Cuenca

32 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

5 places on the map

Markets

1
Busy market with fresh food, herbs and cheap lunches
- Tip: Watch your bag
2 tips
- Try the hornado
- Visit before noon
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2
Flower market by the Carmen church
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Photogenic stalls
- Buy fresh flowers cheaply
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3
Central market known for food stalls and traditional cleansing healers.
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4
Large busy market with produce and regional foods.
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5
Craft market selling Ecuadorian handicrafts.
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Ride the tram: Cuenca's tram crosses the city and passes near the historic center, an easy way to cover longer distances.
Ask for the meter: Taxis are cheap; ask the driver to use the taximetro or agree on a fare before starting.
Walk the historic center: The UNESCO-listed old town is compact and best explored on foot.

Watch belongings in markets: Cuenca is relatively safe, but pickpockets operate in busy markets and buses.
Take it easy at altitude: The city sits around 2,500 meters; drink water and rest on your first day.
Use trusted tour operators: For trips to Cajas or Ingapirca, book with reputable agencies that have good reviews.

Eat almuerzos: Set lunches with soup, main and juice are very affordable at local eateries and the 10 de Agosto market.
Use US dollars: Ecuador uses the US dollar; bring small bills, as change for large notes can be scarce.
Take local buses to sights: Public buses to Cajas National Park and nearby towns cost much less than tours.

Expect spring-like weather: Days are mild and nights cool all year; pack layers you can add or remove.
Bring rain gear: Afternoon showers are common, so carry a light rain jacket or umbrella.
Use sun protection: The high-altitude sun is strong even when cool; wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

Buy a Panama hat: The famous toquilla straw hats are made in the Cuenca region; visit a workshop to see how they are woven.
Try local food: Taste hornado, roast pork, and if adventurous, cuy, roasted guinea pig, plus a warm canelazo.
Greet politely: Say buenos dias or buenas tardes when entering shops; politeness is valued.

See the view from Turi: The Mirador de Turi offers panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset.
Walk along the Tomebamba: The riverside paths below El Barranco are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Visit the New Cathedral: Its blue domes are a city icon; check if you can climb to the rooftop for views.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 2

🕘 9:30–16:15📍 6 stops

Day 2 of 2

🕘 9:30–16:15📍 4 stops