Barranco

Barranco is a mix of bohemian, historic, and run-down, but the area along the coast is the most charming of Lima's neighborhoods. On weekend nights, it is a magnet for young people who come to carouse in its bars and dance clubs. Sleepy during the day, the neighborhood comes to life around sunset when artisans start hawking their wares on its central square and the bars begin filling up. Founded toward the end of the 19th century, Barranco was where wealthy Limeños built their summer residences. The streetcar line that once connected it to El Centro brought crowds of beach goers on weekends and holidays. The view proved so irresistible that some built huge mansions on the cliffs above the sea. Many of these have fallen into disrepair, but little by little they are being renovated.