Miraflores
Lima's most upscale and modern coastal district, featuring dramatic clifftop parks, fine dining, shopping, and beautiful ocean views over the Pacific. It's the heart of contemporary Lima and ideal for experiencing the city's cosmopolitan side.
Things to do
- Parque del Amor — Stroll through this romantic clifftop park with a giant sculpture of an embracing couple, panoramic Pacific views, and manicured gardens perfect for sunset.
- Malecón de Miraflores — Walk or bike along this scenic coastal promenade stretching 13 kilometers with parks, restaurants, and unobstructed ocean vistas.
- Larco Museum — Explore Peru's finest private art collection spanning pre-Columbian to contemporary works in a colonial mansion surrounded by gardens.
- Huaca Pucllana — Visit this pre-Incan pyramid built around 500 CE rising dramatically in the center of Miraflores with a museum and evening light show.
- Larcomar Shopping Center — Browse upscale international and Peruvian brands at this clifftop mall integrated into the landscape with restaurants and ocean views.
- Parque Kennedy — Spend time in this central plaza surrounded by cafés, galleries, and boutique shops in the heart of Miraflores' commercial district.
Food to try
- Ceviche — Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice with ají amarillo, served with sweet potato and cancha corn—Peru's national dish perfected at Miraflores seafood restaurants.
- Causa Limeña — Layered potato mousse with avocado, chicken, and hard-boiled egg topped with a rich yellow pepper sauce, a classic Lima appetizer.
- Lomo Saltado — Stir-fried beef strips with tomatoes, onions, and aji peppers served with rice and fries, blending Peruvian and Chinese culinary traditions.
- Tiradito — Thin-sliced raw fish dressed tableside with citrus and spiced oil, a more refined cousin of ceviche popular in Miraflores' upscale dining scene.
- Anticuchos — Marinated beef heart skewers grilled and served with potatoes and spicy green sauce, a beloved street food and casual dining staple.
Local customs & good to know
- Dress code for dining — Upscale restaurants in Miraflores expect smart casual or business attire; avoid beachwear and flip-flops in fine dining establishments.
- Timing of meals — Dinner service typically begins at 7 PM and peaks around 9-10 PM, while lunch is a substantial midday meal taken between 1-3 PM.
- Tipping customs — A 10% tip is standard at restaurants if service charge isn't included; rounding up is acceptable at cafés and casual venues.
- Ocean access and safety — While cliffs are stunning, ocean swimming here is generally not recommended due to cold currents and rough waters; enjoy views from designated parks instead.