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.

The best places to stay in Lima

Barranco District

• The Hotel B in Distrito de Barranco is a 17 room boutique hotel in a beautiful historic building. The decor is elegant and the restaurant serves Peruvian Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
• Also in Distrito de Barranco, El Golf Hotel is a smart, elegant 20 room hotel decorated with white walls and fabrics. There’s a small pool and a charming terrace. The location is excellent.
• Villa Barranco is a townhouse boutique of just 9 rooms, located in a 1920s mansion. The rooms are traditional, their cosy styling complementing the building's original features; book the master suite for split-level living space and a private balcony, or sunbathe on the roof terrace.

In Miraflores

• As well as five star luxury, the Belmond Miraflores Park Hotel also offer stunning ocean views from many of its 81 rooms and suites. There’s a great rooftop pool, plus a spa and gym and an Asian-Peruvian restaurant.
• The Atemporal Hotel is a retro boutique nine room hotel in a quiet part of this neighbourhood. The decor features of black and white photography and they serve an indulgent breakfast.

The Most Romantic

• Second Home is a five room boutique hotel perched on top of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Formerly the home of a sculptor, there’s plenty of bright, contemporary art on the walls. The breakfasts are luxurious and drinks are served in the peaceful gardens.
• The Country Club Lima Hotel in San Isidro has been converted from a 1920s built English mansion (those Brits get everywhere) and has 83 elegant rooms and suites, a pool, gym, golf course and a superb restaurant which has won the award for the best restaurant in Peru.

For Best Value

• Antigua Miraflores is a charming, traditional 77 room property with beamed ceilings, tiled floors and a laid-back Peruvian restaurant. A great base for seeing the slights.

For Families

• The Arawi Hotel’s family suites are comfortable and modern - as are all the rooms - and its location in Miraflores puts you close to the beach and the main city sights.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you'd prefer your own space, don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a range of properties throughout the most popular areas of the city.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Lima?

• Fly to Jorge Chávez International Airport located only 11.5 km (7 miles) from Lima. The airport serves a large range of domestic destinations as well as a good selection of international carriers.
• If you want to rent a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars for prices.
• Best time to visit - from December to April offers warm summer weather great for exploring the historic city - although it can also be quite rainy at this time of year!

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Peru?
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Lima