Route through Lima: four districts in which to discover the magic of the Peruvian capital

Lima is a city of contrasts that mixes historical, architectural, cultural and gastronomic attractions with an avant-garde metropolis atmosphere that leaves no one indifferent. In addition to being the only capital in South America with access to the Pacific Ocean, it is a multicultural city whose streets, full of surprises, are a kind of open museum. Not to mention that whoever comes to Lima is enchanted by its cuisine, which stands out for its ancient recipes, the fusion with other cultures and a truly unique seasoning.

In addition to being the gastronomic capital of the region, Lima prides itself on having four of the best restaurants in the world in the city. Central, led by chef Virgilio Martínez, was chosen as the number one in the world this 2023 at The World's 50 Best Restaurants ceremony; while the Maido restaurant ranked 6th, Kjolle 28th and Mayta 47th.

Thus, Lima has become one of the must-see destinations in America; a city that deserves to be discovered neighborhood by neighborhood, restaurant by restaurant, experience by experience. From the cultural magic of its historic center to the avant-garde area of ​​Miraflores, these four districts are perfect for getting the best impression of the Peruvian capital.

The historic center of Lima
Declared a World Heritage Site, the historic center of Lima is a must for any traveler who wants to discover Lima's past. Walking through its streets and visiting its most emblematic churches and buildings is like taking a leap in time to appreciate the vestiges of the colonial and neo-baroque times.

Not to be missed is the Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas, where the conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the city. You must also appreciate the imposing Cathedral of Lima that still preserves its essence of yesteryear, as well as the Archbishop's Palace, the Church of Santo Domingo and the convent of San Francisco. In addition, you have to walk among its beautiful squares and monuments, its imposing mansions with colonial and republican balconies, its multiple churches that house priceless works of art and the Chinatown to taste chifa cuisine.

Barranco, bohemian and colorful
Voted one of the 49 coolest neighborhoods in the world by the prestigious American magazine Time Out, Barranco is one of the most bohemian districts of Lima and ideal for exploring on foot. It is located on top of a cliff, overlooking the Pacific and full of art galleries, spaces to run or ride a bike and direct access to the beach.

Barranco is color, art, history and gastronomy, an authentic and picturesque place, but at the same time avant-garde. Not to be missed is the Bridge of Sighs, a mandatory setting for a good photo, the Municipal Library or the Museum of Contemporary Art of Lima (MAC) with a wide schedule of events and exhibitions. Also, go into a cebichería to try the flagship dish of Peru or visit Central, the best in the world in 2023, according to The World's 50 Best Restaurants and taste its exquisite menu, which guides diners through 15 Peruvian ecosystems classified by altitude .

Miraflores and its cosmopolitan airs
Surrounded by precise parks and set on a cliff, this Lima neighborhood is known for its modern buildings and its cosmopolitan airs and has a wide range of restaurants with sea views where you can discover ancient recipes and fusion dishes emblematic of Peruvian gastronomy.

The Malecón, a promenade that stretches for five kilometers, is perfect for taking a walk and enjoying the views over the Pacific; likewise, those who want to learn more about the Lima, Wari and Ychsma cultures can visit the ruins of Huaca Pucllana, a ceremonial place that recounts the pre-Hispanic past of these peoples. For their part, the most adventurous can paraglide from its cliffs and enjoy the Lima coastline from a bird's eye view.

Callao, urban art, pirates and sea lions 
Located half an hour from the center of Lima, Callao is not only the first port in Peru, but also one of the places that brings that special color that the capital has. Callao Monumental, for example, is a neighborhood where you can enjoy beautiful murals painted by independent artists, art galleries, and open-air concerts or festivals. This idyllic corner also has the Real Felipe Fortress, built in 1747 to protect the city of Lima from pirate attacks.

Finally, you will have to take a trip to the deserted islands of Callao: Palomino, Cavinzas, San Lorenzo and El Frontón. While Palomino and Cavinzas are ideal for wildlife lovers, especially sea lions and birds, El Frontón and San Lorenzo are known for their history. The latter was occupied in ancient times by pirates, which is why it is known as the 'mysterious island'.