Best Things To See in Cusco City

Plaza de Armas

The history of the Plaza de Armas stretches back all the way to the Inca Empire when it was called Huacaypata or Aucaypata. The massive square (originally twice its current size) was built as a venue for festivals and ceremonies in ancient times.

According to legend, this plaza once marked the exact center of the Inca Empire, earning Cusco the nickname "the navel of the world." After Spanish conquistadors conquered the city in the early 1500s, they erected two churches on the either sides of the square – La Compañia and La Catedral – where the former Incan palace once stood.

Today, the plaza contains landmarks significant to both the Andean and Spanish history, and still functions as the historic heart of the city. Recent visitors to the square say you'll find Peruvian dancing, music and plenty of people watching. Buzzing with activity all day and night, most of the centrally located hotels, restaurants and shops are just off the square.

The Cathedral (La Catedral)

Amid the many splendors found in the Plaza de Armas, the sky-high La Catedral is one of Cusco's finest architectural displays. Constructed in the 1550s with stones stolen from Sacsayhuamán, the baroque cathedral features opulent ceilings and gold and silver altars. It is also home to an impressive collection of colonial art that mixes Catholic traditions with indigenous legends.

La Catedral houses a world-renowned painting believed to depict the earthquake that shook Cusco in 1650. And across the building, you'll find a famous crucifix called Señor de los Temblores (Lord of the Earthquakes) who is said to have stopped the 17th-century earthquake from destroying the city.

Many of the works of art give insight into how the Andean people shifted to embrace Spanish culture and religion. For example, paintings of The Last Supper by Quechua artist Marcos Zapata depict Jesus and his disciples eating common ceremonial foods found in the region like cuy (roasted guinea pig) and chicha (a drink made from corn). Guests can also see images of the Virgin Mary depicting Pachamama (Mother Earth).

Recent visitors suggested exploring the church with a guide in order to hear the fascinating stories behind the structure and its artwork.

Visitors can stroll through the cathedral every day between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. for 25 soles (about $7). Save some money by purchasing the Boleto Turístico ticket, which costs 130 soles (roughly $40) and includes admission to 16 of Cusco's attractions, including the La Catedral.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is often overshadowed by Machu Picchu, but this towering ancient Incan fortress – filled with exquisite stone masonry and dramatic vistas – is worth a visit. Much of the massive structure was used as building materials for the Spaniards, but what remains gives a glimpse at how large the fortress once was.

There’s much to see in these ruins, from the giant zigzagging stone walls (legend has it they formed the teeth of the puma-shaped Incan empire that is now Cusco) to the carved stone benches that form the suspected Incan throne.

During your visit, you'll also notice three foundations where colossal towers once stood. Also, take a few moments to walk around the Explanada, a parade platform where revelers still gather for the Raymi Festival of the Sun. Another interesting feature is Tambomachay, a nearby spring that served as a bathing site for the Incan elite.

Recent travelers remark that the ruins are not only an eye-catching spectacle and window to the past but also a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll with arresting views of Cusco.

You'll find Sacsayhuamán located approximately 2 miles northwest of Cusco's city center, less than a mile from Plaza de Armas. Travelers can take the steep walk or take a taxi to the site. There are two clearly marked entrances, but don't expect much direction once you start exploring the grounds. To hear the legend behind Sacsayhuamán's fascinating stonework, join one of the guided tours you'll find offered near the city center (make sure it's with a reputable tour operator: don't sign up for the tours offered on the street).

You can explore Sacsayhuamán every day between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. and must have the Boleto Turístico for admission. This "tourist ticket" costs 130 soles (about $40) and provides admittance to 15 other Cusco attractions.

Qorikancha

For a glimpse of the Inca's former grandeur, look no further than Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), also known as "Court of Gold." In its heyday, Inca's elite watched as light bounced from 700 gold-plated walls and danced across the temple's altars and statues. And its splendor stretched from its glimmering exterior walls into its regal confines, where approximately 4,000 of the most prestigious priests and their attendants resided.

With gold gleaming from nearly every surface of the compound, it's easy to see why the Spanish were enamored with Qorikancha's riches. After the conquistadors invaded Cusco in 1533 – and looted all its gold – only the Inca's elaborate masonry remained. Utilizing the Inca's masterful work as their foundation, the Spaniards began building their own churches and monuments on top of and around the structure, creating a rich blend of Andean and Spanish architecture.

Visitors say that although the site isn’t as impressive as other Incan ruins, it perfectly represents how the Spanish transformed impressive Incan temples into their own. Plus, its location at Plazoleta Santo Domingo, just south of Plaza de Armas, makes it much more accessible than other ruins, namely Machu Picchu.

You'll find Qorikancha located at Plazoleta Santo Domingo, which sits just south of Plaza de Armas. As part of the grounds, a small museum walks guests through the history of the temple. Admission costs 10 soles (about $3). Visitors are welcome to visit the temple from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

Planetarium Cusco

Located next to Sacsayhuamán, the Cusco Planetarium offers travelers a unique experience in the hills surrounding the city. While it may not be much to look at (the small planetarium is housed in a plain adobe building) recent visitors give almost unanimous praise for the informative guides and idyllic setting.

The facility not only allows visitors to gaze at the stars in a small observatory, it seeks to be a cultural interpretation center for Incan astronomy and offers a personalized experience that you can rarely find at other planetariums around the world. Since the operation has limited size, you must request a spot in advance for the 2-mile shuttle ride from Plaza de Armas.

The shuttle leaves downtown Cusco at about 5:40 p.m. and returns to the city around 7:30 p.m. The schedule is also subject to change – another reason advanced reservations are a smart idea. The cost per person is 50 soles (about $15), but discounts are available for larger groups. 

Museo de Arte Precolombino

While Qorikancha and MachuPicchu draw more visitors, the Museo de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum) possesses a world-class Peruvian collection that cannot be matched. This 12-room exhibition space is located in the Casa Cabrera, a mansion-turned-convent that dates back to 1580. Inside the compact space, you'll find 450 artifacts (including Peruvian ceramics, jewelry and carvings) that date back from 1250 B.C. to A.D. 1532.

While some recent visitors complain about the high entrance fee for a small museum, others say that exhibitions are well-crafted, the artifacts are one-of-a-kind and the in-depth descriptions help to give context to each piece.

The Museo de Arte Precolombino is located just two blocks northeast of Plaza de Armas, just off Plaza de las Nazarenas. The museum welcomes visitors every day from 9:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission costs 20 soles (about $6) for adults and 10 soles (about $3) for students. 

Museo Inka

Located in a beautiful 16th-century colonial mansion that was once home to Spanish Admiral Francisco Alderete Maldonado, the Museo Inka (Inca Museum) boasts an eclectic assortment of Incan artifacts.

From textiles to pottery to gold and metal pieces, the museum will intrigue visitors who want an introduction to Incan culture and history. Once you’ve finished admiring the traditional items inside, take a stroll to through the museum’s courtyard, where Andean women can often be found selling goods and weaving authentic textiles.

Recent visitors said the displays and exhibits are interesting, but noted that many don't include English translations and finding a guide may enhance the experience. Still, reviewers say for the cheap admission, a visit is worth it. If you're still interested in seeing more artifacts, check out the Museo de Arte Precolombino that's located one block east.

You'll find the Museo Inka located one block northeast of Plaza de Armas. The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission costs 10 soles (about $3).

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