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Cusco, Peru

Destination Guide

Cusco

Peru

Best things to do in Cusco

26 curated attractions in Cusco, Peru. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

May - September

Average temp

18°C/64°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Cusco

Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a city where every stone seems to whisper tales of triumph and tragedy. Its historical significance means tourists are never far from archaeological wonders: the Coricancha temple sits just beside colonial churches, while the Sacsayhuamán fortress overlooks the city. This blend creates a unique landscape where modern life and ancient ruins coexist. The streets are often narrow and winding, leading to markets and plazas filled with locals and travelers alike. The real draw, however, is the access to iconic sites like Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, both within reach for those looking to hike or take a scenic train ride. People come primarily for the rich cultural history and the chance to witness the remarkable Inca architecture in person.

Who it's for

Great for those who appreciate history, culture, and hiking. Ideal for travelers eager to explore ancient ruins and festivals like Inti Raymi. Less suited for visitors seeking a fast-paced urban experience or those who dislike altitude, as Cusco sits over 11,000 feet high.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • The old town can be traversed in about thirty minutes on foot, though your legs may disagree
  • Taxis are available but can be crowded, and public buses are frequent but not always reliable
  • The airport is about a fifteen-minute drive from the city center, making it fairly accessible
  • Machu Picchu requires a train ride or a multi-day trek to reach
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas

Historical
Inka Museum

Inka Museum

History museums
Puka Pukara

Puka Pukara

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Merida

Merida

Streets & neighbourhoods
Tipon

Tipon

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Barrio San Cristóbal

Barrio San Cristóbal

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Chinchero

Chinchero

Traditional villages
Inca Trail

Inca Trail

Multi-day treks
Maras Salt Mines

Maras Salt Mines

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Tambomachay

Tambomachay

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Moray

Moray

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Siete Borriguitos

Siete Borriguitos

Food
Choquequirao

Choquequirao

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Inti Raymi Festival

Inti Raymi Festival

Festivals & celebrations
Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley

Rice terraces & countryside
Sacsayhuamán

Sacsayhuamán

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Mountains & volcanoes
Coricancha

Coricancha

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Cusco Cathedral

Cusco Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Twelve angled stone

Twelve angled stone

Historical Attractions
Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco

Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco

Natural Wonders
San Blas Market

San Blas Market

Shopping and Markets
Pisac Market

Pisac Market

Local & craft markets
San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market

Food markets & food halls

Where to eat in Cusco

The places worth planning a meal around.

Morena

Morena

Peruvian Fusion · $20–$40

★ 4.7 · 4,089 reviews

Chull's

Chull's

Peruvian Fusion · $20–$40

★ 4.9 · 2,713 reviews

ChocoMuseo

ChocoMuseo

Peruvian

★ 4.4 · 2,041 reviews

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