Definitely my favorite neighborhood in Lima. If you only have a short period of time in the city of cities, Barranco (Spanish for ravine) is a must. You’ll be enchanted by all the colors, romantic and bohemian vibe as well as the colonial mansions. At night, it transforms into the city’s party district with tones of restaurants, bars and clubs.
I would recommend walking from Miraflores to Barranco on the Malecón (walk on the coastal cliffs). It takes about 1 hour but the view and the fresh air is worthy it.
What to do:
- Parque municipal de Barranco: main square with the lively yellow Santisima Cruz church. You’ll often see street performers and musicians
- Puente de los Supers (Bridge of Sighs): cute little wooden bridge where lovers meet before going to the beach. It is said that if you hold your breath while crossing it, your wish will be granted.
- Bajada de los Baños: walkway that connects Barranco to the ocean that was initially used by fishermen
- Visit an art gallery or museum. I’d recommend the MATE (Museo Mario Testino). It was founded by the Peruvian photographer Mario Testino in a lovely light blue 19th Century mansion, the MATE museum has a permanent exhibition of the world renown photographer and temporary exhibitions. I love the fashion pictures and portraits of international icons (Kate Moss, Diana, Gisele Bündchen, etc).
Opening hours Tue-Sun 10am-7pm, avenida Pedro de Osma 409
10 soles for the whole museum - Watch the sunset from the coastal cliffs
- And most of all, walk around to look at all the street art!
Just meets World 