Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that effortlessly blends rich history with vibrant culture. Walking through its cobblestone streets, you can feel the echoes of a bygone era, where the majestic Sacsayhuamán fortress stands as a testament to Incan engineering. This UNESCO World Heritage site is just one of many attractions that draw visitors from around the globe. The city is a gateway to Machu Picchu, making it a must-visit for adventurers and history buffs alike. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the San Pedro Market, where you can savor local delicacies like ceviche and alpaca stew, or sip on a refreshing chicha morada. The fusion of indigenous and colonial architecture is a feast for the eyes, with the stunning Qorikancha temple and the grand Plaza de Armas as highlights. Cusco’s vibrant festivals, such as Inti Raymi, celebrate its rich cultural heritage, showcasing colorful costumes and traditional music. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the city’s artistic neighborhoods, Cusco promises an unforgettable experience. Did you know that Cusco was once considered the navel of the world by the
Cusco, Peru
Top things to do in Cusco
16 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Cusco Machupicchu Expeditions
18 reviews
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, Cusco
A Jesuit church with a richly carved stone facade and a gilded interior, featuring a notable painting of the wedding of Martín de Loyola.
Colcampata
An Inca palace complex near Sacsayhuamán, believed to be the residence of Manco Cápac.
Sacsayhuamán
Massive Inca fortress with colossal stone walls and panoramic views over Cusco, showcasing masterful dry-stone masonry.
Historic Centre of Cusco
UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas blending Inca and Spanish influences.
Twelve-angled stone
A famous Inca stone with twelve perfectly cut angles, exemplifying the precision of Inca masonry on a street in Cusco.
Inka Museum
Houses an extensive collection of Inca artifacts, including mummies, pottery, and metalwork, offering deep insight into Inca civilization.
Museo de Arte Precolombino, Cusco
Showcases pre-Columbian art from various Peruvian cultures in a beautifully restored colonial mansion near the Plaza de Armas.
Regional Historical Museum of Cusco
Features colonial art and historical exhibits in the former Archbishop's Palace, tracing Cusco's history from Inca times to the republic.
Casa Concha
Casa Concha museum displays Machu Picchu artifacts repatriated from Yale, offering insight into Inca civilization.
Museum of Sacred, Magical and Medicinal Plants
This museum explores traditional Andean plants used in rituals, medicine, and daily life by indigenous communities.
Qenko
Qenko is an Inca archaeological site with a massive carved limestone rock and mysterious underground chambers.
Puka Pukara
A red-stone Inca fortress and checkpoint on the road to Machu Picchu, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Tambomachay
An Inca site with aqueducts and waterfalls, known as the 'Bath of the Inca' for its ceremonial water features.
Coricancha
Once the most important Inca temple, Coricancha now combines Incan stonework with a colonial Dominican convent.
Cusco Cathedral
Built atop an Inca palace, Cusco Cathedral blends Baroque and Renaissance styles, housing over 400 colonial paintings.
Tickets & tours
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