The city of Cusco was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Long famous for its stunning 15th-century Incan architecture, the historic city of Machu Picchu attracts visitors in droves each year. The nearby city of Cusco is the perfect base from which to explore this historic wonder. Yet Cusco itself is much more than just a convenient base from which to begin your trip. Filled with stunning colonial churches, high-end hotels, and a thriving food scene, this imposing Peruvian city is a top tourist destination in its own right, with no shortage of fascinating landmarks and attractions to explore during a visit. When planning your bucket list adventure to explore the beauty of Machu Picchu, be sure to leave some room in the itinerary to explore Cusco, one of Peru’s most underrated vacation destinations.
Where to stay
The JW Marriott El Convento Cusco houses a full-service spa specializing in Andean-inspired treatments. … (+)
While Cusco is full of historic churches, monuments and markets, the city is also home to its share of historic hotels, with the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco Here’s a perfect example. Located just steps from the city’s extravagant Plaza Mayor, in a restored 16th-century convent, this refined hotel seamlessly blends old and new, with a wealth of modern amenities and extravagant design flourishes. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a truly grandiose sculpture purported to represent the Incan sun god, with 60,000 individual Swarovski crystals arranged to form a massive art installation. But for history buffs in particular, no visit is complete without a trip down the stairs.
During a stroll through the lobby, guests can admire centuries-old relics that highlight the building's past, while the lower reaches of the hotel are home to a fascinating array of Inca ruins. Discovered during the building's restoration process, this wing of the hotel serves as a time capsule filled with artifacts from Cusco's distant past, with pottery, sculptures, and artisan tools all on display. After exploring, guests are invited to head upstairs and make use of the on-site Qespi Restaurant, a colorful venue ideal for enjoying fine Andean dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To start the meal, guests can enjoy tasty starters ranging from tiradito to trout causas, while meat lovers should be sure to sample the pachamanca. And for those in need of a nightcap, the nearby Qespi Bar has mastered the art of the pisco sour, a refreshing cocktail that debuted in the early 20th century in Peru.
Drink and eat
The alpaca is believed to have been domesticated around five to six thousand years ago.
Peru is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and while Cusco may not have the thriving seafood scene found in coastal cities like Trujillo and Lima, the city's high altitude and rich range of indigenous cultures have given rise to a multitude of tasty dishes. For a deep dive into classic Peruvian indoor cuisine, Pachapapa masters the art of traditionally prepared meats, offering a hearty menu that ranges from chili-marinated lamb to fried whole guinea pig. Meanwhile, those seeking a contemporary Peruvian culinary experience can head to Kusykaya colorful venue adjacent to Cusco’s Plaza Mayor. Locally sourced Andean ingredients can be found in abundance on the menu, with lomo saltado and lomo de alpaca being two must-try dishes for newcomers to Peruvian cuisine.
After exploring the rich flavors of Peru’s interior, visitors can expand their horizons beyond the Andes, with a wealth of international bars and restaurants to explore across the city. Visitors can sample tteokbokki, japchae, and a host of other tasty Korean dishes at Sa Rang Che, while Taste Of India is a prime spot for a deep dive into classic Southeast Asian cuisine. But when it comes to craft cocktails, no visit is complete without a stop at Garibaldi cocktail bar. A recent addition to Cusco's bar scene, this cozy space has mastered the art of mixology, offering complex concoctions ranging from rum cocktails infused with local mushrooms to agave-based drinks loaded with jasmine and citrus. And for anyone looking for a cold Guinness to celebrate their trip, Paddy's Irish Pub is the perfect place for a pint served with all sorts of charming Emerald Isle memorabilia.
Main activities
The puma has played a prominent role in indigenous Andean folklore for millennia.
Whether you’re celebrating the successful ascent of Machu Picchu or have decided to forgo the ruins altogether, Cusco is full of top attractions that are worth visiting in their own right. Given the historical significance of the area, there are a wide range of fascinating museums to explore throughout the city, with the Museo Histórico Regional de Cusco being the main draw for first-time visitors. After wandering around the grandiose courtyard, visitors can discover a wealth of intricate carvings depicting figures from the local indigenous Andean culture, while colourful paintings and murals also abound. Just a short walk away, the Museo de Arte Precolombino is perfect for learning more about the history of Cusco’s indigenous people, with pottery, jewellery and weaponry on display.
For visitors wanting to explore outside the city limits, there is a particularly idyllic day trip destination in the form of Laguna Piuray. Located about fifty minutes northwest of downtown Cusco, this natural feature has provided a crucial water source for millennia, and in the modern era it also serves as a particularly popular location for outdoor recreation . Upon arrival in Cusco, guests are invited to book a guided tour with a local company. CuscoPeru.com, with each trip offering plenty of opportunities for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Beginning with an 8:30 a.m. pickup, this full-day activity offers participants the opportunity to soak up the surrounding landscape, local fishermen, and all manner of flora and fauna found just beyond their kayak.
