What to Do in Cusco: 12 ‘Musts’ in the Incan Capital

Having recently explored the top things to do in Lima, we wanted to continue our journey through Peru to its second most famous city: Cusco. The ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is nestled in the Andes Mountains, 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. The city is undeniably one of the most historically rich on the continent—a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cusco is a veritable open-air museum and a symbol of the cultural fusion that defines Peru. Today at Civitatis we’re going to bring you on a journey through one of the largest pre-Columbian cities in the Americas, giving you top travel tips along the way. ¡Vamos!

Cusco: What You Need to Know

According to legend, Cusco was founded around the 12th century by Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, children of the sun god, who emerged from Lake Titicaca with the mission of ‘civilizing’ the Andean peoples. Guided by a divine golden staff that sank into the earth at a chosen spot, they founded Cusco, which blossomed into the thriving capital of the Inca Empire. The city was adorned with magnificent palaces, temples, and squares, reflecting the ingenuity and grandeur of Inca civilization.

In 1533, with the arrival of the Spanish, Cusco was conquered and transformed into an important colonial center. During this time, many of the Inca structures were destroyed, and replaced with European churches and mansions. Today, Cusco’s skyline consists of a fascinating fusion of indigenous and European architecture. The most notable, and unique example of this is perhaps Coricancha, or the Golden Temple, which consists of a Spanish church built on the foundations of an Inca temple—more on that later!

Cusco’s Inca traditions can still be felt in its architecture, festivals, and the Quechua language, which remains widely spoken in the city.

Altitude Sickness

One of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting Cusco is the elevation. Cusco sits at 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, meaning that there is less available oxygen and lower air pressure, which can lead to unpleasant symptoms associated with altitude sickness. As such, take it easy when you first arrive in the city to give your body time to adjust.

1. Stroll the Plaza de Armas – the Heart of the Inca Empire’s Capital

Visiting Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, is an absolute must when visiting Cusco. During the Inca Empire, the square was referred to as Huacaypata, meaning ‘meeting place’, and was used for celebrations, religious rituals, and political gatherings.

With the arrival of the Spanish, Plaza de Armas was completely transformed. Inca structures were demolished or incorporated into colonial buildings. Enjoy the architecture and surrounding mountainscape as you stroll the cobblestone streets. Beyond the stunning gorgeous catholic churches, Plaza de Armas is bursting with life, in restaurants, cafés, handicraft shops, and much more. If you fancy grabbing a bite to eat on the square, go for lunch at Tunupa Restaurant—one of the most famous in Cusco. Overlooking the Plaza de Armas, enjoy a delicious 3-course meal, with pisco and tea included!

2. Visit Cusco Cathedral

Around Cusco, you’ll find lots of Spanish/Catholic influences, such as the Cusco Cathedral, officially called the Basilica Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin. Right on the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral took nearly a century to complete (construction went on from 1560 until 1654) and was built on the site of the former palace of Viracocha Inca.

The design of Cusco Cathedral incorporates Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Its imposing exterior is one of the most striking elements of the Plaza de Armas, though the real magic of Cusco Cathedral is to be found inside! Packed with priceless art, the cathedral houses over 400 paintings from the Cusco School—a Catholic artistic style based in the city from the 16th-18th century. It also holds invaluable religious artifacts, including the Señor de los Temblores, or Black Christ—the patron saint of Cusco.

Cusco Cathedral also contains 11 internal chapels, each richly decorated with sculptures and paintings, and dedicated to different saints. This stands as a great testament to the fusion between Andean culture and Spanish Christianity. Visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral by purchasing a ticket directly at the ticket office.

3. See the Church of the Society of Jesus

Right next to Cusco Cathedral (also on the Plaza de Armas) is the Church of the Society of Jesus, built by the Jesuit Order and considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Baroque architecture in Latin America. Its construction began in 1668 on the ruins of the palace of Huayna Capac—one of the last Inca emperors.

The church’s exterior is a jewel of Andean Baroque, featuring intricately carved stone designs, two large towers, and a stunning main entrance adorned with complex decorative motifs. Inside, you’ll experience a dazzling display of vibrant paintings and exquisite sculptures. The highlight, however, is the breathtaking high altar—a massive, beautifully crafted piece of cedar wood adorned with gold leaf.

On this free tour of Cusco, you’ll visit Plaza de Armas, including the exterior of Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, along with many other landmarks throughout the city. Along the way, your tour guide will give you fascinating insights into these structures, and the ruins upon which they were built. For a more personal experience, you can opt for a private tour of Cusco with a Portuguese-speaking guide, just for your group.

4. Go to Coricancha – The Temple of the Sun

Coricancha (or Qorikancha) also known as the Temple of the Sun or the Golden Temple, is one of the most sacred sites of the ancient Incas. This site, dedicated to the Sun God, serves as a symbol of the connection between the gods and the empire. Here, shamans performed sacred rituals, sacrifices, and offerings to protect the community.

The original, pre-Christian site would have been breathtaking to visit. Inside, the temple had gold-plated walls, reflecting the importance of the Sun in Inca civilization. Its name in Quechua, translates to ‘Golden Enclosure’, a reference to the vast amount of precious metal used in the temple’s decoration, making it one of the richest and most magnificent sites of the Inca Empire.

Although much of the temple was destroyed during the construction of the Convent of Santo Domingo, much of the original structure is still intact, and the structure of the convent creates a fascinating contrast between Inca and colonial architecture.

Admission to the Temple of the Sun is included with the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which gives you access to these and several other monuments in the city. Check out more ways to see Coricancha with Civitatis.

5. Marvel at Sacsayhuamán

One of the largest structures ever built by the Incas, Sacsayhuamán is located just a few miles outside of Cusco. Over time, it was used for religious ceremonies, military purposes, and as a storage depot. The site is famous for its gigantic stones (some of which weigh over 100 tons), which fit together perfectly, without the use of mortar, with such impressive, air-tight precision that it still defies archaeologists today. See it for yourself as part of this Písac, Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo + Tambomachay tour.

6. Explore San Pedro Market

Returning to the city center, one of the best places to immerse yourself in Cusco life is the Mercado de San Pedro, just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. Founded in 1925, this market (designed by Gustave Eiffel) serves as the main marketplace in Cusco and is an excellent place to find fresh food, local crafts, and medicinal herbs.

You’ll also find some stalls where you can indulge in local delicacies in the form of street food: try some salchipapas (fried sausages and potatoes), empanadas, anticucho (grilled beef heartes), tamales or drinks like pisco sour and chicha morada. Sample local delicacies in the San Pedro Market on this Cusco food tour! You can also visit the San Pedro Market as part of a private tour of Cusco.

7. Discover Barrio de San Blas and the Twelve-Angled Stone

A stone’s throw from the Plaza de Armas, the San Blas neighborhood is one of the most popular in Cusco. To get there from the main square, you’ll have to climb some steep streets—but we promise it’ll be worth it. Originally an Inca settlement, this area underwent significant transformations with the arrival of the Spaniards and eventually became a residential and religious center, centered around the San Blas Church, which was built on the foundations of an ancient Inca temple.

Today, the neighborhood is a cultural hub, frequented by countless talented artists, selling a wide variety of art and crafts. San Blas is also home to a number of trendy restaurants, galleries, and cafés, making it one of the most bohemian districts in Cusco.

The main attraction in San Blas, however, is the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, a large rock located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, embedded in the wall of the Archbishop’s Palace, which today houses Cusco’s Museum of Religious Art. What makes this stone so special? As its name suggests, the Stone of Twelve Angles has precisely twelve edges, a fine example of the incredible architectural skill of the Incas. The building that houses this stone was constructed using polygonal masonry, and the precision with which the stone was cut and fitted is so exact that it is impossible to insert even a fine blade between it and the surrounding stones. Because of this, the Stone of Twelve Angles is considered a national heritage object, representing the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization in Cusco.

8. Journey Through the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Stepping away from Cusco’s urban area, let’s have a look at the Sacred Valley of the Incas, stretching along the Urubamba River—one of the main centers of agriculture, religion, and politics at the height of the Inca Empire. This expansive valley features stunning mountains, agricultural terraces, and rivers, all waiting to be explored!

This Sacred Valley of the Incas tour, is a fantastic way to discover this fascinating and ancient part of the country, visiting several important sites along the way.

Moray: The Circular Terraces of Cusco

Among the Sacred Valley’s many highlights, for us, the most mind-boggling is that of Moray. This site is around 30 miles (48 kilometers) outside of the city and features distinct depressions shaped by concentric circular terraces, that descend up to 100 feet (30 meters) deep, revealing the remarkable engineering of the Incas. Incredibly, each level creates a unique microclimate, with temperature differences of up to 15°C between the top and bottom levels. Additionally, the terraces of Moray were irrigated by an advanced Inca hydraulic system, which regulated water distribution at each level. The drainage system was so effective that rainwater never accumulated on the terraces, even during heavy rainfall.

It is thought that the terraces of Moray were used to cultivate a wide variety of crops, including corn, potatoes, quinoa, and various medicinal plants. This site showcases the advanced knowledge of farming held by the Incas, acting as something of an agricultural laboratory, where they could find the optimal conditions for different crops—information that could be used across their vast territory, which faced varying weather conditions.

You can visit this incredible archaeological site by going on a day trip to Moray + the Maras Salt Mines from Cusco.

Maras Salt Mines

Near Moray, you’ll find the Maras Salt Mines, a collection of over 6,000 small salt ponds, each about 50 square feet (5 square meters), delicately carved into the side of a mountain. The salt comes from an underground reservoir of salt deposits formed millions of years ago when the area was once covered by a shallow sea. Though this site dates back centuries, with origins in pre-Inca times, the Incas later expanded and further developed the salt mines, due to the commodity’s high value. To this day, the salt mines provide a livelihood for local families, a tradition passed down through generations.

To see them yourself, take this same day trip to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines from Cusco!

Písac

About 20 miles (33 kilometers away) from Cusco is the town of Písac and its archaeological site of the same name. Písac itself is a wonderfully peaceful town, with gorgeous cobbled streets, traditional Andean vibes, and a fantastic artisanal market. Here, you’ll find handmade textiles, silver jewelry, and traditional ceramics, as well as fresh food and fantastic eateries. Visit the market for yourself as part of this Sacred Valley of the Incas arts & crafts private tour. It’s a wonderful spot to explore for an afternoon. However, the real pride and joy of Písac is its archeological site.

The archaeological site sits atop a mountain with a stunning view of the valley, showcasing both its impressive scale and the architectural sophistication of the Incas. The ruins of Písac are divided into distinct areas, including the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the rock-cut tombs carved into the nearby cliffs. Another key section is Q’allaqasa, or the ‘hanging city,’ a fortified area with watchtowers that once served as a defensive stronghold.

Ollantaytambo

The village of Ollantaytambo is another integral part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and a great destination for those looking to gain a deeper insight into the area’s Incan heritage. This site was a vital center of the empire, serving defensive, religious, and administrative functions. During the Spanish conquest, Ollantaytambo became a symbol of resistance against colonization, being one of the few places where the Inca achieved a significant victory against the conquerors in 1536 under the leadership of Manco Inca. Highlights of the site include the expansive agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and distinct military and residential sectors.

Within the village, you’ll find a town built on ancient Inca foundations that still retains its original layout. One of the best preserved Inca cities, walk Ollantaytambo’s cobblestone streets and marvel at its flowing water channels and sturdy stone buildings. For a deeper understanding of the town’s history, definitely take a guided tour of Ollantaytambo.

9. Hike Rainbow Mountain

One of the most increasingly popular tourist attractions is Vinicunca Mountain, usually referred to as Rainbow Mountain—an other-worldly mountain in the Andes of Peru, around a 3-hour drive from Cusco. The mountain’s name refers to the dazzling shades of red, yellow, green, blue, and white that paint its slopes. These vibrant hues are the result of a geological process millions of years in the making, formed by 14 different types of marine, lake, and river sediments.

Beyond the breathtaking landscapes of the colorful mountain, visiting Rainbow Mountain is an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter local communities, and herds of llamas and alpacas, and challenge yourself with a truly unique adventure. At 17,060 feet (5,200 meters) above sea level, Rainbow Mountain presents a demanding trek.

Explore Rainbow Mountain on this hiking excursion from Cusco, or explore Rainbow Mountain on this quadbike tour. Regardless of how you explore the mountain, be sure to spend at least a few days in Cusco before taking on the mountain, in order to acclimatize to the altitude change.

10. Pay a Visit to Cusco’s Museums

Another great part of visiting Cusco is exploring its many museums, which tell the story of the region from various perspectives

• Inka Museum – Located in the historic center, this museum offers a deep dive into Inca civilization and pre-Columbian history.
• Cusco Museum of Pre-Columbian Art – Housed in the Convent of Santa Clara, it showcases an impressive collection of colonial-era art.
• Popular Art Museum – Near Plaza de Armas, this museum celebrates the artistic traditions of Cusco and the Andean communities.
• Museum of Natural History – Adjacent to the Museum of Popular Art, it provides a fascinating look at Peru’s biodiversity, particularly from the Andean and Amazonian regions.
• Museum of Contemporary Art – Located in Plaza Regocijo, this space features rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary works by local and international artists.
• Regional History Museum – Found in the Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, near Plaza de Armas, this museum offers a comprehensive look at Cusco’s past, from pre-Inca times to the republican era.

You can visit these museums by purchasing tickets at the entrance. However, if you plan on visiting a few museums/archeological sites while staying in the city, this Cusco Tourist Card includes many of the main attractions, at a fantastic price!

11. Sample Cusco’s Local Cuisine

Cusco is known for many things, and its incredible, varied cuisine is one of them. The city’s cuisine is representative of the various cultures that have left their mark on it, with ancient techniques, ingredients, and dishes stemming from Andean cultures, fusing with other Indigenous and Spanish influences. Cusco itself is perhaps best known for cuy. This dish, which is quite unusual for most Western visitors, consists of a guinea pig, served usually with potatoes and a chili sauce, as part of a dish known as cuy chactado.

Other popular dishes in Cusco include chiri uchu (a mixture of meat, corn, potatoes, peanuts, and chili peppers), pachamanca (meat, vegetables, and grains cooked in a hole dug in the ground using hot stones), quinoa soup, and olluquito con charqui (a tuber prepared with dried llama or beef and cooked with local spices).

Although more typical of the country’s coastal regions, Peruvian ceviche can also be found in many of the city’s restaurants. Come and discover the delights of Cusco on this Cusco food tour, or for an even more local experience, check out this Cusco street food tour!

12. Adventure in Machu Picchu – A Symbol of the Incan Empire

In a list of things to do when in Cusco, Machu Picchu is perhaps the most important entry. Known as the Lost City of the Incas, this archaeological site was built in the 15th century at nearly 8,000 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level and is considered one of the greatest feats of Inca engineering and architecture.

The city was abandoned by the Incas in the 16th century after the Spanish invasion and was never found by the conquistadors. It was only in 1911 that historian Hiram Bingham ‘found’ Machu Picchu, though indigenous people had long known of its existence. Since then, the Lost City of the Incas has undergone historical and archaeological studies that help us understand the daily life, culture, and traditions of this civilization. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Wonders of the Seven World.

Among the ruins, you’ll find the city’s houses, places of worship, and squares, especially the Temple of the Sun and the Main Square. In addition to the ruins, Machu Picchu is surrounded by alpine mountains that add even more beauty to the site, as well as the friendly llamas and alpacas that live there.

The easiest way to visit Machu Picchu is on this day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco, though there are lots of different ways to visit Machu Picchu. Check out all of our tour packages, excursions, and experiences in Machu Picchu.

Tips for Travelling to Cusco

Tourist Card

If you plan to visit historic ruins and archaeological sites, we recommend checking out the Cusco Tourist Card which gives you access to most of the city’s points of interest, as well as some museums, and the best possible price. You can opt for the 1, 2, or 10-day option, depending on how long you spend in Cusco.

What currency is used in Peru

Peru’s official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), but as it is a tourist city, international credit and debit cards are also widely accepted. In addition, you can easily exchange Reais or Dollars for Peruvian Suns at one of the many bureaux de change dotted around the city. However, it’s worth remembering that in smaller craft markets and in more remote areas, cards may not be accepted or may not work at all. For this reason, we recommend taking some cash with you to ensure that you can buy what you want.

How to get around in Cusco

If you’re staying in or near the historic center, the best way to get to know Cusco is by walking through the surrounding streets since most of the attractions are close to the Plaza de Armas. For places further away, you can hire a cab or a car from an app such as Uber. If you prefer to save money, you can also use city buses and shared vans (colectivos).

For those who prefer more convenience and practicality, we recommend one of the many activities to do in Cusco that include transportation to and from your hotel, as well as a guide who will tell you about the history of the places. This way, you can immerse yourself in the city’s history in the easiest and most worry-free way possible.

There you have it! Those are our picks for what to do in Cusco. There’s plenty to check out, so if you’re still looking for ways to fill your itinerary, be sure to check out more tours and experiences in Cusco with Civitatis!