Situated high in the Andes at 3,400 metres above sea level, the city is approximately 1,100 kilometres southeast of Lima, Peru’s bustling capital.
Cusco is a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, making it a hub for travellers exploring the treasures of the Incan world.
Cusco is a can’t-miss city when visiting Peru, attracting travellers eager to explore the fascinating Incan sites. Its charming cobblestone streets, lined with beautiful colonial architecture, invite visitors to immerse themselves in the rich stories and traditions that continue to thrive today.
Here are some unforgettable experiences to add to your list of things to do in Cusco.
How to fill a day in Cusco: Things to do in Cusco
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market, Cusco, Peru by David Hein
In the heart of Cusco lies the vibrant San Pedro Market, a gorgeous journey through local life and culture. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with rows of stalls offering a range of goods that reflect the region's diverse produce and traditions.
Vendors display their products, which range from tropical fruits and fresh vegetables to homemade cheeses and Andean grains like quinoa. The smell of sizzling street food fills the air, offering visitors a chance to taste traditional Peruvian dishes such as empanadas, ceviche, and tamales.
The market also serves as a centre for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, each item reflecting the craftsmanship of the artists. San Pedro Market provides an authentic experience of daily life in Cusco, where locals shop for their everyday needs and visitors gain insight into the region’s culinary and artisan traditions.
Fortress of Sacsayhuaman
Towering above Cusco is the formidable fortress of Sacsayhuaman, one of the most impressive examples of Inca architecture and engineering. This immense structure, built from massive stones meticulously fitted together without mortar, was not only a military fortress but also a place of great spiritual and ceremonial importance to the Inca people.
It is believed that the fortress symbolised the head of the puma, a sacred animal representing strength and power in Incan cosmology, with Cusco itself forming the body.
During the Inca Empire, Sacsayhuaman played a key role in protecting the city and hosting ceremonial events and gatherings.
Sacsayhuaman, Peru bu Abbie Bell
Walking through the site today, visitors are in awe of the size of the stones, some weighing over 100 tons, and the incredible precision with which they were cut and placed. The panoramic views over Cusco from the top of the fortress are breathtaking and a real treat to see when wandering through the city.
Qoricancha - The Temple of the Sun
Coricancha, Cusco, Peru by David Hein
Once the most important religious site in the Inca Empire, Qoricancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was dedicated to Inti, the sun god. The temple was a stunning display of Incan wealth and devotion, with its walls originally covered in sheets of pure gold to reflect the sun’s rays. Qoricancha was the heart of Cusco's spiritual life, where Inca priests conducted elaborate rituals and astronomical observations.
When the Spanish arrived, they built the Church of Santo Domingo atop the temple’s foundations, symbolising the fusion of Incan and colonial cultures that defines much of Cusco’s architecture.
Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the Inca temple, marvel at the finely cut stone walls that have survived centuries of earthquakes, and learn about the deep spiritual significance this site held for the Incas. The temple is a stunning view and a can’t miss destination when travelling through South America.
Cusco Cathedral
Cusco Cathedral stands proudly in the Plaza de Armas, showcasing its stunning 17th-century architecture. This impressive building was built on the ruins of the Inca palace of Viracocha. It symbolises the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire and the mixing of Andean and European cultures.
Inside the cathedral, visitors can find many beautiful religious paintings and sculptures. One of the most famous artworks is a painting of the Last Supper, but with a local twist—here, the apostles are enjoying guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Cusco Cathedral, Cusco, Peru by Abbie Bell
The cathedral features grand altars and finely carved wooden pulpits that display the wealth and power of the colonial church. Visitors will also notice symbols from Inca beliefs incorporated into the artwork, highlighting the blend of cultures.
More than just a place for worship, Cusco Cathedral is a historical and cultural landmark. It tells the story of how Cusco changed from the heart of the Inca Empire to a significant Spanish colonial city. This majestic site offers a glimpse into the opulent side of Peru's rich history and culture.
Pisco Sour Tasting
Pisco Sour placement - Peru by Chole Marshman
A visit to Cusco wouldn’t be complete without indulging in Peru’s national drink, the Pisco Sour. This cocktail, a delightful mix of pisco (a grape-based spirit), lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters, perfectly captures the vibrant and refreshing flavours of the country.
Many bars and restaurants in Cusco offer workshops where visitors can learn the art of mixing a perfect Pisco Sour. It’s not just about the taste; making the drink offers a glimpse into Peru’s history and the importance of pisco in the country’s cultural heritage.
With a frothy top and a balance of sweet and sour notes, enjoying a Pisco Sour is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploration.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located just outside of Cusco, is a stunningly beautiful region that once served as the beating heart of the Inca Empire’s agricultural and spiritual life.
As visitors wander through this breathtaking valley, they’ll be captivated by the Urubamba River, which flows gracefully between towering mountains and ancient terraces that the Incas cleverly designed to grow crops.
Scared Valley, Peru by Amie Bunnik
Exploring archaeological sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac is like stepping back in time to see the long-lasting, incredible engineering skills of the Incas and feel the deep spiritual connection they had with the land.
Ollantaytambo, with its impressive stone structures and terraces, tells the story of the Incas' strength and ingenuity. Meanwhile, Pisac's vibrant market and ruins showcase the rich culture and traditions that have thrived for centuries.
The Sacred Valley is more than just ancient sites. It’s also home to charming Andean villages where the legacy of the Inca Empire lives on. Here, locals proudly keep their traditions alive through colourful festivals, traditional crafts, and the dialects they speak.
The peaceful beauty of the Sacred Valley, combined with its rich history, makes it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Cusco.
Pisac Market
Pisac Market, Scared Valley, Peru by David Hein
Pisac, a small town in the Sacred Valley, is famous for its lively market, where traditional Andean handicrafts are proudly displayed.
Every Sunday, the town square transforms into a vibrant bazaar, where artisans sell colourful textiles, intricate jewellery, handwoven baskets, and ceramics. The market offers a unique opportunity to purchase authentic, locally made souvenirs while supporting indigenous communities.
Inkariy Museum
Inkariy Museum, Scared Valley, Peru by Flickr
A visit to the nearby Inkariy Museum is a perfect way to deepen the cultural experience of Cusco. This museum offers an exciting journey through Peru's pre-Hispanic cultures, showcasing the incredible art, traditions, and beliefs of ancient civilisations like the Moche, Chavín, and Inca.
The museum houses lifelike displays that bring these ancient cultures to life. From colourful textiles to intricate pottery, each exhibit tells a story of Peru’s rich history before the arrival of the Spanish. The museum is filled with fascinating artefacts that reveal aspects of the daily lives of the people of Peru thousands of years ago.
Marvel at stunning sculptures, beautifully crafted jewellery and so much more. This captivating experience not only educates, it also sparks excitement about the remarkable history that shaped modern Peru.
Manos de la Comunidad
For those looking to contribute directly to the local economy and come home with a unique souvenir packed in their luggage, a visit to Manos de la Comunidad is an exciting and rewarding experience! This vibrant cooperative is all about celebrating local artisans, especially talented women, who pour hearts and souls into creating stunning handmade goods like colourful textiles, beautiful ceramics, and cosy alpaca wool products.
Manos de la Comunidad placement - Scared Valley, Peru by Dennis Bunnik
Stepping into Manos de la Comunidad feels like entering a lively market filled with creativity and culture. Visitors can chat with the artisans, learn about their craft, and even witness the magic of their work firsthand. It’s not just about shopping; it’s about connecting with the community and experiencing the passion behind each piece.
When visitors purchase from Manos de la Comunidad, they’re not simply buying souvenirs - they're bringing home a story and a piece of Peru’s rich culture. Plus, every purchase supports fair trade practices, ensuring that the artisans receive a fair income for their hard work. This makes every unique item a special reminder of the trip and a way to support sustainable development in the region.
See Inti Raymi: ‘The Festival of the Sun’
In June of each year, Cusco comes to life with a vibrant festival that celebrates the beginning of a new Inca year. The day of Inti Raymi honours Inti, the sun god and one of the most venerated deities of the Inca religion. At the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, the ancient Incas gathered to honour Inti and please him for his return.
Witnessing the Inti Raymi festival is a unique experience of Inca culture. On the day of Inti Raymi, the Sapa Inca calls on the blessings from the sun at the Qoricancha. The Sapa is then carried on a throne in a procession to Sacsayhuaman, along streets filled with flowers, music and dancing. After a sacrificial ceremony to ensure the fertility of the earth, straw stacks are set afire at dusk, and dancing continues to honour Tawantinsuty (the Empire of the Four Wind Directions). Finally, the procession returns to Cusco.
Create memorable experiences in Cusco with Bunnik Tours
Cusco offers an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking to delve into the history, culture, and traditions of the Inca Empire. From bustling markets and ancient ruins to colonial cathedrals and local delicacies, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this fascinating city on the way to Machu Picchu.
Whether exploring the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, tasting a refreshing Pisco Sour, or venturing into the Sacred Valley, a day in Cusco is a journey through time and tradition.
Uncover the wonders of South America with Bunnik Tours. To make the most of a visit, consider booking a small group tour and experience the gems of a Peru tour. Contact us for more information on guided adventure that captures all the magic of Cusco and Peru.
FAQs
Is Cusco a walkable city?
Yes, Cusco is a walkable city, particularly in its historical centre, where many of the main attractions are within close proximity. However, the cobblestone streets can make walking challenging, so take your time when exploring this city.
How far is Cusco from Lima?
Cusco is approximately 1,100 kilometres (684 miles) southeast of Lima. The most efficient way to travel between the two cities is by a short one-hour flight, though there are also long-distance public bus options or private bus tours that give the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of Peru.
When is the best time to visit Cusco?
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This period offers clear skies and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding ruins.