Cusco, Peru-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

  • Morning: Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport
  • 9:00 am: Check-in at Hotel Palacio Nazarenas or similar, a luxurious hotel in the heart of Cusco’s historic center
  • 10:00 am: Visit the Plaza de Armas, the main square in Cusco, and explore its surroundings, including:
    • The Cathedral (Iglesia Catedralica), a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture
    • The Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compania), known for its impressive stone carvings and ornate decorations
  • 12:00 pm: Lunch at Punta Iskay, a local restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes like papas a la Huancaina
  • 2:00 pm: Visit the San Pedro Market, a bustling marketplace where you can sample local fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts
  • 6:00 pm: Dinner at Cusco Kitchen, a restaurant offering modern Peruvian cuisine with stunning views of the city

Day 2: Explore Cusco’s Ruins

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Qenqo Stone, a sacred site that dates back to the Inca era
  • 10:30 am: Explore the Tambomachay Temple, an ancient water temple and ceremonial center
  • 12:00 pm: Lunch at La Bodega, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Peruvian dishes in a rustic atmosphere
  • 2:00 pm: Visit the Sacred Valley Museum (Museo de la Valle Sagrada), which showcases the history and culture of the region
  • 6:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Tiq Wasi, a local restaurant offering Peruvian cuisine with stunning views of the city

Day 3: Take a Day Trip to Aguas Calientes

  • 9:00 am: Depart from Cusco for Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu
  • 12:00 pm: Lunch at El Mapi, a local restaurant serving traditional Peruvian dishes in an informal atmosphere
  • 2:00 pm: Visit the Mandor Museum (Museo Mandor), which showcases the history and culture of the region
  • 5:00 pm: Explore the town’s markets, shops, and restaurants
  • 7:00 pm: Return to Cusco for dinner at Cusqueña, a restaurant offering modern Peruvian cuisine

Day 4: Visit the Inca Museum

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Inca Museum (Museo de la Cultura Quechua), which showcases the history and culture of the Incas
  • 11:00 am: Explore the San Blas neighborhood, a charming area filled with artisan shops, galleries, and cafes
  • 12:30 pm: Lunch at El Abuelo, a local restaurant serving traditional Peruvian dishes in an informal atmosphere
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Church of San Blas (Iglesia de San Blas), a stunning example of colonial architecture
  • 5:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Gastón Acurio’s Pardo, a local restaurant offering Peruvian cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes

Day 5: Explore the Surroundings

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Sacsayhuamán archaeological site, a pre-Columbian fortress that offers stunning views of Cusco
  • 11:30 am: Explore the nearby Tika Tika Cultural House (Casa de la Cultura Tika Tika), which showcases local handicrafts and textiles
  • 12:00 pm: Lunch at Bamba, a local restaurant serving traditional Peruvian dishes in an informal atmosphere
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the nearby Cristo de la Merced Church (Iglesia de la Merced), a stunning example of colonial architecture
  • 5:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Parolaccia, a cozy restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes

Day 6: Last Day in Cusco

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Plaza de Armas one last time, and take some final photos of the city
  • 10:30 am: Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport
  • Tips:
    • Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially at high elevations.
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot throughout the city.
    • Try some local cuisine, including traditional dishes like papas a la Huancaina and lomo saltado.

Note: Prices may vary depending on the time of year, accommodation choices, and other factors. The above itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized to fit your budget and preferences.