Cusco was the capital of the Inca empire and today it is a living city where Inca walls, colonial churches and colorful markets coexist. This is our list of things to do in Cusco, ordered by area so you can combine them without losing time.
In the city
- Plaza de Armas: the heart of Cusco, with the Cathedral and La Compañía church. Best at sunset.
- Qoricancha: the Temple of the Sun, with perfect Inca walls beneath the Santo Domingo convent.
- San Blas neighborhood: cobbled streets, artisan workshops and cafés.
- Hatun Rumiyoc street and the 12-angled stone: the best example of Inca masonry right in the city.
- San Pedro market: juices, fruit, cheeses and crafts at local prices.
- San Cristóbal viewpoint: the view of Cusco as evening falls.
- Museums: the Pre-Columbian Art Museum and the Inka Museum are the most complete.
Near Cusco (half day)
- Sacsayhuamán: the fortress of giant blocks above the city.
- Q’enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay: nearby sites that can be toured in one morning.
- Cristo Blanco: panoramic view and a photo of Cusco.
The tourist ticket covers several of these sites.
Day trips
- Sacred Valley: Pisac, Moray, Maras and Ollantaytambo. See Sacred Valley VIP and the Sacred Valley guide.
- Humantay Lake: the turquoise lake at 4,200 m. See the tour.
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): at 5,036 m. See the tour.
- Machu Picchu: by train with a night in Aguas Calientes. See Machu Picchu 2 days.
- Cooking class or cacao and coffee tasting: to try cuy, quinoa, ají and chicha morada.
How to organize it
In your first days stay in the city and the Sacred Valley: they are lower and help you acclimatize. Save the higher-altitude excursions (Rainbow Mountain) for later. If you do not know how many days you need, read how many days in Cusco.
What to try
- Roast cuy, suckling pig and adobo at the market.
- Urubamba trout and quinoa soup.
- Craft chocolate and coffee from the La Convención valley.
- Coca tea or mate (it helps with altitude, though it does not replace acclimatizing).
Ready to choose your tours? Send your request and we reply the same day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best thing to do in Cusco?
Walk the historic center, visit Sacsayhuamán and Qoricancha, and take an excursion to the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu.
Is Cusco safe for tourists?
Yes, with normal precautions: watch your belongings in markets and crowds, use registered taxis and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
What can you do in Cusco for free?
Stroll through the Plaza de Armas and San Blas, see Hatun Rumiyoc street with the 12-angled stone and climb to the San Cristóbal viewpoint.