Get ready to be swept away—both by Cusco’s rich culture and, well, the altitude! At 3,400 meters (11,200 feet) above sea level, the city immediately feels magical, though it might just be the lack of oxygen playing tricks on you. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Cusco is surrounded by majestic mountains, winding rivers, and sacred valleys that once formed the heart of the Incan Empire.
Once the grand capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco remained a stronghold of Andean civilization until the 16th-century Spanish conquest. In recognition of its immense historical and cultural significance, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983.
Cusco isn’t just a gateway to Machu Picchu; it’s a living museum, where colonial architecture intertwines with Incan ruins, seemingly frozen in time. The historic city center, with its narrow cobblestone streets and lively plazas, whispers tales of centuries past. A visit to Plaza de Armas is a must—Cusco’s vibrant heart, surrounded by grand cathedrals and bustling cafés, where history and modern life blend seamlessly. For breathtaking city views, take a stroll (and a bit of a hike) up to San Blas, the city’s bohemian neighborhood, filled with artisan workshops, and charming streets. And of course, don’t miss the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), once the most sacred site in the Incan Empire.
Exploring The City & Surroundings
Plaza de Armas: The Beating Heart Of Cusco
Plaza de Armas is the city’s vibrant centerpiece. Framed by grand colonial buildings, charming arcades, and breathtaking mountain views, this historic square has been the heart of Cusco since Incan times. Back then, it was twice its current size and served as the epicenter of ceremonies, festivals, and even battles. Today, it remains just as lively, filled with locals, travelers, and street vendors offering everything from paintings to alpaca wool scarves.
Stroll through Plaza de Armas, where the imposing Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus stand—both built on the foundations of Incan temples. While these structures showcase stunning colonial craftsmanship, their presence is also a reminder of the city’s complex and, at times, painful history.
Qorikancha: The Temple Of The Sun
One of Cusco’s most fascinating sights is Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most opulent temple in the Incan Empire. Historical accounts describe its walls as being covered in gold, silver, and precious jewels, dedicated to Inti, the sun god. Built during the reign of Manco Cápac in the 12th century, it stood as a symbol of divine power. However, in 1536, the Spanish built Santo Domingo Church directly atop its ruins. Today, you can still see remnants of the temple, including a perfectly crafted semicircular stone wall visible from Avenida El Sol—a striking contrast between the two architectural styles.
Wandering Through Cusco: A Walk At Your Own Pace
While Cusco is an incredibly walkable city, don’t be fooled—its steep hills and high altitude make even a short stroll feel like a workout. The area around the main plaza is relatively flat, but if you’re venturing toward San Blas, San Cristobal, or Santa Ana, prepare to embrace some uphill cardio.
The Plazoleta San Blas is the heart of Cusco’s bohemian district, home to artisans, whitewashed adobe houses, and charming blue balconies. This neighborhood has been a hub for crafts and artistry since Incan times, making it the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.
For a glimpse into Cusco’s mystical heritage, seek out the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, an incredible feat of Incan engineering hidden in the San Blas neighborhood. And here’s a fun fact: the Eight-Sided Stone inspired the design of Cusqueña beer bottles—so next time you grab a cold one, take a closer look at the bottle.
San Pedro Market: A Market Full Of Wonders - And One Delicious Find
No visit to Cusco is complete without a trip to San Pedro Market, a feast for the senses. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh tropical fruits and Andean cheese to handmade textiles and souvenirs. Now, instead of grabbing the typical llama keychain (which, let’s be honest, everyone already has), I went for something better—Peruvian chocolate. Not just any chocolate, but flavors like quinoa, maracuyá (passion fruit), goldenberry and lucuma,! It was a hit with my friends and family, and they got to taste a little piece of our adventure.
Beyond the City: Ancient Ruins & Mystical Landscapes
Venturing beyond Cusco, you’ll find Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, and Tambomachay, awe-inspiring remnants of the Incan world. Whether you’re exploring these ancient sites, sipping coca tea to combat the altitude, or bargaining for alpaca wool sweaters, Cusco is a place steeped in mysticism, history, and adventure. It’s a place you’ll never want to leave – maybe just for a day. Don’t forget to check out our posts on the unforgettable day trips we took in the Cusco area, including Machu Picchu (the one you’ve probably been waiting for all along!).
Sacsayhuaman
The Sacsayhuaman ruins are on a hill overlooking Cusco and rise in front of a vast esplanade the length and width of four football fields. The original Inca-built walls were 10 feet (3 meters) taller. On the topmost platform were three circular towers. The gargantuan scale of Sacsayhuaman’s zigzagging, terraced walls will make your jaw drop, even more, when you realize they represent just a fraction of the original site.
Tambomachay
Tambomachay is known as “The Bath of the Ñusta (Inca Maiden)” or just the “Inca Baths.” The site was built around 1500 AD and consists of four levels of terraces built into the side of a hill. From the top platform, an underground spring emerges from a hole and cascades down the terraces through finely carved channels. On the last level, the channel splits into two streams that then pour into a stone basin. This exquisite example of Inca hydraulic engineering is a prelude to the sixteen fountains you’ll see at Machu Picchu.
Qenko
Qenko is an example of a huaca, a naturally occurring rock formation modified into a temple. These holy places can be found everywhere in the Andes, and many of them have been used for millennia. Qenko is remarkable for its size and the intricacy and quantity of its carved features. On the ground level, a tunnel leads into a natural chamber. The cave’s sides and surfaces were polished into walls, niches, and a table. A shaft of light enters through a crack in the rock wall and is said to illuminate the table on full moon nights.
Where To Stay?
The best place to stay in Cusco is the historic downtown, where top attractions, museums, restaurants, and Incan ruins are all within walking distance. For those seeking a bit more charm, San Blas is home to some of Cusco’s most picturesque hotels, offering stunning views over the city. However, if you’re not keen on uphill hikes after dinner, a stay closer to Plaza de Armas might be a better choice.
From budget-friendly hostels to Airbnbs and boutique hotels, Cusco has accommodations for every traveler. We stayed at Casa Montes Boutique in San Blas, and while the uphill walk after every meal felt like an unofficial gym membership, it definitely helped justify all the delicious food we indulged in!
Where To Eat?
Morena Peruvian Kitchen: Everything is good here! We had an incredible lomo saltado, excellent ceviche, and a delightful Chicha Morada Sour cocktail. Everything was absolutely delicious and picture-perfect. A true Peruvian experience in every bite and sip. It definitely was one of my favorite restaurants in Peru!
Cicciolina: A must-visit for food lovers! This cozy restaurant offers a blend of Italian and Peruvian flavors with a beautiful ambiance. You can enjoy everything from fresh pasta to local specialties.
Kintaro: Sushi lovers, this place is a must-visit! Just a block from the main square, Kintaro is perfect for those, like us, who can’t get enough of Peruvian-Japanese fusion. The sushi here is incredible, especially the Acevichado Roll—absolutely unforgettable. We were genuinely sad we couldn’t eat more as we watched the dishes arriving at nearby tables – everything looked so good!
Kion: If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, Kion serves up incredible Chinese-Peruvian fusion dishes, also known as Chifa, where bold flavors and creative combinations take center stage. Located just a block from Cusco’s main square, the atmosphere is as inviting as the food.
Mardu Bistro Bar: Staying in San Blas? This is your go-to for a great meal without trekking all the way down to the city center. Their pizza is outstanding, and after a long day of exploring, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a delicious bite.
Limbus Resto Bar: nestled in Cusco’s bohemian San Blas neighborhood, offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Perched atop a hill, this spot provides panoramic city views that are especially enchanting at sunset, making it a perfect place to unwind as the sun dips below the horizon. The menu features contemporary Peruvian cuisine, with standout dishes like their signature “Leche de Tigre” and classic ceviche. Pair your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails for a complete sensory journey. Be aware that the walk up to Limbus can be steep, but the breathtaking views are well worth the effort.
