Just as Lima sits between the Pacific and the Andes, so its modernist skyscrapers rise up between graceful old colonial buildings and pre-Colombian temples. With a population just short of 10 million, Lima is a large and impressive city, with ever expanding rings of modernity growing out from a historic centre that dates from 1535. Choosing the best places to stay in Lima is key to your Peruvian adventure, as everyone needs to start from here. And Lima has a lot to offer. Below we have listed the best districts to look for accommodation, and a range of the best places to book, from luxury urban designer hotels to country club elegance and charming boutiques.
Where to stay
- Miraflores: a beautiful district of parks and gardens, restaurants, hotels and shops. A number of Lima's best business hotels and flagship chains are located here.
- Javier Prado East, and Barranco: with its lively clubs and cafes, these are the areas where you’ll find most of our Guru’s recommendations for the best hotels to stay in.
These districts offer great access to both the beach and the city’s highlights, such as museums, galleries, archaeological sites, markets and architectural gems. For example, don't miss the Museo Larco, which features the largest archaeological collection of ancient Peruvian artefacts. There are some great churches here too, dating from the heyday of the Spanish empire, from the dramatic Lima Cathedral to the historic Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco, a beautifully preserved historic monastery, whose ancient catacombs contain the remains of 70,000 people. A day visit to Pachacamac, a collection of ancient ruins from a historic religious centre dating back to before the Inca Empire and just 25 miles to the south, is also a must.
Our selection of the best places to stay in Lima provide a range of great options to suit travellers of all budgets and needs.