If you’re looking for things to do in Lima during your stay, the artsy district of Barranco is definitely one of the unmissable attractions of this bustling capital. Unlike the rest of the city, the bohemian neighborhood is one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring areas of the city and here you’ll know everything about it!
For many years since Colonial times, this has been a getaway destination in Lima, and though it is now surrounded by some of the busiest districts of the city, it has maintained its vivid scene and artistic expression intact.
Barranco is also known as the Soho of Lima, thanks to the experience it offers, where whimsical, realistic and vibrant street-art murals, avant-garde coffee shops, breweries, bars and fancy restaurants give you a glimpse to Lima’s bohemian lifestyle that you may not know about!
If you’re looking for a unique place to stay or to stroll around in our busy capital, Barranco is certainly the right place to go, especially if you love art and history as much as we do. Luckily for you, here we have gathered some of the must-visit attractions of this colorful neighborhood next to Miraflores.
1. Hold your breath, make a wish, and cross the Bridge of Sighs
Known as the Puente de los Suspiros, it is the most emblematic attraction in Barranco, locally known for its mystical attribution where folklore tells that if you cross the bridge while holding your breath and thinking of a wish, it will come true.
The famous bridge was built in 1876, withstood the Pacific War and witnessed the destruction of Barranco in 1881. However, it got significantly damaged when the Chilean troops burned down the district, compromising it along with the Ermita Church.
Nonetheless, the 30-meter wooden bridge is still in one piece looming over the Bajada de Baños street and the most visually striking murals within the bohemian neighborhood. Whether you believe in superstition or not, this popular spot is the best way to start exploring Barranco, especially if you’re on a romantic date.
2. Visit the historical La Ermita Chapel
Before we describe this beautiful church near the Bridge of Sighs, there’s a story that you should know first. Long before the city of Lima was as bustling and busy as it is today, in the 18th century to be exact, a group of fishermen sailed across the Pacific ocean as they usually did everyday but they got lost in the middle of a dense fog.
After hours of wandering in the Pacific ocean’s cold waters, they saw a bright light shaped like a cross in the distance, leading them back to shore safe and sound. The fishermen were intrigued about what had happened so they followed the light and found nothing but the sense of a miracle.
The Ermita Chapel was built in that same location and though it wasn’t as impressive as the ones found in the colonial center of Lima, it held a great importance to the locals of that era. Unfortunately, the chapel suffered great damage during the Pacific War and had to be rebuilt several times after that due to seismic activity as well.
Nowadays, it is a historical and religious monument in Barranco, surrounded by the Puente de los Suspiros, just above the Bajada de Baños and next to popular bohemian restaurants with sea view.
3. Delight your senses at Bajada de Baños
The two previous attractions are located just above this street, which gives the area an artsy and bohemian look from corner to corner. Here you’ll find the actual uniqueness of the Barranco district, where colorful murals decorate the entire street.
A long time ago, before barranco became the cultural and artistic hub it is today, Bajada de Baños was a street used by fishermans to get to the sea, and eventually became the official access to get to the beach.
When it started to be a touristic place for the Limeñan aristocracy, many people established their beach houses in this location. Nowadays, these colorful mansions from the republican era hold the most exquisite restaurants in the area.
Therefore, if you were wondering what would be the most instagrammable and beautiful spot in Barranco, this is the way to go. Besides, here you’ll be able to buy hand-made jewelry and experience the best of our gastronomy without forgetting about listening to good street artists along the way.
4. Travel back in time at the Pedro de Osma Museum
Pedro de Osma was an important lawyer and politician in Peru, whose virreinal art collection is now displayed in his family’s former summer mansion. This french-style building is one of the most impressive structures in Barranco and dates back to 1906.
The museum exhibits several art pieces that were traced back between the 15th and 18th centuries, allowing visitors to explore and have a glimpse at the artistic expression of those eras. Here, you’ll find paintings of renowned artists, such as Bernardo Bitti and Luis de Riano, as well as many other anonymous painters from the 18th century Cusqueñan School.
Undoubtedly, the Pedro de Osma Museum holds some of the most significant art pieces of the vicerroyal era. Currently, it remains temporarily closed to the public due the COVID-19 pandemic, however, all visits must be made with prior reservation and in advance.
5. Support local artists and designers at La Feria & Dedalo
For those looking for the best souvenir to take home, you must visit Dedalo handicraft shop. It was the first contemporary artisan store founded in 1992. Here, you’ll find a variety of pieces made by local artists with materials such as wood, metal and even glass.
Likewise, if you’re looking for a modern-ish styled Peruvian poncho, this is the way to go. The shop also holds a collection of Andean souvenirs and art pieces that you’ll surely fall in love with. And, as if it wasn’t enough, there’s a nice coffee shop located in the courtyard of the remodeled colonial house where the shop is located.
If you’re looking for a more varied place, La Feria is another authentic spot in the Barranco neighborhood that gathers many local artists and designers that looks to promote the creativity and entrepreneurship of small local businesses. However, it is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 10 p.m.
These are a few of the many things to do in Barranco, but certainly the ones that you can’t miss if visiting this artsy district in Lima. As you can see, traveling to Peru is not just about Machu Picchu and the Incas, we would also love to show you our contemporary cultural expression. Check our travel packages and learn how!