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.
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.
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.
While Santa Monica may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Real Plaza Cusco and Ttio Market.
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.
San Pedro Market
9.2/10 (2,843 reviews)
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.
Photo by The Wandercat
Open Photo by The Wandercat
Coricancha
9.4/10 (1,802 reviews)
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.
Cusco Cathedral
9.4/10 (3,211 reviews)
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.
Sacsayhuaman
9.6/10 (2,010 reviews)
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.
San Blas Church
9.2/10 (317 reviews)
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.
Twelve Angled Stone
9.0/10 (172 reviews)
Find out about the history of Cusco with a stop at Twelve Angled Stone. Make time for the shops and local tours in this culturally rich area.
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.
What to do in Cusco
Cusco: Half-Day City Tour with Sacsayhuaman and Q'enco
"The room was clean and the bedding was enough - I didn't need heating. The staff were extremely helpful (we had an issue with a tour operator and they spent time helping to solve the issue - I'm very thankful for that, especially being in a foreign language country). The breakfast was so good and they also recommended great food spots and how to eat to combat any altitude sickness. Amazing."
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.
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.
For a vibrant shopping experience in Cusco, visit Wanchaq Market for authentic local goods. Real Plaza Cusco offers a mix of shopping and entertainment for families. If you're up for a drive, the Centro de Textiles showcases exquisite Peruvian textiles and crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Recreation
The Municipal Theater in Cusco offers a cultural escape, showcasing romantic performances that entertain families and visitors alike. For sports enthusiasts, Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium provides an exciting atmosphere to enjoy local matches. Orellana Pumaqchupan Park is perfect for wellness, featuring tranquil spaces for relaxation amidst nature.
Adventure
The Butterfly Park offers a vibrant experience filled with colourful butterflies, located 37.0km from Cusco. For a more challenging adventure, the Musqa Pukyo Terraces, situated 43.5km away, invite hikers to explore breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage amidst stunning outdoor scenery.
Nightlife
Cusco's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Start your evening at the lively Mama Africa for dancing, then enjoy a relaxed drink at the historic Norton Rat's Tavern. For a unique experience, visit the San Blas neighbourhood, known for its charming bars and live music.
Find the best attractions in Cusco
Cusco is an ideal destination for those seeking city, culture, and outdoor-themed vacations. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as piazzas, churches, and archaeological sites, offering rich cultural experiences. For an unforgettable adventure, a trip to Machu Picchu is highly recommended, ensuring a blend of history and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're interested in the vibrant city life or the stunning landscapes, Cusco has something to offer every traveller.
Coricancha: Once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, Coricancha, or the Temple of the Sun, showcases remarkable Inca architecture fused with Spanish colonial elements. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stonework and learn about its historical significance, making it a captivating cultural experience.
San Pedro Church: This beautiful colonial church is renowned for its stunning altar and vibrant local market nearby. San Pedro Church offers a glimpse into Cusco’s religious heritage, with its rich history and charming atmosphere providing a unique insight into local culture.
Plaza El Regocijo: A lively urban park, Plaza El Regocijo is the perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, local performances, and surrounding cafes while soaking in the city's lively spirit amidst lush greenery.
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.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.