What to do in Lima in the safest neighborhoods: 15 experiences

Lima was the last destination on our itinerary in Peru before heading to Miami during our second trip around the world in 2024. The city surprised us with its diversity, from the rich gastronomy to the stunning landscapes along the coast. We recommend that everyone add Lima to their Peru itinerary. If you’re looking for what to do in Lima, this post is for you.

How much time to visit Lima?

We spent 3 days in the city, and we found it was enough to get to know the main neighborhoods and explore some of its best attractions. However, if you’re a food lover, have a longer list of things to do in Lima, or want to better understand the local culture, you might want to stay a little longer.

Is Lima safe?

Lima is a large city, and like any metropolis, there are some basic safety precautions to keep in mind. However, we felt quite safe in the neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, which allowed us to fit in what to do in Lima. These are considered the safest areas and have excellent infrastructure for tourists.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Lima?

• Miraflores: This is the most touristy area, full of restaurants, shops, and green spaces. It has a prime location by the sea.
• Barranco: Known as the bohemian neighborhood of Lima, with an artistic atmosphere and many café and bar options.
• San Isidro: A more residential and quiet neighborhood, ideal for those looking for a calmer and more sophisticated environment.

Where to stay in Lima?

We recommend staying in Miraflores or Barranco, where there are more accommodation options and where we felt more comfortable exploring on foot, both day and night. We stayed in Miraflores at a small hotel that had a convenient location, allowing us to safely explore the neighborhood on foot at an affordable price for the area.

What to do in Lima – Miraflores

Stroll Along the Malecón with Views of the Pacific

Walk along the Miraflores Malecón, a seaside promenade with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Don’t forget to stop at the Parque del Amor for a romantic moment and enjoy the sunset by the lighthouse.

Discover the Flavors of Nikkei

The blend of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine is a true icon of Peru. We experienced this fusion of flavors at a restaurant in Miraflores called Maketto, and we were fascinated by the creativity of the dishes.

Explore Parque Kennedy and Its Cats

Stroll through Parque Kennedy, where cats are the true stars. The hustle and bustle around the park and the interaction with the felines create a unique atmosphere in the heart of Miraflores.

Travel Back in Time at the Huaca Pucllana Ruins

Visit these pre-Inca ruins in the heart of Miraflores and discover more about Peru’s ancient history.

Shopping at Department Stores

If you want to take the opportunity to shop, the department stores in Miraflores are an excellent option. From fashion to souvenirs, you’ll find a bit of everything here.

Enjoying the View at a Shopping Center

Visit Larcomar, a shopping center that is literally perched on a cliff, offering a unique view of the ocean. Ideal for a stroll with stunning scenery.

Try Fresh Ceviche

You can’t leave Lima without trying authentic ceviche. At the Miraflores Fishing Terminal, you’ll find fresh fish and traditional flavors that represent the essence of Peruvian cuisine.

Savor Roasted Chicken

If you’re a fan of roasted chicken, this is the place for you. Tori Polleria in Miraflores offers a delicious version of this dish, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch.

What to do in Lima – Barranco

Get Inspired at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

Explore the MAC, a space dedicated to contemporary art that will awaken your creativity and curiosity.

Delight in a Chicharrón Sandwich

Try one of the best chicharrón sandwiches in Barranco at Yasu. Flavorful pork that’s perfect for a unique lunch.

Discover Culinary Innovation

Experience an unforgettable culinary journey at Merito, a restaurant that adds a modern and creative touch to Peruvian cuisine. Elegant, welcoming, with dishes that will surprise your palate.

Explore Barranco’s Street Art

Stroll through the streets of Barranco and be enchanted by the murals and street art that beautify the neighborhood. Every corner has a new piece of art waiting to be discovered.

Make a Wish at the Bridge of Sighs

Legend has it that anyone who crosses this bridge without breathing will have a wish granted. We took the opportunity to capture the romantic view and appreciate the magical atmosphere of the place.

Relax in Barranco’s Plaza de Armas

A perfect spot to unwind and enjoy local life. Sit on a bench, watch the hustle and bustle, and let the neighborhood’s vibe envelop you.

Enjoy Innovative Pastries

Try a unique interpretation of Ferrero Rocher at Alanya. We were amazed by the explosion of flavors and highly recommend this experience for anyone with a sweet tooth.

General Tips and Safety in Lima

• Travel Insurance Heymondo: Travel insurance is essential in Peru, as medical assistance costs for foreigners can be very high. I recommend always traveling insured.
• Mobile Data: To have internet access anywhere for using maps or calling an Uber, a SIM card with mobile data makes all the difference. Stay connected at all times with Holafly eSIMs, offering unlimited data so you're always reachable and safe. From our experience, Holafly was incredibly simple to set up and let us browse without worries about limits or connection failures, making it the perfect choice for stress-free travel. And now, you can even get 5% off your travel eSIM from Holafly!
• Transportation: We mainly used Uber to get around the city. It’s a safe and convenient option for visiting the various neighborhoods of Lima. To and from the airport, we used the Airport Express.
• Avoid displaying valuables: Just like in any big city, it’s best not to flaunt cameras, jewelry, or other valuables while walking around. Always keep your belongings in sight and in secure places, like hard-to-reach backpacks.
• Be cautious with public transportation: While public transport in Lima is economical, such as combis (vans) and buses, it can be confusing and, in some cases, less safe for tourists. If you want to use it, inform yourself well about the routes and keep an eye on your belongings. We preferred to use Uber for added safety and comfort.
• Be careful with street taxis: Instead of hailing taxis directly on the street, opt to use apps like Uber, Cabify, or request a taxi through your hotel. This reduces the risk of fraud or inflated fares.
• Avoid deserted areas at night: Even in safer neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco, it’s advisable to avoid less busy areas at night. Stick to well-lit and active streets.
• Keep your passport and important documents in the hotel: Take only a digital copy of your passport and essential documents while exploring the city, and leave the originals in a safe at the hotel. This way, in case of loss or theft, it will be easier to resolve the situation.
• Language: Spanish is the official language in Lima, but many tourist areas have people who speak English. If you can learn some basic Spanish words and phrases, you’ll feel more at ease and have a more authentic experience.
• Weather and appropriate clothing: Lima is known for its characteristic fog, called garúa. Even during summer, temperatures can be cool, especially in the evening. Always bring a light jacket to stay comfortable.
• Tips: In Lima, tipping is not mandatory, but it’s common to leave between 5 to 10% of the total bill in restaurants if the service is not included. For taxi services or small purchases, it’s not customary to leave a tip.
• Bottled water: Tap water in Lima is not safe to drink, so it’s best to opt for bottled water throughout your stay, especially for drinking and washing fruits.
• Explore the city on foot: Miraflores and Barranco are great for walking, with many attractions close to each other. Take the time to discover the neighborhoods at a leisurely pace, stopping at local cafés and enjoying the ocean views.

Lima is a vibrant and lively city that captivated us with its authenticity and energy. We hope our experience inspires you to explore the best of the Peruvian capital!