The 15 absolute must-dos, where to eat, where to stay, and all our best tips to make the most of the ancient Inca capital, Cusco!
Discovering Cusco from A to Z: The Complete Traveler's Guide
Cusco is the city that everyone visits "for Machu Picchu"… and ends up stealing your heart instead. The ancient capital of the Inca Empire is perched at 3,400 meters above sea level, nestled between towering mountains and steeped in history that greets you at every corner.
Here, incredibly precise Inca walls, built without a single drop of mortar, serve as the foundations for Spanish colonial churches. Markets overflow with 2 soles pomegranate juice and steaming bowls of quinoa soup. And in the evening, as you watch the lights flicker to life on the hillsides from the Plaza de Armas, you'll wonder how a city can be so beautiful.
But Cusco also means dealing with soroche (altitude sickness), persistent street vendors, and a well-oiled tourist machine. Here is everything you need to know to make the most of your trip and dodge the usual pitfalls.
Cusco at a Glance
Altitude: 3,400 m, make sure to take it easy and acclimate!
How long to stay: 3 to 6 days (city + surrounding areas)
Average budget: 20-40€/day (backpacker) · 60-100€/day (mid-range)
Best time to go: April to October (dry season), June-August = high season
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN), 1€ ≈ 4 PEN as of May 2026
From Lima: 1.5-hour flight (~50-100€) or a 22-hour bus ride (~30-45€ for a sleeper bus)
The 15 absolute must-dos in Cusco
Our handpicked, tested, and approved selection. We've listed them by must-see landmarks rather than geographically, but everything is easily reachable on foot from the center.
1. Plaza de Armas ⭐ 4.8/5
Quite simply, one of the most beautiful squares in South America. It's framed by the majestic Cathedral and the Church of the Compañía de Jesús, and lined with colonial arches where the Cusqueños grab their coffee. The Incas called it Huacaypata ("the square of tears"). On Sunday mornings, locals gather here in traditional dress, and that's when you realize Cusco isn't just a museum: it's a living, breathing city.
Access: free · 24/7 📍 Google Maps
2. Le Coricancha (Temple du Soleil) ⭐ 4.7/5
The most sacred temple of the Inca Empire, once completely covered in gold plates. The conquistadors melted the gold down and built the Santo Domingo Convent right on top of it, but the Inca walls, assembled with surgical precision, are still standing. The contrast between Inca and colonial architecture is striking. Excavations regularly reveal new underground rooms.
Admission: ~S/15 · Open Mon-Sat 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Sun 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM 📍 Google Maps
3. Sacsayhuamán ⭐ 4.7/5
The massive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. The stones, some weighing up to 300 tons, fit together so perfectly that you can't even slip a sheet of paper between them. Nobody really knows how the Incas transported and carved these massive blocks. Walk up from the Plaza de Armas (~30 min, steep but totally doable). The panoramic view of Cusco is well worth the effort. It is also the venue for the Inti Raymi festival every June 24th.
Boleto Turístico required · Open 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM 📍 Google Maps
4. Le Mercado San Pedro ⭐ 4.5/5
The beating heart of Cusco. Fresh fruit juices for S/2 (pomegranate, papaya, strawberry), full lunches for S/5-8, steaming bowls of quinoa soup, fresh cheese, and an organized chaos that awakens all your senses. Get there early in the morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM) for the most authentic vibe, when the Cusqueños are doing their shopping. On the first floor, the juice vendors will playfully compete for your business—just go with the flow.
Open daily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM · 2 min walk from the Plaza 📍 Google Maps
5. La Pierre aux 12 angles ⭐ 4.6/5
On Hatunrumiyoc Street, a perfectly carved stone block with 12 angles fits seamlessly into an Inca wall. It's proof of the mind-boggling engineering skills of the Incas. Fun fact: the west wall belongs to the Amarucancha (Courtyard of the Serpents), one of the oldest palaces in Cusco. Today, it is part of the Palacio Arzobispal. A local guide in traditional dress is usually there to explain the history, and a small tip is highly appreciated.
Access: Free (street view) · Calle Hatunrumiyoc 📍 Google Maps
6. San Blas, le quartier des artisans ⭐ 4.5/5
Perched above the Plaza de Armas, San Blas is Cusco's very own Montmartre. Think steep cobblestone alleys, ceramic workshops, art galleries, and hidden little squares overlooking the terracotta rooftops. The plazoleta San Blas is home to Cusco's oldest parish, which boasts an extraordinary carved wooden pulpit. The neighborhood is also Cusco's top coffee spot, where you'll find the best local craft roasters.
Access: Free · Steep climb from the Plaza 📍 Google Maps
7. Les Catacombes de San Francisco ⭐ 4.5/5
Less famous than the Cathedral, San Francisco Church features an incredibly peaceful courtyard and an impressive collection of colonial paintings. The underground crypts add a mysterious touch. The square in front of the church is a popular gathering spot on Sundays, when the locals come down from neighboring villages.
Admission: ~S/10 · Square is free to access 📍 Google Maps
8. Tandapata, la rue emblématique ⭐ 4.4/5
This cobblestone alley in San Blas is the very essence of picturesque Cusco. Historic Inca irrigation channels still flow alongside the steps, set against ancient stone walls—the atmosphere will take you back 500 years. It's easily one of the most photogenic streets in the city. In the evening, the soft lights cast a magical glow over the facades.
Access: Free · San Blas neighborhood 📍 Google Maps
9. Le Museo Histórico Regional ⭐ 4.3/5
Housed in the birthplace of chronicler Garcilaso de la Vega (the son of a conquistador and an Inca princess), this museum retraces the history of the region from pre-Inca times. The colonial building itself, with its lovely inner courtyards and wooden balconies, is well worth a visit.
Boleto Turístico required 📍 Google Maps
10. Le Museo del Pisco ⭐ 4.5/5
Part museum, part bar, and 100% awesome. The passionate team will talk you through the history of pisco, the different grape varieties, and distillation techniques before letting you have a taste. The cocktails are some of the best in Cusco—the Pisco Sour here is a revelation. A must-visit, even (especially) if you think pisco "isn't your thing."
Open daily 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM · Cocktails: S/20-35 📍 Google Maps
11. Le Centro de Textiles Tradicionales ⭐ 4.7/5
This cooperative preserves the ancestral weaving techniques of 10 Andean communities. You can watch the artisans at work, learn about the symbols behind the patterns, and buy genuine pieces at a fair price (no cheap mass-produced knockoffs here). The vibrant colors are made using local plants, minerals, and insects (cochineal). Buying a souvenir here directly supports a living culture.
Open Mon-Sat 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM · Av Sol 603 📍 Google Maps
12. Goûter le Cuy (cochon d’Inde) ⭐ 4.4/5
You can't really say you've been to Cusco without talking about cuy (guinea pig). This animal has been domesticated in the Andes for 7,000 years and is considered a delicacy for special occasions. It is typically served roasted whole—yes, head included. The taste is somewhere between rabbit and quail, and the skin is incredibly crispy. Fun fact: in the Last Supper painting inside Cusco Cathedral, Jesus and his disciples are dining on... cuy. If you can get past the presentation, it's a truly memorable experience.
The best spots to try it: Kusikuy or Pachapapa in San Blas 📍 Google Maps
13. Le Qorikancha Museum & jardin ⭐ 4.5/5
Right next to the Coricancha, this small underground museum houses Inca and pre-Inca artifacts found during the temple excavations. The terrace garden offers a peaceful view of the temple walls. It's often overlooked by tourists in a hurry, which makes it a great quiet spot to check out.
Included with the Coricancha ticket 📍 Google Maps
14. La Cathédrale de Cusco ⭐ 4.7/5
A baroque masterpiece built on the foundations of the Inca palace of Viracocha. The interior is lavish, featuring gilded altarpieces, paintings from the Cusco School (a fascinating blend of Catholicism and indigenous Andean imagery), and the famous Last Supper painting featuring cuy. The central altar, made of solid silver, weighs an impressive 300 kg.
Admission: ~S/25 · Open Mon-Sat 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 📍 Google Maps
15. Coucher de soleil depuis le Mirador de Sán Cristobal ⭐ 4.8/5
Free and unforgettable. Grab a spot on the Cathedral steps or snag a balcony seat at one of the rooftop restaurants nearby (Jack's Café or Limo have perfect views). Watching the sun dip behind the mountains as the city lights slowly flicker to life across the hills is the exact moment you'll understand why the Incas chose this spot.
Access: Free · Best spot: the steps by the Cathedral side 📍 Google Maps
Walking Tour: Discover Cusco in 3 Hours
This 4 km walking tour takes you through the heart of the historic center in a single morning. Starting from the Plaza de Armas, with 15 stops, and returning to the Plaza. Allow 3 hours including breaks. If you want the history to go with it, we've written an article especially for that!
Altitude tip This walking tour heads up towards San Blas and Sacsayhuamán. At 3,400m, you will get winded. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, and don't hesitate to take breaks. It's not a race. |
Plaza de Armas, Start right in the center of the square. Take a moment to admire the Cathedral and the Compañía.
Plaza Regocijo, Head southwest. It's a lovely, peaceful square featuring the Museo Histórico Regional.
Calle Garcilaso, Great shops and restaurants housed in old colonial buildings.
Hotel los Marqueses, Take a peek at these beautifully restored colonial mansions.
Plaza San Francisco, Church and a local market. On Sundays, Quechua speakers gather here.
Église Santa Clara, If it's open, step inside; those mirrors were originally used to draw in curious locals.
Mercado San Pedro, Time for a fresh juice break! Just pick the busiest stall.
Avenida El Sol, The main avenue heading towards Coricancha.
Coricancha, The Temple of the Sun. Allow about 45 minutes for your visit.
Loreto, A narrow alley lined with Inca walls on both sides. You'll see the Amarucancha on your right and the Acllahuasi (“House of the Chosen Women”) on your left.
Calle Hatunrumiyoc, Home to the famous 12-angled stone.
Museo de Arte Religioso, Housed in the palace of Inca Roca (the 6th Inca ruler). Beautiful colonial paintings inside.
Plaza San Blas, The bohemian heart of Cusco. Perfect spot for a coffee break!
Tandapata, An iconic cobblestone street complete with ancient Inca channels.
Montée vers Sacsayhuamán, If you still have the energy, head up to the fortress (about an extra 30-minute walk).
If you'd like to learn more about the history of Peru, we have some articles covering all of it!
The Boleto Turístico
This is THE pass to know about. For S/130 (~30€), it gives you access to 16 sites over 10 days: Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Chinchero, plus several museums in town.
It pays for itself in just 3 or 4 visits. You CANNOT buy individual tickets for Sacsayhuamán or Ollantaytambo—the Boleto is mandatory. You can buy it at the OFEC (Av Sol 103), at the DIRCETUR, or directly at the site entrances.
🎫 Partial Boleto If you're short on time, there are partial boletos (S/70) that cover a specific circuit (Circuit 1: sites around Cusco / Circuit 2: Sacred Valley / Circuit 3: museums). Valid for 1-2 days. |
Where to eat in Cusco?
Cusco is a true foodie city. The local Cusqueñian cuisine beautifully blends Andean traditions with colonial influences. Here is our hand-picked selection tested by us.
Budget-friendly eats: the menús del día
All over town, small local eateries serve daily specials (soup + main dish + drink) for S/7-16. It's hearty, fresh, and where the locals go to eat. Look out for the spots with the longest lines.
Mercado San Pedro ⭐ 4.5/5
The central market is perfect for picking up fresh fruit, bread, cheese, and trekking supplies. The juice stalls are absolutely addictive. The freshly ground coffee on the second floor is surprisingly good.
Juice: S/2-5 · Lunch: S/5-8 , 📍 Google Maps
Restaurante Egos ⭐ 4.2/5
Arequipa 248. Menu del día for S/18. Tasty local food served in generous portions. This is where market workers go to eat, so you won't get any more authentic than this.
Menu: S/18 , 📍 Google Maps
Q’ori Sara ⭐ 4.3/5
Calle Garcilaso 290. A slightly cozier setting, with set menus for S/8. Expect a warm family atmosphere.
Menu: S/8 , 📍 Google Maps
Mid-range: great Cusqueñian cuisine
DE OTO PIZZERIA ⭐ 5/5
C. Nueva Alta 609, Cusco 08000. A pizzeria run by a lovely local family. You'll feel right at home while enjoying pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. A real hidden gem recommended by long-term travelers.
Dishes: S/18-35 , 📍 Google Maps
Chicha por Gastón Acurio ⭐ 4.5/5
Plaza Regocijo 261. The Cusco restaurant of Peru's star chef. Try their modern twist on anticuchos, crispy beef cuzqueña, or the incredible rocoto relleno. The terrace overlooking Plaza Regocijo is a dream. Make sure to book ahead.
Dishes: S/35-65 , 📍 Google Maps
Jill's café ⭐4.9/5
Jill's is the ultimate fusion spot. Here, you'll experience a masterful blend of Peruvian, Chinese, Mexican, and European cuisines! Even with such craft, the dishes remain affordable and very generous.
Choqechaka 509, Cusco 08002, 📍 Google Maps
Dishes: S/16-40
Limo ⭐ 4.4/5
Portal de Carnes 236, 2nd floor. Japanese-Peruvian fusion (Nikkei) with a perfect view looking down at Plaza de Armas. They serve creative ceviches and top-notch pisco sours. Stop by for lunch when the light is absolutely magical.
Dishes: S/35-60 , 📍 Google Maps
Cicciolina ⭐ 4.5/5
Triunfo 393, 2nd floor. Set inside a colonial mansion, this spot offers elegant Mediterranean-Peruvian cuisine. The tapas bar is also outstanding, serving crispy polenta, marinated olives, and leg of lamb. Many consider it the best restaurant in Cusco.
Dishes: S/40-70 , 📍 Google Maps
For a bigger budget
Morena Peruvian Kitchen ⭐ 4.5/5
Plazoleta Nazarenas 167. Elegant Peruvian cuisine in an intimate setting. The ceviche and cuy are spectacular.
Dishes: S/45-75 , 📍 Google Maps
Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse ⭐ 4.5/5
Palacio 135. Premium grilled meats paired with Andean side dishes. The grilled alpaca is definitely worth a try.
Dishes: S/50-80 , 📍 Google Maps
Restaurante Catedral ⭐ 4.8/5
Cuesta del Almirante, opposite the Museo Inka. S/70 set menu with a view. Excellent Mediterranean dishes with a creative Peruvian twist.
Meal: S/70 , 📍 Google Maps
Época Cusco ⭐ 4.2/5
Huaynapata 318. Another great local option if you're feeling adventurous and want to try lama carpaccio.
Meal: S/30 , 📍 Google Maps
L'apéro or Naupa Rumi for Andean raclette ⭐ 5/5
Craving a warm raclette? These two spots are absolute delights for discovering Andean-style raclette and finishing the night with a chocolate fondue (yes, it is as deliciously indulgent as it sounds!). Made with local ingredients, they are the perfect spots to enjoy one!
Meal: S/40-60
L'apéro: 📍 Google Maps Naupa Rumi: 📍 Google Maps
Snacks & coffee shops
Inca Gourmet ⭐ 4.3/5
Portal de Panes 163. The perfect spot to pick up craft products to bring back home: Cusqueñian chocolate, Quillabamba coffee, and cocoa beans.
Prices vary , 📍 Google Maps
Llama café II (a bit cozier than number I, in our opinion) ⭐ 4.9/5
C. Tandapata 140, Cusco 08003. Opening very early, it's the perfect spot to grab breakfast before catching a bus or when you arrive early in the city. S/10-30
Where to stay in Cusco?
Cusco is packed with places to stay for every budget. The historic center and San Blas are the best neighborhoods, as everything is within walking distance. Just a heads-up: the streets are steep, so rolling suitcases will have a tough time.
Where to stay in Cusco on a budget
Okidoki Cusco Hostal ⭐ 4.5/5
At 5 euros a room with a cozy vibe and a bite-sized breakfast, this is a real steal for budget travelers in Cusco! 📍 Google Maps
Intro Hostels ⭐ 4.4/5
A modern, highly social hostel. Spotless dorms, a rooftop bar, and nightly events. It has that classic backpacker vibe.
Dorm: S/35-50 · Private: S/100-140 , 📍 Google Maps
Hostal Rumi Punku ⭐ 4.5/5
All the charm of a colonial building featuring authentic Inca walls (the name actually means "Stone Gate"). You'll love the flower-filled courtyards and the rooftop terrace. Breakfast is included. Easily the best mid-range option in Cusco.
Room: S/150-250 , 📍 Google Maps
Boutique charm & mid-range
Madre Tierra ⭐ 4.6/5
Cozy boutique hotel with a lovely B&B feel. It features a rustic-chic style, a cozy fireplace, and a great rooftop terrace. Right in the heart of things and super welcoming.
Chambre : S/130-207 , 📍 Google Maps
Amaru Hostal ⭐ 4.4/5
A beautiful colonial building with a flower-filled courtyard that has been a traveler favorite for years. Some rooms even have rocking chairs where you can sit back and admire the rooftops. A true classic.
Chambre : S/105-189 , 📍 Google Maps
Casa Cartagena ⭐ 4.6/5
An upscale luxury boutique hotel set in a stunning 16th-century mansion. It comes with a top-notch spa, a gourmet restaurant, and oxygen-enriched rooms (!) to help you adjust to the altitude. Perfect for a special treat.
Chambre : S/500-900 , 📍 Google Maps
Nightlife & going out
Cusco has a surprisingly lively nightlife scene. Just keep in mind that the altitude makes alcohol hit a bit harder, so take it easy on the pisco during your first few days here.
Museo del Pisco u2b50 4.5/5
Hands down the best bar in Cusco. They offer guided tastings, creative cocktails, and have a truly passionate team. Their classic Pisco Sour and Chilcano are absolute gold standards.
Cocktails : S/20-35 , ud83dudccd Google Maps
Mama Africa u2b50 4.2/5
THE backpacker nightclub in Cusco. Think Latin music, generous happy hours (2-for-1), and a packed dance floor. It's not for purists, but it's an experience in itself. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the wildest nights.
Entru00e9e : S/10-20 , ud83dudccd Google Maps
Inka Team u2b50 4.3/5
The go-to spot for salsa. They offer free lessons early in the evening, followed by a lively Latin dance floor that keeps going until dawn.
Entru00e9e : S/10-15 , ud83dudccd Google Maps
Limbus Restobar u2b50 4.6/5
A rooftop bar sharing panoramic views over Cusco. It is absolutely perfect for sunset drinks, featuring creative cocktails and a great, laid-back vibe.
Cocktails : S/18-30 , ud83dudccd Google Maps
Looking to do some shopping in Cusco?
Cusco is the hands-down best place in Peru to pick up high-quality crafts. But keep an eye out for factory-made items masquerading as handmade goods. Here is how to tell the real deal from the fakes.
Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco ⭐ 4.7/5
The absolute gold standard for authentic textiles. You can watch the weavers work, learn the stories behind the patterns, and know the prices are fair. A poncho from here is a keepsake you will cherish for life.
Poncho : S/200-800 · Écharpe : S/50-150 , 📍 Google Maps
Mercado San Pedro ⭐ 4.5/5
Beyond the amazing food, this market is packed with textiles, beanies, ceramics, and jewelry. Do negotiate (always with a warm smile!). The quality can vary, so make sure to check the material—real alpaca is soft and lightweight, never synthetic.
Prix : négociables , 📍 Google Maps
San Blas, galeries & ateliers ⭐ 4.4/5
San Blas is home to some incredible ceramic and jewelry workshops. The famous ceramic artist Pablo Seminario has his boutique studio here. It is pricier than the market, but the artisan quality is guaranteed.
Prix : selon atelier , 📍 Google Maps
Calle Loreto et son marché caché ⭐ 4.4/5
The shops here sell just about every tourist souvenir you could want at much cheaper prices than high-street boutiques. Plus, you can spot llamas here without having to bother the Cholitas who try to sell you photo ops.
Prix : selon les boutiques , 📍 Google Maps
⚠️ Watch out for textile scams The golden rule: rub the fabric between your fingers. Real alpaca feels silky-smooth, scratch-free, and surprisingly cool (even though it keeps you incredibly warm, it always feels a bit cool to the touch). If it is itchy, it is synthetic! A "100% alpaca" beanie selling for S/5 at the market is definitely NOT alpaca. Expect to pay at least S/30-50 for a real beanie, and S/100+ for a scarf. |
What will the weather be like for your trip?
Useful traveler info
Getting to Cusco
Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport is a quick 10-minute taxi ride from the center (S/10-15). Uber is also available here. If you’re arriving by bus (Cruz du Sur, Oltursa), the main bus terminal is about 20 minutes from the city center (S/8-10 by taxi).
⚠️ Jaladores At the bus terminals, you’ll likely be approached by persistent touts ("jaladores") trying to sell you a hotel or a tour. They often use the names of popular spots but will take you somewhere else entirely. NEVER go with a jalador. Book your accommodation yourself and always take an official taxi. |
Getting Around
The entire historic center is easily walkable. For Sacsayhuamán, you can hike up on foot (about 30 minutes) or catch a taxi (S/6). To explore the Sacred Valley, colectivos (shared minibuses) leave from Calle Pavítos (S/3-10 depending on where you’re heading). If you’re off to Machu Picchu, trains depart from the San Pedro station (PeruRail) or Poroy.
Altitude and Soroche
This is no joke. At 3,400m, there is 30% less oxygen than at sea level. During your first few days, you might experience headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, or trouble sleeping. Don’t panic—it usually passes in 24 to 48 hours.
What works: Mate de coca (a local herbal tea that is completely legal, highly effective, and available everywhere), drinking tons of water, eating light meals, skipping alcohol on your first day, and just taking it nice and slow.
What doesn't work: Pushing yourself, running, drinking alcohol, and eating heavy meals. If your symptoms persist, local doctors can easily prescribe acetazolamide (Diamox).
Money & Currency
The BCP and Scotiabank ATMs right on the Plaza de Armas are your most reliable options. Most mid-range restaurants accept cards, but smaller local spots and markets are strictly cash-only. If you need to exchange money, stick to the official exchange booths on Av Sol.
Staying Safe
Cusco is very safe during the day. In the evening, try to avoid walking alone on unlit streets (especially the climb up toward Sacsayhuamán). While pickpocketing is rare, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded markets. The Plaza de Armas offers free Wi-Fi, but avoid using open networks for any banking transactions.
Staying Connected
Grab a local Claro or Movistar SIM card—4G coverage is solid throughout the city. Most accommodations have decent Wi-Fi, and you can find strong connections at the OFEC and several cafés around San Blas.
