Miraflores

The Basics

Miraflores contains some of Lima’s best hotels and restaurants, so most city travelers choose to base themselves in this leafy suburb. Nature lovers can soak up sun in a variety of green spaces and beaches, while history buffs can visit Museo Amano (a Pre-Columbian textile museum) and Iglesia Virgen Milagrosa, the area’s largest Catholic church. Even adrenaline-junkies can find an outlet in Miraflores; paragliders flock to nearby Parque del Amor to leap off rocky cliffs and soar over the sea.

Soak in the coastal atmosphere on an evening walking tour of Miraflores and learn about the district’s history and culture from an expert guide. For an overview of city highlights, visit Miraflores on a bike or coach tour of Lima to see attractions such as the UNESCO-listed San Francisco Convent, the Larco Museum, and Plaza de Armas. Or, delve into the district’s bustling nightlife on a private night tour of Lima.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Miraflores is a must-visit destination for foodies and first-time visitors to Lima.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot of ground to cover in Miraflores.

• While Lima is a modern city, visitors should still opt for bottled water over tap water, as the county’s public drinking water may not be purified to contemporary standards.

How to Get There

Miraflores is a beachfront suburb of Lima, roughly three miles (five kilometers) south of the historic city center. Buses run from central Lima to Miraflores along Avenue Arequipa to Avenue Jose Larco, the district’s main street.

When to Get There

Day or night, there’s almost always something to do in Miraflores. By day, the neighborhood attracts visitors with boutiques, galleries, and outdoor leisure at the seaside Parque del Amor. Come evening, restaurants, bars, and dance clubs combine to form one of Lima’s top nightlife hotspots. Summer (December through April) is Lima’s busiest season, while winter (May through November) brings overcast skies and lower prices.

The Cats of Kennedy Park (Parque Kennedy)

Kennedy Park, the unofficial central square of Miraflores, was named in honor of America’s 35th president. No one quite knows why, but the park has become a haven for a mysteriously large cat population, so if you’re missing your furry friends back home, swing by to spend some time with the kitties.

Ways to explore

Many Lima travelers choose to base themselves in this leafy suburb, thanks to its high concentration of churches and museums, and its proximity to green parks and the ocean. Even adrenaline-junkies can find an outlet in Miraflores; paragliders flock to nearby Parque del Amor to leap off rocky cliffs and soar over the sea.

Because of its cultural significance, Miraflores is a staple of Lima sightseeing tours. Bike and coach tours often combine it with Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the bohemian Barranco neighborhood. Evening tours delve into its vibrant nightlife and street food.

Accessibility

Wide pedestrian paths and an even oceanfront boardwalk make Miraflores one of Lima’s most accessible neighborhoods.

Age limits

While there are none, many bars and nightlife venues impose a strict over-18 policy.

What to pack

Thanks to its oceanfront perch, Miraflores is prone to a chilly breeze; bring a jacket.

What to wear

Locals tend to dress up for evenings at high-end restaurants and bars, so opt for smart attire if you’re planning an evening on the town.

Not allowed

Nude sunbathing

Amenities

Cafés, restaurants, bars, hotels, parks, stores, tourist information

Address 

Miraflores is a beachfront suburb of Lima, roughly 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of the historic city center.

Driving

From Plaza de Armas, get onto Paseo de la República. Follow signage for Miraflores and continue along the main thoroughfare passing by San Isidro until you reach Miraflores.

Public transportation

The easiest way to reach Miraflores from central Lima without spending hours sitting in traffic is by using the Metropolitano bus network or Line C of the Tren Electrico rail system.

Best times to visit

When visiting the sun-drenched site of Huaca Pucllana, come in the early morning to beat the midday heat.

Best days to visit

Miraflores’ restaurant and nightlife scenes come to life on the weekend, when you'll likely want reservations.

Best months to visit

If you want to make the most of Miraflores' beachfront location, visit in the dry season from December through March.

Special events

Miraflores erupts into color and celebration for the Fiestas Patrias at the end of July.