Where to Stay in Lima (2024) → 5 Epic Areas for ALL Budgets!

Looking for where to stay in Lima? I lived in Lima practically all my life, so I’m happy to share my best, hand-picked Lima areas and hotels with you!

The best area to stay in Lima definitely is Miraflores, especially for first-timers! 

I have gone ahead and manually compared practically all accommodation there is in the city and hand-picked the best of the best for each area. What is more, I made sure everyone can find their ideal accommodation because it is sorted by budget. 

Thanks to this, you will probably need to spend just a couple of minutes to book your perfect place!

If you are in a hurry…

These are the 3 best hotels in the best area for first timers, Miraflores:

• Best luxury hotel: Radisson Decapolis Miraflores
• Best mid-range hotel: Hotel Estelar Miraflores
• Best budget hotel: La Luna Inn

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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Here is a map with the 5 districts in Lima I am mentioning in this post to help you localize everything!

1. Best area for first timers – Miraflores
2. Best for sightseeing – Historic Center
3. Great neighborhood for nightlife – Barranco
4. Best area to stay for families – San Isidro
5. Where to stay for budget travelers – Pueblo Libro

1. Miraflores – where to stay for first-timers

Miraflores is the wealthiest district in Lima, Peru!

Miraflores has it all! Nightlife, historical landmarks, and natural beauty! It is also the safest district to stay, making it perfect for first-time travelers. 

Its main attraction is the Malecón de Miraflores, a 10 km (~6 mi) esplanade along the shore with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

After all that walking, you can stop by Buenavista Café and relax with the gorgeous view in front of you. I recommend you try the Lucuma Cake, which is made from the native fruit!

You can also see ruins in this area. I highly suggest you visit the Huaca Pucllana Site Museum, a clay and adobe pyramid right in the middle of the city!

Huaca Pucllana is the only pre-inca archaeological site in the district!

Parque Kennedy is ideal for a relaxing stroll and cat-seeing. Yes, the park is full of cute cats! You can also buy crafts made by local artists in its outdoor market!

Don’t forget to shop til you drop at Lima’s renowned outdoor mall, Larcomar!

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• JW Marriott Hotel Lima – stay in an upscale hotel with sea views! It is located within walking distance to the beach and Larcomar Shopping Centre. The hotel features an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and bar!
• Radisson Decapolis Miraflores – this deluxe hotel offers modern rooms featuring contemporary art pieces. The rooftop terrace comes with a pool and city views.

Mid-range (from US$120 to US$180)

• Hotel Estelar Miraflores – this modern hotel is located within walking distance of Kennedy Park and the beach. Enjoy a delicious free breakfast every morning. And relax at the outdoor pool!
• Aloft Lima Miraflores – stay in a trendy Lima hotel! It features an on-site restaurant offering Peru’s delicious cuisine. Enjoy the bike rental service and discover the city!

Budget (up to US$120)

• Pariwana Hostel Lima – a fun hostel located steps away from Parque Kennedy. It offers a young vibe, perfect to make friends during your visit. A pro? They feature free walking tours!
• La Luna Inn – classic and simple, but with everything you need for a comfortable stay! It is located near Casa Museo Ricardo Palma. It offers private rooms and a free breakfast.

2. Historic Center – best place to stay for sightseeing

The historic center is also known as Lima Centro. It is ideal for all of those looking to visit historical landmarks and enjoy traditional food  and drinks on a budget!

The cherry on top of your day will be a relaxing drink at Vichama. A great place to meet locals and listen to live music while drinking affordable beers!

During your stay, you can visit the iconic Unesco World Heritage Site, the San Francisco Convent. I highly recommend you also check out the Catacombs underneath at its museum! 

The Catacombs were built in 1546, and members of the catholic faith were buried here until 1810!

Wander around Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor, and admire the beautiful Government Palace.

A must-stop in the area is Museo de Arte de Lima, which features unique Peruvian pre-columbian exhibitions.

For a comprehensive list of activities in the city, check out our guide with 12 amazing things to do in Lima.

Luxury (US$90 and up)

• Sheraton Lima Hotel – located right in the city’s historic core! One of its closest attractions is the Lima Art Museum. This hotel offers an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
• Historic Center, Peruvian Classic Apartment – feel right at home in this central apartment. It comes with a private kitchen, and it is located steps away from Parque de la Exposición.

Mid-range (from US$50 to US$90)

• Hotel Diamond Lima – located in the city centre, just steps away from Plaza Mayor. The hotel is modern and offers a free breakfast every morning!
• LOVENEST – feel like a local staying at this hotel! It offers rooms and studios for up to 9 guests. Location? Unbeatable! Right in the middle of the historic center.

Budget (up to US$50)

• Lima House Hostel – this cozy hostel is located steps away from Museo de Arte de Lima. You can opt for a bed in a shared room or a private room with a shared bathroom.
• 1900 Hostel – this hostel is set in a beautiful historic building steps away from Parque de la Exposición. You can stay in a private or shared room. Every morning, enjoy a free breakfast!

3. Barranco – for Lima’s epic nightlife!

Barranco is Lima’s bohemian district and the city’s coolest area to stay! 

This district is the best place to stay in Lima for nightlife, offering a lot of entertainment. For a fun night out, stop by Sargento Pimienta Rock Bar and end the day on a high note! They usually have live music!

But Barranco has so much to offer besides nightlife. It is home to artists and poets; you will find them in every corner of the district! 

All that artsyness makes it a great place to stay in Lima for couples!

Barranco is known as the Soho of Lima because of its unique artsy vibe!

I highly recommend you stop by Dedalo, which is a stunning art gallery featuring many local artists and a cute terrace cafe where you can relax after shopping.

This district has a unique chill feeling – you can stroll around the old, colorful colonial houses or relax at one of the area’s quirky cafés.

You can also find the Lima Museum of Contemporary Art in this area. Here, you can find art pieces from the 50’s to the present day.

Another great museum in the area is Museo Pedro de Osma, which features a private collection of Peruvian colonial art.

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels – wanna stay in colonial buildings during your stay? This hotel is for you. It is luxurious and beautiful. Some rooms come with balconies and soaking tubs.
• Hotel B – wow! This hotel feels so romantic! It is steps away from cool bars and restaurants in the area. If you are looking for Hotels near the Lima Museum of Contemporary Art, stay here!

Mid-range (from US$60 to US$150)

• Hotel Park Suites – stay in one of the best mid-range hotels with a traditional Peruvian touch! Select rooms have a hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a night out!
• Second Home Peru – how stunning! This hotel has a unique, artsy style. It is filled with art pieces and vintage furniture. It is located right by the beachfront in Barranco.

Budget (up to US$60)

• Lima Wari Hotel Boutique – this hotel is so cute! It has a charming traditional style. It comes with an onsite cafe serving traditional food. It is located a stone’s throw away from the nightlife center!
• Loft Barranco – this apartment is pretty luxurious for such an incredible price! It comes with a rooftop pool and sweeping city views! It is located right next to the Museum of contemporary art. 

4. San Isidro – best area for families

The upscale area of San Isidro is one of the quietest and safest residential areas in Lima. This makes it one of the best neighborhoods for family vacations! 

This beautiful, relaxed residential district has plenty of high-brand shopping malls, restaurants, and lush parks.

Bosque El Olivar, also known as Olive Grove Park, is a great attraction for families with young kids. It is the perfect place for relaxing family strolls and picnics. This park also has a cute koi fish pond!

San Isidro used to be a beautiful area filled with Olive trees! In the 16th century, it was integrated into the city by the Spanish colonizers.

For shopping, I recommend venturing to Avenida Conquistadores. Along this street, you can find cute boutique clothing shops and restaurants – you’ll be spoilt for choice! 

If you want to uncover history with the whole family, visit stunning archaeological sites in the area, like Huaca Huallamarca. It will be a fun, educational day for everyone!

Luxury (US$130 and up)

• Swissotel Lima – stay in a Lima hotel with a pool! Looking for hotels near Olivar Park? This one is right next to it, as well as shops and stores! There is a tennis court onsite, which you can use for a fee!
• The Hotel Westin Lima & Convention Center – oh my god! This hotel is so luxurious! Rooms come with sweeping city views! If you want to go shopping, you have cool stores just outside your door!

Mid-range (from US$80 to US$130)

• Hotel Melia Lima – this hotel is the perfect mix between modern and classic! It is located an easy walk away from Real Plaza Salaverry. The onsite restaurant comes with movie-like views!
• NM Lima Hotel – stay in a modern hotel in the heart of San Isidro! Parque El Olivar is just steps away from the property. Work out with a view at the hotel’s fitness center.

Budget (up to US$80)

• Del Prado Hotel – located in a residential area and a 15-minute walk away from the Historic Center. This hotel comes in a classy, modern style. Select rooms come with spa baths!
• Arte Hotel Lima – this hotel is artsy and trendy! It comes with an onsite cafe offering Peruvian and International cuisine. Location? Surrounded by stores and El Olivar Park.

5. Pueblo Libre – for budget travelers

If you’re looking for an area as quiet as San Isidro but at cheaper prices, Pueblo Libre, once called Antigua Magdalena, is definitely for you! 

Another advantage of Pueblo Libre is its many attractions that can meet the tastes of everybody, and even if you’re on a budget, you’ll find something for you in Pueblo Libre!

There are plenty of museums in this area, so for the culture lovers among you, this neighborhood is the one!

In the former home of José de San Martin and Simon Bolivar, 2 key political figures in South America, you can visit the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru.

Another must-visit museum in the district is the Larco Museum. It is set in a stunning mansion with exhibitions of pre-Columbian artifacts. PRO TIP: Stop by the mansion’s onsite café. The decor is exquisite!

Pueblo Libre acquired its name after General José de San Martin liberated Peru from Spain. Pueblo Libre means ¨Free Town.¨

This district is home to a zoo and botanical gardens, Parque de las Leyendas, so if you’re traveling on a budget with kids, there’s plenty for them to do. 

Don’t leave Pueblo Libre without trying a Pisco Sour, the national drink! The best place to do this is at El Bolivariano.

Luxury (US$80 and up)

• Encantador apartamento – a renovated apartment in the heart of Pueblo Libre! It is located steps away from restaurants and a short walk to the Archaeological Museum. It can host up to 4 guests.
• Departamento BH South – this cute little apartment in Pueblo Libre is better for small groups. It features a beautiful balcony with views. It is steps away from Parque 3 de Octubre.

Mid-range (US$40 – US$80)

• Ruben’s House – stay in a homey apartment with all the essentials! This place is perfect for those who need a cozy stay.
• Mini Depa – this property is ideal for 2 guests. The apartment is steps away from the archaeological museum, cute restaurants, and cafes.

Budget (up to US$40)

• Departamento Studio – stay in a homey apartment for 2 guests. It comes with everything you need for an easy stay. It is located near Parque de las Leyendas.
• Casa Particular – located in between Pueblo Libre and San Miguel. This property offers 3 types of rooms: simple and cozy! It is located right across Parque de las Leyendas.

Best apartments in Lima

Would you rather spend your days in Lima feeling more at home, in the comfort of your own place? Staying in an apartment is an excellent option if you prefer to exercise more independence during your stay!

Here, you have 6 amazing apartment options for all budgets in Lima!

Luxury (US$80 and up)

• Atrium Miraflores Hotel – this apart-hotel offers amazing suites with private kitchens! Enjoy the privacy of your own apartment with the perks of room service. It is located in the heart of Miraflores!
• Urbano Apartments Miraflores Pardo – this beautiful hotel offers apartments in Miraflores. Relax by the pool on the roof terrace. The biggest apartments can host up to 5 guests.

Mid-range (from US$50 to US$80)

• Apart Hotel Petit – stay in deluxe suites in Miraflores! The properties come with private kitchens. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast in the common room before heading out to explore.
• Exclusive Apartment in San Isidro – oh my God! This apartment looks stunning! It offers exquisite city views and a luxurious private kitchen. The building has a fitness center and coworking rooms.

Budget (up to US$50)

• Casa Fanning Hotel – are you ready to party in Barranco and relax in the privacy of your own apartment? This property comes with 2 swimming pools. The beach is a short walk away!
• Trendy Host Stelar – stay in a beautiful, trendy apartment in Barranco! Properties can host up to 6 guests. There is an outdoor pool open to all apartment guests.

👑 Luxury price:	$180
💵 Mid-range:	$100
🛏️ Budget:	$50
📍 Best neighborhood:	Miraflores
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Radisson Decapolis Miraflores
🧳 Mid-range hotel:	Hotel Estelar Miraflores
👛 Best budget hotel:	La Luna Inn

BONUS 1: best hotels in Lima for families

Traveling with your family and looking for hotels with family-friendly amenities? I’ve got you covered!

Here are the best family hotels in Lima divided by budget:

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Hilton Lima Miraflores – this is a great family hotel in Miraflores! It comes with interconnecting rooms and an outdoor swimming pool for everyone’s fun! It is located steps away from Larcomar open-air shopping mall.
• Innside Lima Miraflores – this modern hotel in Miraflores comes with a free buffet breakfast. The spacious rooms can host families of 4 members. Enjoy the bike rental service and discover the city with the whole family!

Mid-range (from US$90 to US$150)

• Casa Andina Premium Miraflores – a stunning 5-star hotel located in Miraflores. It comes with a beautiful spa center with a sauna and a swimming pool for all ages. The onsite restaurant has kids’ meals!
• 2BR Miraflores – this Miraflores apartment is perfect for families of 4 members. The building comes with a swimming pool and a barbeque area. Perfect for wholesome family times!

Budget (up to US$90)

• Selina Miraflores – family hostels located in Miraflores? Yes! This trendy hostel offers family rooms! Plus, the onsite restaurant has family-friendly menus perfect for the kiddos!
• Faraona Grand Hotel – this classic hotel in Miraflores is perfect for a relaxing family stay! It comes with a free breakfast. And classes about culture you can join with your family.

BONUS 2: best hotels near Lima airport

If you need to know where to stay in Lima for one night before catching a plane, I have for you the best Jorge Chavez International Airport lodging in Lima for a peaceful sleep!

• Holiday Inn – Lima Airport – this hotel is located right in front of the airport! This hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning. Enjoy a free breakfast before catching your flight!
• Lima Airport Hostel – this hostel is a 20-minute drive from the airport and offers a free shuttle service. Rooms are simple and have a cozy vibe.
• Sunset Hostel Airport – super simple and colorful hostel. It is located a 10-minute walk from the airport. The property comes with a free breakfast and a paid airport shuttle service.

FAQs about where to stay in Lima

Conclusion

That is all for today, my sweet angels! Those were the best areas where to stay in Lima! Plus, some apartment and airport lodging recommendations!

All the hotels in this article are fantastic, but if I had to choose my top 2 I would go with the:

• JW Marriott Hotel Lima – this Marriott Hotel in Lima has something special! I love the elegant rooms with views!
• Second Home Peru – the nicest of boutique hotels in Lima. What splendor! And in the cool area of Barranco!

Accommodation in Lima gets booked super fast. You have to book in advance to save yourself a room!

Which of these areas is your favorite place to stay in the Peruvian capital? Let me know in the comments, and if you have any questions, I’d be happy to help you out!

Until the next one,

Mariana

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