The Most Amazing Destinations in the City of Cusco

Cusco, the ancient capital of the mighty Inca Empire, is a fascinating destination where history and nature intertwine at every corner. Its natural landscapes, Inca temples, and colonial architecture create a unique setting that captivates every traveler. Every journey is a constant surprise, and the best part is that you don’t need to travel great distances to enjoy its charm. Discover the most iconic places in the city and make sure to include them in your trip to Cusco.

1. The Plaza de Armas

Probably one of the most beautiful destinations in the city is the Plaza de Armas, a mystical place filled with breathtaking landscape angles. It was founded during the Inca era and was known as “Haucaypata”, later undergoing a major transformation during the colonial period, leaving only its foundations.

In the Plaza de Armas, you can see and visit the Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, colonial porticoes, typical balconies, and very unique and beautiful cobblestone streets.

• How to get there: It’s located in the city center, just 5-10 minutes walking from most hotels and accommodations in the historic center.
• Tours that include it: All City Tours in Cusco start or pass through the Plaza de Armas, which also includes the Cathedral.

2. The Qoricancha Temple

In Inca times, the Qoricancha temple was the most important sacred site, as it was dedicated to the worship of their main god, the Sun, as well as other deities. During the colonial period, it was built over the current Convent of Santo Domingo, so during your visit, you’ll see how both eras converge.

During your tour of Qoricancha, you’ll see a colonial church filled with art, Inca walls, sacred fountains, temples dedicated to the Sun, Moon, Thunder, Rainbow, and many archaeological remains such as ceramics, stone objects, mummified remains, and trepanated skulls.

• How to get there: Just 5 minutes on foot from the Plaza de Armas, crossing the Avenida El Sol or the Loreto street via Pampa de Castillo.
• Tours that include it: Included in the traditional Cusco City Tour.

3. The Sacsayhuamán Fortress

Located on the heights of the city, the Sacsayhuamán fortress is one of the most impressive archaeological remains of the Inca Empire. Its location is due to its ancient strategic and ceremonial function, today from there you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of Cusco.

Sacsayhuamán is renowned for its massive stone walls, precisely carved, as well as its natural surroundings, which seem to blend together in perfect harmony. This place is also the main venue for the most important Inca celebration, Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun).

• How to get there: It’s 3 kilometers from the city center. You can walk up (30 minutes) or drive (10 minutes).
• Tours that include it: Included in the traditional Cusco City Tour.

4. The San Blas Neighborhood

Known as the most artistic and bohemian neighborhood in the city, San Blas is a place full of narrow cobbled streets, galleries, workshops, and art shops. Combining Andean and colonial architecture, during your visit, you’ll find many businesses, bars, and cafes that bring color and life to the area.

When visiting San Blas, you can also explore its famous temple, a small square, and a beautiful viewpoint of the city, which can be reached after climbing many stone steps. The Cusco landscape from the top is one of the widest and most iconic views.

• How to get there: It’s a 10-minute walk uphill from the Plaza de Armas, passing through Hatun Rumiyoc street.
• Tours that include it: It’s a frequent stop on personalized tours, but it’s more common to visit on your own.

5. The Historic Center

The historic center of Cusco encompasses the most emblematic area of the city, where every walk allows you to see colonial and contemporary buildings with Inca foundations that add great beauty to the place.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, the historic center is made up of houses, museums, temples, convents, archaeological sites, and iconic streets that hold much history, such as the famous twelve-angled stone.

• How to get there: Most travelers in Cusco are already within the historic center, as it includes the Plaza de Armas and its surroundings.
• Tours that include it: Most city tours and excursions explore the historic center of the city.

6. The Qenqo Archaeological Complex

The ceremonial site of Qenqo is part of the Inca heritage, dedicated to sacrificial rituals and offerings. As you walk through the site, you’ll pass through underground passages, carved altars, and stone channels that were used to transport the liquids flowing from the rituals.

The entire place is filled with mysticism, and thanks to the surrounding nature, you can have a more complete experience. Just a short distance from the archaeological site is the Qenqo forest, an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

• How to get there: 6 kilometers from the city center (15 minutes by car).
• Tours that include it: Included in the traditional Cusco City Tour.

7. The Tambomachay Archaeological Park

Another important archaeological site is Tambomachay, also known as the Inca baths. This place was dedicated to water worship and the resting place of the Tahuantinsuyo elite. When you visit, you’ll experience a unique sense of peace and connection with the earth, thanks to the surrounding nature.

Tambomachay is made up of agricultural terraces, aqueducts, and crystal-clear water fountains that continue to function to this day, more than 500 years after their construction. Structures like these are a testament to the Incas’ advanced knowledge of engineering and their perfect symbiosis with nature.

• How to get there: 10 kilometers from the city of Cusco (25 minutes by car).
• Tours that include it: Included in the traditional Cusco City Tour.

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