Things to do in Cusco

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Ancient stone ruins with thatched roofs, set against a backdrop of lush green mountains and misty peaks.
A mountainous landscape with a prominent peak, lush green valleys, and a river flowing through the valley.
A river flowing through a mountainous area with a bridge, buildings, and a paved walkway.
A historic church with two bell towers and a large central doorway.
A statue with outstretched arms against a sky with clouds.

Cusco Attractions

Eager to know the most popular experiences and activities in Cusco? Great shopping, incredible local food and loads of exciting attractions are just a taste of what's waiting for you. It's time to pack your bags and explore this bustling city.

Explore the best sights in Cusco with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {668 fun activities in Cusco fun activities in Cusco}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning the vacation of a lifetime.

Things to do

Cusco: Half-Day City Tour with Sacsayhuaman and Q'enco

Cusco: Half-Day City Tour with Sacsayhuaman and Q'enco

$13
per adult
Cusco: Half-Day City Tour with Sacsayhuaman and Q'enco
Cusco:Chinchero,Moray & Salt Mines drop-off in Ollantaytambo

Cusco:Chinchero,Moray & Salt Mines drop-off in Ollantaytambo

$26
per adult
Cusco:Chinchero,Moray & Salt Mines drop-off in Ollantaytambo
The Ultimate Full Day Sacred Valley Tour

The Ultimate Full Day Sacred Valley Tour

$139
per adult
The Ultimate Full Day Sacred Valley Tour
Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day.

Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day Optional Red Valley

$25
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day Optional Red Valley
Cusco: #1 Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Day Trip with Meals

Cusco: #1 Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Day Trip with Meals

$19
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Cusco: #1 Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Day Trip with Meals
Cusco:Sacred Valley Pisaq,Ollantaytambo,Chinchero with Lunch

Cusco:Sacred Valley Pisaq,Ollantaytambo,Chinchero with Lunch

$27
per adult
Cusco:Sacred Valley Pisaq,Ollantaytambo,Chinchero with Lunch
Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour from Cusco – Skip the Hike

Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour from Cusco – Skip the Hike

$68
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour from Cusco – Skip the Hike
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Cusco must see attractions

1. Plaza de Armas

Head to where the action is at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, a large landscaped square bordered by shops, restaurants and ancient churches. For more than 500 years, the square has been at the heart of city life. Come to the plaza nowadays and you might see festivals, concerts and religious processions. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, admire the ornate lampposts and colonial archways and relax with a drink.
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A historic church with two bell towers, surrounded by a park with people and green trees.

2. San Pedro Market

Cusco San Pedro Market is a sprawling, open-air market, with everything from produce and meat to clothing and incense. Popular with locals and visitors, the market is an entertaining destination for shoppers and anyone curious about local culture.
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A market entrance with a sign reading "Bienvenidos a tu Mercado San Pedro".

3. Cusco Cathedral

Standing over Cusco’s main square is Cusco Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-Renaissance structure built on the site of an Inca palace. Explore the interior, filled with more than 400 canvases, woodcarvings and a silver altar.
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A historic church with two towers, a plaza with people, and mountains in the background.

4. Sacsayhuaman

Venture into the archaeological park just outside Cusco’s city center to explore the ruins of Sacsayhuaman. This colossal stone fortress and temple sits on a steep hill overlooking the city and attests to the brilliance of Incan engineering. Come to observe traditional Incan ceremonies and to admire how the structure was built, noting the large limestone blocks that lock together without mortar.
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Ancient stone ruins in a dry, hilly landscape with a clear sky.

5. Coricancha

Qorikancha was the most important and elaborate temple of the Inca Empire. Qorikancha means golden courtyard and at the time of the Incas, the walls were covered in solid gold sheets. When the Spanish colonized the area, they demolished and looted parts of the temple and constructed the convent of Santo Domingo on top of it. The convent is still there today. Marvel at the original stonework, walk down corridors and through the chambers of Qorikancha and find clues to its former splendor.
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An arched corridor with a bell tower in the background.

Recommended things to do in Cusco

Number of things to do
668
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Cusco: Historic Walking Tour & Scenic Views with local drink: $2
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Cusco

Free Things to Do in Cusco

Escaping to Cusco on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Agua Buena Recreational Park - Let your hair down and add a bit of excitement to your escape here.

Plaza Tupac Amaru - Discover why locals and travelers alike love the character and charm of this place.

Cusco Craft Center - Make time to explore this site of local importance.

Iglesia de Santo Domingo - Work on your spiritual side or just get lost in the tranquil ambiance at this sacred site.

Hatunrumiyoc - You'll be treated to views that'll leave you in awe at this natural wonder.

Agua Buena Recreational Park - Organize a picnic date and enjoy a walk around the trees and shrubs.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Cusco? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Cusco attractions

A historic church with two bell towers, surrounded by a park with people and green trees.

Plaza de Armas

9.6/10 (4,258 reviews)
This ancient Inca gathering space now showcases colonial architecture with grand cathedrals and wooden balconies. Enjoy Andean cuisine at plaza-side cafés while watching local performers against mountain-backed skies.
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Where to stay in Cusco

Find the best Cusco areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cusco
Learn more about Cusco
A narrow cobblestone street flanked by white buildings with blue shutters and wrought iron balconies.

San Blas

San Blas is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like San Blas Church and Plaza San Blas.

A historic cathedral with two bell towers and a large dome.

Cusco Historic Center

A noteworthy feature of Cusco Historic Center is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Plaza de Armas and Santa Catalina Convent.

A cityscape with red-tiled roofs, a prominent church, and distant mountains.
Photo by AdventureJ
Open Photo by AdventureJ

San Cristóbal

While visiting San Cristóbal, you might make a stop by sights like Plaza de las Nazarenas and Museo de Arte Precolombino.

A person climbing a stone wall with a backpack.
Photo by Wicked Walkabout
Open Photo by Wicked Walkabout

Santiago

If you're spending some time in Santiago, Santiago Plaza and "El Molino I" Shopping Center are top sights worth seeing.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica might not have many top sights, but Real Plaza Cusco and Ttio Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Cusco

A historic town with white buildings, stone walls, and a bell tower.

Chinchero

A mountainous landscape with a valley, a river, and a town with colorful buildings.

Coya

Terraced fields in a mountainous landscape.

Oropesa

Frequently asked questions

Is Cusco worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are many great things to do in Cusco. Be sure to enjoy the area's mix of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Cusco?
Once you've visited top attractions like Museo de Historia Natural and Manu Wildlife Peru, spend some time experiencing Cusco's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cusco?
You can't go home without checking out Cusco Cathedral, rated the top tourist attraction in Cusco.
Is three days enough to stay in Cusco?
Three days in Cusco is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many travelers spend three days on average. Cusco Cathedral, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo and Santa Catalina Convent are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Is Cusco a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Cusco, including Cusco Cathedral and Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 miles from central Cusco is Santa Ana and Primavera is 0.5 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Cusco with kids?
Deciding what to do in Cusco with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Cusco for adults?
Calle Marquez and Iglesia y Convento de Santa Clara are just a few of the things to do in Cusco. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Cusco?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Cusco. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Cerro Huarahuaylla is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their traveling adventures.

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