Cusco, former capital of the Inca Empire, is much more than just a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu. It’s a city full of charm, history, and energy… Whether you’re a culture lover, a gourmet foodie, or a curious adventurer, Cusco has great surprises in store.
Here are 10 experiences not to be missed to discover Cusco from a different angle and create unforgettable memories.
1. Create and Enjoy Your Own Pisco Cocktails at Chicha by Gastón Acurio
Looking for an authentic, fun, and tasty experience centered around the famous Peruvian pisco? Head to Chicha, the restaurant of world-renowned chef Gastón Acurio. Beyond its delicious dishes with Andean influences, the restaurant also offers an original mixology experience where you become a bartender for the duration of a workshop.
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Book their pisco cocktail workshop, a playful and friendly activity during which you’ll learn to prepare several recipes yourself, like the classic pisco sour, a passion fruit version, or even a more herbal twist with muña, the Andean mint. All accompanied by fascinating explanations about the origin of pisco, its different varieties, and even a few pro tips to wow your friends back home. And of course… you’ll get to enjoy your creations on the spot in a warm and refined atmosphere.
Address: Calle Santa Catalina Ancha 344, just steps from the Plaza de Armas.
https://chicha.com.pe/en/cusco/
2. Get Hands-On at the Chocolate Museum
If you love chocolate, you’ll adore the ChocoMuseo. There you’ll discover the entire process of making chocolate, from the cacao bean to the bar. This fun and tasty spot offers workshops suitable for both kids and adults, and also explains the importance of fair trade in cacao farming.
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Sign up for the “Bean to Bar” workshop, where you’ll make your own chocolate by choosing the ingredients (nuts, dried fruits, spices…). The experience is fun, educational, and delicious! Don’t forget to try their hot chocolate with coconut milk or their homemade cacao liqueur in the shop.
Address: Calle Garcilaso 210, in a beautiful colonial house.
https://www.chocomuseo.com/en/peru/cusco/
3. Explore Cusco with a City Escape Game
What if you discovered Cusco through a life-size game? Thanks to the urban escape game offered by Escápate Slow Tourism, you’ll walk through the city’s streets searching for clues and hidden places while solving puzzles to save Tupac Amaru from the Spaniards. It’s a fun, original, and immersive way to explore Cusco from a totally new perspective.
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Book your game in advance to choose from different scenarios, whether you’re with family, as a couple, or with friends. You’ll pass through places—some even secret—while learning more about Peruvian culture.
Starting point: varies by scenario – details provided after booking.
https://escapegameperu.com
4. Stroll Around San Blas, Cusco’s Bohemian Quarter
San Blas is a little gem perched above the city. This neighborhood of narrow cobbled streets, white walls, and blue wooden balconies is the haven of artists, dreamers, and curious travelers. You’ll find art galleries, artisan workshops, small designer shops, and a peaceful vibe that contrasts with the bustle of the Plaza de Armas.
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Settle in at La Bohème, a cozy and charming crêperie where you can enjoy sweet and savory Breton crêpes with an Andean twist. It’s also a lively place, often hosting live music or art exhibitions. Right next door, climb a few steps to the San Blas mirador, a small natural balcony offering a breathtaking view over Cusco’s rooftops. The spot is even more magical in the evening, when the city lights come on: a true poetic moment not to be missed. Next, step into the Hilario Mendivil workshop, a family of artists known for their religious sculptures with a unique Inca style (figures with long necks). Finally, don’t miss San Blas square, often animated with artisanal markets and street musicians.
San Blas district – 10-minute walk from the center.
https://www.labohemecusco.com/fr/accueil/
5. Taste Local Cuisine at a Traditional Market
To experience real Cusqueñan life, there’s nothing like a visit to the market. San Pedro or San Blas Market, just a few minutes from the center, are a festival of colors, sounds, and smells. You’ll find exotic fruits, Andean cheeses, medicinal herbs, and typical dishes. If you’re in Cusco on a Saturday, head to Tupac Amaru Square to discover a local market, away from the crowds, where you can wander through the aisles to try Peruvian delicacies or buy fresh fruits, vegetables, or dried fruits.
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Grab a freshly made fruit juice (pineapple-passionfruit or mango-mint are a delight!), or sit at one of the counters to try quinoa soup, ají de gallina, or even the famous cuy chactado (fried guinea pig). It’s local, affordable, and delicious.
Address: Av. Cascaparo, 5 minutes on foot from the Plaza de Armas.
6. Treat Your Body to a Relaxing Break at Namasté
After a hike, a day of exploring, or simply to take care of yourself during your stay, there’s nothing like a good massage! In Cusco, Namasté is a little oasis of calm tucked into a quiet street in the city center. Here, they take the time to care for you with kindness and gentleness.
Recommended:
Opt for their Andean essential oil massage, a relaxing treatment blending local techniques and movements inspired by Ayurveda. You can also choose a deeper therapeutic massage if your legs are tired after Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain. The team is professional, attentive, and the prices are very reasonable compared to Europe. You’ll leave feeling completely refreshed… ready for more adventures!
Namasté is located on Calle Qanchipata, steps from San Blas.
7. Discover the Hidden Trails of the Temple of the Moon and Monkey Temple
Craving fresh air and a bit of adventure without leaving Cusco? Head to the hills for a lovely hike to the Temple of the Moon and the Monkey Temple. These lesser-known archaeological sites offer immersion in nature and a mystical atmosphere—perfect for escaping the city bustle.
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From San Blas, you can walk the trails that lead to the Temple of the Moon, a sacred Inca site carved into rock, surrounded by impressive natural formations. A bit further lies the Monkey Temple—more discreet but fascinating with its sculpted stone shapes. These sites aren’t very well marked, so don’t hesitate to use an app like Maps.me or ask a local for directions.
It’s the perfect walk for a quiet afternoon, with eucalyptus forests, open views, and Inca mysteries. And the best part? Almost no one is there!
Accessible on foot from San Blas or by taxi to Qenco Chico or Zona X.
8. Hike to Cristo Blanco
Cristo Blanco is a large white statue of Christ overlooking Cusco. It’s easy to reach and offers a stunning panoramic view over the city and surrounding mountains.
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Hike up from San Blas or San Cristóbal, following the cobbled alleys. Once at the top, stay a while to enjoy the sunset. You could even bring a small picnic or a hot drink in a thermos. The place is peaceful in the late afternoon.
Cristo Blanco – next to Sacsayhuamán.
9. Attend a Traditional Dance Show
Peruvian traditional dances tell the story and cultural diversity of the country. Attending an Andean folk dance show is a festive and colorful way to better understand the soul of the region.
Recommended:
The Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo offers a vibrant show every evening (6:30 p.m.) with traditional costumes, live music, and dances from various Peruvian regions. You’ll experience an hour-long authentic cultural display. Be sure to arrive early—once the theater is full, even with a tourist ticket, the doors close!
Address: Av. El Sol 872 – 10 minutes from the Plaza de Armas.
10. Take Part in an Artisan Workshop
Cusco is a city of artisans. Instead of buying a ready-made souvenir, why not make one yourself? Several workshops offer hands-on experiences in ancestral techniques such as weaving, pottery, or Andean painting.
Recommended:
Try a pottery class at Arte y Vida Cusco, where you can shape and paint your own bowl or plate. Or visit the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco to learn the basics of Andean weaving with Quechua artisans.
Arte y Vida: Calle Carmen Bajo – Centro Textiles: Av. Sol 603.
And to Make the Most of It… Think About the Boleto Turístico!
Cusco is full of wonders to discover—living traditions, creative cuisine, Inca culture, and breathtaking nature. Whether you’re here for a few days or a longer stay, each experience brings you closer to the Andean spirit.
To visit essential sites like Qorikancha, Ollantaytambo, Pisac or Moray, you’ll need the Boleto Turístico, an official pass that gives access to various cultural and archaeological sites in the region. There are different options (general or partial, valid for 1, 2, or 10 days), depending on your schedule and budget.
You can buy it at major tourist offices in Cusco or directly at the entrance of some sites. It’s a super practical solution to avoid paying for each visit separately while supporting the preservation of local heritage.
So, ready to discover Cusco in all its facets?
Culture, nature, cuisine, and adventure await you around every corner!
