Barranco, Lima’s most romantic and artistic district, is a colorful, bohemian neighborhood that offers a variety of dining options, from charming cafés to local eateries. It is set against a backdrop of unique street art and colonial architecture.
Whether you’re snapping photos of the Bridge of Sighs or exploring its rich cultural scene, Barranco is a destination that will excite your taste buds and your senses.
In this guide, I’ll take you through 14 unforgettable places to see in Barranco, with photos, tips, and ideas based on my experience.
Whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or staying a few days, this itinerary will help you explore the heart and soul of Lima’s coolest neighborhood. Remember to [stay in well-lit areas] and [avoid walking alone at night] to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
The Best 14 Places You Must Visit in Historic Barranco
Where is Barranco?
Barranco is a district located in the southern part of Lima, the capital of Peru. It is situated on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and borders the districts of Miraflores, Chorrillos, and the sea.
It is known for its bohemian atmosphere, colorful streets, rich history, and proximity to the beach.
How to get to Barranco?
The quickest way is to take a taxi. Depending on Lima’s chaotic traffic, it will take about 10 to 15 minutes from Miraflores.
A taxi app like Taxi Beat or Easy Taxi is recommended, as hailing a taxi from the street can be dangerous, and you might get robbed. Don’t forget to carry cash to pay for the ride.
About Barranco
The district of Barranco was founded in 1864, becoming a popular seaside resort and tourist destination. It was named after the fantastic cliffs of Barranco, which helped to divide the beaches.
Lima’s upper-class citizens regularly visited Barranco for its fantastic seaside resort and the tramway that no longer exists.
If you’re still planning your trip, check out my guide on Where to Stay in Lima—with tips on the best districts for travelers
1. Visit the Bridge of Sighs
The picturesque wooden bridge connects both sides of Barranco. During her childhood, the famous singer Chabuca Granda regularly visited it, and she was inspired to create the song “El Puente de los Suspiros” (the Bridge of Sighs) in its honor.
They say that if you cross the bridge for the first time while holding your breath, your heart’s wishes will come true.
2. Visit the church La Ermita
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Unfortunately, this church is in very poor condition and could collapse. For this reason, entry is not allowed.
It is said that local fishermen saw a bright light in the shape of Jesus Christ on the cross; they considered it a sacred place and built a cross there. This later became the site of La Ermita.
3. Stroll around El Mirador
The Mirador is the ideal place to take photos, breathe in the fresh air with a hint of sea breeze, and enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from Barranco.
You can see San Lorenzo Island and the entire Costa Verde if the sky is clear. The best part is that it’s just a stone’s throw away from La Ermita.
4. Walk from the “Bajada de Baños” to the Pacific Ocean
Below the Bridge of Sighs is a cobblestone path that will lead you directly to the Pacific Ocean, and you can even reach the bustling and popular Agua Dulce beach.
As you descend, you can appreciate the picturesque cane and wooden houses, some of which are art studios, while others are restaurants, pubs, or private homes.
Interested in staying in unique places across Peru? Don’t miss my stay with the Uros on Lake Titicaca—an incredible floating island experience.
5. Go for drinks at Ayahuasca
Ayahuasca Bar is one of the best places to Visit in Historic Barranco. Here, you can enjoy the national drink “Pisco Sour” and indulge in various appetizers, such as anticuchos, tequeños, fish ceviche, stuffed potatoes, and other typical Peruvian dishes.
It’s in an old colonial house in Barranco and has a relaxed, colorful, and bohemian atmosphere. The walls are covered with murals featuring portraits of famous Peruvian figures.
6. Listen to live music at La Estación de Barranco
This venue regularly hosts concerts with live music. It’s a historic place in Barranco as it has been supporting national artists for decades.
Famous singers, such as the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Gianmarco and the Afro-Peruvian and Creole music singer Eva Ayllón, have performed there. They also offer jazz concerts.
7. Visit the Museum of the Photographer Mario Testino
At MATE, you can admire the work of one of the world’s most famous fashion photographers.
The Peruvian Mario Testino displays (among others) portraits of Lady Diana, Madonna, Angelina Jolie, and one of his favorite muses, Kate Moss. It is in a restored old mansion from the 19th century in Barranco.
8. Visit the Museum Pedro de Osma
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The art museum is housed in an impressive 1906 house. It used to be the summer residence of the wealthy Osma-Berkemeyer family.
Now, they frequently organize art and fashion exhibitions and have a pavilion dedicated to objects of Peruvian culture. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful houses in Lima and Barranco.
9. Admire the street murals
The colorful street art is hidden throughout the district. Barranco is one of the few places in Lima where you can still find colorful murals and graffiti.
Unfortunately, in 2015, the Mayor of Lima, Luis Castañeda, ordered the removal of all street murals in the city and its historic center.
10. Dine at the best restaurant in the world
If your budget allows, visit Central, by chefs Virgilio Martínez and Pía León, which was awarded the title of best restaurant in the world in 2023.
It has a beautiful garden where they grow their herbs. They also offer exquisite wine and cocktail pairings. Be sure to make your reservation months in advance!
11. Go café hopping
I recommend visiting Ciclos Cafe in the heart of Barranco! Explore the second floor, where you’ll find El Cacaotal and a remarkable selection of chocolate bars with native cocoa varieties.
You can enjoy coffee at any time of the day with a strong brew from “Tostaduria Bisetti,” a café where you can taste different Peruvian coffee.
Looking for nature and eco-tourism in Peru? Discover my experience Sleeping in an Eco Lodge in the Tambopata Jungle.
12. Go shopping
Do souvenir shopping at Galería Dédalo in Barranco. Also, visit La Zapatería in Barranco to find beautifully handmade shoes.
I suggest visiting Escudo to discover Peruvian knitwear and craftsmanship. Check out Puna for ceramics, prints, and amazing home decorations.
13. Take the opportunity to buy original books
If you’re into reading, Barranco has some bookstores with books you won’t find elsewhere. Visit “La Rebelde,” a vibrant bookstore and community center in Barranco with a diverse selection of fascinating books.
Visit Placeres Compulsivos, a unique library dedicated entirely to literary works by female authors.
14. Take a stroll along the waterfront
Why not walk along the Malecón, the promenade adorned with tall palm trees lining the waterfront?
If you’re lucky and the sky is clear, you might see the Costa Verde, the beaches, and even San Lorenzo Island. If you have time, you can walk to Miraflores along the Pacific Ocean coastline.
🎨 You Might Also Like
If you enjoyed Barranco’s bohemian charm, here are more soulful and sustainable travel experiences to inspire your next adventure:
🏙️ Where to Stay in Lima – Best Districts for Travelers
🛖 Staying with the Uros – A Cultural Experience on Lake Titicaca
🌿 Sleeping in an Eco Lodge in the Tambopata Amazon Jungle
🛕 Angkor Wat 3-Day Itinerary – Explore Temples, Culture & Heritage
🌾 Sidemen Valley Trail – A Peaceful Village Walk in Bali
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