Cusco, Peru
The perfect 3 days itinerary
Cusco, often spelled Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru, near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. It's the capital of the Cusco Region as well as the Cusco Province. The city is the historic capital of the Inca Empire and is now known for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. Plaza de Armas is the central square in the old city, with arcades, carved wooden balconies, and Incan wall ruins. The baroque Santo Domingo Convent was built on the ruins of the Incan Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), and the stone streets have preserved the layout of the ancient city, blending Incan and Spanish influences.
What to do in Cusco?
This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Cusco. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Cusco
Morning
Start your day at the Plaza de Armas, the vibrant heart of Cusco. Visit the Cathedral of Cusco, which houses an impressive collection of colonial art. Take a leisurely walk to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, to marvel at the Incan architecture and its Spanish colonial overlay.
Afternoon
Head to the San Pedro Market for a taste of local life. Here, you can sample traditional Peruvian dishes and shop for souvenirs. After lunch, visit the Inca Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Incan Empire.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Andean cuisine, followed by a stroll through the historic San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and bohemian vibe.
Day 2: The Sacred Valley and Beyond
Morning
Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Start with the Pisac market, where you can find handcrafted goods and local produce. Continue to the Ollantaytambo ruins, an ancient Incan fortress with impressive terraces.
Afternoon
Explore the village of Ollantaytambo, which has preserved its Incan urban layout. Catch the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Evening
Spend the night in Aguas Calientes to prepare for an early visit to Machu Picchu the next morning. Relax at the local hot springs or enjoy dinner at one of the town's restaurants.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Adventure
Early Morning
Take the first bus to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the ancient city. Enjoy a guided tour of the site, exploring its temples, terraces, and breathtaking views.
Afternoon
Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus or taxi back to Cusco.
Evening
Spend your last evening in Cusco relaxing or shopping for last-minute souvenirs. Reflect on the incredible experiences and sights of the past three days.