Lonely Planet Review

The long-running Hostal España is in a rambling old mansion full of classical busts, birds and paintings. It's an established backpackers' scene with basic, but not unlovely, accommodation. Service can be abrupt, however it's the most social spot in central Lima to meet other travelers.

While the rates might make you fear you've chosen the bargain basement of Lima guesthouses, this ramshackle building, standing beside a busy street, is surprisingly comely inside. The stripped-down rooms have wooden beds and pastel-painted walls with shuttered windows overlooking the central courtyard. Many travelers find it so comfy here, they end up staying for a week. Expect some noise as fellow backpackers stomp up and down the narrow, winding stairways, coming and going at all hours. There are limited hot showers in the early morning or late evening, as well as Internet access, laundry services and a rooftop cafe surrounded by a veritable jungle of trailing plants. It's a prime place to kick off your South American sojourn.