Cusco is more than a convenient starting point for visiting Machu Picchu. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, the city offers a combination of historical landmarks, traditional markets, narrow cobblestone streets, and Andean culture that makes it worth exploring before heading into the Sacred Valley.
Many travelers arrive in Cusco with Machu Picchu as their main destination. However, spending time in the city can add another dimension to the journey. From walking through the historic center to discovering local traditions and organizing transportation, Cusco provides plenty of opportunities to prepare for the adventure ahead. Whether you have one day or several, knowing what to see and how to arrange your onward journey can help you make the most of your visit.
Start Your Cusco Adventure in Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is one of the best places to begin exploring Cusco. Located in the historic center, this lively square is surrounded by colonial buildings, churches, shops, and streets that lead to some of the city’s most recognizable attractions.
The square has served as an important gathering place for centuries. Today, visitors can admire the architecture, explore nearby streets, or simply spend time observing daily life. One of the main landmarks is Cusco Cathedral, which contains religious artwork and architectural details reflecting the city’s colonial history. Nearby, the Church of the Society of Jesus is another prominent example of colonial architecture.
Walking around Plaza de Armas also provides an opportunity to become familiar with central Cusco. Many travel services and transportation offices are located within or near the historic center, making it a practical area for visitors arranging their next destination.
Explore the Traditional Streets of San Blas
A short walk uphill from Plaza de Armas leads to San Blas, one of Cusco’s most distinctive neighborhoods. Known for its narrow streets, artisan workshops, and traditional architecture, San Blas offers a different atmosphere from the busier central square.
Visitors can explore small galleries, admire handcrafted items, and discover streets where Inca stonework and colonial buildings exist side by side. The neighborhood is also known for its elevated viewpoints. Walking through its winding streets reveals views across Cusco’s rooftops and surrounding hills.
Since San Blas sits above the historic center, the uphill walk can feel demanding for travelers who have recently arrived. Taking your time is particularly important while adjusting to Cusco’s altitude.
Discover Cusco’s Inca Heritage at Qorikancha
Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, is one of the most significant historical sites in Cusco. During the Inca period, the complex was an important religious center dedicated to the sun god Inti. Its finely constructed stone walls demonstrate the engineering techniques used by Inca builders.
Following the Spanish conquest, the Santo Domingo convent was constructed over parts of the original complex. Today, visitors can observe the contrast between Inca stone foundations and colonial architecture, providing insight into the different periods that shaped Cusco.
Qorikancha is located near Avenida El Sol, one of the city’s important central streets. This makes it convenient to include in a walking itinerary alongside other attractions and practical travel arrangements.
Visit San Pedro Market for a Glimpse of Local Life
San Pedro Market is a worthwhile stop for travelers interested in Cusco’s everyday culture. Inside, vendors sell fresh produce, traditional ingredients, textiles, handicrafts, and various regional products. The market provides an opportunity to observe local commerce and learn more about ingredients commonly used in Peruvian cooking.
Visitors can browse stalls featuring potatoes, grains, fruits, and other agricultural products from the surrounding region. The market is particularly interesting because it remains part of daily life for local residents rather than functioning exclusively as a tourist attraction. For travelers planning to continue toward the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, visiting San Pedro Market can also provide an introduction to the agricultural traditions of the Andes.
Plan Your Journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu
After exploring Cusco, the next step for many travelers is reaching Machu Picchu. While Cusco is commonly associated with train journeys to the famous archaeological site, it is important to understand how transportation actually works.
Travelers departing from Cusco with Inca Rail’s bimodal service begin with a bus transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. From there, they board a train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes.
The journey passes through changing Andean landscapes, with mountain scenery, agricultural valleys, and views of the Urubamba River along the rail route. For visitors who prefer organizing transportation in person, Cusco has official ticket offices where they can confirm reservations, ask about departure schedules, and receive assistance with travel arrangements.
Two useful Inca Rail Cusco locations are found at Portal de Panes 105, near Plaza de Armas, and Avenida El Sol 843. The Avenida El Sol location also serves as the departure point for Inca Rail’s bimodal bus service to Ollantaytambo. Travelers should distinguish between a ticket office and an actual boarding point to avoid confusion on their departure day. Confirming transportation arrangements before leaving Cusco allows visitors to focus more attention on the journey and the experience awaiting them at Machu Picchu.
Consider Spending Time in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is not simply a transportation corridor between Cusco and Machu Picchu. It is a destination with archaeological sites, traditional communities, agricultural landscapes, and mountain scenery. Ollantaytambo is particularly worth considering because it serves as an important train departure point while retaining much of its historic character.
The town features narrow streets, traditional buildings, and an impressive archaeological complex overlooking the valley. Travelers with additional time can explore the ruins, walk through the town, and learn about the area’s Inca heritage before continuing by train.
Other notable destinations in the Sacred Valley include Pisac, known for its archaeological site and market, and Moray, where circular agricultural terraces illustrate historical farming practices. Including one or more of these destinations can create a broader itinerary that combines cultural experiences with the journey to Machu Picchu.
Prepare for Cusco’s High Altitude
Cusco sits at approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, making altitude an important consideration for newly arrived visitors. Some travelers experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath while adjusting to the thinner air.
Allowing time to acclimatize before undertaking strenuous activities can make the visit more comfortable. During the first day, consider choosing relaxed activities such as exploring Plaza de Armas, visiting nearby museums, or walking through the historic center at a comfortable pace.
Staying hydrated, avoiding excessive physical exertion, and allowing time for rest are sensible precautions. Anyone experiencing significant or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention. Machu Picchu itself is situated at a lower elevation than Cusco, but travelers should still consider their individual health and physical condition when planning the trip.
Choose the Right Time to Explore Cusco
Cusco can be visited throughout the year, although seasonal conditions influence the experience. The dry season, generally from May through September, often provides clearer skies and more predictable conditions for outdoor activities. It is also a popular period for visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
The wetter season, typically from November through March, brings more frequent rainfall. However, the surrounding landscapes can appear particularly green during this period. Travelers visiting during wetter months should prepare for changing weather and carry appropriate rain protection. Regardless of the season, booking popular attractions and transportation in advance is advisable, particularly when travel dates are fixed.
Practical Tips for a Well-Organized Trip
A little preparation can make traveling through Cusco and the Sacred Valley easier. Start by identifying the attractions you most want to visit and grouping nearby locations together. For example, Plaza de Armas, San Blas, and Qorikancha can be included in a city-focused itinerary.
Keep your travel documents accessible, especially when preparing for train journeys. Check the passenger information on your reservation and confirm the correct departure location. For Machu Picchu, remember that entry tickets to the archaeological site and train tickets are separate travel arrangements. Both should be organized according to your intended itinerary. It is also worth leaving some flexibility in your schedule. Cusco’s streets, markets, and historic neighborhoods offer plenty of opportunities for unexpected discoveries.
Make Cusco Part of the Experience
Machu Picchu may be the main reason for traveling to this part of Peru, but Cusco deserves attention in its own right. Its historical landmarks, traditional neighborhoods, local markets, and connections to the Sacred Valley provide a meaningful introduction to the region’s cultural heritage. By spending time exploring the city and organizing onward transportation carefully, travelers can enjoy a more complete experience of southern Peru.
Rather than treating Cusco as a brief stop before Machu Picchu, consider making it an essential part of the journey. The experiences found here can be just as memorable as the destination that follows.
