20+ Amazing Things to Do in Cusco, Peru + Day Trips, Cusco, Peru
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, never fails to captivate visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring mouthwatering local cuisine, Cusco offers a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
In this post, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Cusco that I personally enjoy doing when I visit.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Cusco multiple times over the years. I’ll take you through its historic city center, breathtaking views, and fascinating Inca ruins. I’ll also guide you through the local culture, introduce you to Cusco’s culinary scene, and suggest some amazing day trips you can take from Cusco at the end of the post.
First, you can’t miss the bustling Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco. This vibrant hub is surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and filled with restaurants and cafes, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists.
On the eastern side of the Plaza de Armas is the magnificent Cusco Cathedral. Built in the 16th century, this is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. Just note , no photos or videos are allowed inside the cathedral. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).
In this post, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Cusco that I personally enjoy doing when I visit.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Cusco multiple times over the years. I’ll take you through its historic city center, breathtaking views, and fascinating Inca ruins. I’ll also guide you through the local culture, introduce you to Cusco’s culinary scene, and suggest some amazing day trips you can take from Cusco at the end of the post.
First, you can’t miss the bustling Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco. This vibrant hub is surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and filled with restaurants and cafes, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists.
On the eastern side of the Plaza de Armas is the magnificent Cusco Cathedral. Built in the 16th century, this is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. Just note , no photos or videos are allowed inside the cathedral. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).
How it works: The full article is featured in the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Download the app to your mobile device to read the article offline and create a self-guided walking tour to visit the sights featured in this article. The app's navigation functions guide you from one sight to the next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Sights Featured in This Article
Guide Name: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Cusco, Peru + Day Trips
Guide Location: Peru » Cusco
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Insider Tips)
Author: Lindsey Puls
Read it on Author's Website: https://www.have-clothes-will-travel.com/20-amazing-things-to-do-in-cusco-peru-day-trips-you-wont-want-to-miss/
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Peru » Cusco
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Insider Tips)
Author: Lindsey Puls
Read it on Author's Website: https://www.have-clothes-will-travel.com/20-amazing-things-to-do-in-cusco-peru-day-trips-you-wont-want-to-miss/
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Plaza de Armas
- Cusco Cathedral
- 12-Angle Stone
- Archbishop’s Palace
- statue of Cristo Blanco
- Sacsayhuaman Ruins
- Qorikancha
- Convent of Santo Domingo
- San Pedro market
- Chocolate Museum
- Antigua Casona San Blas
Insider Tips for Cusco, Peru
Acclimatising in Fabulous Cusco, Peru
When in Peru, the best thing you can do before trekking to Machu Picchu, is acclimatising in Cusco… This amazing but exhausting city is renown as the base from which to start a trek to the incredible Machu Picchu.
Cusco Uncovered: A Complete Guide
Cusco is more than just a city; it’s a gateway to the wonders of the Inca Empire and a perfect blend of ancient history and modern culture.
I absolutely love Cusco, it’s a walkable city, with a mix of locals and tourists. When I visited in 2024, I went with the specific intention of visiting Muchu Pichu and ended up staying in Cusco for a total of 7 days (before and after Aquas Calientes).... view more
I absolutely love Cusco, it’s a walkable city, with a mix of locals and tourists. When I visited in 2024, I went with the specific intention of visiting Muchu Pichu and ended up staying in Cusco for a total of 7 days (before and after Aquas Calientes).... view more
Alpaca Clothing Shopping Tips for Cusco, Peru
If you visit Cusco, Peru the first thing you will notice is nearly every shop and street vendor is selling “baby alpaca” sweaters. The second thing you will likely notice is that nearly none of these vendors are actually selling “baby alpaca” sweaters. (As the locals say its “maybe alpaca.” Ha!)
Walk See Eat in Cusco and Repeat
“Already breathless” and we had just landed in Cusco, Peru. We had arrived two weeks early to acclimatise for our four day Machu Picchu trek.
Guide to Restaurants in Cusco
With a stunning abundance of restaurants and cafes, Cusco is a fantastic place for foodie travelers. Prices are so reasonable, even at higher-end establishments, and there’s a vast variety of cuisines to enjoy in addition to Peruvian classics.
Highlights of Cusco
I have a nagging feeling that if there was one place on my Peruvian itinerary that I did not have enough time for, it was Cuzco. Due to the arrival and departure timings, in Cuzco I had less than the day-and-a-half allowance for exploring.
Insider Tips Overview
