8 Things To Do in Cusco

Cusco is one of the most popular destinations in Peru, as it offers a unique combination of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Cusco, here are 5 things you must do during your visit, including tours to Cusco and Machu Picchu:

1.- Explore the Imperial City

Cusco is a city full of history and culture, with many tourist attractions to explore. You can visit the impressive Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), the Cathedral of Cusco, the San Pedro market, and much more. A city tour is an excellent option to get to know the most outstanding places in Cusco.

2.- Travel on the Train to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most impressive places in the world, and Cusco is the gateway to this archaeological wonder. One of the best ways to get to Machu Picchu is by train, which offers a spectacular view of the Andean landscape. There are many Tours to Machu Picchu that include the train trip and the guided visit to Machu Picchu.

3.- Explore the Andes on a Bicycle Tour

The landscapes around Cusco are spectacular, and one of the best ways to experience them is by bike. There are many bike tours that leave from Cusco and take you through the Andean landscapes, past villages, lakes and mountains.

4.- Plaza de Armas Cusco

There is the main square in almost every city and town in South America. But the Plaza de Armas in Cusco is different. As well as being vibrant, beautiful and photogenic, it has a significant history. It served as the exact center of the mighty Inca empire stretching from Colombia to Argentina and Chile.
Ceremonies, festivals, and even executions were held here. The most famous is the execution of the last Inca Tupac Amaru in this same square. Today, it serves as a meeting place for locals and tourists, it is also the starting point for a city tour of Cusco that will take you through the most representative places of Cusco. If you have nothing to do, come here and enjoy the view!

5.- The stone of twelve angles

The Incas were well known for their architectural and architectural prowess. Their structures often feature perfectly cut and shaped stones that fit together closely without mortar. The best-known example is the Twelve Angled Stone located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street and is considered an object of national heritage. Encouraged by their perfect assembly, it is said that not even a sheet of paper can fit between the stones!
It is a very popular place in the city.

6.- San Blas neighborhood

A few steps from the Plaza de Armas is the charming and picturesque neighborhood of San Blas, a neighborhood increasingly popular with tourists. It is full of street vendors selling colorful trinkets; artists’ workshops and craftsmen’s workshops; cafes, bars, and restaurants; and other colorful places that tourists love. On weekends, the Plaza de San Blas comes alive with stalls with unique souvenirs. An interesting one is the Incas vs Spanish chess game.
A viewpoint also offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city, especially beautiful at night.

7.- The San Pedro market

A great way to experience local food is to eat at the local market. Cheaper than restaurants, the San Pedro market attracts locals and tourists alike. It has become so popular with tourists that the signs/menus include English (even though the vendors can’t speak it).
The San Pedro market serves as a place to eat, it is also a market that sells everything from fruits and vegetables to meat and dry goods. Additionally, triph3ca is an artisan market, selling colorful souvenirs, bags, and Andean-style clothing.

8.- Join the parades and festivals

Stay in Cusco for a while and you will see a parade and street parties.
Children wear colorful costumes and adults dance together as the music plays in the background. Rain or shine, they continue. The locals, no matter how many you have seen, are sympathetic and enthusiastic, usually creating a human jam in the streets.
If you’re lucky, there might even be fireworks!