Cusco, Peru-2-day-itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Cusco’s Historic Center
Morning
- 9:00 am: Start the day at Plaza de Armas, the main square in Cusco’s historic center. This picturesque spot is surrounded by important buildings and features a beautiful fountain.
- Address: Plaza de Armas, 0801 Cusco
- 10:00 am: Visit the Cusco Cathedral (Iglesia de Santiago), also known as the Cathedral of Saint James. This stunning cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Spanish colonial architecture in South America.
- Address: Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Afternoon
- 12:30 pm: Take a break for lunch at Pachapapa Restaurant, which serves traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. Try their famous “pachapapa” sandwich!
- Address: Av. El Sol 1201, Cusco
- 2:00 pm: Visit the Qoricancha Temple (Santo Domingo Convent), a beautiful example of Inca and Spanish architecture.
- Address: Calle Santa Clara 121, Cusco
Evening
- 7:30 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Bodeguita del Medio Restaurant, which serves delicious Peruvian cuisine in an intimate setting. Be sure to try their “ceviche”!
- Address: Av. Pachacuti 1231, Cusco
- 10:00 pm: End the day with a drink at the Barrio de los Artistas (Artists’ Neighborhood), a lively area filled with bars and restaurants.
Day 2: Exploring Cusco’s Surroundings
Morning
- 9:00 am: Visit the Sacsayhuamán Fortress, an impressive Inca ruin located on a hill overlooking Cusco.
- Address: Km. 4.5 de la Ruta de Qoricancha a Sacsayhuaman, Cusco
- 12:30 pm: Take a break for lunch at the nearby Pisac Ruins Restaurant, which serves delicious Peruvian cuisine with views of the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon
- 2:00 pm: Visit the Pisac Inca Ruin, another impressive example of Inca architecture. Explore the ruins and take in the stunning views.
- Address: Km 30 de la Ruta Cusco - Puno, Cusco
- 5:00 pm: Return to Cusco and visit the San Pedro Market (Mercado de San Pedro), a bustling marketplace filled with fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Evening
- 7:30 pm: Enjoy dinner at the nearby restaurant, El Mapi, which serves delicious Peruvian cuisine in an intimate setting. Be sure to try their “anticuchos”!
- Address: Av. Pachacuti 1231, Cusco
- 10:00 pm: End the day with a drink at the Hotel Palacio Nazareno’s bar, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Palacio Nazareno: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Cusco’s historic center. Offers stunning views and comfortable rooms.
- Address: Av. Pachacuti 1231, Cusco
- Hostal Casa de la Gracia: A cozy hostel located near the Plaza de Armas. Offers simple but clean and comfortable rooms.
Transportation
- Walking: The best way to explore Cusco’s historic center is on foot.
- Taxi: Available throughout the city, including to and from the airport.
- Colectivo: A shared taxi service that runs throughout the city.
Tips and Things to Know
- Altitude sickness: Cusco is located at a high altitude (3,399 meters). Take it easy and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
- Language: Spanish is the official language in Peru. Many locals also speak some English.
- Money: The Peruvian sol is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
- Respect for culture: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or ruins.
Other Things to Do
- Try a traditional Inca massage: A relaxing massage that incorporates traditional Inca techniques.
- Visit the Cusco Textile Center: A great place to learn about traditional Peruvian textiles.
- Take a cooking class: Learn how to make delicious Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.