Pueblo Libre

Traditional neighborhood with museums and colonial architecture. Small-town feel, safe, but needs Spanish and lacks tourist infrastructure.

Pueblo Libre has colonial architecture and museums - the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History is in what used to be Simón Bolívar's mansion. Both Bolívar and José de San Martín lived here during the independence wars. It has a residential small-town feel where neighbors know each other, which is unusual for Lima. Less congested than Miraflores or the center. You can walk around safely most hours though it gets quiet after 9pm. Museums have some English but the neighborhood doesn't - you need Spanish. Local restaurants serve traditional food at neighborhood prices. Solo diners get curious looks but nothing hostile. You'll Uber to Miraflores or Barranco for nightlife or tourist amenities. Good if you're into history and want a quieter base.