Cusco
Save31 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓Show on the map
Tips
8 places on the map
Free things to do
- 1
Colonial heart of Cusco ringed by arcades and churches.
3 tips
- Take it easy the first day to adjust to altitude
- Rooftop cafes give the best views
- Beware of persistent touts
📷 Photos
- 2
Artisan neighbourhood of steep cobbled lanes.
3 tips
- Climb slowly at altitude
- Browse workshops and galleries
- Good cafes and restaurants
📷 Photos
- 3
Street with the famous twelve-angled Inca stone.
3 tips
- The stone is free to see
- Crowded with photo takers
- Lovely side streets nearby
📷 Photos
- 4
Quiet colonial square with quaint patio hotels.
3 tips
- Photogenic in afternoon light
- Close to the main plaza
- Nice for a quiet coffee
📷 Photos
- 5
Hilltop statue with sweeping views of the city.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Walk up from San Blas
- Visit at sunset
- Pace yourself at altitude
📷 Photos
- 6
Busy covered market with food, juices and crafts.
- Tip: Watch your bag
2 tips
- Try fresh fruit juices
- Bargain politely for souvenirs
📷 Photos
- 7
Hillside church with a panoramic mirador.
- Tip: Late afternoon
2 tips
- Great views of the plaza
- Short climb from Plaza de Armas
📷 Photos
- 8
Small square in the San Blas artisan quarter with a fountain and church.
📷 Photos
Take this map with you
Opens Google Maps with these places, ready to save to your own list.
Before you go: Cusco tips
Transportation
- Book trains to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail run from Poroy and Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes; book well ahead.
- Take colectivos to the Sacred Valley: Shared vans to Pisac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo are cheap and frequent.
- Use registered taxis: Take official taxis or app rides, especially at night and from the airport.
Security
- Acclimatise slowly: Cusco is around 3,400 meters; rest on day one, drink water and try coca tea.
- Book reputable tours: Use well-reviewed agencies for treks and tours to avoid fake operators.
- Watch belongings in markets: Pickpockets work crowded areas like San Pedro Market and the Plaza de Armas.
Saving
- Get the Boleto Turistico: This pass covers many sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, saving money over single tickets.
- Eat at San Pedro Market: Market stalls serve cheap set meals, fresh juices and local snacks.
- Choose menu del dia: Many restaurants outside the main plaza offer good-value set lunches.
Weather/Clothing
- Know the seasons: The dry season, roughly May to September, has sunny days and cold nights; November to March is rainy.
- Pack warm layers: Temperatures drop sharply at night; bring a warm jacket, hat and thermal layers.
- Protect from the sun: High-altitude sun is intense; wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Cultural
- Ask before photographing: Locals in traditional dress with llamas often expect a tip for photos; ask first.
- Try local food: Taste cuy, alpaca, and chicha morada, plus fresh bread from Oropesa nearby.
- Experience Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun on June 24 is a major event; book accommodation early.
Local Hacks
- Start in the Sacred Valley: It is lower than Cusco, making it a gentler place to acclimatise before the city.
- Explore San Blas: This artisan neighbourhood has cafes, workshops and great views over the city.
- Walk to Sacsayhuaman early: Arrive in the morning for fewer crowds and clearer views over Cusco.
1-day itineraries in Cusco
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.
Day 1 of 2
Qorikancha and around
🕘 9:30–16:45📍 5 stops
- 1Qorikancha
- 2Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus
- 3Plaza de Armas
- 4Museo Historico Regional Casa Garcilaso
- 5Mercado San Pedro
Day 2 of 2
Calle Hatun Rumiyoc and around
🕘 9:30–15:30📍 4 stops
- 1Calle Hatun Rumiyoc
- 2Museo de Arte Religioso
- 3Barrio de San Blas
- 4Cristo Blanco