Where to stay in Lima: the best and safest neighbourhoods for travellers

Miraflores

With its lively plazas, picturesque streets lined with old churches, great beaches and world-renowned food scene, Miraflores is the most popular neighbourhood in Lima for tourists.

The neighbourhood centres around Parque Kennedy, a compact, leafy plaza surrounded by bars and restaurants. You will often see street performers, dancers and musicians in the park during the daytime.

A leisurely 15-minute walk from Parque Kennedy will take you down to the coastline, where you will find the colourful oceanside Parque del Amor and plenty of sandy beaches. This is one of the best spots for surfing in Lima, with local schools offering lessons and trips up the coast.

The Miraflores Boardwalk is a scenic coastal path that leads south along the seafront from here, past Larcomar, a big swanky shopping centre that overlooks the sea. There are more local shopping opportunities inland, with various food and craft markets close to Parque Kennedy.

Miraflores is also the heart of Lima’s world-famous food scene. There are some brilliant eateries around the neighbourhood, including Maido, which is rated as the number one restaurant in Latin America.

There is a huge range of places to stay in Miraflores, from vibrant backpacker hostels to some of Lima’s most beautiful luxury and boutique hotels. Here are our personal favourite options for different budgets.

Dragonfly Hostel Miraflores

On our very first trip to Lima we stayed at Dragonfly Hostel in Miraflores. It’s a really clean and friendly backpacker hostel that has a great little rooftop bar, which we loved.

The location is great, just a couple of blocks away from Parque Kennedy. It’s also a five-minute walk from a great restaurant called Punto Azul, where we had our best ceviche in Peru! Not too expensive, either.

We stayed in a private room here, which are really good value, or you can get low-cost dormitory room.

Pariwana Hostel

It’s hard to beat Pariwana Hostel for location in Miraflores, especially for budget accommodation. The hostel is right on Parque Kennedy, and a few minutes’ walk from the Indian Market and local food markets.

This place also has a rooftop bar, and the team host regular themed social events, so you will find it easy to meet other travellers.

The free breakfast here is great, and there is other fun stuff to enjoy like a common area with games, and a book exchange. This is our favourite all-round backpacker hostel in Miraflores.

Hotel Antigua Miraflores

Miraflores is blessed with some absolutely charming boutique hotels, and our favourite in a mid-range budget is Hotel Antigua Miraflores.

This hotel is in a quiet area of Miraflores, away from the main road between Parque Kennedy and the beach. We stayed here on our second trip to Lima.

There are beautiful wooden furnishings throughout the property, and each room has its own unique feel. There’s an excellent little café-restaurant on site too. Overall, this place is a great shout if you’re looking for somewhere romantic without spending a fortune.

Ana Frank Boutique Hotel

If you are into artwork and appreciate fine decorations, then you’ll probably love Ana Frank Boutique Hotel in Miraflores. The walls here are hung with paintings in many styles, each one complementing the elegant surroundings.

This is a small and personable boutique hotel with just four rooms, and is named after its owners, Ana and Frank. They will welcome you here attentively, and serve you a delicious breakfast too!

The hotel’s location is nicely out of the way in a peaceful part of Miraflores, but a short walk from parks, shops and places to eat.

Iberostar Selection Miraflores

If you want to go for all-out luxury on your trip to Lima, then Iberostar Selection Miraflores is one of the most impressive hotels in the city.

The best thing about this place is the sea views, which you can enjoy from some of the premium rooms or the jaw-dropping rooftop pool.

You will enjoy all the perks of 5-star luxury if you stay here, including great facilities like its spa and gym. It’s a short walk to the beach, and the location is also good for getting around and exploring.

INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores

Situated close to Parque Kennedy, INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores is a classy hotel that also has a rooftop pool and bar, with great views of the city and ocean.

This is a contemporary upmarket hotel, a great choice if you like your modern comforts. You can enjoy one the best hotel breakfasts in Lima here, with a huge and varied buffet served every morning.

Barranco

A stroll down the oceanside on the Miraflores Boardwalk will take you to Barranco, a colourful and bohemian little corner of Lima. This is one of our favourite parts of the city to hang out, and it makes a great alternative base if you’d like to stay somewhere with an artsy vibe.

Barranco is a real culture hub, not only because of the multi-coloured architecture and various street murals, but also its galleries and live music scene.

At night, Barranco really comes to life. Our friend who lives in Lima took us here for our first night out, and it was an absolute blast. Whether you’re looking for somewhere chill with wine and cheese, or a full-on club night, this is the most happening place in the city.

This doesn’t mean Barranco is noisy, by any means; despite its nightlife scene, the neighbourhood is still a relaxed place to stay.

In the daytime, you can pop into one of Barranco’s independent coffee houses or grab a bite to eat at local menu restaurant, in between exploring its quirky culture sites.

The accommodation options we’ve found in Barranco are well aligned with the neighbourhood’s vibrant spirit, and there are a good range of budget options to choose from. Let’s take a look at the best of them.

Viajero Kokopelli Lima

Viajero is an absolutely top-class hostel chain in South America, that has swiftly grown in popularity and now has properties in many of the continent’s top tourist spots. We spent over a week at their hostel in San Telmo in Buenos Aires and it was one of our best ever hostel experiences.

It’s a relatively new chain, and doesn’t really feel like one. Each hostel has its own identity that’s true to the location. You will see what we mean at Viajero Kokopelli Lima, which is our favourite backpacker hostel in Barranco.

It has all the hallmarks of a great Viajero hostel, with a cool bar, a fun social atmosphere and lots of activities organised throughout the week. At the same time, you’ll be staying in a resplendent colonial building that is typical of the neighbourhood.

Beraja Family Hostel

If you’re travelling on a budget and would prefer a more laidback, homely accommodation, then Beraja Family Hostel in Barranco might be the choice for you.

As the name suggests, this place is a small, family-run hostel, and it comes with all the cosy charm you associate with that. It has a community feel, and you’ll love the quirky decorations that pay homage to various aspects of Peruvian culture.

The hostel is on the north side of Barranco, so it’s also within reasonable walking distance of Miraflores, and close to transport links into the historic centre.

Lima Wari Hotel Boutique

Lima Wari Hotel Boutique is gorgeous little boutique hotel with a rustic feel, in a great central location in Barranco. You can get a room here for less than $40.

The pinewood-framed building is a century-old mansion with a European chalet style that stands out among the surroundings. It’s been run as a hotel for more than a decade now.

You can pay a little extra for a tasty hot breakfast, served in the hotel’s quirky dining room.

Second Home Peru

If you are open to staying in a guest house on your trip to Lima, you couldn’t wish for a more pleasant setting than Second Home Peru in Barranco.

With lush gardens on a clifftop overlooking the ocean, this is a little oasis of escape, while still being a short walk from the heart of the neighbourhood. The property is beautiful and also has an outdoor swimming pool within the premises.

The guest house is right next to some of Barranco’s attractions, like the “Bridge of Sighs” and the colourful Iglesia La Ermita. It’s also a great spot for local restaurants.

Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel

Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel is a simply gorgeous hotel set in a 1920s whitewashed colonial mansion amid lush gardens.

The hotel is on a quiet side street in Barranco, but close to both the centre of the neighbourhood and the seafront. It’s one of the more expensive boutique hotels in the area, but you get quality for your money.

The spacious old building is brought to life throughout with thoughtful decorations. At the top of the hotel you can relax in its rooftop bar and restaurant, with great views to enjoy after a day of sightseeing.

Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels

Another example of this neighbourhood’s characterful hospitality is Villa Barranco, a stunning boutique hotel set in an old Peruvian republican house dating to 1916.

Inside the property it is decorated with an array of antiques and artworks from over the years. Located close to the seafront, there are some gorgeous views from the rooms, one of which has a private rooftop terrace.

Overall, this place is a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere special for a romantic break.

San Isidro

Mid-way between Miraflores and Lima’s historic centre lies the sprawling neighbourhood of San Isidro, with an array of green parks, waterways and a residential feel. This is also Lima’s main commercial and financial district.

San Isidro is the most upscale area of the city, with high-end shopping malls and several modern hotels. If you stay near its centre, San Isidro is also one the safest areas to stay in Lima.

San Isidro’s green spaces include the historic Parque El Olivar, situated at the heart of the neighbourhood. Here you can walk calmly through hundreds of olive trees, some of them centuries old. The park is recognised as an official Peruvian National Monument.

You can also see some of the most impressive ancient ruins within Lima’s city limits. Two 1,600-year-old adobe pyramids can be found in San Isidro: Huaca Pucllana stands at the south end where the neighbourhood borders Miraflores, and Huaca Huallamarca is located to the north.

San Isidro’s convenient location and availability of quality accommodation makes it one of the best places to stay in Lima for business trips, while it’s also a nice base for tourists if you want a quieter vibe.

Accommodation is a bit more expensive here on average; there are not many budget backpacker options in San Isidro. Now, let’s take a look at some of the neighbourhood’s very best hotels and guest houses.

B&B El Olivar

As the name suggests, B&B El Olivar stands right on Parque El Oliver, with views looking out onto the historic olive grove. You couldn’t wish for a more pleasant or central location in San Isidro.

The owner, Joseph, is passionate about hospitality and will be sure to give you a friendly welcome. Every little details is cared for, and it’s the kind of B&B that feels like a home away from home.

This is our favourite overall guest house anywhere in Lima, and the prices are very reasonable too.

Los Tallanes Hotel & Suites

Los Tallanes Hotel is situated in a quiet little corner on the north side of San Isidro. It’s a spacious, comfortable and clean hotel that has some great views from its upper floors, and a swimming pool.

Situated a few minutes’ walk from the pre-Incan ruins of Huaca Huallamarca, the name Los Tallanes derives from the ancient fishing communities of the same era.

You won’t need to spend a fortune to stay here, and the facilities are excellent. The hotel’s real standout feature is its 5-star restaurant, which has become a big draw for its fusion international and Peruvian cuisine.

Casa Andina Premium San Isidro

San Isidro has some exquisite modern hotels, and Casa Andina Premium San Isidro is one of the picks of the bunch for us. Complete with a rooftop pool, bar and grill restaurant, gym and spa, it is packed with all the contemporary comforts you could want.

Casa Andina Premium is located in the business centre at the north side of San Isidro, close to some of Lima’s top conference centres, so it’s primely set for a work trip. The historic centre is also very quick and easy to reach from this end of the neighbourhood.

Manto Hotel Lima – MGallery

MGallery’s Manto Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in a central part of San Isidro, between Parque El Olivar and Lima Golf Club.

While this place is on the pricier side, it’s worth the splurge for the elegance and top-notch amenities you will get for your money.

The location feels like an oasis among the bustle of the city, and you’re also just a short stroll from some of the neighbourhood’s best restaurants.

Centro Histórico

Lima’s historical centre is a focal point of South America’ colonial past, having served as the nucleus of the Viceroyalty of Peru from the early days of the Spanish Empire in the 16th century.

This part of the city is where you will find the most grandiose colonial architecture, with its centrepoint being the magnificent Cathedral of Lima overlooking Plaza Mayor.

You can explore other important historic sites in the streets surrounding this main square, such as the city’s catacombs and the ornate palace of Torre Tagle.

The Rimac River flows through Centro Histórico, and we loved hanging out here with views of Cerro San Cristobal on the far bank. At the riverside you will often also see live music and dance performances.

Just south of Centro Histórico’s main plazas you can wander into the sprawling Parque de la Exposición, a big green park that is home to some of the city’s top museums and galleries, such as Museo de Arte de Lima. Further south still you can see the magic fountain light show in the evenings at Parque de las Aguas de Lima.

While Centro Histórico is Lima’s core neighbourhood for historic sightseeing and exploration, the choice of good places to stay here is actually quite limited. But if you do want to base yourself here in the heart of old Peru, these are our top picks for different budgets.

1900 Backpackers Hostel

1900 Backpackers Hostel stands right on the edge of Parque de la Exposición in a refurbished 19th-century mansion, hence the name. The location is great, because it’s walkable distance from the attractions of the old centre while also being a peaceful spot to escape to at night.

This is a very good all-round hostel with a social atmosphere. It has an in-house bar, restaurant and rooftop terrace, and the team organises regular activities like walking tours and yoga classes.

Quinoa Backpackers Hostel

Located a little further away from the old centre, Quinoa Backpackers Hostel is perched between Parque de las Aguas de Lima and Peru’s national stadium.

This family-run hostel is set in a two-storey house with a cute little sheltered rooftop terrace and bar. It’s the kind of hostel we love to stay in ourselves, as it has a friendly, social vibe without being a party place.

It’s a fair old walk from here to Plaza Mayor, but the area is lovely for its green surroundings, and is also close to some very good cafés and restaurants.

Hotel Diamond Lima

If you want to stay close to the heart of Centro Histórico, Hotel Diamond Lima is our top pick among the hotels in this area. It’s a very good 3-star hotel just three blocks from Plaza Mayor, and has affordable room rates.

The hotel ticks all the boxes you need for a comfortable stay, with clean and spacious rooms, helpful staff, modern facilities, and fast wifi. An American-style breakfast is included with every night’s stay.

Sheraton Lima Historic Center

Sheraton Lima Historic Center has a great location between Parque de la Exposición and Plaza Mayor, and next to a large shopping mall. As it is set in a high-rise building, some of the hotel’s rooms have fantastic city views.

This is our top recommendation if you want to stay in a luxury hotel within close reach of the historic centre. You know what you’re getting with a Sheraton. The swanky facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, craft beer bar, and two restaurants serving Peruvian and international cuisine.

Where to stay near Lima Airport

If you are only in Lima on a flying visit (excuse the pun), there’s a good choice of places to stay close to Jorge Chavez International Airport.

We have flown from here several times, because, like many people, we based ourselves in Lima while exploring Peru more widely.

The airport is about 15 kilometres and a 45-minute drive by taxi to Lima’s historical centre or Miraflores. So, if you’re only here for one night, it might be easier to stay near the airport.

Here are our top accommodation options close to the airport, from budget to luxury.

Sumaq Punuy Hostel

Sumaq Punuy Hostel is a great little hostel in a quiet residential area right next to Jorge Chavez International Airport. With all the facilities you need for a night’s stay, this is the cheapest accommodation you will find within close vicinity of the airport.

There are no dormitories at the hostel, but private rooms are very cheap, and each is equipped with its own kitchen, including a fridge and oven.

Hospedaje Celerina & Elio

If you want to stay in a little more comfort, Hospedaje Celerina & Elio is a lovely little guest house a short drive away from the airport. Elio, the host, will be happy to pick you up and drop you off.

You can book rooms or an entire apartment here, and you can also opt to pay a few dollars extra for a hot breakfast before your flight. There are also little supermarkets nearby if you need to stock up for the journey or grab something quick to eat.

Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport

For ultimate convenience and comfort between your flights, Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport is situated right within the airport grounds. You only need to walk 50 metres across the road from the lobby and you’re right in departures, no need for shuttle buses.

The hotel has some great facilities to enjoy during your layover, including a spa and wellness centre, swimming pool, business centre and restaurant. Breakfast is included in all rates.