Cusco, Peru - Travel Guide

By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.

Updated: 2026-08-05

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a breathtaking mountain city blending Spanish colonial architecture with ancient Inca ruins. Visit to experience rich culture, dramatic landscapes, and as a fascinating starting point for trips to Machu Picchu.

Plan a trip to Cusco

Top things to do in Cusco

The must-see places in Cusco include Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Cusco Cathedral, San Blas Neighborhood and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:

A sample 3-day itinerary for Cusco

Here is what 3 days in Cusco look like when the planner builds them: stops grouped by proximity so no day doubles back, one full day at a time. The same route can be built for any length, from two days to a week.

Day 1Inca Fortresses & Sacred Hills

  1. Qenko
  2. Tambomachay · Northern Cusco
  3. Puka Pukara · Northern Cusco

Day 2Colonial Art & Indoor Treasures

  1. Cusco Cathedral · Centro Histórico
  2. Museo Inka · Centro Histórico
  3. Piedra de los doce ángulos
  4. Santa Catalina Convent
  5. ChocoMuseo
  6. Sacsayhuamán · Northern Cusco

Day 3Temples of Cusco & Textiles

  1. Qoricancha
  2. Museo del Sitio del Qoricancha
  3. Museo del Centro de Textiles Tradicionales de Cusco
  4. Palacio Inka del Kusikancha

This is an example. The planner builds a different route for your dates, real opening hours, how you get around and your own preferences.

Build your own itinerary

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-see places in Cusco?

Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Cusco Cathedral, San Blas Neighborhood, Calle Hatunrumiyoc

When is the best time to visit Cusco?

Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.

How many days do you need in Cusco?

Most travellers spend between two and five days in Cusco. MupDay builds a full itinerary for whatever length you pick - two days, three, four or a week - splitting the places across the days by proximity and opening hours, so each day stands on its own.

How do I plan an itinerary for Cusco?

Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.

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