What to See in Cusco in One Day
Are you looking for things to do in Cusco in one day? you are in the right place, let us help you plan your perfect day in Cusco, we have many things that will surely interest you to get the most out of your visit to this beautiful city, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Cusco has something for everyone!
Cusco, Perú
Cusco is located high in the Andes at approximately 3,399 meters (11,152 feet). It has only 2 seasons throughout the year: the dry season and the wet season although it is best to take a jacket and an umbrella especially during the months of September and November. And as you probably already knew, Cusco was the ancient capital of the Inca empire.
Find more information about when is the best time to visit cusco here
Surely you have already read enough about this beautiful city so let’s cut to the chase and explore the highlights of this remarkable city.
Things to See in Cusco, Perú
You may think that there is not much to do in Cusco because Cusco is a small city, however believe it or not there are a lot of activities you can do and amazing things to see, here’s a list of the many things you can do:
Start Here
To get to any of the 10 best places to visit in Cusco you should be located exactly at Cusco’s main square. This way it will be much easier to orient yourself and get to all the places more quickly and hassle free.
The Best 10 Things to Do in Cusco
Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker or cultural connoisseur, Cusco has something for everyone. Here are 10 must-do things to do in Cusco:
01) Explore Plaza de Armas
Begin your adventure in the heart of Cusco, the Plaza de Armas. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the colonial architecture and visit the Cusco Cathedral. Built in 1560, this emblematic building is considered one of the nation’s cultural heritage by UNESCO. The building is situated on the main square of Cusco, atop the remnants of the Kiswarkancha temple. Originally dedicated to the Inca deities. If you have an appreciation for art and paintings, this is a must do.
To visit the cathedral of Cusco it is necessary to purchase a ticket. This ticket costs 40 Nuevos soles and allows you to enter, not just the cathedral, but also other religious sites of interest such as the church of San Blas and the museum of the Archbishop.
02) Visit the Twelve Angle Stone
Don’t miss a visit to the Stone of the Twelve Angles while exploring Cusco main square. The Twelve Angles Stone, also known as Hatun Rumiyoc, is a significant Inca artifact located in the heart of Cusco (Peru). It is part of a wall in the historic district and is famous for its precisely carved, irregular polygonal shape with twelve distinct angles. The stone is considered an outstanding example of advanced Inca masonry techniques.
03) Visit San Pedro Market
Located in Cusco, the popular San Pedro Market is a bustling local hub. Known locally as “Mercado San Pedro,” this vibrant market is a must-see for those travelers looking for an authentic Peruvian experience. You will discover from fresh fruit juices to handmade alpaca sweaters. To get the most out of your visit, we suggest you arrive early in the morning, so you can enjoy the market at your leisure before the crowds. The market is open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Sunday, no entrance fee is required and admission is free.
04) Explore Coricancha (Sun Temple)
A visit to Coricancha is one of the best experiences in Cusco. Also known as the Temple of the Sun, this Inca marvel is also a must do. It exhibits exquisite architecture and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
You will explore the intricate stone walls, sacred temples and much more. The site reflects not only Inca cosmology, but also the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures.
To reach the temple you can walk from the Cusco main square, it will take you 10 minutes. To visit it an entrance fee of 15 Peruvian soles must be paid.
05) Visit Sapantiana Colonial Aqueduct
Cusco breathes history at every step, from its streets to its archaeological sites, and one of its many hidden gems is the Aqueduct of Sapantiana, an enigmatic site that has gained relevance, attracting the attention of visitors enchanted by the captivating scenes it offers. You probably haven’t heard much about this colonial aqueduct yet. However in the last 3 years it has become a perfect place for many to admire the colonial beauty.
It is a hydraulic colonial architecture built on the P’ujru River, the construction of which was promoted by the Order of the Jesuits between the 17th and 18th centuries. has a colonial wall adorned with four levels of arches. Curiously, it is believed that the aqueduct incorporates lithic elements from the ancient Inca temple of Sapantiana. You can reach this place on foot from the neighborhood of San Blas exactly by Choquechaca street just 10 minutes from the Cusco’s main square.
06) Hike to Sacsayhuaman
Embark on an amazing hike to Sacsayhuaman from Cusco, an ancient Inca fortress located high above the city. This iconic archaeological site offers not only a nice walk, but also breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andean landscape.
The road to Sacsayhuaman runs along rustic trails, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Andes. As you ascend, the massive stone walls of Sacsayhuaman appear, displaying impressive Inca masonry and engineering. To visit this amazing place it is necessary to buy a tourist ticket, this ticket can be purchased on site. The site is open from 7 am to 5 pm.
07) Inca Museum
The Inca Museum is a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of the ancient Inca civilization. The museum is located one block from the iconic Plaza de Armas in Cusco. If you love Peruvian history, archeology and want to know more about the Inca culture then this place will blow you away.
You will witness the masterful weaving techniques of the Incas, also gold and silver objects that reflect the opulence and sophistication of Inca metallurgy. Also archaeological finds and real mummies. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the cost of the ticket is 10 soles.
08) Visit Machu Picchu Museum
The Machu Picchu museum or Casa Concha is a museum in Cusco near the popular plaza de armas. The museum has a collection of 360 artifacts from Machu Picchu, repatriated by Yale University to Peru. Beyond its historical significance, the museum provides a dynamic and engaging exhibit, with National Geographic photos, interactive videos-including a complete map of Machu Picchu-and much more. In addition, this Machu Picchu museum is located in a large colonial residence that was built over the remains of the Palace of the Inca Tupac Yupanqui.
The ticket is 20 Peruvian soles, the museum is open from Monday to Saturday.
09) Museo del Pisco
The Pisco Museum hit Cusco’s bar scene with a bang in August 2012 and has quickly established itself as one of the city’s trendiest nightspots. The Museum features a refreshingly modern space that, despite appearances, is actually housed in a restored colonial house or casona.
It is located at 398 Santa Catalina Ancha Street, (corner with San Agustin Street), Cusco. Opening hours: from11.00 – 01.00 from Monday to Sunday. Food is served from 12.00 to 15.00 and from 18.00 to 23.00.
10) Visit A Charming Alpaca Farm
If you love alpacas and llamas then don’t waste any more time and visit the alpaca farm of “Manos de la Comunidad” a beautiful place located far away from the bustle of the city, exactly 10 minutes by cab from the main square of Cusco.
The family has a huge alpaca farm with more than 100 alpacas, llamas, vicuñas and huanacos. The place also has an alpaca store where they exhibit some of their work, you can visit it on your own or take a tour from Cusco to Pisac and the alpaca farm.
Best Cusco Day Tours
For those looking for a more organized experience without the hassle of planning every detail of exploring these sites, Cusco day tours offer a convenient and organized alternative. With expert guides, convenient transportation and pre-arranged itineraries, allowing you to focus on the experience itself rather than the logistics. Here we made a list of the 5 best day tours in Cusco:
01) Cusco Walking Tour
A walking tour of Cusco offers an in-depth and intimate exploration of this historic city, allowing you to absorb its rich cultural heritage, architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere on foot. Typically led by expert local guides who will share with you an in-depth knowledge of each place you visit. You can take the free walking tour with other visitors or take something more personalized and private just for you and your group.
02) Cusco City Tour
If you want to explore the surroundings of the city of Cusco such as the ruins of Sacsayhuaman or the temple of the sun (Coricancha) then the half day City Tour is the ideal tour for you. It typically starts at 2 pm however you can also take the private half day tour and start when you are ready. During the tour you will visit the temple of the sun, the cathedral of Cusco and the 4 ruins, to visit all these places including those of the Sacred Valley a tourist ticket is required.
03) Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco
The Sacred Valley tour is one of the favorite tours in Cusco, typically starting at 8 am from your hotel. This tour is offered in both private and small groups. However if you are looking for something more personalized to suit your travel schedule we recommend taking the private tour.
During the Sacred Valley tour you will visit some ruins such as Chinchero ruins, Ollantaytambo and Pisac in addition to these places you may also include a visit to the alpaca farm. This experience has a duration of approximately 8 hours and is suitable for everyone.
04) Maras & Moray Tour
Embark on a half-day excursion to Maras Moray from Cusco. Discover the agricultural terraces of Moray, a fascinating site that is considered an agricultural laboratory. Also you will visit Maras, where the unique salt pans await. The excursion to Maras Moray reveals the ingenuity of the Inca civilization against the backdrop of the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture.
04) South Valley Tour
The South Valley Tour near Cusco, Peru, is a captivating day tour starting from Cusco. It takes you off the beaten path to explore lesser-known but still fascinating attractions.
You will explore the intricate terraces of Tipon, the architectural wonders of the Wari civilization at Pikillacta and marvel at the murals in the church of Andahuaylillas.
Where to Eat in Cusco
If you are looking for a good place to eat in Cusco, Peru, you will find a wide variety of gastronomic options to satisfy all palates. Here are some recommendations:
Chicha de Gaston Acurio:
The restaurant is located near the Plaza de Armas, Chicha is famous for its modern Peruvian cuisine. Founded by Gaston Acurio, a famous Peruvian chef, the restaurant offers a blend of traditional flavors with a contemporary twist.
Cicciolina:
A popular choice for its cozy atmosphere, Cicciolina serves a blend of Italian and Peruvian dishes. Located in a historic center near the Plaza de Armas, it is the ideal place for a romantic dinner.
Limo Cocina:
For a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, Limo Cocina Nikkei is an excellent choice. Enjoy innovative sushi rolls and creative dishes in an elegant atmosphere.
Morena Cocina Peruana:
With a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of Peruvian food, Morena is an ideal place to enjoy classics such as ceviche, lomo saltado and anticuchos and much more.
Conclusion
Cusco has a lot of things to do and see during your stay, don’t miss any of them. We know that your time is valuable and short so we created this article hoping to help you with what you are looking for and make the most of your day in Cusco.
