Cusco

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a vibrant city nestled high in the Andes at 11,200 feet above sea level. Blending centuries of history, its streets are lined with both Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture. Charming narrow and cobblestone streets, cozy alleys, and quaint streets complete your view of Cusco.

Things to Do

  • Plaza de Armas

    Cusco’s main square is the city’s historic and cultural hub, surrounded by colonial arcades, grand churches, and lively cafés. Once the heart of the Inca Empire, it’s now a vibrant spot for people-watching, festivals, and local life.

  • Sacsayhuamán

    Just above the city, this impressive Inca fortress features massive stone walls fit together without mortar. Offering panoramic views over Cusco, it’s both an architectural marvel and a spiritual site still used for ceremonies today.

  • San Pedro Market

    A lively local market where you can try fresh juices, buy alpaca souvenirs, and get a glimpse of daily life. It’s the perfect spot to experience Cusco’s flavors, colors, and culture in one go.

  • San Blas

    San Blas is Cusco’s artsy hillside neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and local artisan workshops. It’s a peaceful escape with some of the best views in town.

  • Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

    Once the most sacred site in the Inca Empire, Qorikancha was adorned in gold before the Spanish built the Santo Domingo convent atop it. You’ll see a striking contrast between Inca stonework and colonial architecture.

  • The Cathedral of Cusco

    Towering over the Plaza de Armas, this colonial masterpiece houses ornate altars and a rich collection of Cusqueña paintings—including a famous Last Supper with guinea pig. It’s a must for art and history lovers.

Food Recommendations

Morena

This modern and bright restaurant nestled in the heart of the city offers delicious flavors of Peru, featuring cuisine from the coast to the Amazon to the Andes.

Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse

If you want to try alpaca, this is one of the best choices. Uchu specializes in beef and alpaca steaks, as well as seafood and chicken, brought to your table with a heated volcanic stone so you can cook it to your taste.

L’Atelier

One of the best places to sneak off to for a coffee or tea. Sit on one of the two small balconies in colonial San Blas and watch the world go by.

Pachapapa

Excellent local food and oven-baked pizzas. Casual setting with great outdoors in a leafy courtyard. Good place to try cuy (guinea pig).

Fallen Angel

Worth stopping by for a drink just to take in the eclectic decor, it’s worth staying for the delicious food. Particularly known for the quality of the steaks, there are also many other meat, poultry, fish and vegetarian dishes to enjoy.

Limbus Restobar

Located in elevated San Blas neighborhood, Limbus features panoramic city views which you can enjoy while sipping on a cocktail.

Inka Grill

Located right on the main square, Inka Grill is not only known for its delicious Peruvian food but for being one of the places to go to enjoy traditional Peruvian music and dancing with your meals.

Cicciolina

Features delicious Mediterranean cuisine with an Andean flair; tapas available only in the bar area. Great place to go if a nice bottle of wine with your meal is a must. The atmosphere is upscale and romantic.

Limo

One of the best in town, with a broad menu but a specialty in fish and, in particular, sushi. Great for lunch; also one of the best spots in town for pisco drinks.

Travel Tips

Altitude Adjustment: Cusco sits over 11,000 ft. Take it slow your first day, hydrate well, and try coca tea to help with symptoms.

Getting Around: Walking is the best way to get around the historic center of Cusco. You can stroll from one side of the historic center to the other within 15 to 20 minutes.

Local Cuisine: Don’t miss dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and the variety of native potatoes.

Weather: Again, pack layers—sunny days can quickly turn to cold nights. A jacket and sunscreen are musts.