Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire, is filled with attractions for local, national, and international travelers. Although you must pay to access them, Cusco and other cities have hidden gems you must know without spending a single dollar.
Don’t worry if your budget is limited, or you don’t have too much money, just stay with us to find out more about the free places in the city of Cusco and more, let’s see!
Free Attractions in Cusco
12 angle stone
The twelve-angled stone is a remarkable six-ton green diorite stone in the middle of inca walls that highlights the skill of Inca masonry in Cusco. You can find it on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, which is part of what once was the palace of Inca Roca. Today, it sits within the Archbishop’s Palace and the Museum of Religious Art.
This stone has become a beloved cultural icon, as you can see visitors queuing to take a picture with it. To help protect it, local police and residents dressed in Inca attire watch over the stone carefully. Recognized as the Cultural Patrimony of Peru, the Stone of the 12 Angles truly represents the rich Inca heritage of Cusco.
Historic Center of Cusco
The cobblestone paths, magical narrow streets, inviting squares, and peaceful aura are what you can find in Cusco’s historical core. You can see the European-Andean mix on the Andean and colonial buildings surrounding the city.
Besides the beautiful Plaza de Armas, discover traditional markets, bohemian neighborhoods, delicious cafes, and more. For a more comprehensive guide, you can see this blog about the Historic Center.
San Blas Neighborhood
Once known as T’oqokachi, which means “Salt Cavern,” this area played an important role during the Inca era. It offered a great view of the Cusco Valley and was home to many artisans. Today, “El Barrio de San Blas” attracts visitors with its charming buildings, lively art scene, and breathtaking views.
You can enjoy some wonderful spots in San Blas! Check out the Templo de San Blas, and visit the Museo Hilario Mendívil or Museo Maximo Laura. Take in the view of the city from the San Blas viewpoint, and discover its bohemian cafes and eateries
Cristo Blanco
Just like the one in Brazil, Cusco has its own “White Christ.” Nearly 80 years ago, the arab community gifted this enormous statue. It was cleverly placed at the top of a mountain as the guardian of the city.
The white Christ is a place where people watch the city, it’s also a place where you can gather with your friends. The night view from there is priceless, if you can make it there at night, believe us you’ll enjoy it.
Sapantiana Aqueduct
This water passage was built by the Jesuits in the 17th and 18th centuries. This charming structure gracefully arches over the P’ujru River, the stones, likely sourced from nearby Inca sites, create a beautiful connection to the area’s history. Today, many visitors love to come to the aqueduct because of its beautiful scenery.
Being a popular instragammable spot in the city, Sapntiana is a fantastic destination for both photographers and history enthusiasts alike With lovely eucalyptus and cedar trees all around, the aqueduct provides amazing views and a peaceful setting. You can easily access Sapantiana via Choquechaka Street.
Taray Viewpoint
Although Taray is not a historic site, it’s located near Pisac in the Sacred Valley. The view from this palace is otherworldly: The Andean valleys, mountains, sky, and clouds join to create a perfect scenery you haven’t seen yet.
If you go by yourself, you must get off Taray, or if you hired a travel company, don’t worry your guide and driver know very well about this place. Take as many pictures as you can of this breathtaking viewpoint.
San Pedro Market
The most traditional market in Cusco is the San Pedro Market, where people of Cusco gather to buy daily goods, drink healthy fruit juice, or just wander around it. This market is also a tourist place that keeps charming national and foreign tourists.
You can find here traditional street food or typical Cusco dishes. If you want to have a souvenir, buy some Andean clothes adjust experience a Peruvian traditional market, visiting the San Pedro Market is your best choice. You can get here by yourself or a free walking tour.
Other free Attractions in Peru
Yanuahuara viewpoint Arequipa
The Yanahuara Viewpoint is a must-see spot in the white city. This iconic viewpoint is in the charming, and traditional Yanahuara neighborhood, just a a short walk from the city center. All iconic pictures of the Misti Volcano were taken from this point.
The viewpoint has beautifully carved sillar arches, which tell us about Arequipa’s rich colonial past. You can enjoy the views and visit nearby Yanahuara Plaza, which has a lovely 18th-century church. This location is a perfect mix of nature and history, ideal for memorable photos and moments of reflection.
Miraflores District, Lima
Miraflores is a lively neighborhood in Lima that has something special for everyone. With ocean views, great hotels, and tasty restaurants, it’s a perfect place for families, couples, and solo travelers to explore. The Miraflores Park and Boulevard are great for a walk or bike ride.
As its name implies, Love Park delights visitors with its charming sculptures and colorful mosaics. This is a romantic spot that your partner will love. The Malecón de Miraflores is a beautiful coastal boardwalk that runs along the cliffs by the Pacific.
Here, you can find parks, cozy cafés, and bike paths. For those seeking adventure, paragliding offers a thrilling way to see the coastline from above! If you love shopping, the Indian Market is a fantastic spot to find local crafts and unique souvenirs.
Additionally, Larcomar, located on the cliffs, offers a mix of luxury shopping and dining, all with stunning views of the ocean. Miraflores is not only welcoming and safe, but it also blends modern city life with traditional Peruvian culture. It truly is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Lima’s coast!
Mancora Beaches Piura
The Máncora Beaches in the Piura region are a beautiful spot on Peru’s northern coast. With its soft sands and clear turquoise waters, Máncora is a favorite destination for many beach lovers. The warm waters are perfect for swimming and beach activities year-round.
You’ll love the relaxed, tropical atmosphere. There are many places to stay, from luxury resorts to charming bungalows, so everyone can find something that suits them. Also, the nightlife is lively. Beachside bars and restaurants offer fresh seafood and delicious Peruvian dishes. Máncora truly offers a wonderful mix of relaxation and fun for everyone!
Casa Urquiaga Trujillo
Casa Urquiaga is a charming museum in the heart of Trujillo’s historical center. This beautiful mansion invites you to explore Peru’s colonial past. With its stunning Spanish architecture and antique furnishings, you will feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You can even see items related to Simón Bolívar, the renowned liberator of South America.
The exhibits will teach you about Trujillo’s role in Peru’s independence. You’ll also learn about the fascinating Moche and Chimu pre-Columbian cultures. A visit to Casa Urquiaga offers a chance to explore northern Peru’s rich history and its impact on modern culture.
Tips for an on a Budget Trip
Give camping a try: If you enjoy nature, camping at some tourist spots can be a fun and affordable adventure.
Use local transport: When exploring cities in Peru, take a bus or shared vans known as “colectivos” instead of a taxi. It’s a budget-friendly choice and a great way to meet local people.
Book early for the best deals: Look for flight and accommodation deals ahead of time. This can help you find better prices and keep your costs down.
Consider budget-friendly transport: Instead of flying from Lima to Cusco, try an overnight bus with companies like Cruz del Sur. It’s a great way to save money on travel and accommodation, plus you can catch some sleep on the way!
Set a budget that works for you: Before you start your journey, think about how much you would like to spend. This way, you can relax and have fun without worrying about money.
Eat like a local: Skip the touristy restaurants. Try local markets or cozy eateries instead. This can make your meals more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
In Peru we have an array of places and attractions yet to be discovered, we recommend you visit all of them and discover spots by yourself! Remember that in Peru, you can choose Viagens Machu Picchu. We can help you out if you want to visit cities in Peru, archaeological sites, or learn more about our culture.
Contact us to give you more information, we can make you personalized trips all around our country. We’ll be more than glad to assist you in making your dreams come true in the ancient Inca land.
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