Cusco's Historic Centre captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of Incan precision and Spanish colonial grandeur. Massive stone walls support ornate baroque churches while cobblestone streets wind past the magnificent Cathedral and golden Qorikancha temple ruins. Quechua traditions thrive alongside Catholic ceremonies in this living museum. The area invites exploration with artisan workshops tucked into San Blas' narrow alleys. San Pedro Market bustles with vendors selling colourful textiles and exotic fruits. At 11,200 feet elevation, the thin air creates a distinctive sensation that reminds travellers they're walking through centuries of remarkable Peruvian history.
San Blas charms visitors with its steep cobblestone streets and colonial buildings nestled in Cusco's artisan quarter. Local artists display handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and silverwork in workshops where you can watch them create. The iconic San Blas Church stands as a cultural landmark with its ornate baroque pulpit. The area blends Spanish architecture with strong Quechua influences throughout its hidden plazas and colourful markets. Intimate restaurants serve fusion Andean cuisine while traditional music drifts from doorways after sunset. Walking from Plaza de Armas takes just 15 minutes uphill.
Perched on a hillside above Cusco, San Cristóbal offers breathtaking views and a peek into Peru's layered history. The iconic white Cristo Blanco statue stands tall against the sky, while ancient Incan walls blend with colonial architecture below. Cobblestone streets wind between weathered stone facades and traditional homes where local life unfolds. Visitors can explore the Pre-Columbian Art Museum and Plaza de las Nazarenas away from city centre crowds. Family-run restaurants serve authentic Peruvian dishes at reasonable prices. The neighborhood's strong Quechua influence provides a genuine cultural experience rarely found in tourist districts.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Cusco
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.
Immerse yourself in Cusco's vibrant culture at San Pedro Market, where colourful stalls overflow with Andean textiles and local delicacies. Sample traditional Peruvian dishes while engaging with friendly vendors.
Cusco Cathedral melds Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles on an Inca palace site. Admire its ornate altars, intricate woodwork, and remarkable Cusco School paintings that display colonial-indigenous artistic fusion.
This ancient Inca fortress amazes with massive stone walls fitting perfectly without mortar. Explore its expansive terraces while enjoying panoramic views of Cusco from 3,700 metres above sea level.
At Coricancha, marvel at the precision stonework of the Inca Empire's most sacred temple to sun god Inti. Explore where ancient walls meet colonial architecture, now supporting the Church of Santo Domingo.
San Blas Church houses an extraordinary baroque pulpit carved from a single cedar piece, a masterpiece of colonial woodwork. Admire the intricate religious motifs in this artistic treasure in Cusco's artisan district.
National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Cuzco
8.6/10 (206 reviews)
Founded in 1692, UNSAAC is one of Peru's oldest universities with striking colonial architecture blending Spanish and Inca influences. Wander through its historic campus to experience Peruvian educational heritage.
This modern shopping centre blends international brands with local Peruvian retailers in Cusco. Enjoy a meal at Don Belisario Restaurant after browsing the diverse mix of fashion boutiques and shops.
"Incredibly charming colonial architecture that took us back in time. We had a nice view of the mountains.
The hotel staff was super friendly and helpful, their restaurant recommendations for typical local food were spot on - simply delicious!.
Breakfasts could do with more variety."
"The room was spacious and comfortable and the towels thick and the sheets crisp. The shuttle was a wonderful addition and the breakfast was excellent. We had a wonderful stay!"
"Just that room 201 needs to get darker, big window doesn’t have a proper curtains or blinders and the sunrise begins at 5:00 am it gets really unfortunately it gets really uncomfortable if you try to rest , also some music coming from the back yard make some noise when trying to rest. This is just for recommendations everything else I had an amazing experience,, Fatima great hostess ever ."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cusco offers a rich blend of city and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Popular activities include indulging in spa treatments, exploring hiking trails, and embarking on unforgettable excursions. Don't miss out on the best tours in Cusco, particularly the iconic Machu Picchu tour, which showcases the region's breathtaking beauty and historical significance.
Shopping
Discover the vibrant San Pedro Market for local crafts and souvenirs, or visit the Cusco Craft Center for unique handmade items. If you're up for a drive, Real Plaza Cusco offers a larger shopping experience with a variety of shops and entertainment options for families.
Recreation
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, where traditional performances spark joy. For a serene escape, Orellana Pumaqchupan Park offers a tranquil setting to unwind amidst nature. Engage in local sports at Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium for an energetic experience.
Adventure
Experience the enchanting Butterfly Park, located 37.0km from Cusco, where vibrant butterflies flit among lush gardens. For a thrilling hike, explore the Musqa Pukyo Terraces, 43.5km away, offering stunning views and a sense of adventure amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Nightlife
In Cusco, the nightlife thrives in the San Blas and Plaza de Armas areas. Discover lively bars, traditional pubs, and vibrant clubs where you can enjoy local music and dance. Experience the warm atmosphere as locals and tourists mingle, creating an unforgettable evening in this historic city.
Find the best attractions in Cusco
Cusco offers a captivating blend of city, culture, and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for diverse travellers. Explore the charming piazzas, historic churches, and impressive archaeological sites that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the renowned Machu Picchu, a must-see attraction that perfectly complements your journey through this enchanting city and its surroundings.
National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Cuzco: This historic university showcases stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage, reflecting the blending of indigenous and colonial influences in its design and educational ethos.
Hatunrumiyoc: An extraordinary archaeological site, Hatunrumiyoc features meticulously crafted stone walls that highlight the advanced engineering skills of the Incas. The site offers a unique glimpse into the region's pre-Columbian history.
Calle Marquez: A charming historic street in Cusco, Calle Marquez is lined with colonial buildings and vibrant local shops. Walking here immerses you in the city's cultural vibe, making it an ideal spot for exploration.
Best time to go to Cusco
The best time to visit Cusco is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. June is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Cusco
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Cusco.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Cusco.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cusco holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Cusco break. However, factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will influence how much your holiday to Cusco costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Cusco?
January, February and October are the best times to search for cheap Cusco holiday packages. Choosing to travel in less busy periods means you can generally find better prices on flights and hotels.
How many days is enough for Cusco?
To fully enjoy your Cusco holiday, we suggest staying for 3 days. Split your time between visiting Museo de Arte Popular, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo and other leading sights, in addition to exploring neighbourhoods like Santa Ana and Primavera. If you've got some spare time, add a day trip or tour to your Cusco holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Cusco?
It's easy to see why a Cusco holiday is on the to-do list of many travellers. Popular attractions like Plaza de Armas are just the beginning of things to see and do here.
How to find the best Cusco package deals?
Finding a cheap Cusco package deal is a cinch with Expedia. Once you've entered your travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, apply a few filters and browse what's available. You can personalise your search by "Property class," "Number of bedrooms," "Traveller experience" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most affordable Cusco package deals. Want a simple trick to score even more savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are often lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Cusco holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Cusco retreat by booking a customised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to see some great hotel prices and airfares. Bundling can save travellers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Cusco?
Score amazing discounts by booking your flights ahead of time with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your style, snap up one of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Cusco escape.
How to plan a trip to Cusco?
Choose the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you like can all impact your decision on when to visit Cusco.
Set a budget: Factor in costs such as food, flights and transportation when working out how much to set aside for your trip to Cusco. Then, pick a hotel that works with your budget, whether that's an economical stay or a more upscale getaway.
Determine how many days away: Start by making a list of all the attractions and activities you want to get to in Cusco. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, including any travel time.
Combine your hotel and flights: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to pick a Cusco holiday package that brings all your bookings together.