Rated as one of our top 20 destinations to visit in 2020, a trip to Peru is truly incomplete without a visit to the former capital of the Incan empire and UNESCO heritage site, Cusco. Situated in the Peruvian Andes at an elevation of 3,400 meters, Cusco is vibrant in its colonial historic architecture, incredible local cuisine, cobblestone streets and markets abundant in textiles of every color. Cusco serves more than a gateway to Machu Picchu and here's why you might want to spend a few extra days in this city, with our list of things to do in Cusco. 

1. Plaza de Armas.

Once known as the Great Incan square (Huacaypata), Plaza de Armas is home to symbols of the Spanish conquest, the Cusco Cathedral, and the Church de la Compañia de Jesus. The plaza features colourful flowers and gardens alongside the statue of the Incan ruler Pachacuti. Lining the central square you will find coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and museums. Why not enjoy a morning coffee at Cappuccino Cusco or an afternoon beer as you watch the sunset from one of the restaurant balconies.  Maybe head to Paddy’s Irish Pub, Norton’s Rat Tavern or Cusco’s electronic and hip-hop club Mamma Africa for some late-night drinks and dancing. 

2. Sacsayhuaman

Once a battle site between Spanish conquistadors and the Incas, the archaeological site named Sacsayhuaman (pronounced ‘sexy woman’) is a 30-minute uphill walk from the centre of Cusco. Apart from the incredible stonework, you can also witness the amazing views of Cusco and the statue of Christ - Cristo Blanco. 

3. Planetarium

Astronomy played a vital role in the vision of the Incas and influenced religious ceremonies, harvesting of crops and the prediction of weather patterns. The main streets of Cusco were also constructed to align with these constellations. Situated near Sacsayhuaman, the Cusco Planetarium provides an excellent opportunity to stargaze and learn about the history of Incan astronomy. 

4. San Pedro Market

An experience for your senses, the San Pedro market should definitely be on your list of things to do in Cusco. Here you can witness a rainbow of freshly made juices, locally produced chocolate alongside rows of vegetable and meat stalls. Practice your language and communication skills by ‘haggling’ with Peruvian shop owners as you browse the aisles of the market for stunning handmade items to take home. Although the levels of tourism in Cusco have risen over the years, markets like this have managed to remain undeniably authentic and grounded to its roots.

5. San Blas

Just a short but steep uphill walk (definitely worth it) from Plaza de Armas is the trendy and artisan quarter of Cusco, the San Blas district. Wander down the cobble-stone Inca road Hatunrumiyoc towards San Blas while you uncover small independent coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries and some of Cusco’s best restaurants.

6. Cooking Classes

The best way to truly experience a culture when travelling is by taking a cooking class. Visit a local market, select your ingredients, then head to the kitchen and learn how to prepare some of Peru’s delicious dishes such as lomo saltado, ceviche, and pisco sour. 

7. Chocolate Tasting

Surely, a list of things to do in Cusco can't be complete without some chocolate. Peru is renowned for its cacao bean quality, and there are plenty of places in Cusco where you can learn about the history of cacao, attend a ‘bean to bar’ workshop (maybe learn how to make cocktails too?), all whilst indulging in the finest samples of chocolate.

8. Museums

After exploring the incredible sites (and chocolate) that Cusco has to offer, why not gain a better understanding of the Incan culture and history at one of Cusco’s best museums. Learn about the use of the coca leaf as plant medicine at the Coca Museum or discover one of the best collections of ancient Peruvian artifacts at the Museo de Arte Pre-Colombino (MAP). 

9. Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha)

Once covered with gold plates and served as the holiest place in Cusco, now lies the church of Santa Domingo on the ruins of the Qoricancha temple. Visitors can walk through to witness the contrasting foundational Incan and Spanish influences or relax in the beautiful gardens. Out of all the things to do in Cusco, the Inca temple of the Sun and the Santa Domingo monastery are the crown jewels of the city and should not be missed on your next trip to Peru. 

10. Cultural Festivals and Events

Cusco hosts a number of events, festivals, and celebrations each year. If you managed to time your visit to Peru just right then get ready to add ‘participate in a parade and watch the fireworks’ to your list of things to do in Cusco. The biggest event of the year, the festival of the sun (Inti Raymi), sees the streets of the city filled with folk dancers and musicians in celebration of the Inca winter solstice. The festival takes place on the 24th of June.  

Post written by Taj Arora (www.tajarora.com /@tajaroraa)