Welcome to Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu and the heart of the Incan Empire! This city is absolutely breathtaking—literally! Sitting at 11,152 ft (3,399 m) above sea level and surrounded by the stunning Andes Mountains, Cusco is a bustling, walkable city full of history, culture, amazing food, and lively energy.
We’ve been to Cusco five times, and every visit makes us fall in love with it even more. In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Where to stay ✅ Where to eat & drink ✅ What to do ✅ Fun facts & pro tips!
Altitude Warning! Read This First!
The elevation here is no joke—you’ll definitely feel it! Give yourself 2-3 days to acclimate before heading out to trek in the mountains.
Travsessed Pro Tip: Take Diamox to help with altitude sickness—it makes a huge difference! Also, drink coca tea, take it slow, and stay hydrated.
Where to Stay in Cusco
We always stay at Rumi Punku, a beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Cusco. It’s walkable to everything, super cozy, and full of historic charm. Highly recommend!
Where to Drink in Cusco
Limbus – Hands down the best rooftop bar in Cusco! Stunning views, creative cocktails, and a fun vibe.
Pisco Museum – A fun bar where you can learn all about Peru’s iconic spirit, do a Pisco tasting, and sip on some of the best Pisco Sours in town.
República del Pisco – A lively pisco bar with live music and great drinks—always a fun time!
Molly’s Irish Bar – If you’re craving a fun night out with live music, this is the spot!
Where to Eat in Cusco
Peruvian food is fresh, healthy, and insanely delicious, and Cusco is a foodie paradise. Here are our favorite spots:
Uchu – Our go-to for farewell group dinners! You cook your own food on a sizzling hot rock, and it’s incredible!
Green Point – A vegan restaurant with amazing food and a dreamy outdoor space. Even if you’re not vegan, you’ll love it!
Organika – Super fresh, farm-to-table ingredients with amazing salads and the best wood-fired pizza.
Cicciolina – The perfect date night spot—cozy vibes, small plates, and great wine.
Inka Grill – If you love meat and bold flavors, this place has delicious traditional Peruvian dishes and great vibes.
Pachapapa – Want to try guinea pig (cuy)? This is the spot! Also known for delicious wood-fired pizza.
Morena – One of the coolest restaurants in Cusco with amazing food and a fun, modern vibe.
Map Café – A hidden gem inside a museum—perfect for a cozy, high-end dining experience.
Kion – If you’re craving amazing Peruvian-Chinese fusion (Chifa), this is a must-visit!
Yaku – A great mix of modern Peruvian and international flavors.
Chicha – From one of Peru’s top chefs, Gastón Acurio, this spot serves elevated traditional dishes—so good!
Fun Things to Do in Cusco
Visit the Inka Museum – Learn about the history of the Incan Empire before heading to Machu Picchu.
Explore San Blas Neighborhood – Wander through cobblestone streets, cute cafés, and boutique shops in Cusco’s artsy, bohemian neighborhood.
Sacsayhuamán – A huge Incan ruin just outside the city! You can hike, explore the ancient ruins, and even go horseback riding.
Take a Cooking Class – We recommend Mama Seledona for an authentic Peruvian cooking experience.
Day Trip to Sacred Valley – Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and stunning Incan sites.
Day Trip to Rainbow Mountain – One of Peru’s most famous hikes—a tough but rewarding trek with insane colorful mountain views.
Day Trip to Humantay Lake – A breathtaking glacier lake with turquoise water, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.
San Pedro Market – A huge local market filled with delicious street food, fresh fruit, and cool souvenirs.
Do a Food Tour – Cusco is a huge foodie city, and a food tour is a fun way to try all the best local dishes! We recommend Curious Monkey.
Fun Facts & Pro Tips About Cusco!
Cusco was the capital of the Incan Empire and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas.
The name “Cusco” means “navel of the world” in Quechua, the language of the Incas.
Pisco Sour is Peru’s national drink! It’s made with Pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, sugar, egg white, and bitters.
Peru has over 4,000 varieties of potatoes! You’ll find them in so many delicious Peruvian dishes.
Coca leaves are your best friend at high altitude. Locals chew them or drink coca tea to help with altitude sickness.
Cash is king! Many places don’t take credit cards, so always have some Peruvian soles on hand.
Restaurants don’t rush you! If you need the check, ask for “la cuenta, por favor.”
Ready to Explore Cusco?
This city is full of history, adventure, amazing food, and incredible culture. Whether you’re sipping Pisco Sours on a rooftop, hiking to ancient ruins, or diving into fresh Peruvian cuisine, Cusco is a city that will steal your heart!
¡Buen viaje! And get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cusco!
