Lima Budget Guide

How Much Does Lima Cost?

Lima offers an enormous range — from $20-a-night hostels in Barranco to $400-a-night suites in Miraflores and meals ranging from $3 ceviche at a market to $200 tasting menus at Central. It is one of the most value-flexible cities in South America.

Lima Food Costs — What to Expect

Lima's range is extraordinary: the world's best restaurant (Central) sits in the same city as market ceviches for $3. Most visitors eat at the mid-range level — excellent neighbourhood restaurants serving fresh ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa for $15–30 per person.

• Market ceviche (Mercado Surquillo): $3–5
• Neighbourhood restaurant lunch: $8–15 per person
• Mid-range dinner (Barranco/Miraflores): $20–40 per person
• Central / Maido tasting menu: $150–250 per person (book months ahead)
• Coffee in Barranco café: $2–4

Getting Around Lima

Uber is the recommended transport for tourists — affordable, safe, and works across the city. Lima's traffic is notorious; allow extra time for journeys across the city, especially at rush hour (7–9am, 5–8pm).

• Uber Miraflores to Barranco: ~$3–5 (15min without traffic)
• Uber to airport (Callao): ~$15–20 (30–60min depending on traffic)
• Lima Hop bus (tourist circuit): ~$15/day
• Avoid public buses without local knowledge — confusing and pickpocket risk

Budget Tips for Lima

• Eat lunch — the menu del día (set lunch) at local restaurants is $4–8 and usually excellent
• Mercado Surquillo No. 1 (Miraflores) is Lima's best food market and cheap
• The Larco Museum gardens café is a beautiful lunch spot at mid-range prices
• Huaca Pucllana night visit from outside is free — you can see the lit pyramid without entering