Once the cradle of a millennial empire and a prime example of cultural blending, Cusco remains recognized and admired worldwide.
As you probably know, Cusco was the capital of the powerful Inca Empire, the greatest people in Latin America, and was an important hub during the times of Spanish colonization. In addition, Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu, the famous World Heritage Site and a must-see for travelers like you.
However, Cusco offers much more than just Machu Picchu. The region is full of incredible places to explore, and with so many attractions nearby, time can feel short during your stay.
The beautiful Andean views, ancient ruins, and cobblestone streets make it the ideal place to learn more about Peru. Therefore, stay with us as we explore five essential spots in Cusco for a classic itinerary. These are places you simply can’t miss during your trip. Let’s dive in!
Spot #1: Plaza de Armas—The Heart of Cusco
Welcome to Cusco’s main square, the Plaza de Armas! In the 15th century, this square served as the main center of the Inca Empire, where rituals, festivals, and political matters took place.
Beyond being a key path to the famous Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road system, this place was, according to Inca cosmovision, the very center of their empire. After the Spanish conquest, “Huacaypata” (the original name of this Inca site) and its surroundings were transformed into a more colonial, European-style layout.
In the current day, the Plaza de Armas is probably the first spot in your activities in Cusco. Just for taking a stroll around it or visiting its colonial buildings, restaurants, or historic landmarks, we recommend taking your time to visit this attraction.
Highlights
Cusco Cathedral: The majestic Cusco Cathedral dominates the main square of Cusco. Built in the 16th century on the foundations of an Inca palace, this impressive church houses stunning colonial art, intricate woodwork, and the famous painting of the Last Supper featuring a traditional Andean dish: guinea pig.
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús: The elegant Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús stands proudly beside the cathedral in Plaza de Armas of Cusco. Known for its striking Baroque façade and lavish golden altars, this church is considered one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Peru.
Beautiful Mountain-Framed Views: Surrounded by the Andes, Cusco’s Plaza de Armas offers breathtaking mountain-framed views. Colorful colonial buildings, lively cafés, and historic churches create the perfect setting to relax, take photos, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
What to Do
- Walk around the plaza: The plaza itself has many corners to discover. You can start from the fountain in the middle, where you can see a statue honoring Pachacutec, the most renowned Inca emperor of all.
- Visit colonial buildings: the Cusco cathedral, the Compañía de Jesús church, or the colonial portals; you can’t leave without visiting its surroundings.
- Sit at a café balcony and people-watch: Near the plaza, you can find great coffee shop places. Take a look at our blog about coffee spots in the area.
Travel Tip
- The best time to visit the plaza is at sunset or in the evening when the lights are on. Please bundle up; the plaza may be cold.
Spot #2: Sacsayhuamán—The Legendary Inca Fortress
In the outskirts of Cusco, just a 10-minute ride from downtown, you can find an ancient fortress temple that keeps the living legacy of its makers. We’re talking about the Sacsayhuamán fortress
Built in the 15th century, it still remains unclear what it was for: parts of the structure were ceremonial, religious, military, and political, but its main purpose remains unknown. Although the Incas built this enormous fortress, some theories suggest that aliens may be involved.
Today, this archaeological site is one of the most visited in the city, and both foreigners and locals remain amazed by the impressive stones and their lore.
Highlights
Enormous Stone Blocks Fitted Perfectly Together: You’ll be amazed by the enormous stone blocks that form its famous zigzag walls. Some stones weigh over 100 tons, yet they fit together with astonishing precision—without mortar. This incredible craftsmanship highlights the advanced engineering skills of the Inca civilization.
Panoramic Views Over Cusco: Perched on a hill above Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is the perfect place to pause, take photos, and appreciate the historic capital of the Inca Empire from a breathtaking vantage point. Go to Cristo Blanco to have more incredible vistas!
Important Site for the Inti Raymi Celebration: Every June, Sacsayhuamán becomes the stage for Inti Raymi, the famous Festival of the Sun. This colorful reenactment of an ancient Inca ceremony celebrates the winter solstice and honors the sun god Inti, attracting visitors from around the world to Cusco.
What to Do
Walk Through the Terraces: Exploring the terraces of Sacsayhuamán is one of the best ways to experience the site. As you walk along the massive stone walls and open grassy areas, you’ll appreciate the scale of this ancient complex and enjoy beautiful views over Cusco.
Take Photos of the Huge Stones: One highlight of visiting Sacsayhuamán is photographing its enormous stones. Some blocks weigh more than 100 tons and are carved to fit perfectly together. Standing next to these giants really puts the incredible scale of Inca construction into perspective.
Learn About Inca Engineering: A visit to Sacsayhuamán offers a fascinating look at Inca engineering. Guides often explain how these massive stones were transported, shaped, and fitted without mortar. It’s a remarkable example of the ingenuity that helped the Incas build one of the most impressive civilizations in the Andes.
Travel Tip
Sacsayhuamán is best explored before the crowds arrive, so if you’re an early bird, you’ll get the most out of your visit. Early morning is the ideal time to walk through this massive fortress, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the beautiful views over Cusco.
Spot #3: San Pedro Market—A Taste of Local Life
Cusco is filled with local markets, where you can get a deeper glimpse of locals’ way of living, culture, beliefs, diet, and more.
Among the diverse markets you can find in the city, this time we’d love to introduce you to the market where you can have the best experience as a foreigner: we’re talking about the San Pedro market.
This market is over 100 years old, though its construction finished in 1950. Gustave Eiffel, the engineer behind the Eiffel Tower, designed San Pedro. Although it was the largest surface area in the city at the time, the city’s growth required expansion.
Locals buy vegetables, medicinal plants, fresh fruits, or meat here; however, this market is also tourist-oriented, as you can find handicrafts, souvenirs, and more here.
Highlights
Fresh fruit juices: Yes, San Pedro is the paradise of fresh juices, veggies, or fruits, and the best of all is at a good price! When you get to the juice section stalls, ladies with a way with words will try to lure you to have a delicious juice at their stall.
Local foods and snacks: Forget 5-star restaurants or fine cuisine; here you’ll have generous portions of local Cusqueño food. You can try local snacks, such as choclo con queso, empanadas dulces, or lomo saltado or lechon if you are hungry.
Handmade crafts and souvenirs: Yes, here you can get the best souvenirs to bring back to your country, and once more, for a good price.
Travel Tip
Bring small cash for easier purchases; most stalls don’t accept credit cards (older vendors may not be familiar with them). This advice applies to almost all local markets in Peru.
Spot #4: Coricancha—The Temple of the Sun
One of the most important temples of the Inca Empire is the Coricancha, or Temple of the Sun. Built during the time of Manco Capac, the founder of the Inca Empire. Later, it was rebuilt by Pachacutec.
As its name implies, Coricancha was primarily a temple dedicated to the sun god Inti. Actually, Coricancha means “temple of the sun” or “golden enclosure.” In Inca times, the whole temple, which was way larger than the current one, was coated in gold.
Besides Inti, the Incas used to worship Killa, the moon goddess; Illapa, the lightning god; and Chaska, a star deity, among others. Unfortunately, during the 16th-century Spanish conquest, Spanish conquistadors looted the temple’s gold.
They also destroyed part of the original Coricancha, and using its foundations, they built the Santo Domingo convent, which later would become one of the most distinguishable displays of Andean syncretism
Highlights
Incredible Inca Stone Walls: The perfectly carved blocks fit together seamlessly without mortar, showcasing the extraordinary precision of Inca engineering. These walls have withstood earthquakes for centuries and remain one of the most impressive examples of ancient architecture in Cusco.
Spanish Colonial Church Built on Top: The striking contrast between Inca stone walls and Spanish colonial architecture creates a unique historical site that tells the story of two civilizations in one place, which we call syncretism.
A Powerful Blend of Inca and Spanish History: Walking through this temple, visitors can see how colonial structures were layered over sacred Inca structures, creating one of Cusco’s most fascinating historical landmarks.
Travel Tip
We recommend a guided tour of Coricancha to maximize your visit. Keep in mind that Viagens Machu Picchu offers local archaeological tours that help you get the most out of Coricancha and other attractions.
Spot #5: San Blas Neighborhood—The Artistic Side of Cusco
Just above the city center, this charming neighborhood awaits. The San Blas neighborhood is Cusco’s most bohemian and artistic venue. Here, art, culture, and tradition merge, and it is undoubtedly one of the spots you must visit when you visit Cusco.
In Inca times, this spot was known as “Toqokachi,” a Quechua term that means “salt cave.” It was an important center for Inca nobility, and historians have reported that the remains of the famous Inca Pachacutec were found here.
Highlights
Narrow Cobblestone Streets: Walking through this artistic neighborhood feels like stepping back in time as you discover one of Cusco’s most picturesque areas.
Artisan Workshops: San Blas is famous for its artisan workshops, where local artists create traditional crafts, paintings, and sculptures. Many small studios welcome visitors, giving you the chance to admire handmade pieces and learn more about Cusco’s vibrant artistic culture.
Amazing Viewpoints Over Cusco: Because of its hillside location, San Blas offers some of the best viewpoints over Cusco. From its quiet streets and small plazas, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of red-tiled rooftops and the surrounding Andes.
What to Do
Visit the Market: Yes, there’s also a local market in San Blas, and it is probably the most hipster market in Cusco and Peru. You can find everything here, from fresh veggies and fruits to gourmet cuisine. Give it a try!
Stop at Small Cafés: After wandering through the streets of San Blas, take a break at one of its cozy cafés. Many offer terraces with lovely views, perfect for enjoying a coffee, a snack, and the relaxed bohemian atmosphere of this neighborhood.
Watch the Sunset from the Plaza: The small Plaza de San Blas is a great place to watch the sunset. As the sky turns golden over Cusco, the peaceful atmosphere and mountain views create a truly memorable moment.
Key Spot
The San Blas Church is one of the oldest in Cusco, and although rebuilt, it retains its unique character. You can find inside the works of Cusco’s art school, and the Baroque-Andean-style architecture.
Travel Tip
Believe us when we tell you that the streets in San Blas are steep. Take it slowly, wear comfortable shoes, and pay attention to every detail San Blas offers.
Suggested 1–2 Day Cusco Itinerary
You can have in mind this itinerary to follow during your stay in Cusco, which is a two-day trip, and will keep you away from altitude sickness. Due to Cusco’s high altitude, we recommend you take it easy.
Day 1
- Plaza de Armas
- Coricancha
- San Pedro Market
Day 2
- Sacsayhuamán
- San Blas
Cusco is more than this
Cusco is beyond Machu Picchu; it is the Sacred Valley, the Rainbow Mountain, Puka Pukara, the Inca Trail, and many other places that we didn’t include in this blog. Cusco’s rich history, fascinating culture, delicious food, and magical streets make it one of the most beautiful places in Peru and the world.
We encourage you to visit these 5 classic spots to have the best experience in the Inca city. Cusco is a place where every street tells a story.
Stay tuned to our blog to have more stories like this, and keep in mind that Viagens Machu Picchu can help you to have the best itinerary in Cusco and Peru. Feel free to contact us to start taking the first step into your adventure!
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