Best things to do in Cuzco
Find out more about those top places in Cuzco
Exploring Cuzco: The Heart of Andean Peru
Nestled high in the Andes, Cuzco is more than just a city – it’s a mystical gateway to the ancient world. Founded in the 13th century and serving as the capital of the Inca Empire, Cuzco was designed to be an imperial city that would stand the test of time. And guess what? It totally did! Today, this vibrant city in the heart of Andean Peru is a blend of rich history, colorful traditions, and a modern buzz that makes it one of the top attractions in South America. Ready for an adventure through cobbled streets and mystical sites? Let’s dive into this travel guide to Cuzco, where ancient Inca culture meets lively Peruvian spirit!
Top Attractions in Cuzco: Where History Meets Modern Buzz
1. Sacsayhuamán: Ancient Walls, Majestic Views
No trip to Cuzco would be complete without a visit to Sacsayhuamán, the ancient Incan site that’s basically the “VIP” of archaeological ruins. This massive complex of stone walls is like an ancient puzzle, with stones so perfectly fitted together that they’ve survived centuries of earthquakes. Plus, the panoramic views of Cuzco from here are Instagram gold. Whether you’re a history buff or just love jaw-dropping views, this is one of the best places to visit in Cuzco.
2. Qorikancha: The Temple of the Sun
Next up on your Cuzco sightseeing tour is the Qorikancha, aka the Temple of the Sun. This sacred site was once the most important temple in the Incan Empire, and it’s dedicated to Inti, the sun god (no big deal, right?). Today, the temple still shows off its majestic stone walls, and the gold-coated decorations – you know, because the Incas had a bit of a thing for gold. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to delve into the city’s Incan history and appreciate some serious craftsmanship.
3. Plaza de Armas: The Heartbeat of Cuzco
The Plaza de Armas is the buzzing heart of Cuzco, where history meets modern Peruvian life. Surrounded by grand colonial architecture, the square is a perfect blend of Incan roots and Spanish influence. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a café or snapping pics of the Cuzco Cathedral, this square is the place to be for some prime people-watching and sightseeing. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering here longer than expected — the charm is real!
Things to Do in Cuzco: From Festivals to Food
4. Festivals, Festivals, and More Festivals!
Cuzco is known for its festivals, and trust us, they’re a major highlight! Throughout the year, this city bursts into color with processions, music, and dancing. The most famous festival, Inti Raymi, celebrates the winter solstice and the Incan sun god, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Think of it as a living history lesson, but with more music and less homework. These festivals not only bring locals together, but they also add a joyful vibe to the city — making Cuzco a perfect place for cultural sightseeing.
5. Try the Local Cuisine: It’s More Than Just Alpaca
While you're exploring Cuzco, don’t forget to indulge in some local food. The Peruvian cuisine here is a blend of Andean ingredients and ancient recipes that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. For a truly local experience, try cuy (guinea pig) or alpaca steak, both of which are unique to the region. And if you're looking for something a little less exotic, ceviche (fresh, tangy fish marinated in citrus) is always a winner. Plus, no trip to Peru is complete without washing it all down with a glass of Pisco Sour!
Cuzco's Vibrant Culture: Where Every Corner Tells a Story
6. Stroll Through San Blas: The Bohemian Neighborhood
For something a little more offbeat, head to the San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and artsy charm. This area is filled with narrow, cobblestone streets lined with workshops, galleries, and cafés where artists and locals mingle. As you wander through San Blas, you’ll feel like you’re walking through a living art exhibition. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and some souvenir shopping, where you can pick up handcrafted jewelry or textiles to take home.
A Blend of Ancient and Modern: Cuzco is Waiting
Cuzco is a city where every corner reveals a new layer of history, and every alleyway leads to a vibrant experience. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Inca Empire to the colorful festivals and delicious food, Cuzco is a city that promises unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure through one of the world’s most mystical cities. Cuzco is calling, and it’s ready to show you the top attractions, culture, and sightseeing you’ll never forget!
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Qorikancha
The best-preserved Inca site within the city limits of Cuzco is the temple of Qorikancha, which forms the base for the monolithic colonial-era church Santa Domingo. While the temple was once the grandest in the Inca Empire (it was gilded in over 1400 kilograms of gold), today little is left bar the awe-inspiring masonry that stands as testament to the craftsmanship of the pre-Columbian era. Guided tours of the site also encompass Santa Domingo, which is a rich repository of colonial art.
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The Sacred Valley
One of the most popular day trips from Cuzco is to explore the Sacred Valley, which is filled with a myriad of colonial-era settlements, unspoiled weaving villages that hold onto pre-Columbian traditions and Inca ruins. Highlights include the Inca citadel of Pisac with its sweeping agricultural terracing and the fortress-cum-temple of Ollantaytambo, which was one of the few locations where the Incas won a battle against the conquistadors.
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Museo Machu Picchu
Cuzco’s newly opened Machu Picchu Museum holds an impressive collection of artifacts that were excavated during Hiram Bingham’s expeditions – many of which were until recently held by Yale University. Exploring the museum gives you the opportunity to get up close to Inca handicrafts, weaponry and ornate ceramics. The museum itself is housed in the spectacular colonial villa Casa Concha.
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La Catedral
Built from the rubble of an Incan palace, Cuzco’s cathedral is one of the oldest in the Americas with construction beginning in the early 16th century. The most interesting aspect of the cathedral is its artwork, which fuses European ecclesiastic painting with traditional elements of Andean folk art. Guided tours of this spectacular building are regularly available.
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Planetarium
To get a better understanding of how the Incas worshiped the constellations head to the Cuzco Planetarium. Set atop a hill overlooking the city, the planetarium explains how the Incas used the heavens to predict the weather and lay out the street pattern of pre-Columbian Cuzco. Guided tours of the complex sell out fast but are well worth advance booking.
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Tambomachay
If you are looking for an Inca experience without the crowds, the ruins of Tambomachay are the perfect excursion from Cuzco. Set in a narrow Andean valley, the ruins are all that remains of a vast temple complex that was part of an Inca water cult. Highlights of the site are the ceremonial stone baths, whose engineering is still impressive today, alongside its remarkable setting.
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Plaza de Armas
The heart of modern Cuzco is the Plaza de Armas, which in Inca times was named Aucaypata. Highlights of the atmospheric square include the cathedral and the 16th century Iglesia de La Compañía de Jesús, which contains Peru’s largest alter.
