out if you want to understand a little more of the capital's history.

The Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion (LUM) is a museum dedicated to the conflict that ran from the 80s to 00s between terrorist groups and the Peruvian government.

Best Area For:

  • Luxury Lima hotels

  • Golf lovers

  • Shopaholics

  • Anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the historic centre

Best Hotels to Stay in San Isidro

($$$) Swissotel Lima
($$)
Sonesta Hotel El Olivar
($)
Suites del Bosque Hotel

5. Where to Stay in Lima Like a Local/Close to the Airport: San Miguel

Aerial view of the Pueblo Libre district in Lima, Peru.

Now, San Miguel isn't going to win any awards for being the most beautiful or exciting part of Lima. But if you need a short stay near the airport, this area is going to be the most convenient for you. It's also one of Lima's most authentic districts – while Miraflores can feel a little ‘Gringofied', San Miguel retains a distinctly Peruvian flavor.

It's also near the water, allowing the opportunity for plenty of nice boardwalk walks and pretty views. Safety-wise, San Miguel isn't the safest spot in Lima, so it does require an extra level of vigilance.

Avoid going up into the Callao neighborhood, which is next door and an area to avoid in Lima for the risk of pickpockets and thieves.

The nearby Pueblo Libre also allows you to explore the most authentic side of Lima. Translated to ‘Free Town', staying in this mostly residential area gives you an insight into city life as a local, with plenty of friendly local bars serving up tasty grub and drinks for a much lower price than you'd find in the city center.

Things to Do in San Miguel

There's not much to do in San Miguel in terms of main sights, but the best thing the area has to offer is El Parque de La Imaginacion, a science and technology museum that's the perfect destination for families with kids.

Green space Parque Media Luna located near the beachfront provides the ideal spot for an afternoon stroll. Shopping Center Plaza San Miguel isn't the best shopping center in Lima, but it will hit the spot if you need some retail therapy.

Best Area For:

  • Being close to the airport

  • Living like a local

  • Authentic Peruvian food

  • Budget accommodation and food

Best Hotels to Stay in San Miguel

($$$) Palmetto Hotel Business San Miguel
($$)
San Miguel Awanka Hotel
($)
Tambo Huascar

Where to Stay in Lima – Frequently Asked Questions

📅 How long do I need to see Lima?

Lima's a big city, so you want to spend at least a long weekend to get the most out of the city and explore multiple neighborhoods. I stayed for around four days and still had a few things left to see and do, but on the whole, I'd say 4 to 6 days is the perfect Lima vacation. If you're willing to put on your best walking shoes and stick to a strict schedule, you can see Lima in just one weekend.

If you're already in Peru there are plenty of other places to explore, time and budget allowing, such as the ancient city of Cuzco and the mind-blowing Machu Picchu.

❓ Is Lima safe?

Like most cities in South America, you'll need to take extra precautions when you visit Lima. The neighborhoods listed above are among the safest in Lima, so don't stray too far from the beaten path when visiting. One of the most effective ways to stay safe is to avoid allowing thieves to grab your things but keeping them close to your person at all times. Don't walk around with your phone out when you can, keep your money in a bag close to your body (and don't take it all out at once), and get Ubers instead of walking around at night.

Travel tip: If you have more than one bank account, take only the card of the bank account with the lowest balance with you while you're out and about. That way, if you happen to get pickpocketed, you'd still have access to the majority of your money.

📍 Which area is best to stay in Lima?

For first-time visitors and tourists, I highly recommend staying in Miraflores, Lima's most beautiful and tourist-friendly neighborhood. If sightseeing and culture are your main priorities, the Centro Historico is where you should be. For Lima's best bars and bohemian vibes, Barranco is the ideal spot. If you're seeking luxury accommodation and elegant architecture, head to San Isidro, or choose San Miguel if you want to live like a local in a more residential spot.

✔️ Is Lima a good city to visit for tourists?

Lima is a tourist-friendly city with plenty to see and many safe and walkable neighborhoods. The levels of English aren't especially high though, so it's definitely worth learning some basic Spanish phrases before you go, including food and drinks to allow you to read menus.

Lima is fairly safe for tourists in terms of serious crime, but the levels of theft are higher than in Europe or the US, so be careful with your belongings. Avoid exploring outside of the main tourist areas. If you don't see many hotels around, it's probably not the ideal neighborhood to stay or spend time in.

🗺 Should I spend more time in Lima or Cuzco?

Any good trip to Peru includes a visit to both Lima and Cuzco, but you might be wondering which city requires a longer stay. Lima is bigger but Cuzco has plenty of historic sights to explore, so the best course of action would be to spend at least 3 days in each for the best chance of seeing everything you want to see.

If you plan on visiting Cuzco, it's a simple train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, the base for climbing (or getting the shuttle bus) to the top of the impressive Machu Picchu, which is an absolute highlight when visiting Peru!

☀️ What's the best month to visit Lima?

In Lima, summer takes place from December to March. If you're looking for the lowest chance of rain and the best chance of high temperatures and clear skies, head to Lima during these months. June to August are a lot foggier, cloudier, and rainier, but it's a good time to visit if you want to escape the crowds of tourists that pour into Peru over the summer months.

Where to Stay in Lima – Final Words

Monument to Jose de San Martin on the Plaza San Martin in Lima, Peru.

Lima is a dynamic city that blends the best of both modernity and tradition – it's certainly not just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu! If you plan on visiting the beautiful Peruvian capital, be sure to choose the best neighborhood for your needs, whether it's the picture-perfect Miraflores or the affluent San Isidro.

The good news is that whichever neighborhood you choose from my list, you're sure to fall in love with this charming South American city, from its gorgeous colonial buildings, impressive collections of pre-Columbian art, and grand plazas. Keep your wits (and your belongings!) about you and you'll have a safe and enjoyable trip to this vibrant city.

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