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 Shop in Cusco: 5 Best Spots for Artisan Crafts and Souvenirs

Do you think that Peru is a country just for visiting historical places? As the main tourist center of this country, Cusco reserves surprises that go beyond city tours through museums, churches, and archaeological sites. For those who enjoy shopping and taking home souvenirs from the visited place, Cusco has an infinity of souvenirs to gift to family and friends when you return to your country.

As Peru is one of the biggest silver extractors in the world, and also for handicrafts, you won’t be able to resist taking a piece of decoration, a work of art, or a typical Peruvian object. They are colorful clothes, fabrics made of wool from alpacas or vicuñas, and Andean paintings, that is, a diversified market that is part of the tourism that sustains this region.

Discover now, the 5 amazing stores in Cusco where to find traditional textiles:

Cusco Main Square

The Plaza de Armas in Cusco is a vibrant and welcoming center, making it a great place to begin your souvenir shopping journey. You will find a blend of modern shops and traditional markets, offering a wonderful variety of Peruvian treasures. Here, you can explore beautiful silver and gold jewelry, as well as cozy garments made from alpaca and vicuña wool, along with ceramics and wood crafts.

The surrounding streets and squares are filled with galleries and vendors showcasing unique handmade items, giving you plenty of options for gifts and keepsakes. Don’t be shy about bargaining! It’s a common and fun practice here, and it can help you snag some amazing deals on high-quality products.

Many shops also provide certificates of authenticity for silver and alpaca wool items, so you can feel confident that you’re buying true Peruvian goods. The Plaza de Armas is not just a wonderful shopping destination; it’s also a lively spot to dive into Cusco’s rich culture and history.

San Blas Neighborhood

San Blas Neighborhood, known as Cusco’s “Artisan Quarter,” is a delightful place full of creativity. The narrow cobblestone streets and bohemian vibe create a warm atmosphere where local artists proudly display their unique creations in various shops and galleries. You will find beautiful Andean textiles, charming hand-painted ceramics, modern sculptures, and skillfully carved wooden pieces.

San Blas offers an enriching cultural experience that goes beyond just shopping. Many galleries and workshops welcome visitors, so you can see artisans crafting their work. Don’t miss the weekly handicraft fair, where you can find special handmade items. The Hilario Mendivil Museum is also a wonderful stop, showcasing the art of this famous Peruvian artist. San Blas is a fantastic destination for anyone wanting to connect with Cusco’s artistic spirit and bring home a truly unique souvenir.

Centro Artesanal

Centro Artesanal Cusco is a wonderful place to visit! Located between Avenida El Sol and Tullumayo, it is the largest handicraft market in Cusco. Managed by the City Hall, this market boasts a wide variety of handmade items and souvenirs at great prices. As you stroll through the many stalls, you will find beautiful hand-stitched bags, traditional Peruvian hats, cozy alpaca wool blankets, colorful ponchos, and fun keychains.

But the experience doesn’t stop at shopping! You can also enjoy delicious Peruvian food from local vendors, giving you a taste of Cusco’s rich culture and flavors. Whether you’re looking for gifts like hand-painted pottery, stylish t-shirts, or unique Peruvian coffee blends, you will find everything you need in this vibrant market. It’s a fantastic destination for everyone!

Chinchero

Chinchero is a wonderful spot just 30 km from Cusco for anyone who loves authentic, handwoven textiles. Often called the “birthplace of the rainbow,” this charming town is a center for traditional weaving. You will see talented local women using ancient Incan techniques to create beautiful fabrics made from alpaca, vicuña, and sheep wool.

They dye these amazing pieces with natural materials like plants, salt, lemon, and even the cochineal insect. When you visit, you can enjoy live demonstrations of the dyeing and weaving processes. You can also find unique blankets, scarves, and ponchos that truly reflect the rich Andean culture.

By buying directly from the weavers, you not only support their livelihoods but also help keep these wonderful traditions alive. Each piece is a vibrant expression of local heritage, featuring intricate patterns and symbols that tell a story.

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is just a short walk from Cusco’s main square, and it’s a wonderful place where locals come to shop every day. Here, you can find a beautiful selection of handmade items, fresh fruits and vegetables, and delicious traditional Peruvian snacks. If you’re looking for cozy alpaca products, you’ve come to the right spot. You can find warm sweaters, soft blankets, and stylish hats at great prices.

The market also offers lovely souvenirs, like Incan-style ceramics and colorful handmade bags. Don’t be shy about chatting with the vendors; they are friendly and often open to bargaining, which can lead to fantastic deals on high-quality items. With such a wide variety of choices, San Pedro Market is the ideal place to dive into the local culture and pick up unique gifts without spending too much. Enjoy your visit!


Don’t miss these spots when you visit Cusco. We are sure you’ll get plenty of souvenirs. With Viagens Machu Picchu you’ll have a pleasant and fun stay in Peru and the land of the Incas. Contact our consultants about our packages and prices in Cusco and Peru.

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