6 daysLikely to sell out
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsCusco historic centre
Cusco and the Sacred Valley · UNESCO World Heritage
Cusco was the capital of the Inca empire, and the Spanish built their colonial city directly on its foundations. Walk any street in the centre and you will see smooth Inca walls supporting Spanish balconies and churches.
At 3,400 m, Cusco is also where most visitors first feel the altitude, so take your first day slowly.
What to see
- Plaza de Armas. The old Inca square, framed by the cathedral and the Jesuit church of La Compañía.
- Qorikancha. The Incas' Temple of the Sun, its curved stone walls now part of the Santo Domingo convent.
- Hatun Rumiyoc street. Home of the famous 12 angled stone, fitted perfectly without mortar.
- San Blas. Steep lanes of workshops, cafés and views over the rooftops.
- San Pedro market. Juice stalls, cheap lunches and local life.
How long to stay
Two days in the city is enough for most visitors, alongside the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Our Cusco guide explains the tourist ticket and how many days to plan.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Cusco historic centre
Every tour here includes Cusco historic centre in its itinerary. Best rated first.
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Cusco historic centre: questions
How many days do you need in Cusco?
Two to three days in the city, plus time for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Is Cusco safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Watch your bags in crowds and at the market, and use registered taxis or apps at night.