The Best Things to See and Do in Cusco, Peru
Are you planning to visit Cusco in Peru and want to know the best things to see and do there? Cusco has so much to offer tourists and travellers that it's difficult to know where to begin. In this article I best all the best things to see and do Cusco, with some top tips.
Cusco in Peru is the former capital of the Inca Empire and a really fascinating place to visit.
Located high up in the Peruvian Andes, with a stunning mountainous backdrop, it is a place with a deep sense of history and beautiful architecture. Its cobbled streets are a joy to walk along, with a mixture of ancient ruins and colourful colonial buildings along the way. It is easy to see why Cusco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru.
In this article I have listed all the best things to see and do in Cusco to help you plan your trip to this magnificent city.
Table of Contents
Introducing Cusco: A Brief Overview and History
1. The Plaza de Armas - the Heart of Cusco
3. Discover San Blas District in Cusco
4. Visit the Authentic Andean San Pedro Market
5. Immerse Yourself in the Museo Inka (The Inca Museum)
6. Explore the Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP Cusco)
7. Visit the Art Displays at Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, Cusco
8. Explore The Inca Fortress Sacsayhuamán
9. Visit the Archaeological Complex of Q'enqo
10. Puka Pukara: The Red Fortress Near Cusco
11. Tambomachay: The Inca Royal Baths
12. Watch One the Many Street Parades in Cusco
Introducing Cusco: A Brief Overview and History
Resting in the Peruvian Andes at an altitude of 3,400 meters, Cusco is the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas.
Legend has it that Cusco was founded in the 12th century by Manco Cápac, considered to be the son of the sun god Inti. The Killke people settled the area around 900 AD before the Incas took control in the 13th century and established Cusco as their ceremonial and administrative center.
Under Inca rule, Cusco blossomed into a complex urban centre laid out in the shape of a puma. Impressive temples, palaces and fine buildings were constructed from precisely cut granite stones.
The Incas were conquered by the Spanish in 1533, who built Baroque churches and mansions atop the Inca foundations.
Today, Cusco is Peru's main tourist destination and the gateway for exploring Machu Picchu. The modern city integrates Inca and Spanish colonial influences, best seen in the central Plaza de Armas.
Ancient sites like Sacsayhuaman Fortress and Qoricancha Temple reveal the city's Inca heritage, while ornate cathedrals and churches reflect Colonial Cusco. With a vibrant culture and intriguing history, Cusco offers visitors a glimpse into Peru's storied past.
The best way to explore Cusco is to just simply take a walk and wander the streets and allowing yourself to get a lost in the city. Cusco is perfect for this as there is something to discover down every street. You will find hidden courtyards and plazas, cobbled streets, winding alleyways and steep steps to explore.
1. The Plaza de Armas - the Heart of Cusco
The Plaza de Armas is the heart and soul of Cusco, Peru. This main square is where you will find many of the city's most iconic sights and the best place to begin exploring Cusco.
The plaza is surrounded by arched colonnades and some of the most important buildings in Cusco. On the north side looms the imposing Cathedral of Santo Domingo, built in the 1600s on top of the ruins of an Inca temple. Its elaborate stonework and massive size make it one of the most stunning cathedrals in South America. Make sure to go inside to see the ornate gold altars and centuries-old paintings.
Next to the cathedral is the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, another impressive 16th century church. This Jesuit church has an intricately carved facade and a stunning baroque interior with a gold-leaf altar that is not to be missed.
On the east side of the plaza is the Presidential Palace, an orderly white building with arched corridors. A changing of the guard takes place at noon each day in its courtyard, accompanied by music and pomp. It's definitely worth watching.
There are restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating lining the square, perfect for grabbing a pisco sour and doing some people watching. It even has the world’s highest Irish pub located in the corner (several tourist groups congregate here for their briefings).
Indigenous women dressed in colourful Andean clothes also set up stands here to sell handmade crafts and textiles.
Inca ruins are also incorporated right into the Plaza de Armas. The perfectly fitted stonework is noticeable in the walls, and the plaza itself was built on top of the ruins of an Incan ceremonial temple. Look for the carved stones marked with the twelve-cornered Inca symbol.
With its lively atmosphere and proximity to Cusco's top sights, Plaza de Armas is the ideal place to spend time soaking up the city's history and culture. Strolling this central square lets you experience the blend of indigenous and Spanish colonial influences that makes Cusco so fascinating.
2. Walk Along Triunfo
Escape the crowds of downtown Cusco by heading down Triunfo, a narrow street that leads east from the Plaza de Armas. Following this street will bring you to one of Cusco's prettiest areas perfect for wandering on foot.
Triunfo leads to the pedestrian-only street Hatunrumiyoc lined with well-preserved colonial homes. Intricate wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs add vintage charm to this atmospheric lane. More shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes can be found along this route, making it an ideal place to experience Cusco's culture.
Wandering these narrow lanes, admiring the historic architecture, and soaking up the artistic energy offers a more local Cusco experience. Following Triunfo from Plaza de Armas takes you into the heart of the city's character-filled colonial streets where you can discover hidden gems away from the standard tourist trail.
3. Discover San Blas District in Cusco
Located on the steep hills above Cusco's city centre lies the vibrant neighborhood of San Blas. This lively district should not be missed when visiting Cusco and makes for an ideal day of wandering hidden lanes, browsing galleries, and soaking up panoramic views.
Reaching San Blas is half the fun.
From the Plaza de Armas, head down the narrow street Triunfo, continuing east as it winds uphill past historic homes. The 20-minute walk passes by The Rock of the 12 Angles, carved with Inca symbols. While the climb to San Blas is steep, pacing yourself and stopping to appreciate the vintage architecture along the way makes for an enjoyable journey.
Once in San Blas, you will find the charming Plazoleta de San Blas, a small plaza perfect for resting on a bench beneath the shade trees. The neighborhood's top attraction is the ornate 16th-century Templo de San Blas. Step inside this Catholic church to admire the pulpit intricately carved from a single tree trunk.
But San Blas is also Cusco's top destination for shopping at artisan boutiques. Tiny workshops and galleries line the lanes, selling unique handicrafts, textiles, paintings, and jewellery.
Stop for a break at one of the many charming cafés dotted throughout the district. The area comes alive at night when restaurants open their doors and art galleries host openings.
Following the stone lanes up and down the hillside allows you to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind neighbourhood.
4. Visit the Authentic Andean San Pedro Market
For an authentic local experience in Cusco, head to the bustling San Pedro Market. This lively market is located just a 10-minute walk southwest of the Plaza de Armas and is where locals go to stock up on fresh produce, spices, and more.
As you enter the market, you be immersed in crowds of Cusqueños doing their daily shopping. Stalls overflow with vibrantly coloured fruits and vegetables that reflect the biodiversity of the region. Inhale the fragrant smells of fresh baked breads, exotic spices, and local cheeses as you wander through the maze of passageways.
One of the best things to try at San Pedro Market is the fresh fruit juices whipped up right in front of you. Vendors blend together combinations like chirimoya, pineapple, and banana. You'll find plenty of exotic fruits from the Andes that you won't see elsewhere.
Beyond produce, the market has an entire section dedicated to handicrafts. Rows of stalls sell high-quality alpaca knits and woven textiles in traditional Peruvian patterns. You can watch artisans demonstrate their techniques as you shop for the perfect souvenir.
Haggling is expected, so negotiate for a good price on that handmade sweater or set of spices. Interacting with locals is part of the experience.
5. Immerse Yourself in the Museo Inka (The Inca Museum)
CC Image courtesy of Arabsalam, Wiki Commons
To learn about the intricacies of the Inca Empire, pay a visit to Cusco's Museo Inka.
This Inca museum dedicated to Incan history and culture is located just a few minutes' walk from Plaza de Armas at Ataud 154, Cusco 08002.
Inside the colonial-era building, you'll find one of the most extensive collections of Inca artifacts in the world. The museum showcases metals, textiles, mummies, ceremonial artifacts, and other objects that provide insight into how the Incas lived and worshipped.
Intricate gold and silver idols fill many display cases, demonstrating the advanced metalworking skills of the Incas. You will also see carved wooden huacos (ceremonial vessels) used for offerings to the gods. The wide array of textiles includes everything from royal tunics to weapons.
Beyond artifacts, the museum has an extensive collection of mummies, both human and animals.
With its massive collection of well-preserved artifacts, the Inca Museum allows you to vividly imagine life in this ancient civilisation.
6. Explore the Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP Cusco)
CC Image courtesy of David Monniaux, Wiki Commons
Pay a visit to the Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP Cusco). This museum is devoted entirely to pre-Columbian artworks and artifacts, and provides insight into the many fascinating cultures that existed in Peru before the arrival of the Spanish.
You will find the Museo de Arte Precolombino on Plaza de las Nazarenas, just a short walk from the popular Inca Museum. The museum occupies a beautifully restored 16th-century mansion built atop Inca foundations.
Inside, intricate displays wind through several levels focused on different eras and regions of pre-Columbian Peru. Spanning 3,000 years of history, the museum boasts an enormous collection of ceramics, textiles, gold, and silver. Intricate Moche portrait vessels, exquisite Nazca textiles, and Sican funerary masks represent just a sliver of the expansive collection sourced from all over Peru.
A standout section illustrates the practice of trepanation, where holes were drilled into the skull for medical reasons.
The Museo de Arte Precolombino provides a fascinating context that enriches any traveller's understanding of Cusco's past.
7. Visit the Art Displays at Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, Cusco
For a taste of Cusco's contemporary art scene, visit the understated yet compelling Museo de Arte Contemporaneo. Located on Calle Espinar, 270, Cusco 08002, just west of Plaza de Armas, this small gallery may be tricky to find but rewards those who seek it out.
Inside the unmarked facade, you will discover a thoughtfully curated collection of works by local Cusco artists across mediums.
While compact, the museum's few rooms manage to provide a sweeping survey of contemporary art in Cusco. The modern works act as a foil to the city's wealth of colonial and Incan art, providing an interesting juxtaposition of old and new.
8. Explore The Inca Fortress Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuamán is a magnificent Inca fortress located just 2km north of Cusco's Plaza de Armas. The complex has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The best way to reach it is on foot, following the original Inca path that winds up the steep hillside. The 45-minute uphill walk provides stunning views of Cusco below and allows you to see the 8-metre-tall statue of Jesus along the way. You can also get to Sacsayhuamán by taxi or bus, but walking allows you to better appreciate the massive stonework and appreciate the site from above before entering.
Once inside the complex, you’ll find extensive masonry structures and walls built from enormous stone blocks. The size and precision of this Inca architecture is incredibly impressive. Even after much of the original structure was removed, Sacsayhuamán remains a magnificent World Heritage site overlooking Cusco.
9. Visit the Archaeological Complex of Q'enqo
CC Image courtesy of Pierre Andrew Leclercq, Wiki Commons
Along the road between Sacsayhuamán and Pisac, you can find the fascinating Inca site of Q'enqo.
Q'enqo contains a temple and amphitheater carved directly into a huge limestone outcrop, showcasing some of the finest examples of Inca stone masonry and carving.
As you explore the site, gaze up in awe at the massive exterior rock amphitheater, intricately carved with geometric and zoomorphic designs. Descending down into the outcrop, you'll find a maze of zigzagging underground passages and stairs leading to a subterranean temple space.
Here the rock has been impressively carved into niches, tables, channels, and a large limestone boulder shaped into a puma.
Q'enqo provides an incredible look at the Inca's reverence for natural rock formations and their immense skill in shaping stone into sacred spaces and intricate designs. It's an awe-inspiring site not to be missed along the road connecting Sacsayhuamán and Pisac.
10. Puka Pukara: The Red Fortress Near Cusco
CC Image courtesy of Pavel Špindler, Wiki Commons
Just 7km from the bustling city of Cusco, off the road to Pisac, lies the imposing ruins of Puka Pukara, also known as the Red Fortress.
Dating back to the late 15th century, this strategic mountainside fortress was likely built by the Inca ruler Pachacuti to protect Cusco from invaders. The ruins are composed of terraced walls, small squares, and towers made from red granite stones. The name Puka Pukara comes from these stones which have a reddish hue. You can climb up the hillside on stone steps to reach the different levels and take in views of the Cusco valley.
You can take a taxi or local bus which will take around 15 minutes to reach the site. Be sure to discuss the entrance fee with your driver beforehand.
11. Tambomachay: The Inca Royal Baths
Tambomachay is just a few hundred metres from Puka Pukara. This complex is in very good condition, but it is still unclear what the site was used for. It is believed that it may have served as a military outpost guarding the approaches to Cusco, or as a spa resort for the Incan political elite.
This small but beautifully preserved archaeological site consists of aqueducts, canals, and ceremonial baths all fed by a natural spring. You will notice the carved stones have channels that direct water through the baths and fountains. The crystal clear spring water still flows today, reflecting the impressive engineering of the Incas.
There are lots of ways to explore these archaeology sites, including by foot, bike, horseback or a guided tour. We actually took a taxi to Puka Pukara and Tambomachay and spent the day slowly walk back down the mountain via Qenqo and Sacsayhuamán, and back into Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
12. Watch One the Many Street Parades in Cusco
CC Image courtesy of Mackay Savage, Wiki Commons
One of the best ways to experience the lively spirit of Cusco is to catch one of the colourful street parades that regularly march through the city streets.
You will often encounter parades on Sundays and major holidays, with local bands, dancers, and civic groups going through the historic plazas. The parades feature traditional music and performers wearing vibrant handmade costumes representing different aspects of Peruvian culture. Popular parades include:
Typical Dances Parades of Cusco: These parades showcase traditional dances from different regions of Cusco.
Octave of the Corpus Christi Festival in Cusco: This festival is celebrated with a grand procession that includes a statue of Christ and other religious figures.
Lights and Sounds in the Plaza Mayor del Cusco: This event features a light show and music performances in the main square of Cusco.
Giant Allegorical Parade: This parade features giant floats and costumes that depict various themes such as history, culture, and nature.
Grab a spot in Plaza de Armas, Plaza Regocijo, or one of other major squares to watch a parade go by.
13. Enjoy the Andean Food and Drink
The Peruvian cuisine is excellent and very diverse and Cusco is a food destination in its own right. This stems from a long food culture that exists from Inca times and even earlier. The Incas themselves used advanced farming and engineering techniques to maximise food production. Particularly important foods include potato, quinoa and corn, which formed part of their staple diet. These foods have since been exported all over the world.
A couple of ‘must try’ food and drinks include:
Coca Leaves - Coca leaves serve an important purpose and can be eaten raw or used to make coca tea. Coca leaves have important qualities that help combat altitude sickness.
Ceviche – Ceviche is the unofficial national food of Peru. Ceviche is fresh raw fish “cooked” with citrus juices such as lime or lemon and spiced with chilli peppers.
Lomo saltado - Beef stir fry with onions, tomatoes, and fries.
Anticucho – Anticucho is a type of street food. It comprises cow’s heart served in a kebab style, and tastes like beef - it is often served with potato.
Alpaca - Alpacas are seen everywhere in the countryside. Alpaca is a lean meat that is commonly served throughout Cusco’s restaurants.
Cuy - Cuy (pronounced coo-ee) is Peruvian for Guinea Pig. To see Guinea Pig on a menu seems strange to many people outside Peru, but in Peru, Guinea Pigs are not kept as pets, they are bred for food. Cuy is considered a local delicacy, usually served with potatoes and salsa.
Inka Cola – Inka Cola is sold everywhere. This a sweet fizzy drink with its own unique flavour.
These dishes capture the essence of Peruvian cuisine's complex blend of native and immigrant influences. There are many restaurants and cafes throughout Cusco where these food and drinks can be experienced.
14. Popular Trips From Cusco
Cusco makes an excellent base to take day and overnight trips to a number of stunning locations. Here is a list of popular day trips from Cusco with a brief description of each:
Sacred Valley - This lush valley was an important area for the Incas. Visit picturesque towns like Pisac and its famous ruins and market, as well as Ollantaytambo's impressive fortress.
Inca Trail - Take a 4-day hike along the historic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Get up close views of ruins and nature. Requires permits. Please read my guide here, for detailed information about the Inca Trail.
Machu Picchu - Overnighting near Machu Picchu is ideal, but it is possible to visit as a long day trip from Cusco. Early morning trains depart for Machu Picchu Pueblo, where buses take you up to the iconic ruins. Book tickets well in advance.
Rainbow Mountain - A stunning natural site located about 3 hours outside Cusco, Rainbow Mountain features an otherworldly array of colored mineral streaks across its peak. A challenging hike rewarded with breathtaking views. It can be done as a tour.
Salinas de Maras - These ancient salt evaporation ponds have been in use since Inca times to harvest salt. The thousands of ponds terraced on the hillside create a surreal landscape worth a half-day visit.
Moray & Maras - A tour combining the circular agricultural terraces of Moray with the nearby salt ponds of Maras.
Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas - Visit the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta and the ornate colonial church at Andahuaylillas.
Chinchero - Tour this highland town's Inca ruins, colonial church, weaving centers, and traditional market.
Amazon Rainforest - Take a flight or scenic drive from Cusco to the Peruvian Amazon and discover diverse jungle wildlife, native communities, and magnificent nature on an immersive rainforest tour. Please read here for more information about getting to the Amazon from Cusco.
There are so many amazing sites and activities easily accessible as day and overnight trips from Cusco. Make the most of your time exploring the region.
Getting To and Around Cusco
Positioned in the Andean highlands, Cusco requires some planning and adjustment to reach and get around. Here are tips for transportation to and within the city:
Arriving in Cusco
Most travellers arrive in Cusco by air or ground transportation:
Flights land at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, about 10 minutes from the city center.
Buses from Lima, Puno, and other Peruvian cities bring you to the Terminal Terrestre bus station, also on the edge of town.
The train from Puno on Lake Titicaca is another scenic transport option.
Arrange airport pickup or take a taxi into the city. Give yourself time to adjust to the 11,000+ ft elevation!
If you have travelled from, or travelling to Lima, you may want to read my guide about Lima and its neighbourhood Miraflores.
Getting Around Cusco
Cusco's historic centre is very walkable. However, the hilly terrain and high altitude can take some adjustment.
Walking - Stick to flat areas until acclimated. Allow extra time for any uphills.
Taxis - An affordable way to get around, especially to further neighborhoods like Sacsayhuaman. Agree on fare beforehand.
Local buses - Inexpensive but usually crowded. Don't recommend with luggage.
Tour buses - Used for guided day trips to Sacred Valley sites and other destinations. More comfortable option.
While the city centre is compact, taxis or tours make accessing outer neighbourhoods and ruins easier, especially upon arrival. Pace yourself as you explore Cusco's hills and altitude changes.
Cusco Travel Guide: Tips for Visitors
As an incredibly popular tourist destination, Cusco does attract crowds and requires some planning for the best experience. Here are top visitor tips:
Purchase a Tourist Ticket - The "boleto turistico" gives discounted access to 16 key sites in and around Cusco for 10 days. This includes Sacsayhuaman, Qoricancha, museums, churches, and more.
Book Machu Picchu Tickets in Advance - Only a set number of visitors are allowed per day. Tickets often sell out months beforehand. Purchase your Machu Picchu entry ticket ahead of time.
Stay Near Plaza de Armas - The central square area puts you closest to restaurants, nightlife and tour pickups for day trips. Lively but also more expensive.
Get Cash from ATMs - Carry some small notes and coins for minor purchases. Rely on ATMs for the rest, as credit cards aren’t widely accepted.
Drink Coca Tea for Altitude - Popular remedy for altitude sickness. Most restaurants will serve this traditional tea made from coca leaves. Stay hydrated!
Seek Out Local Experiences - Avoid overcrowded tourist traps. Instead visit traditional markets, neighbourhood cafes, lesser known sites. Connect with the living culture.
Equipped with proper planning and realistic expectations, Cusco offers an unparalleled destination to explore Incan heritage and Peruvian culture.
I hope you have found this post about Cusco useful. If you have visited Cusco, I would love to hear your thoughts or if you feel something is missing from this post, please email me and let me know at sarahransomeart@gmail.com.
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