Everything You Need to Know About Cusco, Peru

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Advisor - Caitlyn Johnston
Curated By

Caitlyn Johnston

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • Peru

  • Cusco

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

steep city street
Curator’s statement

Cusco is an incredible place to visit to see one of the seven wonders of the world. It is the oldest city in South America with a continuous habitation for greater than 3000 years and is a must-do for every type of traveler. The city has deep cultural roots and the people of Peru are ready and willing to share it with you.

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Where to stay in Cusco, Peru

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Things to do in Cusco, Peru

Sacsayhuaman ruins
  • Machu Picchu is the main pull to Cusco. Take a day or two to visit this historical site of Incan culture.

  • Visit Sacsayhuaman ruins as the ancient Incan capital.

  • Plaza de Armas is the main square in Cusco to visit and observe the culture of Peru. Wander around the neighborhood of San Blas.

  • Take a free walking tour of the entirety of Cusco.

  • Visit the Mercado Central de San Pedro for a day full of shopping and local bites.

Places to eat & drink in Cusco, Peru

A restaurant picture in the daytime.

Breakfast

Three Monkeys Coffee Company for an amazing cup of coffee paired with a sweet or savory bite, no matter what you are in the mood for. Aulita Restaurant will make you a great cup of coffee or a delicious cocktail if you so wish. Pair your coffee with a delicious arepa with the freshest of ingredients. Grab an acai bowl at Qura or any type of bowl you are in the mood for. It is a small shop so be sure to get there early.

Lunch/Dinner

Pachapapa for traditional Andean cuisine.

Cicciolina is directly off the main square perfect for a tapas style meal with an extensive wine menu.

Limo is a unique combination of Peruvian-Asian seafood dishes to be paired with a Pisco-based cocktail.

If you are looking for a funky place to grab a delicious steak, Fallen Angel is your perfect spot.

No Cusco recommendations would be complete without suggesting an immersive experience at MIL Centro, a sister restaurant to the top restaurant in the world. You will not regret having a lunch pairing at this incredible restaurant in the middle of the Andes mountains.

Advisor - Caitlyn Johnston

Travel Advisor

Caitlyn Johnston

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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, The Perfect 5-Day Travel Itinerary to Auckland, New Zealand. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Peru.