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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Real Plaza Cusco
9.2/10 (1,230 reviews)
This modern shopping centre blends international brands with local Peruvian retailers in Cusco. Enjoy a meal at Don Belisario Restaurant after browsing the diverse mix of fashion boutiques and shops.
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."
"We had a great stay here as a family (older kids) for a few days. Location is obviously ideal and the courtyard is really nice to relax during the day or pre dinner drinks. The conversion from convent is done well so real historical charm to the property.
Staff were all helpful, especially on the door helping with bags in and out of excursion buses and taxis.
Breakfast is top notch- extensive selection and open long hours. The restaurant was also good quality for a meal when we didn’t feel...
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.
Choose Expedia to arrange your next big break simply and all in one place. Our top tip for landing a terrific deal on a Cusco retreat? Bundle your airfares, hotel and/or hire car into a package holiday. Then add a few fun tours and activities. Most bookings also come with flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to stress if you have to change plans. Round-the-clock help with amending and cancelling your trip is on-hand via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Cusco?
Cusco draws the crowds in March, June and August. If you're hoping for a more relaxed getaway, head there in November, December and January. To get an idea of what type of weather you can experience, the daytime average temperature in June, the coolest month in Cusco, is 8ºC. The warmest period here is October, when temperatures reach an average of 11ºC.
One of the simplest ways to save cash (and time) is to combine your bookings with Expedia. Hotels, flights, hire cars and activities — we've got them all. Pick a combination that best suits you and see your savings pile up. We know holidays are never a one-size-fits-all. That's why Expedia offers over 400 partner airlines and 321,000 properties across the world, so you can customise your Cusco holiday your way. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you combine your hotel and flight bookings with Expedia.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Cusco?
A holiday in Cusco isn't complete without visiting Plaza de Armas. Why not book a stay close to this great attraction?
Do I need a visa for my Cusco holiday?
Check the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're visiting for leisure, study or business will determine if you require a visa for Cusco. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Submit your application well in advance to allow plenty of time for processing. Some visas can take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my Cusco holiday?
Although everyone's fashion style differs, it can be helpful to have a few guidelines for what type of clothes to bring on your holiday in Cusco. Think about searching style blogs before leaving for inspiration on fashion trends or dress codes. Daytime temperatures in June, Cusco's coolest month, are around 8ºC. October marks this city's warmest month when average temperatures reach 11ºC. Our advice? Take the guesswork out of what to pack and check the local weather forecast.
What does an Expedia Cusco holiday include?
That's up to you. Simply select from a variety of Cusco packages, such as a hotel, hire car and flight. You can also book a hotel and a flight, or a flight with a car hire. Once you've made your booking, add on the fun stuff like activities and experiences. Whatever your Cusco holiday looks like, get ready to save! Apartments and hotels are a couple of the most highly sought-after property types in Cusco. No matter your preference or size of your group, you can rely on Expedia for the flexibility and freedom to tailor your dream escape.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Cusco holidays?
Expedia has joined forces with online lender Klarna to make booking your next break easier on your wallet. Paying by instalment means you can spread the costs of your next big adventure, leaving you with more money to play with while you're away. Klarna has several payment plans to choose from, so you're sure to find something that suits your budget. Consider these flexible payment options:
Pay monthly holidays: Make your holiday dreams a reality sooner with Klarna's manageable monthly instalment plans. If paying over multiple transactions sounds right for you, pick this option at checkout.
No-deposit holidays: When you spot an amazing deal but your budget doesn't quite cover it yet, Klarna's no-deposit holiday plan will allow you to Book Now, Pay Later to secure your getaway.
Can I choose my airline with a Cusco Expedia holiday?
Expedia has access to more than 400 partner airlines worldwide, so you definitely can. Simply choose the carrier you want and create your ideal Cusco escape.
Cusco, a vibrant city in Peru, offers a delightful blend of cultural and outdoor experiences for visitors. You can indulge in spa treatments, embark on scenic hiking trails, and explore a variety of tours, including excursions to the iconic Machu Picchu. Whether you're seeking the best Cusco tours or unique local activities, this enchanting destination promises an unforgettable adventure steeped in history and natural beauty.
Shopping
For a vibrant shopping experience, visit San Pedro Market for local crafts and fresh produce. Real Plaza Cusco offers a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shopping. If you’re up for a drive, Centro de Textiles showcases exquisite Peruvian textiles, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Recreation
At Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere and feel the energy of local events. For a cultural experience, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo offers captivating performances, blending romance and entertainment. Enjoy wellness and relaxation at Agua Buena Recreational Park, surrounded by lush nature.
Adventure
Experience the enchanting Butterfly Park, located 37.0km from Cusco, where you can marvel at vibrant butterflies in their natural habitat. For a more rugged adventure, hike the Musqa Pukyo Terraces, 43.5km away, and soak in breathtaking scenery and the thrill of the outdoors.
Nightlife
Cusco's nightlife is vibrant and full of energy. Visit Mama Africa for dancing and cocktails or head to the legendary Ukukus for live music and performances. For a more relaxed vibe, try The Real McCoy, where you can enjoy a cosy atmosphere and a selection of local drinks.
Find the best attractions in Cusco
Cusco offers a vibrant mix of city, culture, and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Explore its charming piazzas, historic churches, and fascinating archaeological sites. For a truly unforgettable adventure, don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Machu Picchu, a must-see for any traveller seeking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region.
Sacsayhuaman: This impressive archaeological site boasts massive stone walls and fascinating Inca history. Perched overlooking Cusco, it offers breathtaking views and intriguing insights into ancient engineering and culture, making it a vital part of Peru's heritage.
San Pedro Church: A splendid example of colonial architecture, San Pedro Church features intricate religious artwork and a vibrant atmosphere. It serves as a cultural hub, where locals gather, and visitors can experience the spiritual essence of Cusco.
Hatunrumiyoc: Known for its well-preserved Inca stonework, Hatunrumiyoc showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Inca builders. The site features a fascinating blend of history and artistry, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Cusco
The best time to visit Cusco can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cusco falls in November, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Cusco falls in June, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Cusco
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
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.