Complete Cusco Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Unforgettable Days in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru is a dream destination for travelers seeking breathtaking views, incredible food, warm locals, and budget-friendly options. It’s no surprise that Cusco quickly becomes a favorite for so many visitors. Which, certainly makes it worthy of helping you travel there with this 3 day Cusco itinerary.
Because beyond its allure as a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Cusco is packed with its own unique magic. From colorful markets in San Pedro to the artisan-filled streets of San Blas, the longer you stay the more you learn to love it.
With a few days to explore, you’ll get a taste of Inca history, captivating colonial architecture, and the welcoming atmosphere that defines this city. So, why not make the most of Cusco’s blend of ancient and modern? Here’s my ultimate Cusco itinerary to help you plan an unforgettable trip and dive into the best of what this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer.
Happy travels to Peru!
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Is Cusco worth visiting?
Cusco is an amazing place to visit in Peru, offering a vibrant mix of ancient Inca heritage and Spanish colonial charm. While some travelers may be tempted to skip Cusco and head straight to the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, I truly believe spending a few days in Cusco is essential.
This city, with its cobblestone streets, lively main square, and bustling local markets, is where you can experience the spirit of the Peruvian Andes. It’s the perfect addition to any Peru itinerary, after all.
Spending around three days here not only helps you acclimate to the altitude before trekking or visiting other high-altitude destinations but also lets you appreciate Cusco’s cultural layers, from Inca ruins tucked into the city’s landscape to traditional Andean customs you won’t find elsewhere.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Cusco?
Three days in Cusco is a perfect amount of time to see all the highlights of this amazing city, from its historic plazas to its bustling markets and nearby Inca ruins. With three days, you’ll have ample time to explore the main sites, enjoy some incredible local cuisine, and even acclimate to the altitude before heading deeper into the Sacred Valley.
However, if you prefer a slower pace or are working remotely, adding a few extra days can allow you to fully soak in the city’s charm and discover hidden gems. Personally, I’d recommend spending 2-3 nights in Cusco to get a solid feel for the city before moving on to explore the rest of the Sacred Valley.
Complete Cusco Itinerary: Spending 3 Days In Cusco
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Cusco a few times, which has helped me really consider what is worth visiting and what you should skip when visiting. This Cusco itinerary is really a culmination of these trips to help you really see the best Cusco has to offer.
You’ll find some of the best cafes, restaurants, guided tours, and plenty of amazing things to do throughout the city.
Day 1: Arrive & Get Acclimated in Cusco
Arriving in Cusco can be tough on the body. Be sure to drink plenty of water, your cocoa tea and avoid alcohol. You’ll want to spend today doing easier activities due to the altitude.
Upon arrival at Cusco’s airport take a one-way, private transfer to your hotel. You could take a taxi or find public transportation options but taking a private transfer is economical and easy.
Start your afternoon with lunch at one of the many Peruvian restaurants. Food in the Andes is quite different from the costal city of Lima. Personally, I really love Andean Grill. It’s a no-frill Peruvian spot located near the heart of the historic district.
They have such a welcoming restaurant that you can’t help but love the family and the food, too.
Afternoon in Cusco
Taking it easy this afternoon as you acclimate, explore some of the easier attractions in Cusco. Start at the Artisan market and Cento de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco. Perhaps picking up some handmade sweaters to bring home to friends and family.
Or, try your hands at the Cusco Cooking Class, where you’ll get to explore the local markets and make some Peruvian classics, too. I like this class because they offer a 3:30PM start time, making it perfect when arriving in the morning!
If you’d rather explore more on your own, start at the Plaza Mayor de Cusco. Here you’ll find the famous Cusco Cathedral and Iglesia de la Companía de Jesús. It’s a great place to start exploring the historic heart of the city.
Just keep in mind the closer you are to the historic center the more expensive Cusco is. Just walking a few blocks out you’ll find better pricing on food and hotels.
From the plaza, you can walk up to Saqsaywaman. It’s probably one of my favorite Incan sites and it’s easily accessible from the city, too. It’s not far but trust me when I say it’s a hike, especially on your first day. So if you’d rather you can also take a car up and walk down to this archeological site.
Another great way to spend your afternoon is exploring the San Blas neighborhood. Here you’ll find artist shops and some great things to do, too. Take a second to explore the Mercado de San Blas, buy local handmade goods at the Plaza de San Blas, or even enjoy a drink overlooking Cusco at Limbus Restobar.
Day 2: Local Culture & History in Cusco
Get up early to snag a coffee at 3 Monkeys Coffee Company in central Cusco. This specialty roaster has some excellent coffee and a limited breakfast menu, too. I ordered the latte and it was amazing!
I loved starting my first full day in Cusco with horseback riding in the mountains. We were picked up at our hotel and brought to the mountainside surrounding the valley. On the ride, the views were absolutely breathtaking! Your horseback riding experience also includes stops at various archeological sites and history about the area, too.
Afternoon in Cusco
After your morning horseback ride head back to your hotel and get ready for an afternoon exploring the historic highlights of Cusco.
Joining a guided walking tour is one the easiest ways to get to see a lot of Cusco for an affordable price. With just three days in the city, it’s the perfect way to explore.
If you’d rather explore on your own, be sure to hit some of the historic highlights. Sites like Qurikancha and the Museo de Arte Precolombino are not to be missed.
You can easily access the Museo de Arte Precolombino while exploring the San Blas neighborhood. Qurikancha is a bit further from the city center, so I recommend taking a Uber to save you time.
Evening in Cusco
For dinner tonight try out Morena Peruvian Kitchen, an upscale Peruvian restaurant. Their serving all Peruvian food – from the coast to the mountains to the Amazon. It makes it a great choice to try various dishes on your trip that you otherwise might not be able to.
If you want something a bit more budget-friendly, head to Los Toldos Chicken. It’s an authentically local Peruvian chicken restaurant serving no-frills chicken and fries. It’s tasty and well worth visiting.
If it’s a clear night, check out the Cusco Planetarium and see the stars! Located 15 minutes from downtown, the planetarium includes an interpretation center, projection room to showcase constellations, and observatory for stargazing.
Day 3: Take a day trip from Cusco to the Sacred Valley
Cusco is a great gateway into the Sacred Valley. And though your trip might be taking you to many of the destinations throughout the Andes, Cusco is a great starting point for day trips to Rainbow Mountain, Maras Salt Flats, and more. Take some inspiration from these day trip options below.
Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain is a full-day experience, usually with a early morning starting time (and by early I mean the middle of the night). It’s recommend you’ve been in Cusco at least two days before trying Rainbow Mountain due to altitude sickness.
I’ve personally never done Rainbow Mountain but many of my friends have said it was a much harder 2-hour hike to the mountain than they expected. But upon arrival to the mountain you’ll see an interesting geological condition that makes the mountain look like layered colors.
Maras Salt Mines & Moray Archaeological Site
I did this trip on my own while in the Sacred Valley but you can also book a guided tour from Cusco. Oftentimes the Maras Salt Mines are combined with Moray archeological site on a longer day trip. I thought the mines were super interesting and very beautiful, too.
Of all of these day trip options this is also the less intense on the body. While most require some hiking at altitude anyone can easily do this tour.
Humantay Lake
Another hiking option is a day trip to the impressive Humatay Lake. The entire hiking route is about 2.7 miles in a loop. It’ll take you to a picturesque glacial lake with some of the most stunning views in all of Peru. And, like Rainbow Mountain, requires an early morning pick up.
Didn’t bring hiking gear? Don’t worry. You can purchase or rent equipment at many local stores in Cusco. Cusco is so popular with outdoor enthusiasts they even have their own Patagonia store!
Things to do in Cusco
Cusco is one of those cities where simply wandering is part of the experience. Many of the best things to do here are either low cost or completely free, especially if you’re willing to explore on foot. This list focuses on experiences that add cultural context, great views, and local flavor without blowing your budget.
Museo de Arte Precolombino
This small museum is an easy add if you want context before visiting ruins. It’s well curated and doesn’t take hours to get through.
Have Coffee at One of the Many Coffee Shops
Cusco has a solid coffee scene and it’s an easy budget break between sightseeing. Some favorites are Three Monkeys Coffee, Van Gogh Specialty Coffee, and Black Llama Coffee.
Explore San Blas
San Blas is full of narrow streets, viewpoints, and artisan workshops. It’s best explored slowly with no real plan.
Visit Qurikancha
Once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, Qurikancha shows how Spanish churches were built directly on Inca foundations. It’s one of the clearest examples of Cusco’s layered history.
Travel Tip! I’ve visited the site both with and without a guide and I think this site is a lot more meaningful when booked with a guide. There really isn’t any signage to know what you’re looking at otherwise.
Shop for Local Artisan Goods
Skip the mass produced souvenirs and browse small artisan stalls instead. Places like San Blas Artisan Market, Centro Artesanal Cusco, and street vendors around Plaza de Armas offer better prices and more unique finds.
Hike Up to Saqsaywaman
The walk up to Saqsaywaman is steep but free. You’ll get fresh air, great views, and a real sense of the scale of Inca engineering.
View the City from Mirador de San Cristóbal
This viewpoint offers sweeping views over Cusco without the crowds. It’s especially nice near sunset and completely free.
See the Stars at Cusco Planetarium
The Cusco Planetarium focuses on Inca astronomy and storytelling. It’s a unique experience that adds cultural depth without feeling touristy.
Join a Peruvian Cooking Class
Cooking classes are a fun way to learn about local ingredients and flavors. Many include a market visit and end with a full meal, which makes them a solid value.
Visit the Local Markets
San Pedro Market is one of the best places for cheap meals, fresh juices, and local life. Pair it with the San Blas Market and you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Cusco.
Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding just outside the city is surprisingly affordable. It’s an easy way to see the countryside without committing to a long hike.
Take a Day Trip to the Sacred Valley
A Sacred Valley day trip packs in ruins, villages, and landscapes. It’s one of the best value experiences you can add to a Cusco itinerary.
See the Sights at Plaza Mayor de Cusco
Plaza Mayor is the heart of the city. Grab a bench, people watch, and enjoy the atmosphere without spending a thing.
Find the 12-Angled Stone
This famous stone is tucked into a narrow street near Plaza de Armas. It’s a quick stop, but a great example of how precise Inca stonework really was.
Getting around Cusco
Walking is the easiest way to get around most of the main attractions in Cusco, especially when staying near Plaza Mayor. Cusco does operate a collectivo and public bus system, which offers shared rides at discounted prices.
The collectivo is the most popular system with locals and offers various routes that will likely get you where you want to go. The bus system in Cusco is much more limited and is used primarily for commuting more so than within the city.
Cusco also offers Uber, which is the easiest option to get around the town.
Where to stay in Cusco
Cusco has a wide range of accommodations, from budget friendly boutique hotels to larger chains you can book with points. Where you stay matters here since the city is hilly and walking is a big part of getting around. These options balance comfort, location, and value.
Hilton Garden Inn Cusco
This is a solid option if you’re using points or elite benefits. The rooms are comfortable and the views over the city are great, but the hotel sits on a hill, which means a steep walk back at the end of the day.
Hotel Encantada Casa Boutique Spa
A great boutique hotel option that often comes in under $100 per night. It feels cozy and well maintained, which is getting harder to find at this price point in Cusco.
Hotel Rumi Punku
This villa style hotel has a beautiful central courtyard that feels calm and quiet. It’s a lovely place to slow down, especially in the mornings with a coffee before heading out.
Best places to eat in Cusco
Museo del Pisco
Do yourself a favor and get a Pisco sour at this bar and pub. They have live music most afternoons into the evenings and some excellent small bites, too. (Their chicken wings were excellent.)
Three Monkeys Coffee Company
Spend your first day or so getting to know the area at a slower pace. Consider heading to the Cento de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco or Centro Artesanal Cusco for some handicrafts. Or visit Santo Domingo for a historical tour.
A great spot for brunch or a quick coffee, this courtyard location has sweet charm with a lot of locals catching up and working remotely, too.
Limbus Resto Bar
A little more upscale take on the Peruvian classics, this restaurant is a fan favorite of tourists in the area.
La Bodega 138
Yes, pizza. Surprisingly, Peruvians of the Andes love pizza and you’ll find pizza joints more frequently than you’d expect around Cusco. La Bodega 138 has some good quality pizza options with surprising toppings specific to the area.
Ciciolina
You will not regret a visit to Ciciolina, an upscale tapas restaurant with a fusion menu that’s well worth the money. Make a reservation and be amazed at the interesting flavor combinations.
Morena Peruvian Kitchen
Because you cannot have too much upscale Peruvian food, consider Modena Peruvian Kitchen for a unique dining experience.
San Pedro Market
Check out the cheap local eats, fresh produce, and street food at San Pedro Market. Grab some lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) or chicharrones (deep-fried pork).
Andean Grill Restaurant
A local recommended this place when it was getting late and we were still out and about. Andean Grill is a no-frill Peruvian meal experience complete with a free Pisco sour on arrival.
Best time to visit Cusco
The best time to visit Cusco largely depends on what you want to experience and your tolerance for weather extremes. With Cusco situated high in the Andes Mountains, its weather can be unpredictable, yet it generally follows two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Both offer distinct advantages, but most travelers prefer the dry season for the best conditions for exploring.
Dry Season (May to September)
The dry season, running from May through September, is the most popular time to visit Cusco. During these months, you can expect clear skies, sunny days, and lower humidity. This is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in the Sacred Valley, visiting Machu Picchu, and exploring the nearby ruins.
However, nights can be quite chilly due to the high altitude, so pack layers to stay comfortable. While the weather is great, keep in mind that these months are also Cusco’s busiest, meaning larger crowds and slightly higher prices for accommodations and tours.
Rainy Season (October to April)
The rainy season in Cusco runs from October to April, with January and February being the wettest months. During this time, rain showers are frequent, especially in the afternoons, and trails can become muddy or slippery.
However, the rainy season comes with its own appeal. The landscape is lush and green, and there are far fewer tourists, making it easier to explore at a slower pace. You may also find great deals on hotels and tours. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared with a rain jacket and waterproof gear, as weather conditions can change quickly.
Shoulder Months (April and October)
April and October can be great months to visit Cusco, as they fall between the rainy and dry seasons. During these shoulder months, the weather is generally mild, and crowds are smaller than during peak season. You’ll still want to be prepared for a mix of rain and sun, but you’re more likely to experience pleasant temperatures and find fewer people at popular sites.
How to get to the Sacred Valley from Cusco
Renting a car and staying in the Sacred Valley is the best way to truly capture the beautiful and incredible things to do in the area. Though you can easily join day trips into the Sacred Valley from Cusco, it’s honestly just not the same.
However, getting to the Sacred Valley from Cusco in a rental car is relatively easy, too. The main roads are well-maintained and driving is fairly straightforward in the Cusco area. Many people opt to stay in the town of Ollantaytambo for the ease of visiting Machu Picchu but do your research.
More Peru Tips + Inspiration
- Don’t miss this 7-day itinerary to visiting Peru
- Spend some time in the Sacred Valley with this helpful 5-day itinerary
- Want to visit Peru on a budget? I’ve got you covered
