An Artsy Neighborhood In Peru Is Packed With Culture, Color, And Mouthwatering Cocktails

With its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, Peru shines as a standout destination for lovers of all things culture, food, and history. One of the most underrated countries in the world, the South American nation has plenty going for it. For example, the country is widely considered one of the most budget-friendly places for travelers, so it's the perfect place to add to your bucket list. While Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley might typically get all the praise from travelers, Lima — the country's sprawling capital — is a gem all on its own. Lima is a melting pot of luxurious hotels, gorgeous parks, restaurants, galleries, and markets that come together to create one very special destination. From the polished, cosmopolitan Miraflores district to the historic center, the capital city easily steals the show.

And for street art lovers and travelers craving a touch of creative energy — in addition to a more relaxed vibe — there's no place like Barranco. This artsy, colorful district is located roughly 45 minutes from the city's Jorge Chávez International Airport and boasts the perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary culture. The neighborhood's streets showcase an ever-changing gallery of colorful murals, as well as historic mansions that house everything from boutique hotels to cutting-edge art galleries.

Once the sun begins to set, it's time to trade up your walking shoes for something a little more stylish. Lima's reputation as one of the top foodie destinations in the world isn't just hype — and Barranco takes it very seriously. The city is lauded for its award-winning restaurants and bars serving up innovative cocktails made with pisco, Peru's national spirit. Between the trendy spots and traditional taverns that have served locals for generations, you'll find plenty of ways to bite and sip your way around the neighborhood.

Barranco's bohemian soul can be seen in its winding streets and alleyways lined with murals and art that tell a vibrant story. Kick off your art-fueled journey at the famous Puente de los Suspiros — a 100-foot wooden bridge that has become the neighborhood's most-photographed landmark. Legend has it that if you're able to hold your breath while walking across it and make a wish, it's destined to come true. Once you've caught your breath again, follow the path along the nearby Bajada de los Baños, a lively pedestrian street that has everything from boutiques to galleries to cafés.

Art-wise, there's no need to go hunting to see Barranco's famous street art and murals — there's one waiting on pretty much every corner and surface. For the best experience, you can easily join a free walking tour of the neighborhood that'll take you to some of the best graffiti-peeping spots. The guide will not only show you around, but also give you background details on the art, artists, and the evolution of the area as a go-to for all things creative in Lima.

Barranco is also home to several museums that showcase both traditional and contemporary Peruvian art. One of these is the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC), which displays an impressive collection of Latin American works from the 1940s onward. Meanwhile, the Museo Pedro de Osma occupies a stunning turn-of-the-century mansion that's filled with colonial art and furniture. Lastly, for an intimate look at one of Peru's contemporary voices, visit the Museo Jade Rivera — an intimate space where the artist's murals and paintings explore themes of Peruvian culture and identity.

The only thing more colorful than Barranco's street art is its food scene — and, boy, does it deliver. A haven of creativity and flavor, the neighborhood showcases Peru's renowned gastronomy through a combination of innovative restaurants and cherished local spots. Take Pan Sal Aire, for example, where Chef Jerónimo de Aliaga creates Mediterranean-inspired dishes served up alongside some seriously refreshing cocktails. Alternatively, for a more locally-inspired experience, restaurants like Central and Mérito — the latter of which was selected as Food & Wine's Best International Restaurant for 2024 — push boundaries while celebrating traditional ingredients and cooking techniques.

The district's cocktail scene proves equally impressive, with sleek modern bars and historic taverns competing for your attention. A few can't-miss spots to kick back and enjoy a few drinks include Ayahuasca, known for its creative pisco cocktails in a converted mansion. Visitors should also seek out Juanito Barranco, which has been serving up drinks since 1937. The bar area at Hotel B is also staffed with award-winning mixologists pouring innovative drinks on the ground floor. But if you like a good view with your drink, the rooftop offers perfect sunset views over Lima's coastline.