If you have a free day in Cusco we have the perfect activities for you to enjoy!
Watch a local soccer match
I won’t lie, you won’t see a local version of Messi or Ronaldo scoring a hat trick or making a beautiful free-kick goal but the excitement is there. You can feel the atmosphere of the local supporters yelling and jumping, every time they score you can hear GOOOOAAAL!!! from all over Cusco. The matches are entertaining enough to bring you an unforgettable experience, the entry ticket is about 30 soles depending on what type of game is it and they usually happen on weekends. When I was there it started raining in the middle of the match (which was cool if you ask me) and the local team Cienciano won by 2-1. I definitely won’t ever forget that amazing and fun day.
Visit the local markets
San Pedro is the most famous one, but you can find a market in almost every district. Here you can find crafts as well as food, clothes, juices, and much more. These markets are designed to provide the local population with fresh products, so it’s filled with Cusqueños. If you want a taste of authentic Cusco life, there is no better way than San Pedro market, you will hear people speaking Quechua, try local dishes and fruits, and see more types, colors, and sizes of corn and potatoes than you could have imagined. Extra tip: ask for a lúcuma fruit blended with milk in one of the stands! Oh and I almost forgot to mention, you can see some things here that might seem weird or even disgusting, depending on where are you from (like pigs heads and other animal-derived items).
Go to the cinema
Yes, we know this isn’t the most exciting or adventurous option but it’s always nice to relax and watch a movie in a comfy seat. You can also see some of Peru’s more modern culture by visiting the Real Plaza, the biggest mall in Cusco. If you have passable Spanish and can watch a translated movie, we can recommend you enjoy this local experience. You can also find some of the most common food brands, like Chili’s, Burger King, Starbucks, etc. You have either a CinePlanet in the Real Plaza or Cinerama which is much closer to the Plaza, we still recommend the first option out of comfort and general quality.
Visit Qenqo, Cristo Blanco and Sacsayhuaman
All these places are within walking distance from the Plaza and have amazing views. You can also chill for the day, especially in the small Qenqo (next to the archeological site). You have a big park where families from Cusco come and spend their family Sundays. Qenqo and Sacsayhuaman aren’t free, but you can get a partial tourist ticket that includes entrance to both, and many other places (that are also close) for approximately 25 USD.
Rent a bicycle or a motorbike and just run like the wind
There are many places that will rent you a motorbike for approx—30 USD per day. You can just rent one with a friend and just drive to the Sacred Valley and explore all of it. If you are not into motorcycles, you can always just rent a bicycle and go to Qenqo. There are multiple horse paths near there that you can just bike. If you have no clue where you are going, you can always ask the person that rented you the bike, they always have some friendly trips. Most bike rentals are in Plateros, near the plaza.
Planetarium Cusco
Most people are aware that the Incas were outstanding builders, but many visitors may be unaware that they were also great astronomers. They identified constellations and even built Cusco’s main streets to line with the stars at different times of the year; after all, Cusco was the center of their cosmos. During nightly tours, visitors can learn what constellations were essential to the Incas and how the sky ruled their lives. On a visit to this fantastic sight in Cusco, you may also stare up at the stars through powerful telescopes. Reservations are necessary in advance.
Take a picture with the famous Twelve-Angled Stone
Hidden in the narrow alleyways of the historical district is the Twelve-Angled stone. This architectural mystery has 12 perfectly-crafted angles that fit seamlessly into the Inca wall located in the alleyway of Hatunrumiyoc. The stone itself is relatively large and is part of the wall of the Palace of the Archbishop. You’ll be able to spot it by the large crowd usually surrounding the area. feel free to snap a selfie or take a family photo next to it.
Pet a friendly alpaca
Known for its expensive wool, alpacas are treasured among Peruvians. These fluffy four-legged animals can be seen on the streets of Cusco dressed in colorful accessories and led by local ladies offering photos for a small price of 5-10 soles. Be sure to set your price before you get a photo to avoid any haggling.
Don’t forget to visit museums in cusco
Museo Inka (Inka Museum) , Museo de Arte Precolombino (Museum of Pre-Columbian Art),Museo y Convento de San Francisco (Museum and Convent of San Francisco),Museo del Templo de Qoricancha (Museum of Qoricancha Temple) ect those are name of some museum in cusco you can discover inca history ,cultures of Peru ,pre-Inca and viceregal times. On the other hand, the distinguished sample of painting.
Relax in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Plaza de Armas Cusco was the political and economic epicenter of many civilizations before the arrival of the Spanish in Cusco in 1534.feel free to snap a selfie or take a family photo in Plaza de Armas with historical churches and culture.
Panaromic bus cusco city tour
Familiar yourself with Cusco’s history and architecture on this affordable and comprehensive tour of the city center and outskirts. Panoramic views of the city are afforded on the top deck of the double-decker bus. In addition to navigating, your guide offers little-known facts and local stories about landmarks and ruins outside the city, including Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo.
What’s Included in cusco city tour
- Panoramic views from double-decker bus.
- Guide offers information often missed by visitors about top landmarks.
- Enjoy the area outside the Inca city.
Where to buy tickets & Price (tourist & local)
Tourist ticket 111.75 peru S / 30 us$ per one person
You can purchase tickets at any city office.
Essential
Valid passport
Extramoney in local currency
water bottle
Sunblock
Cap / Hat
Sunglasses
Try a Cuy
Although tasting local foods is one of the finest ways to learn about a peru culture, people with sensitive stomachs may want to miss this one! Cuy is the Spanish equivalent for Guinea Pig, and they are a true Andean staple for locals (found primarily in the highlands of Peru)
Cuy may be found in other highland Peruvian destinations such as Huaraz, Arequipa, and Churin, but Cusco is by far the greatest and most easily accessible for tourists. I recommend trying Cuy at DEVA Cocina Andina, where it’s made well and at a fair price.
While you could also go to the San Pedro Market or have locals cook it for you somewhere, this is not the ideal option for a first-timer because they’ll prepare it right in front of your eyes!
Riding on Horseback
Although Cusco’s center is an architect’s dream, full with gorgeous landmarks and activities, the true magic is discovered in the surrounding region of the Sacred Valley.
There’s no better way to see this diverse environment than on horseback, from its undulating old plains to soaring alpine peaks. This picturesque excursion will allow you to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of Cusco, exploring some very spectacular locations.
Stroll along the San Blas neighborhood’s cobblestone streets.
Cusco’s San Blas area is a must-see. This relatively bohemian district in Cusco is full of unique coffee shops, boutique apparel stores, vegan eateries, swanky pubs, and breathtaking views.
Oh, and because it’s constructed on a hill, don’t forget about all the stairs that will literally take your breath away…
San Blas is exceptionally gorgeous, with white-façade colonial homes, cobblestone walkways, plazas with fountains, parks with Inca ruins, and the small, but lovely San Blas Market, which includes a notable church. The entire neighborhood is wonderful.
The San Blas Mirador is a must-see for anybody visiting Cusco.
Cusco’s San Blas area is a must-see. This relatively bohemian district in Cusco is full of unique coffee shops, boutique apparel stores, vegan eateries, swanky pubs, and breathtaking views.
Oh, and because it’s constructed on a hill, don’t forget about ALL the steps, which will literally take your breath away.
Don’t forget to try Peruvian coffee.
Nothing beats a great cup of coffee to start the day, especially when it’s followed with something deliciously sweet… Here’s our most recent insider’s guide to the top cafes in Cusco.
Catfetin Cat Cafe
Derection-Calle Maruri 320 2nd Floor / 2do Piso, Cusco 08002
Organika Bakery & Coffee
Derection-Plaza Regocijo 209 Plaza Regocijo, Cusco 08002
Pantastico
Derection-Calle Tandapata 1024 Calle Choquechaca 152, Cusco
JC’s Cafe
Derection-Calle Meloc, 488, Cusco
