Copa Libertadores Final 2025 in Lima: Complete Travel Guide
The Copa Libertadores moves people like no other tournament in South America. And in 2025, all eyes will be on Lima. The Estadio Monumental “U”, home of Universitario de Deportes, will host the one-match final of the continent’s most prestigious football tournament.
For football fans, it’s the dream of a lifetime. But this trip can be much more than 90 minutes of passion. Lima is a city full of history, flavors, nightlife, and coastal views that are worth discovering. If you’re flying in for the match, don’t just rush in and out — this is your chance to experience Peru’s vibrant capital.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how to get to the Monumental, essential matchday tips, and what to do in Lima beyond the final.
The Monumental Stadium: pride of Universitario and icon of Lima
The Estadio Monumental “U”, located in the district of Ate in eastern Lima, is the largest stadium in Peru and one of the biggest in South America. With an official capacity of nearly 80,000 spectators, it has hosted countless memorable matches.
It was inaugurated in 2000 after almost a decade of construction and was designed as a modern temple for Peruvian football. Since then, it has been the home of Universitario de Deportes, the most popular team in the country. Over the years, the Monumental has welcomed local derbies, international tournaments, and even global artists performing in concert.
The stadium already hosted a Libertadores final in 2019, when Flamengo beat River Plate in a dramatic game. That night showed that Lima is capable of staging world-class football events. Now, in 2025, history repeats itself.
What makes the Monumental impressive is not just its size, but its setting. Surrounded by hills and with an imposing structure, it’s a stadium that leaves visitors awestruck from the moment they arrive.
Getting to the Monumental: transport and tips
One of the main challenges for visitors is figuring out how to get to the stadium. The Monumental is located in the district of Ate, about 13 km east of Lima’s historic center, and a bit away from tourist areas like Miraflores or Barranco.
Best ways to get there:
Taxi or ride-hailing apps (Uber, Cabify, InDrive, Beat)
The most straightforward option.
From Miraflores or San Isidro, it usually costs between $12–$20.
Travel time can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.
Official shuttles or buses
For major events like the Libertadores final, CONMEBOL and local authorities often arrange dedicated transport services from central points of the city.
Keep an eye out for announcements in the weeks leading up to the match.
Public transport
There is no direct metro or Metropolitano line to the Monumental.
You could combine buses heading toward Ate via Javier Prado Avenue, but on matchday it’s likely to be confusing and overcrowded.
Matchday transport tips:
Arrive early: at least 3 hours before kick-off. Access points will be busy.
Plan your exit: getting out can be as tricky as getting in. Arrange your taxi pick-up or meeting point in advance.
Bring cash: not every service accepts cards.
Dress comfortably: expect to walk a fair distance from drop-off points to your entrance gate.
The final is the excuse. Lima is the experience.
Yes, the Libertadores final is the highlight of your trip. But think of Lima as more than a one-day destination. The city rewards those who stay and explore. Instead of a strict day-by-day itinerary, here are themes you can dive into — pick what excites you and build your own adventure.
1. History and culture
Lima’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. Once the jewel of the Spanish crown in South America, the city still carries the grandeur of its colonial past.
Plaza de Armas: the main square, surrounded by the Cathedral, Government Palace, and colonial mansions.
San Francisco Monastery: famous for its catacombs and baroque architecture.
Larco Museum: one of the finest collections of pre-Columbian art in Latin America.
Huaca Pucllana: a pre-Inca adobe pyramid right in the middle of Miraflores.
2. Food that conquers the world
Lima is widely recognized as the gastronomic capital of Latin America. Eating here is not just a necessity — it’s part of the experience.
Ceviche: raw fish marinated in lime juice, a true explosion of freshness.
Lomo saltado: stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, fries, and rice — a perfect blend of Peruvian and Asian influences.
Ají de gallina: shredded chicken in a creamy chili sauce, a comfort food classic.
Anticuchos: skewered beef heart, usually eaten at night stalls.
Pisco sour: Peru’s national cocktail, made with pisco, lime, sugar, and egg white.
From world-renowned restaurants like Central and Maido to humble neighborhood eateries, Lima’s food scene can fit any budget.
3. Nightlife and bohemian vibes
Once the match is over, the city invites you to celebrate (or console yourself). Lima’s nightlife is as diverse as its people.
Barranco: the bohemian district with bars, live music, and colorful street art.
Miraflores: home to modern bars, rooftop lounges, and nightclubs.
Peñas criollas: traditional venues where you can listen to Peruvian folk music and dance until late.
Whether you’re into craft beer, cocktails, or dancing until sunrise, Lima has something for you.
4. Ocean views and green escapes
Few capitals in the world can match Lima’s coastline. The Malecón, a clifftop promenade stretching for miles, offers unforgettable sunsets over the Pacific.
Parque del Amor: iconic spot with mosaics and ocean views.
Costa Verde: perfect for cycling, running, or even paragliding over the cliffs.
Magic Water Circuit: an interactive park with illuminated fountains, great for a relaxed evening.
5. Easy getaways from Lima
If you’re staying longer, there are some incredible day trips within reach:
Pachacámac: a pre-Inca archaeological complex about an hour from Lima.
Paracas & Ballestas Islands: a coastal reserve with sea lions, penguins, and stunning landscapes (3 hours away).
Huacachina: a desert oasis near Ica, famous for sandboarding and dune buggies.
Essential tips for fans and travelers
Book accommodation early: the final will fill up hotels and hostels.
Stay in safe neighborhoods: Miraflores and Barranco are the best bases.
Watch your belongings: Lima is generally safe in tourist areas, but avoid flashing valuables.
Enjoy the fan atmosphere: expect parties in plazas, bars, and hostels full of South American fans.
Lima is more than a final — it’s a memory for life
The Copa Libertadores 2025 Final will be an unforgettable night at the Monumental. But what will truly make your trip memorable is everything else: walking through Lima’s colonial streets, tasting world-class food, clinking glasses of pisco sour, dancing in Barranco, and watching the Pacific sunset from the cliffs of Miraflores.
The match is one day. Lima is the whole experience.