Barranco

Barranco is a magnet for young people who come to carouse in its bars and cafés. Sleepy during the day, the neighborhood comes to life around sunset when artists start hawking their wares and its central square and bars begin filling up with people ready to party. Founded toward the end of the 19th century, Barranco was where wealthy Limeños built their summer residences. The weather proved so irresistible that many eventually constructed huge mansions on the cliffs above the sea. Many of these have fallen into disrepair, but little by little they are being renovated into funky restaurants and hotels.

Getting Around

To get your bearings, head to Parque Municipal, one of the nicest parks in the city. To the south, the brick-red building with the tower is the Biblioteca Municipal, or Municipal Library. Stop by the tourist office on the ground floor to pick up a map of the neighborhood. To the north is the parish church called La Santisima Cruz. To the east is Lima's own Bridge of Sighs, the Puente de los Suspiros. Directly below is the bougainvillea-shaded Bajada de Baños, lined with wonderful old houses. Head down this cobblestone street and soon you'll find yourself walking in the waves at Playa Barranquito.