Spending a Day in Cusco, Peru – Free Things to do Between Tours
How to Spend the Perfect Day Between Tours in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru is the ideal base for day trips to some of the most famous Peruvian destinations, including the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Although most time is spent exploring areas outside the Cusco city limits, travelers often have a day or a few hours to explore the city itself. This guide will help you plan the perfect day in Cusco, with many free or low-cost activities.
Acclimating to Cusco’s High Elevation
With an altitude over 11,000 feet, Cusco is much higher than Lima or the Sacred Valley. To avoid altitude sickness, it’s best to arrive in Cusco at least two days before strenuous tours, like visiting Machu Picchu or hiking Rainbow Mountain. Staying hydrated and adjusting slowly can ease the transition.
Altitude Tips:
- I found the over-the-counter vitamin “Alit-Vital” helpful for managing altitude sickness.
- Drinking chicken soup also kept me hydrated and helped me acclimate.
Spending a Day in Cusco, Peru - Free Things to do Between Tours - Table of Contents
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Free Things to do in Cusco, Peru Between Tours
Wondering what to do in Cusco that’s free? Here’s a rundown of the places I explored between my tours of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
Plaza de Armas: Cusco’s Historic Heart
The Plaza de Armas is the main square and a great starting point for exploring Cusco. Originally an important Inca gathering place, it was transformed by the Spanish, who replaced Inca temples with cathedrals. Today, it’s filled with restaurants, shops, and street vendors.
Key Sights in Plaza de Armas:
- Cusco Cathedral: Built on the remains of an Inca palace, this cathedral is a focal point of the plaza.
- Jesuit Church of the Society of Jesus: Located across from the cathedral, this 17th-century Jesuit church is a striking example of Spanish architecture.
Tip: Be prepared for persistent street vendors in Plaza de Armas. Holding a phone to your ear or firmly saying “por favor deja de molestarme” (“please stop bothering me”) may help.
In the center of Plaza de Armas is a 19th-century fountain topped with a statue of Pachacuti, a revered Inca leader. The plaza is also surrounded by unique trees with lopsided trunks, which require wooden supports—a quirky sight that adds to the charm of Cusco.
Wandering the San Blas Neighborhood
Just uphill from Plaza de Armas lies San Blas, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Cusco. Known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, San Blas is a great place to wander, shop, and experience the charm of old Cusco.
Getting to San Blas
The walk to San Blas is steep, so those adjusting to Cusco’s high altitude may prefer to take a taxi. Once you arrive, let yourself get lost in the pedestrian-only streets lined with whitewashed colonial buildings and local artisan shops.
The Famous 12-Angled Stone and Inca Walls
One of my favorite free activities in Cusco was exploring the Inca stonework along the old Inca Road. The 12-angled stone is particularly famous for its precision fit into the Inca walls.
Nearby, a local street vendor offered me an impromptu tour, showing me unique features of the Inca stonework compared to the less precise Spanish-built walls.
Plaza San Blas
Plaza San Blas is a small square featuring two fountains and the San Blas Church, a picturesque spot even though it was under renovation during my visit. This plaza is a peaceful area to relax and watch daily life in San Blas.
Walking Around Qurikancha and the Convento de Santo Domingo
Located near my hotel, the Convento de Santo Domingo is built on top of the Inca Temple of Qurikancha. Once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire, Qurikancha was largely destroyed by the Spanish, who used its foundation to build the convent.
Today, visitors can tour a small museum displaying artifacts found during the excavation of Qurikancha. Admission is required, so I chose to admire the architecture from outside.
Other Interesting Sights in Cusco
If you have time, here are a few additional spots to see around Cusco.
- Map of Cusco: Located on Avenue El Sol, this large map gives a visual overview of the city.
- Viva El Peru Carving: Visible from parts of the city, this carving in the Andes Mountains reads “Viva El Peru Glorioso” (Long Live Glorious Peru).
- Limacpampa Square: A charming square with a monument to Cusco’s founders and often frequented by local stray dogs.
Where to Eat in Cusco, Peru - My Favorite Meals
There are many fantastic places to eat in Cusco, from local Peruvian cuisine to American-style comfort food. Here are my top dining experiences:
Fuego, Burgers and Barbecue
Fuego, Burgers and Barbecue is a must for burger lovers. I tried the Angus Beef Burger with Pulled Pork, which was served with fries and paired with a refreshing mango and strawberry smoothie. One of the best burgers I’ve had!
Morena Peruvian Kitchen
For my first taste of Peruvian cuisine in Cusco, I dined at Morena Peruvian Kitchen. I ordered Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef, rice, potatoes, and veggies in soy sauce), a dish that quickly became a favorite.
Waykiss Restaurant
Located in San Blas, Waykiss Restaurant offers simple yet delicious food in a cozy outdoor setting. I had a chicken sandwich with fries, served on a delicious, freshly baked bun—all for less than S/. 20 ($5).
DEVA - Cocina Andina
Another great spot for Peruvian food was DEVA – Cocina Andina, where I ordered Lomo Saltado again. While I preferred Morena’s version, DEVA’s attentive service made this a memorable experience.
McDonalds - Cusco, Peru
For a familiar taste, I visited McDonald’s in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. I ordered a double quarter pounder and McChicken to see the Peruvian take on these classics—definitely a hit with my 8th-grade students back home who love hearing about international fast food!
Getting to/from Cusco with Bookaway
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Please note that I am an affiliate of Bookaway. If you purchase transportation using one of their links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
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