Shopping in Lima
Discover Lima's Shopping Paradise: From Boutiques to Bargains. Lima offers an exciting fusion of high-end boutiques, bustling markets, and shopping streets where locals and visitors can indulge in retail therapy. Make a shopping journey through the heart of Lima highlighting designer finds, traditional products, souvenirs, and the best spots to immerse yourself in Lima’s shopping culture. If you love shopping, you will be happy in Lima. You can buy anything in the Peruvian capital, from genuine Gucci handbags, designer clothes, sweaters, and hats alpaca wool, and more souvenirs.
Districts like Miraflores and San Isidro have plenty of expensive boutique clothing stores, and there are also international brands in shopping centers like Larcomar and large retail stores like Ripley. Lima's shopping landscape offers diverse experiences, from luxury designer finds to authentic Peruvian souvenirs. While exploring these shopping destinations, you'll also have the opportunity to soak in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere that define Lima.
Designer Delights:
Larcomar Shopping Center
Overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean, Larcomar is Lima's premier shopping destination for designer labels, luxury boutiques, and upscale dining. Located in the Miraflores district, it is the perfect place to find high-end fashion, jewelry, and accessories while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
Jockey Plaza
Jockey Plaza is one of South America's largest malls in the Santiago de Surco district. You'll find many international brands, designer stores, movie theaters, supermarkets, and a diverse range of products, from fashion to electronics. Jockey Plaza is a modern, American-style shopping mall—the biggest and best in Lima—with department stores, restaurants, 200 exclusive shops, plus bars and a food truck court.
Camino Real Shopping Center
Nestled in the heart of San Isidro, Camino Real is a chic shopping center that caters to discerning shoppers. Explore renowned Peruvian designers' boutiques and pick up sophisticated fashion and artisanal jewelry.
Plaza San Miguel is the oldest shopping center in the city of Lima. It was inaugurated in 1976 on land belonging to the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. There are more than 170 stores, including cinemas, gyms, supermarkets and food courts. Due to its history and innovative stores, it is one of the busiest shopping centers in the city: it receives more than 12 million people each year. Plaza San Migual is located in the district of San Miguel.
Plaza Norte
Plaza Norte is one of the biggest shopping centers in Lima. It is located in the district of Independencia, in north of the city. Plaza Norte opened its doors in 2009 as one of the largest commercial emporiums in Lima. It has an area of 200 thousand square meters divided into four levels where supermarkets, clothes, food court, cinema, gym, a theater and even nightclubs stand out. The ‘Plaza Norte’ land terminal is nearby with departures to different parts of Peru, especially northern Peru.
Local Treasures:
Gamarra
Located in the La Victoria district, Gamarra is Lima's bustling textile district, known for affordable clothing, fabrics, and accessories. It's a vibrant and chaotic market where locals shop for trendy attire. Bargain hunters should avoid these places and instead go to Gamarra, the largest center for retail clothing in Peru (it covers about 20 blocks in the La Victoria district). It can get a little sketchy sometimes, especially when crowded, so be wary of pickpockets and opportunistic thieves.
Beneath the Gamarra metro station you find the Mercado de Brujas (Witches’ Market), wehre you can buy different potions and cure-alls, including the now-infamous frog smoothies.
Polvos Azules
Another option is Polvos Azules, also in La Victoria. It’s a sprawling and ramshackle shopping center with thousands of stores selling everything from perfume to purses to PlayStations. In Central Lima, a block or two from Barrio Chino, you’ll find the Mercado Central. Inside the main market building are stalls selling fresh produce, including meat, fruit, and veg. All around the market are stalls selling everything from shoes to Tupperware to electronics that probably won’t work for more than a week.
Mercado Central
Discover the heart of Lima's traditional shopping culture at Mercado Central. Located in the historic city center, this bustling market offers many local products, including handicrafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs.
Mercado Indio
For authentic Peruvian handicrafts and artwork, head to Mercado Indio in Miraflores. This market is a treasure trove of beautifully crafted textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, making it an ideal spot for unique souvenirs.
Market Marvels
Mercado Surquillo No. 1
Explore this local market in the Surquillo district to immerse yourself in Peruvian culinary culture. You'll find fresh produce, exotic fruits, and local delicacies, making it a food lover's paradise.
Mercado de Magdalena
Venture to Magdalena del Mar to experience a traditional local market. It's a fantastic place to interact with friendly vendors, sample street food, and shop for daily necessities.
Alpaca Stores/ Markets
Lima boasts numerous markets and stores dedicated to alpaca wool products. Look for warm, high-quality sweaters, scarves, and blankets. Check out the Miraflores Artisan Market for a variety of alpaca goodies.
Hidden Shopping Gems
Calle San Ramón
In the heart of the historic center, this street is lined with shops offering artisanal goods, vintage finds, and antiques. It's perfect for those seeking unique treasures.
Avenida La Paz
Stroll along Avenida La Paz in Miraflores, where you'll find an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. It's a hidden gem for one-of-a-kind pieces. Look for silver jewelry and antiques along Avenida La Paz too; in particular, there’s a little pedestrian-only passageway that’s lined with well-stocked antiques shops including religious art.
Petit Thouars Avenue
This avenue in San Isidro is known for its upscale boutiques and home decor stores. It's a must-visit for interior design enthusiasts. For prime souvenir shopping in Lima, you can visit the Mercado Indio (Indian Market) along Avenida Petit Thouars in Miraflores. It’s touristy, and you’ll probably find slightly better prices elsewhere, but it’s packed full of good stuff and makes souvenir shopping easy.
Jirón de la Unión: Lima's Timeless Shopping Street
When it comes to shopping in Lima, Jirón de la Unión is an iconic destination that stands out as a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant commerce. Nestled in the heart of Lima's historic city center, Jirón de la Unión is a bustling pedestrian street that exudes charm and character. It spans several blocks, running from the renowned Plaza San Martín to the captivating Plaza de Armas. This central location makes it easily accessible and an ideal starting point for exploring Lima's historic sites and shopping treasures. Beyond its shopping allure, Jirón de la Unión is steeped in history. The street's architecture, with its elegant facades and ornate balconies, harks back to a bygone era. As you shop and stroll, take a moment to appreciate the historical buildings that house these vibrant businesses.
Peruvian Souvenirs
For travelers seeking authentic Peruvian souvenirs, Jirón de la Unión is a treasure trove. You can browse through stalls and shops that showcase beautifully crafted textiles, ceramics, and alpaca wool products. Whether you're looking for intricate handwoven textiles or vibrant, hand-painted pottery, this street has it all.
Peruvian Flavors
As you explore Jirón de la Unión, don't forget to sample some of Peru's delectable street food. From mouthwatering empanadas to sweet churros and fresh fruit juices, the street is alive with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. In the late afternoon or early evening the street comes alive with street performers. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Jirón de la Unión is not just a shopping street; it's a cultural experience in the heart of Lima.