Barranco, Lima's bohemian quarter

Discover the many artists

A stroll through the streets of Barranco reveals the extent to which art is omnipresent, from theatre and music to sculpture and painting. Many works of street art can be seen on the colourful façades of buildings, some visible while others play hide-and-seek with tourists. Peruvian and international artists have painted on the walls of Barranco, including Jade Riveira, a Peruvian street artist who exhibits all over the world and whose gallery is one of the must-sees in Barranco.

Opposite the La Ermita church, you'll also see artists giving street concerts. This is also where you'll find the sculpture of Isabelle Chabuca Granda, a Peruvian singer and guitarist as popular and legendary as our own Edith Piaf. A street art piece depicts her a few metres further on.

Discover fascinating sites

What makes the Barranco district so special are its buildings and structures, with their many influences. This former fishing village, now the city's bohemian and romantic quarter, is home to some not-to-be-missed monuments and buildings. Head for the Plaza de Barranco, a tree-lined municipal park where you'll find the architecturally stunning library.

We then head to the Place des Armes to discover the La Ermita church, with its colonial architecture, and the Bridge of Sighs.

The Bridge of Sighs was built in 1876 as a tribute to the Italians who had lived here - there's no denying the influence of Venice's Bridge of Sighs. According to tradition, you should hold your breath and make a wish as you cross it, which will come true if you reach the other side before you catch your breath.

🚌 Getting there: you can get to the Barranco district by bus or taxi. By bus, you'll need to stop at the Bulevar station, but be aware that drivers shout out destinations as they pass a station, so you'll need to pay close attention to avoid missing your bus.

Going out in Barranco: La noche de Barranco is a local mainstay, having been around since 1991! Here you can listen to live music, watch eclectic bands perform, sip cocktails and enjoy tapas. Acantilada de Barranco: this café-restaurant serves typical dishes in a chic yet relaxed atmosphere, and offers uninterrupted views of the sea.

Le Noise: this is the neighbourhood's must-visit nightclub, where DJ sets and concerts are the order of the evening.

The museum of street artist Jade Riveira is open every day from 10.30am to 6.30pm. Website: here

Where to stay in Barranco?

⭐ The Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel

This is one of the most renowned in the district for the architecture of the historic building. It is an old colonial house on two floors, featuring a garden and a rooftop. The double rooms are decorated in a modern, uncluttered style and are appreciated for their comfort, space and facilities.