Cusco is one of the most fascinating destinations in Peru, combining Inca history, Spanish colonial architecture, traditional Andean culture, archaeological sites, colorful markets, museums, viewpoints, and spectacular mountain scenery. The city itself can keep travelers busy for several days, even before visiting Machu Picchu or other destinations in the Sacred Valley.
The best places to visit in Cusco range from famous landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral to lesser-known neighborhoods, archaeological sites, markets, viewpoints, and cultural attractions. Whether you have one day in Cusco or several days to explore, the city offers an excellent mix of history, culture, food, and unique experiences.
This guide covers the best places to visit in Cusco, what to see in the historic center, unique attractions, markets, activities beyond Machu Picchu, and suggested two- and three-day Cusco itineraries.
Best Places to Visit in Cusco
Cusco is compact enough that many major attractions can be explored on foot, particularly around the historic center. However, some archaeological sites and viewpoints are located outside the central area and are easier to reach by taxi or organized tour.
The following attractions are among the most important places to include when planning your visit:
- Plaza de Armas
- Cusco Cathedral
- Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun
- Sacsayhuamán
- San Blas neighborhood
- Twelve-Angled Stone
- San Pedro Market
- Mercado de San Blas
- Q’enqo archaeological site
- Puka Pukara
- Tambomachay
- Cristo Blanco viewpoint
- San Cristóbal viewpoint
- Museo Inka
- Museo de Arte Precolombino
- Calle Hatun Rumiyoc
- Traditional Cusco neighborhoods
- Local restaurants and cafés
- Nearby Sacred Valley attractions
The best approach is to combine famous landmarks with quieter places. Cusco becomes much more interesting when you move beyond the main square and explore its streets, neighborhoods, markets, archaeological remains, and viewpoints.
Places to Visit in Cusco City Center
The places to visit in Cusco city center are ideal for travelers with limited time because many attractions are within walking distance of one another. The historic center is characterized by cobblestone streets, colonial balconies, churches, Inca stone foundations, museums, restaurants, cafés, and traditional shops.
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Cusco and one of the first places most travelers visit. The square is surrounded by colonial buildings, churches, restaurants, hotels, and historic streets. It is especially attractive in the morning when the surrounding mountains and architecture can be clearly appreciated.
The plaza also provides an excellent starting point for exploring the city. From here, travelers can walk toward Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, San Blas, San Pedro Market, and many of the city’s museums.
Cusco Cathedral
The Cusco Cathedral is one of the city’s most important historical and religious landmarks. Located directly on the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral contains an impressive collection of colonial religious art and reflects the cultural transformation that occurred in Cusco after the Spanish conquest.
Visitors interested in architecture, history, and Peruvian colonial art should include the cathedral in their itinerary. Its interior contains paintings, altars, sculptures, and decorative details associated with the Cusco School of Art.
Qorikancha and Santo Domingo
Qorikancha was one of the most important religious complexes of the Inca Empire. The temple was dedicated to the Sun and was reportedly decorated with precious materials during the Inca period.
Today, visitors can see the contrast between the original Inca stonework and the colonial Church of Santo Domingo built above the complex. This combination makes Qorikancha one of the most interesting historical attractions in Cusco.
Twelve-Angled Stone
The Twelve-Angled Stone is a famous example of Inca stonework. It is located along Hatun Rumiyoc Street, where enormous stones were carefully fitted together without conventional mortar.
The attraction itself is relatively small, but the surrounding streets are worth exploring. Walking through this area provides a good opportunity to see the distinctive Inca foundations that remain beneath colonial buildings.
Hatun Rumiyoc Street
Hatun Rumiyoc is one of the most atmospheric streets in central Cusco. Its stone walls demonstrate the precision of Inca masonry, while the narrow passage connects the historic center with the San Blas area.
This is also a good area for photographs, especially early in the morning before the streets become crowded.
Cusco Markets
Cusco’s markets provide a different perspective of the city. Instead of focusing only on monuments and archaeological sites, travelers can experience local food, traditional ingredients, textiles, handicrafts, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and everyday life.
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market is one of the best-known Cusco markets and is within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas. The market sells a wide range of products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, cheeses, meats, bread, juices, souvenirs, textiles, and prepared food.
It is particularly interesting for travelers who want to experience the everyday side of Cusco. Exploring the market also offers opportunities to try traditional foods and beverages.
Mercado de San Blas
The San Blas area has a more artistic and neighborhood-oriented atmosphere. Its market and surrounding streets are especially appealing to travelers interested in handicrafts, local products, cafés, and traditional Andean culture.
What to Look for in Cusco Markets
When visiting the markets, look for:
- Fresh Andean fruits
- Native potatoes
- Quinoa and other grains
- Local cheeses
- Traditional breads
- Fresh juices
- Andean herbs
- Alpaca textiles
- Handmade crafts
- Traditional souvenirs
- Local snacks
- Regional ingredients
Other Top Attractions in Cusco
Beyond the main attractions in the historic center, several archaeological and cultural sites deserve attention.
Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuamán is one of the most impressive archaeological sites near Cusco. Its enormous stone walls demonstrate the extraordinary engineering abilities of the Inca civilization.
The site is located above the city, making it possible to combine a visit with spectacular views over Cusco. The massive stones, terraces, and open spaces make Sacsayhuamán one of the essential places to visit in Cusco.
Q’enqo
Q’enqo is a smaller archaeological complex located near Sacsayhuamán. It contains carved rocks, ceremonial spaces, and subterranean areas associated with Inca religious practices.
Because it is close to Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo can easily be included in a half-day archaeological tour around Cusco.
Puka Pukara
Puka Pukara is an archaeological complex situated along the road toward Tambomachay. Its elevated position provides views of the surrounding landscape.
The site is generally included in tours visiting the archaeological attractions surrounding Cusco, making it convenient for travelers who want to see several Inca sites in a single outing.
Tambomachay
Tambomachay is associated with water and ceremonial architecture. Its channels, fountains, and stone structures demonstrate the importance of water in Inca culture.
The site has a peaceful atmosphere and provides an interesting contrast to the enormous stone walls of Sacsayhuamán.
Cristo Blanco
The Cristo Blanco statue overlooks Cusco from a hillside near Sacsayhuamán. It is one of the best viewpoints for seeing the city from above.
A visit can easily be combined with Sacsayhuamán, especially if you are interested in photography and panoramic views.
Unique Places to Visit in Cusco
Some of the unique places to visit in Cusco are not necessarily the city’s most famous attractions. These locations are ideal for travelers who have extra time or want to experience a different side of Cusco.
San Blas Neighborhood
San Blas is famous for its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, artisan workshops, cafés, galleries, and steep streets. The neighborhood has a creative and bohemian atmosphere that makes it one of the most enjoyable areas to explore without a strict itinerary.
The neighborhood is also home to the San Blas Church and a popular viewpoint overlooking Cusco.
San Cristóbal Viewpoint
San Cristóbal offers one of the classic panoramic views of Cusco. From the viewpoint, travelers can see the historic center, surrounding neighborhoods, and mountains.
It is particularly attractive around sunset, although the changing light throughout the day can produce excellent photographs.
Cusco’s Colonial Streets
One of the best things to do in Cusco is simply walk. Streets such as Loreto, Hatun Rumiyoc, and the roads around San Blas reveal a mixture of Inca foundations and Spanish colonial architecture.
Travelers who spend time wandering away from the busiest streets often discover small plazas, courtyards, cafés, artisan stores, and historic buildings that are not always highlighted in standard itineraries.
What to Do in Cusco Besides Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is often the main reason travelers come to Cusco, but there are many things to do in the region besides visiting the famous citadel.
Travelers can spend several days exploring archaeological sites, markets, museums, neighborhoods, mountains, valleys, and traditional communities.
Some of the best alternatives and complementary activities include:
- Explore the historic center
- Visit Cusco Cathedral
- Visit Qorikancha
- Explore Sacsayhuamán
- Walk through San Blas
- Visit local markets
- Explore museums
- Visit the Sacred Valley
- See Pisac archaeological site
- Visit Ollantaytambo
- Explore Chinchero
- Visit Moray
- See the Maras salt terraces
- Hike to Rainbow Mountain
- Visit Palcoyo
- Experience traditional Andean culture
- Try Peruvian and Cusco cuisine
- Visit local artisan workshops
Explore the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is one of the most popular destinations for travelers staying in Cusco. Its attractions include archaeological sites, agricultural landscapes, traditional villages, markets, and spectacular mountain scenery.
A Sacred Valley excursion can occupy an entire day and can be combined with visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray, or Maras depending on the itinerary.
Visit Museums in Cusco
Museums provide valuable context for understanding the history of Cusco and the civilizations that developed in the Andes. Depending on your interests, you can visit museums focused on Inca archaeology, colonial art, pre-Columbian cultures, religious art, and traditional Peruvian culture.
Museums are particularly useful on rainy afternoons or when you want a quieter activity after several hours of walking.
What to See in Cusco in One Day
If you only have one day, concentrate on the historic center and the closest major attractions. Trying to visit every archaeological site around Cusco in a single day can make the experience rushed.
One-Day Cusco Plan
Morning
Start at the Plaza de Armas and explore Cusco Cathedral. Continue through the surrounding streets toward Hatun Rumiyoc and the Twelve-Angled Stone.
Late morning
Walk toward Qorikancha and visit the former Temple of the Sun. Take some time to explore the surrounding streets before stopping for lunch.
Afternoon
Visit San Blas and walk through its narrow streets. Continue to a viewpoint such as San Cristóbal if you want panoramic views.
Evening
Return to the Plaza de Armas and enjoy dinner in the historic center. An evening walk around the illuminated colonial buildings is an excellent way to finish your first day.
This itinerary focuses on what to see in Cusco in one day without requiring long transportation times.
What to Do in Cusco for 2 or 3 Days
With two or three days, you can explore beyond the central attractions and create a much more balanced experience.
Two days are enough for the historic center plus the major archaeological sites around the city. Three days allow you to add a Sacred Valley excursion, mountain attraction, museum visits, or additional cultural experiences.
Cusco Itinerary for 2 Days
Day 1: Historic Cusco
Spend your first day exploring the center.
- Plaza de Armas
- Cusco Cathedral
- Hatun Rumiyoc
- Twelve-Angled Stone
- San Blas
- Qorikancha
- Local market
- San Cristóbal viewpoint
Allow plenty of time to walk between attractions rather than rushing from one site to another.
Day 2: Inca Archaeological Sites
Use the second day to explore the archaeological attractions surrounding Cusco.
- Sacsayhuamán
- Q’enqo
- Puka Pukara
- Tambomachay
- Cristo Blanco
- Additional museum or cultural attraction
If you prefer nature and hiking, you could replace some archaeological attractions with a day trip to a nearby mountain destination.
Cusco Itinerary for 3 Days
A Cusco itinerary for 3 days provides considerably more flexibility.
Day 1: Historic Center
Explore the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, Hatun Rumiyoc, San Blas, and the local markets.
Day 2: Archaeology and Culture
Visit Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Cristo Blanco. Spend the afternoon exploring museums or returning to San Blas.
Day 3: Sacred Valley or Mountain Excursion
Use your third day for an excursion outside Cusco. The Sacred Valley is an excellent option if you want archaeological sites and traditional villages. Alternatively, travelers interested in hiking and dramatic landscapes can choose a mountain excursion.
Is Cusco Worth Visiting?
Yes, Cusco is absolutely worth visiting, even if you are primarily traveling to Peru to see Machu Picchu. In fact, spending time in Cusco helps travelers understand the historical and cultural context of the Inca civilization and the Andes.
Cusco is more than a gateway to Machu Picchu. It is a destination with its own identity, combining archaeological remains, colonial architecture, traditional culture, food, art, markets, and spectacular mountain landscapes.
There are several reasons to spend at least two or three days in the city:
- Rich Inca history
- Impressive colonial architecture
- Excellent archaeological sites
- Traditional Andean culture
- Historic neighborhoods
- Local markets
- Museums and galleries
- Excellent Peruvian cuisine
- Easy access to the Sacred Valley
- Beautiful mountain scenery
- Many hiking opportunities
- Unique cultural experiences
Another important reason is altitude. Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, so spending a couple of days in the city can provide useful acclimatization before undertaking demanding hikes such as the Inca Trail or other high-altitude excursions.
Tips for Visiting the Best Places in Cusco
Take Your Time in the Historic Center
Many visitors make the mistake of treating Cusco only as a stopover before Machu Picchu. The historic center deserves time. Walking slowly through the streets reveals architectural details and historical layers that are easy to miss on a rushed visit.
Plan Around Altitude
Cusco’s high elevation can affect travelers during their first day or two. Avoid planning an extremely demanding hike immediately after arrival. Drink water, rest when necessary, and allow your body time to adjust.
Explore Early in the Morning
Popular attractions can become busy during the middle of the day. Early mornings are particularly good for photography, walking, and experiencing the historic center with fewer people.
Combine Attractions by Location
A practical way to organize your visit is to group attractions that are close together. For example, Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, Hatun Rumiyoc, and San Blas can be combined into a walking route.
Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay can similarly be visited together because they are located in the same general area.
Leave Time for Unplanned Exploration
Some of the most memorable experiences in Cusco happen between major attractions. Leave room to stop at a café, enter an artisan workshop, photograph an old stone wall, visit a small museum, or simply walk through a neighborhood.
Best Places to Visit in Cusco: Final Recommendations
The best places to visit in Cusco depend on how much time you have and what interests you most. First-time visitors should prioritize the historic center, Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, San Blas, and Sacsayhuamán.
If you have additional time, explore the markets, museums, surrounding archaeological sites, viewpoints, and Sacred Valley. Travelers looking for unique experiences can spend more time in traditional neighborhoods, visit local markets, explore artisan areas, and experience the city’s food and culture.
For a short visit, one day can cover the essential city-center attractions. Two days provide a much better introduction to Cusco, while three days allow you to combine the historic city with archaeological sites and a major excursion outside the city.
Most importantly, don’t think of Cusco simply as the place where your journey to Machu Picchu begins. Cusco is itself one of Peru’s most remarkable destinations, where Inca heritage, colonial history, living Andean traditions, and dramatic mountain scenery come together in one extraordinary city.
Leave a Reply