Things to do · Cusco, Peru

Things to Do in Cusco

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Getting there
Most visitors fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which sits about three kilometres from Cusco’s historic centre and is reachable by a short taxi ride or city shuttle. Direct flights are common from Lima and other major South American hubs, while connections through Bogotá or Santiago are also frequent. For those preferring land travel, a scenic bus route links Cusco to the larger Inca Manco Capac Airport about 290 km away, though most travelers opt for the closer airport.
Who goes
Cusco welcomes roughly half a million tourists each year, with the bulk arriving between May and September when the weather is dry and the Inca Trail is open. The city attracts a mix of backpackers, culture‑focused travelers, and upscale tourists seeking high‑altitude history. Peak crowds gather around the Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuamán in the high season, while the shoulder months of October and April offer noticeably quieter streets.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend around 60–90 sol per day (roughly $18–$27 USD), whereas a comfortable visitor might budget 150–250 sol (about $45–$75 USD). Accommodations and dining typically account for the biggest share of expenses, especially in the historic centre. To stretch your money, consider staying in a guesthouse a short walk from the plaza and buying meals at the San Pedro Market, where a full menú del día is often far cheaper than restaurant plates. Estimate →

  1. Plaza de Armas

    attraction · 4.8 rating

    The historic main square of Cusco, framed by the cathedral, colonial arcades, and the Church of the Society of Jesus. The iconic heart of the city and its top gathering and sightseeing spot.

  2. Mercado Central de San Pedro

    attraction · 4.3 rating

    Cusco's main central market, a bustling hall filled with produce, food stalls, juices, and local goods. A vivid spot to experience local life and sample street food.

  3. Qorikancha

    attraction · 4.7 rating

    The most important Inca temple in Cusco, dedicated to the sun god, whose superb stonework was overlaid by the colonial Santo Domingo convent. Travelers visit for its remarkable fusion of Inca and Spanish architecture and its central historical significance.

  4. Twelve Angled Stone

    attraction · 4.6 rating

    A famous Inca stone in a wall on Hatunrumiyoc street in Cusco, precisely cut with twelve angles fitting neighboring stones. Travelers stop to admire this iconic example of Inca masonry.

  5. Cusco Cathedral

    church · 4.6 rating · 25 PEN

    A grand colonial cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, built on Inca foundations and filled with religious art and colonial-era paintings. Travelers visit for its architecture, history, and famed Cusco School artwork.

  6. Plaza San Blas

    attraction · 4.5 rating

    A charming square at the heart of Cusco's bohemian San Blas neighborhood, surrounded by whitewashed houses, artisan workshops, and a colonial church. Travelers come for its artsy atmosphere and scenic hillside setting.

  7. Humantay Lake

    attraction

    A stunning turquoise glacial lake set beneath snow-capped peaks in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, reached by a steep high-altitude hike. Travelers come for the dramatic mountain scenery and vivid lake color.

  8. Ave de Barro - Clay & art

    attraction

    A ceramics and clay art studio in Cusco offering handmade pottery and creative workshops. Travelers visit to see or make Andean-inspired clay art.

  9. augusta.espacio

    attraction

    A contemporary creative and cultural space in Cusco hosting art and design. Travelers visit for its curated exhibitions and modern aesthetic.

  10. Art. Galería Virgen de Guadalupe

    attraction

    A Cusco art gallery featuring paintings, often in the Andean and Cusqueña styles. A destination for travelers interested in regional religious and cultural art.

  11. Centro Arquelogico de Sacsayhuaman

    attraction

    A monumental Inca archaeological complex on a hill above Cusco, famous for its massive precisely-fitted stone walls. A major site for history and panoramic city views.

  12. Chinchero

    attraction

    A traditional Andean village in the Sacred Valley known for its colonial church, Inca terraces, and living weaving traditions. Travelers come for textile demonstrations and sweeping highland views.

  13. Chukimarka

    attraction

    A restaurant in Cusco serving traditional Andean and Peruvian cuisine. A place to experience regional dishes in a local setting.

  14. Coanqui Art Gallery Museum

    museum

    An art gallery and museum in Cusco showcasing regional artwork and cultural pieces. Travelers visit to view local and Andean-inspired art.

  15. Casa Garcilaso

    attraction

    An upscale restaurant set in a historic Cusco house, offering Peruvian and international fare. A refined dining choice near the historic center.

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