Best things to do in Cusco

The Historical Heart of the Inca Empire

Once the capital of the vast Inca Empire, Cusco is a city where history breathes from every stone. The very foundations of this high-altitude hub are a testament to its layered past, with Spanish colonial architecture built directly upon the immaculately crafted walls of Inca palaces and temples. To truly understand Cusco, one must start at its core.

Plaza de Armas

Every journey into Cusco logically begins at the Plaza de Armas. This grand central square is the city’s vibrant nucleus, a place where locals, travelers, and history converge. Flanked by elegant colonial arcades housing shops and restaurants, the plaza is a beautifully manicured space with colorful gardens and a central fountain depicting an Inca ruler. It’s the perfect place to acclimate, find your bearings, and simply sit on a bench to watch the city unfold around you.

The square is dominated by two magnificent churches that stand as symbols of the Spanish conquest: the imposing Cusco Cathedral and the ornate Church of the Compañía de Jesús. Their presence on what was once the Inca’s ceremonial center creates a powerful visual narrative of the city’s complex history.

Cusco Cathedral

Looming over the Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral is more than just a place of worship; it’s a museum of colonial art and a fascinating study in cultural syncretism. Built over the course of more than a century on the site of an Inca palace, its cavernous interior holds a wealth of treasures. Visitors should seek out several key highlights:

• The Last Supper: A famous painting by Marcos Zapata from the Cusco School, this work reimagines the biblical scene with a distinctly Andean twist—the main dish is a roasted guinea pig (cuy).
• The Silver Altar: An immense, intricately worked altar crafted from solid silver, showcasing the mineral wealth that drew the Spanish to the region.
• Señor de los Temblores: The “Lord of the Earthquakes,” or Black Christ, is a revered statue paraded through the streets during Easter. It is believed to have miraculously stopped a devastating earthquake in 1650.

Throughout the cathedral, you can observe the subtle blending of Catholic and Inca spiritual symbolism, a deliberate strategy used by the Spanish to convert the indigenous population.

Qorikancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo

A short walk from the Plaza de Armas lies one of the most significant sites in the Inca world: Qorikancha (also spelled Coricancha), the “Temple of the Sun.” This was the religious and political heart of the empire, a sacred complex whose walls were once said to be covered in sheets of solid gold. It was the holiest shrine for the Incas, dedicated to their primary deity, Inti, the sun god.

What makes Qorikancha so compelling today is the stark architectural contrast. After the conquest, the Spanish demolished much of the temple and built the grand Convent of Santo Domingo directly on top of its foundations. The result is a striking juxtaposition of cultures: the smooth, mortarless, and earthquake-proof Inca stonework forming the base for the European baroque structure above. Inside, you can still walk through original Inca rooms that were dedicated to the moon, stars, thunder, and rainbow, marveling at the precision of walls that have stood for centuries.

Exploring Cusco’s Charming Neighborhoods

While Cusco‘s historical center is a marvel of Inca and colonial history, the city’s true character reveals itself in its vibrant neighborhoods. Venturing just a few blocks away from the main square offers a deeper connection to the daily life, art, and flavors that define this Andean capital.

The Artisan Quarter of San Blas

A short, uphill walk from the Plaza de Armas leads you into the bohemian heart of Cusco: the San Blas neighborhood. The area is characterized by its steep, narrow cobblestone streets, lined with whitewashed adobe houses accented by brilliant blue doors and balconies. It’s a wonderfully picturesque district to get lost in for an afternoon, discovering new perspectives of the city’s terracotta rooftops with every turn.

San Blas is renowned as the city’s artisan hub. The quiet lanes are home to a multitude of workshops and galleries where you can observe master craftspeople at work. From intricate wood carvings and religious iconography to contemporary paintings and silver jewelry, the quality and creativity on display are exceptional. It’s the perfect place to find a unique, handcrafted souvenir directly from the artist.

At the center of it all lies the tranquil Plazoleta de San Blas. This small square is home to a simple but historically significant church, the Templo de San Blas. Inside, you will find one of Cusco’s artistic treasures: an astonishingly elaborate pulpit carved from a single cedar tree, a masterpiece of colonial woodworking.

San Pedro Market

For a full immersion into the sights, sounds, and smells of local Cusqueñan life, a visit to the Mercado Central de San Pedro is essential. Housed in a large hall a short walk from the historic center, this market is a bustling, authentic experience where locals do their daily shopping. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s culinary abundance.

Navigating the market is a sensory adventure. Here are a few sections not to miss:

• Juice Stands: Near the entrance, you’ll find rows of vendors with vibrant displays of fresh fruit. For a few soles, they will blend any combination you desire into a delicious and refreshing juice.
• Local Produce: Wander through aisles piled high with hundreds of potato varieties, oversized corn (choclo), local cheeses, freshly baked breads, and sacks of Andean superfoods like quinoa and kiwicha. You’ll also find stalls dedicated to local chocolate and coffee.
• The “Unusual” Aisle: For the more curious traveler, one section of the market is dedicated to medicinal herbs, shamanic items for offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), and even dried animal heads and skins used in traditional ceremonies.
• Food Stalls: A large portion of the market is dedicated to small, family-run food stalls serving hearty, affordable set-menu lunches (menús). While it’s an authentic way to eat alongside locals, travelers with sensitive stomachs may want to exercise caution. Even if you don’t eat, walking through to see the bubbling pots and busy cooks is an experience in itself.

Incredible Inca Sites Just Outside the City

While Cusco‘s urban core is captivating, some of the most awe-inspiring Inca engineering lies just on its outskirts. A short taxi ride or a brisk walk uphill reveals monumental structures that hint at the empire’s true power and spiritual depth, offering a glimpse into the world that existed before the Spanish arrival.

Sacsayhuaman

Perched on a steep hill with a commanding view over Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is a testament to Inca military and architectural prowess. The site is most famous for its immense, zigzagging terraced walls. These are constructed from colossal stones, some weighing more than 100 tons, fitted together with such precision that not even a sheet of paper can slide between them. Walking alongside these walls, you can’t help but feel dwarfed by the scale of the construction and ponder the mystery of how they were transported and placed.

Climb to the top of the complex for one of the most rewarding panoramic views of Cusco, with its terracotta roofs sprawling across the valley below. Today, Sacsayhuaman is more than just a ruin; it is a living cultural site. Every year on June 24th, its main plaza becomes the stage for the most important ceremony of the Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, reenacting ancient Inca traditions for thousands of spectators.

Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay

Just a short distance from Sacsayhuaman are three smaller but equally fascinating archaeological sites. They are typically visited together, often as part of a single tour, and all are conveniently included on the Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket), making for a perfect half-day exploration of the Cusco highlands.

• Q’enqo: This site is a large limestone outcrop, a natural rock formation that the Inca carved into a spiritual sanctuary, or huaca. Its name means ‘zigzag’ in Quechua, likely referring to the winding channels carved into its surface, which may have been used for ritual offerings. Below the main rock, you can explore a small cave with a carved altar, believed to have been a site for sacrifices or mummification rituals.
• Puka Pukara: Known as the ‘Red Fortress,’ this site likely served as a military checkpoint, administrative center, or a lodge for Inca travelers. Its name comes from the reddish hue the stones take on at sunset. While less intricate than other sites, its strategic location offers excellent views of the surrounding valley.
• Tambomachay: Often called the ‘Inca Baths,’ this site is a beautiful example of Inca hydraulic engineering. A series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls run through meticulously crafted stone walls, fed by a nearby natural spring. It is believed to have been a place of ritual purification for the Inca nobility, and the water still flows today with remarkable clarity.

Essential Day Trips into the Sacred Valley

While Cusco is a destination in itself, the surrounding Sacred Valley of the Incas holds some of Peru’s most remarkable historical and cultural treasures. These sites, nestled among dramatic mountain landscapes, are easily accessible as day trips and offer a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization.

Pisac: Ruins and Market

Perched high on a mountain spur, the ruins of Pisac are a breathtaking introduction to Inca military and agricultural ingenuity. A vast network of agricultural terraces, among the finest in the valley, curves gracefully up the mountainside, a testament to the Incas’ mastery of high-altitude farming. Above them, you can explore the well-preserved ceremonial center, which includes temples, plazas, and the Intihuatana, a stone sun dial used for astronomical observations. The views of the valley from this vantage point are simply spectacular.

Down in the modern colonial town, Pisac is famous for its vibrant market. While the largest and most famous market day is Sunday, drawing vendors and visitors from across the region, a smaller but equally charming market runs daily. It’s an excellent place to observe local life and find high-quality handicrafts. Look for:

• Alpaca Textiles: Finely woven scarves, blankets, and sweaters in a kaleidoscope of colors.
• Ceramics: Intricate pottery and decorative items inspired by ancient designs.
• Silver Jewelry: Delicate pieces often featuring Inca symbols like the chakana (Inca cross).

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is unique; it is often referred to as a “living Inca town” because many of its residents inhabit buildings and follow a street plan that dates back to the 15th century. Narrow cobblestone alleys are lined with stone water channels that still gurgle and flow as they did hundreds of years ago, offering a tangible connection to the past.

The town is dominated by its formidable fortress, a massive Inca stronghold that climbs a steep hillside. This was the site of a rare Inca victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Ascending the steep stone terraces is a workout, but it rewards you with an up-close look at the incredible stonework of the unfinished Temple of the Sun at the summit. The six enormous pink granite monoliths are a marvel of engineering. Because Ollantaytambo is the main departure point for trains to Machu Picchu, it serves as a logical and charming place to spend the night before your journey to the world wonder.

Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

A short drive from each other, Maras and Moray offer two of the most visually striking and intriguing sights in the Sacred Valley.

The Salineras de Maras present a surreal landscape of over 3,000 small, terraced salt pans cascading down a ravine. Fed by a natural, hypersaline spring, these pans have been used for salt extraction since pre-Inca times. The sun evaporates the water, leaving behind crystallized salt, which is then harvested by local families. The patchwork of white, pink, and earthy brown pools creates a stunning visual, especially in the afternoon light.

Nearby, the ruins of Moray are an archaeological puzzle. The site consists of several enormous, circular depressions lined with concentric stone terraces, resembling a giant green amphitheater. The leading theory is that Moray was a sophisticated agricultural laboratory. The varying depths of the terraces created a series of microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops and determine the optimal growing conditions for each, showcasing their advanced understanding of agriculture.

The Ultimate Journey: Machu Picchu

The culmination of any journey to Cusco is, for many, the pilgrimage to the legendary lost city of Machu Picchu. Perched dramatically on a mountain ridge, this UNESCO World Heritage site remains one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological wonders. Its purpose is still debated, but its masterful architecture and mystical atmosphere are undeniable. Reaching this sacred place is an adventure in itself, with several distinct paths to choose from.

How to Get There

Choosing your route to Machu Picchu is a key part of the experience, with options ranging from comfortable train journeys to challenging multi-day treks.

• By Train: The most direct and comfortable way to reach Machu Picchu is by rail. Companies like PeruRail and Inca Rail offer scenic journeys of varying comfort levels, departing from Cusco or, more frequently, from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. The trip winds through the dramatic Urubamba River valley, offering stunning views before arriving at Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the citadel.
• The Classic Inca Trail: For the dedicated trekker, the world-famous 4-day Inca Trail offers an unparalleled experience, following ancient stone paths through cloud forests and past lesser-known ruins before arriving at the Sun Gate for a sunrise view of Machu Picchu. This is a highly regulated trek with limited permits. It is essential to book your spot with a licensed tour operator at least six months in advance, and often longer.
• Alternative Treks: If Inca Trail permits are unavailable or you seek a different experience, several excellent alternatives exist. The Salkantay Trek is a challenging high-altitude route renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, while the Lares Trek offers a deeper cultural immersion, passing through traditional Andean communities.

Exploring the Citadel

Once you arrive, the sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and homes invites exploration. A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the significance of the various structures, but be sure to leave time to wander on your own and simply absorb the incredible energy of the site.

Key Sites Within Machu Picchu

• The Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Serving as the traditional final checkpoint for those arriving via the Inca Trail, the Sun Gate provides the classic, panoramic first glimpse of the entire citadel from above.
• The Temple of the Sun: This is one of the most finely crafted structures, a unique semi-circular tower built around a natural rock. Its windows align perfectly with the sun during the solstices, demonstrating the Inca’s advanced astronomical knowledge.
• The Intihuatana Stone: This mysterious, carved pillar is believed to have been an astronomical clock or calendar, its name translating to “the hitching post of the sun.”
• The Room of the Three Windows: Located on the Sacred Plaza, this structure features three large trapezoidal windows built from massive, perfectly joined stones, which look out over the main plaza and surrounding peaks.

Optional Hikes for a Higher Perspective

For some of the most dramatic aerial views of the citadel and the surrounding Andes, consider adding one of the optional hikes to your visit. Both Huayna Picchu (the steep peak seen in classic photos behind the city) and the taller Machu Picchu Mountain offer incredible perspectives. These hikes are strenuous and have a limited number of daily permits. It is crucial to know that they require a separate ticket that must be booked well in advance along with your main entrance ticket.

Adventure and High-Altitude Hikes

While the historical sites are captivating, Cusco also serves as a base camp for some of the most dramatic high-altitude treks in the Andes. These day trips offer access to landscapes of extraordinary natural beauty, but they demand respect for the altitude and physical preparation.

Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain

The mountain of Vinicunca presents a geological wonder, a landscape painted with stripes of turquoise, lavender, gold, and red. These surreal colors are the result of mineral deposits weathering and oxidizing over millions of years. The trek to see this natural canvas is a popular day trip from Cusco, involving an early start, a long drive, and a challenging hike.

It is crucial to understand the physical demands of this excursion. The summit viewpoint sits at an elevation of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), an altitude where oxygen levels are significantly lower. This is not a hike to be attempted on your first or second day in Cusco. Proper acclimatization is absolutely essential to avoid severe altitude sickness. Listen to your body, walk at a slow, steady pace, and consider hiring a horse for part of the ascent if you are struggling.

Humantay Lake

Nestled at the base of the snow-dusted Humantay mountain is a glacial lake of an almost impossibly vibrant turquoise color. The trek to Humantay Lake is another common high-altitude day trip from Cusco, offering a different kind of Andean beauty compared to Vinicunca. The reward for the steep, uphill climb is the serene and powerful sight of the alpine lake reflecting the massive glacier above it.

Similar to the Rainbow Mountain trek, the final destination is at a high altitude (around 4,200 meters or 13,780 feet), requiring good acclimatization. The hike is generally shorter than the one to Vinicunca but can be quite steep in its final section. While Rainbow Mountain’s appeal is its unique, colorful geology, Humantay Lake offers a classic and profound scene of high mountain wilderness.

A Taste of Cusco: Culinary Experiences

Cusco‘s culinary scene is a vibrant fusion of ancient Andean traditions and modern gastronomic innovation. The city offers a journey for the palate, from hearty mountain staples to sophisticated dishes that have earned Peru international acclaim. Exploring the local food is as essential as visiting the ruins. Learn more about the Gastronomy of Peru.

Must-Try Peruvian Dishes

Beyond the stunning landscapes, Cusco offers a rich tapestry of flavors. Be sure to seek out these quintessential dishes for an authentic taste of the Andes and beyond.

• Cuy al Horno: A true Andean delicacy, roasted guinea pig is a dish with deep cultural roots, often reserved for special occasions. Typically served whole, its flavor is rich and often compared to rabbit or dark-meat chicken. While it can be confronting for some, trying it is a memorable cultural experience.
• Lomo Saltado: This beloved national dish perfectly showcases Peru’s “Chifa” (Chinese-Peruvian) culinary fusion. It’s a savory stir-fry of marinated beef strips, onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, flambéed in a wok and served with both french fries and a side of rice.
• Aji de Gallina: A classic comfort food, this dish consists of shredded chicken in a creamy, subtly spicy sauce made from aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili), walnuts, and cheese. It is traditionally served over rice with boiled potatoes and a black olive.
• Rocoto Relleno: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this dish is a must. It features a spicy rocoto pepper stuffed with a flavorful mix of minced meat, onions, and spices, which is then topped with cheese and baked until tender.

Drinks to Sample

Quench your thirst and acclimate to the altitude with these essential Peruvian beverages, each offering a unique taste of the region.

• Pisco Sour: You cannot visit Peru without trying its national cocktail. This refreshing drink is made with Pisco (a grape brandy), fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and an egg white, which gives it a signature frothy top.

– Chicha Morada: This beautiful, deep purple beverage is a non-alcoholic staple made from boiling purple corn with pineapple rind, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s incredibly refreshing, sweet, and spiced.

• Coca Tea (Mate de Coca): An essential part of life in the Andes, mate de coca is a simple infusion of coca leaves in hot water. It has a mild, earthy flavor and is the local remedy for combating the effects of high altitude.

Foodie Activities

For those who want to dive deeper into Cusco‘s culinary world, several hands-on experiences offer a closer look at the ingredients and techniques that define Peruvian cooking.

• Take a Cooking Class: Join a local chef for a truly immersive experience. Many classes begin with a guided tour of the San Pedro Market to source fresh, local ingredients before you learn to prepare classic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, or a flavorful causa.
• Explore ChocoMuseo: Discover the journey of Peruvian cacao at the ChocoMuseo. Here, you can learn about the entire bean-to-bar process and even participate in a workshop to create your own artisanal chocolates, infusing them with local ingredients like chili, coffee, or coca.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Best Time to Go

Cusco‘s high-altitude location creates two distinct seasons, each offering a different experience for travelers. Choosing when to visit depends largely on your planned activities, particularly if they involve trekking.

• Dry Season (April to October): This period is generally considered the best time to visit. You can expect clear blue skies, brilliant sunshine, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for hiking the Inca Trail and exploring archaeological sites. However, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night when they can drop near freezing. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
• Wet Season (November to March): Characterized by frequent afternoon showers, the wet season transforms the Andes into a lush, green landscape. The rain can disrupt travel plans, and the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during February. The trade-off is fewer tourists and a more verdant, atmospheric scenery. If you don’t mind packing a rain jacket, this can be a beautiful and quieter time to explore the city and its surroundings.

Acclimatizing to the Altitude

Cusco sits at a breathtaking altitude of 3,400 meters (11,152 feet), and adjusting to the thinner air is crucial for a comfortable visit. Altitude sickness, known locally as soroche, can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. The key is to allow your body time to adapt gradually.

• Take it easy on arrival. Plan for a very relaxed first day or two. Avoid strenuous activities like long walks or hikes. Simply stroll gently around the Plaza de Armas, sit in a café, and let your body acclimate.
• Stay hydrated. The high-altitude air is very dry. Drink significantly more water than you usually would. The local remedy, mate de coca (coca tea), is offered in most hotels and is widely believed to help alleviate mild symptoms.
• Eat light and avoid alcohol. For the first 24-48 hours, opt for light meals like soups and avoid heavy, hard-to-digest foods. It’s also wise to postpone that celebratory Pisco Sour, as alcohol can exacerbate the effects of altitude.

The Boleto Turístico (Cusco Tourist Ticket)

For any visitor planning to explore the rich history of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, the Boleto Turístico is an essential and highly practical purchase. This single, consolidated ticket grants access to 16 of the most significant archaeological sites and museums in the region, including Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo. Consider our guide to the Top 20 places to visit in Peru to plan your itinerary.

Rather than buying individual entrance fees, this ticket simplifies the process and offers considerable savings. It is available in different formats, including a comprehensive 10-day pass or shorter partial circuits that focus on specific areas (like just the sites in Cusco or only those in the Sacred Valley). For travelers intending to visit more than two or three major sites, the ticket is not just a convenience—it’s the most cost-effective way to immerse yourself in the legacy of the Incas.