A city tour of Cusco and its surroundings is an excellent way to begin your experience in this historic region before heading to Machu Picchu. Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and architecture.
The heart of the city, surrounded by colonial buildings, restaurants, and shops. Admire the colonial architecture and the plaza’s fountains — an ideal starting point and a wonderful place to observe local life.
An impressive cathedral built between 1559 and 1654 on the palace of the Inca Viracocha, and one of the most important examples of colonial architecture in Latin America. Inside, admire golden altars, the famous Last Supper painting by Marco Zapata (featuring a guinea pig), and other religious treasures.
Also located on the Plaza de Armas, this Jesuit church is known for its baroque facade and impressive interior with golden altars and colonial paintings.
Originally the most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. Spanish conquistadors built the Santo Domingo Convent over its remains. Discover the remarkable combination of Inca and colonial architecture, including perfectly fitted Inca stone walls beneath the baroque dome of the convent.
An impressive Inca fortress on a hill above Cusco, famous for its enormous precisely-fitted stones, some weighing over 100 tons. Walk the zigzagging walls, explore underground tunnels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
A ceremonial center and stone labyrinth featuring a large monolith and channels carved into the rock, believed to have been used for religious rituals and offerings. Explore its underground chambers and rock carvings.
A military fortress with strategic views over the Sacred Valley and the Cusco–Urubamba route. Its name means “red fortress,” referring to the color its stones take on at sunset. Learn about its role as a control post and resting place in Inca times.
Known as the “Inca’s Bath,” this archaeological site features a system of aqueducts, channels, and waterfalls carved into the rocks — a testament to the advanced hydraulic engineering of the Incas. Believed to have had a ceremonial purpose related to water worship.
A charming district of narrow cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, and art galleries — the artistic and bohemian heart of Cusco. Visit craft shops, watch artisans at work on ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, and stop by the Church of San Blas with its famous carved wooden pulpit.
Enjoy dinner at one of many restaurants serving traditional Peruvian cuisine. Try classic dishes such as guinea pig (cuy), alpaca, aji de gallina, or ceviche. Pair your meal with a classic pisco sour or chicha morada.
Many restaurants and cultural centers in Cusco offer performances of traditional Andean dance and music — an excellent way to experience local culture. Enjoy dances such as the marinera, the Scissors Dance (danza de las tijeras), and other performances reflecting the cultural richness of Peru.
