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Planning a trip to Cusco? This itinerary will make it unforgettable!
Cusco is brimming with ancient Incan history, stunning mountain scenery, and vibrant local culture. With so much to see—cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and epic Incan ruins—it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! With plenty of visits under our belt, we’ve crafted the perfect three-day itinerary to make sure you soak up every magical moment without feeling rushed.
From horseback riding through the Andean highlands and sampling mouthwatering local dishes to exploring the Sacred Valley or conquering Machu Picchu, we’ve packed this guide with experiences that showcase the best of Cusco. So lace up those walking shoes and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Machu Picchu tour from Cusco! Our guide made visiting this bucket-list site easy, and we learned so much along the way!
Day 1
Morning – See Incan ruins around Cusco with an expert
Cusco can feel like a maze of winding streets and hidden stories, especially when it comes to its ancient Incan ruins. But this small-group tour takes away the guesswork, making it the perfect way to truly connect with the city.
Our guide, José, kicked things off with stories that made Cusco come alive. At Coricancha, he showed us how the Incas’ devotion to the sun, moon, and stars shaped this ancient city’s past. Standing in those perfectly cut stone temples, you can really feel the energy of the ceremonies that once happened there.
Sacsayhuaman was next, and those massive stones that fit together with puzzle-like precision were jaw-dropping. Jose didn’t just point out the engineering marvels—he shared how today’s locals honor Mother Earth here during Inti Raymi, weaving centuries of tradition into the story.
We wandered through Q’enqo’s twisting rocks, soaked up panoramic views from Puka Pukara, and watched the water still flowing at Tambomachay. At Manos De La Comunidad, we even got to feel the difference between baby alpaca and luxurious vicuña wool!
The tour starts and ends right in the historic center, making it easy to continue exploring afterward. Definitely go for the 9 am to 2 pm slot—it’s the perfect way to dive into Cusco’s treasures and still leave your afternoon open for more exploring.
This tour was hands-down the best way to get to know Cusco. We had such a fantastic time, and judging by the hundreds of five-star reviews, we’re not the only ones!
Book this popular tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Lunch – Local Restaurant
After a morning spent wandering in Incan ruins and ancient temples, you’ll definitely be ready for lunch. Just a few minutes’ walk from where the tour ends, you’ll find LOCAL Restaurant—perfect for refueling before your next adventure. The warm, laid-back atmosphere, with locals chatting and plates of hearty dishes clinking in the background, is the ideal way to ease into the city’s rhythm.
We went for the lomo saltado—juicy beef stir-fried with veggies, crispy fries, and rice—and it absolutely hit the spot. Every bite is a celebration of Cusco’s flavors and will leave you feeling recharged for your next adventure.
Afternoon – Explore the historic center on your own
After a morning of guided discovery and a delicious lunch, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to dive into the historic center at your own pace. Cusco’s old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and cozy cafes—fantastic for wandering, snapping photos, and soaking up the city’s unique energy. Here are a few of our favorite places to check out!
Plaza de Armas
The heart of Cusco’s historic center, Plaza de Armas, is where everyone seems to gather. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee, watch the world go by, and marvel at the grand colonial architecture.
Here, you’ll find the impressive Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, each with its own rich history and beautiful facades. Take your time to wander the square, pop into local shops, and maybe even find a sunny bench to people-watch for a bit.
San Blas Plaza and Market
A short stroll uphill brings you to San Blas Plaza and Market, Cusco’s artsy neighborhood. This bohemian quarter is packed with charming shops, small galleries, and cozy cafes. The real gem here is the San Blas Market—an authentic spot for locally made crafts, Andean textiles, and unique souvenirs.
Even if you’re not in the market for anything, it’s worth wandering the stalls and chatting with the artisans. We loved the relaxed vibe and colorful atmosphere. It was definitely a highlight of the afternoon!
ChocoMuseum and Workshop
Here’s a sweet twist to your day: the ChocoMuseum! This small but fascinating museum celebrates Peru’s deep ties to chocolate making, showcasing how cocoa beans transform into those tasty bars we all love. You can pop in anytime between 9 am and 7:30 pm for a quick browse (short tours are free!), but we recommend signing up for this chocolate workshop from 4 to 6 pm.
This hands-on experience lets you roast, grind, and mold your own chocolate treats from scratch. You’ll also learn about cocoa’s history and why Peru is such a big deal in the chocolate world.
And the best part? You get to take home everything you make—plus, there are tasty samples along the way! We had a blast doing this workshop, and it’s a fun, interactive way to end your afternoon in Cusco.
This popular tour sells out fast—secure your spot here!
Dinner – KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food
A short three-minute walk from the historic center will bring you to one of Cusco’s culinary gems—KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food. It’s the perfect way to end your day of exploring, with a meal that’s as colorful and flavorful as the city itself.
KUSYKAY is one of the best Peruvian restaurants in Cusco, and the glowing reviews back it up. The food here is bursting with fresh flavors—zesty seafood starters, juicy grilled meats, and hearty Andean dishes that highlight the best of Peru’s culinary traditions. We tried the ceviche and were blown away by the tangy citrus and tender fish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could easily order a bit of everything, but since you might have more evening plans ahead, consider sharing a main dish or going for something a little lighter. KUSYKAY’s cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes are the perfect way to start winding down your first full day in Cusco!
Evening – Sip on Cusco’s famous Pisco Sour
After a full day of exploring and eating your way through the historic center, it’s time to kick back and treat yourself to Peru’s iconic drink—the pisco sour. You’ll find a good one just about anywhere in Cusco’s historic center, but we loved our stop at Black Cat Bar Cusco.
Tucked away on a cozy street, this laid-back spot has a welcoming vibe and just the right atmosphere for winding down. The bartenders here really know their stuff, and they whip up perfectly balanced pisco sours—tart, sweet, and oh-so-refreshing. Grab a seat, soak in the lively chatter of fellow travelers, and let the evening slip away, one delicious sip at a time.
Related Read: If you find yourself with extra time, add one of our 10 favorite things to do in Cusco to this itinerary!
Day 2
Morning – Go horseback riding through Andean villages
Start your second day in Cusco by giving your feet a well-deserved break and heading out for this horseback riding adventure. We recommend booking the 9 am tour to make the most of your morning and beat the midday heat—trust us, it’s worth the early start!
This small-group tour takes you through Sacsayhuaman National Park, a place bursting with Incan history and natural beauty. You’ll ride past ancient temples like Inkilltambo (the Temple of the Moon) and marvel at spots like Chacan Mountain, also known as the Devil’s Balcony.
Our guide shared fascinating stories and local traditions that really brought these places to life, giving us a whole new appreciation for the region’s deep roots.
The mountain views were absolutely breathtaking, and seeing them on horseback added a whole other level of magic. Even if you’re not an experienced rider, don’t worry—the horses are gentle and the guides are there every step of the way to make sure you’re comfortable and safe.
The tour includes everything you need, including round-trip transportation from Cusco, a knowledgeable guide, and of course, a trusty horse. It lasts about three and a half hours and gives you plenty of time to soak up the views and snap a few photos along the way.
This experience was one of the highlights of our trip, and with hundreds of five-star reviews that you can read here, we’re definitely not alone in saying that!
Reserve your horseback riding tour now and pay later when you book it here!
Afternoon – Cafe Ayllu
You’ll get back to your hotel from the horseback riding tour around 1 pm—just enough time to freshen up and head back out to explore more of Cusco. We were pretty tired and a little snacky after the morning’s adventure, so we made our way to Café Ayllu for a much-needed pick-me-up.
This charming café has been around for over 40 years and has a cozy vibe that makes you want to linger a bit. They also support local Andean artists, which adds a unique cultural feel to the place. We grabbed some pastries and strong coffee—exactly what we needed to recharge for the rest of the afternoon.
With a couple of hours to kill before our 3:30 pm cooking class at San Pedro Market, we explored the area around Café Ayllu. There’s plenty to see and do in this neighborhood, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up a little more of Cusco’s magic. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or just want to rest your feet, this café is a great stop on your afternoon wander!
Evening – Learn how to cook authentic Peruvian food
One of the absolute highlights of our trip was this small-group cooking class! It’s the perfect way to end the day and doubles as your dinner, so you don’t have to worry about where to eat afterward. We recommend the 3:30 to 7:30 pm slot to catch the magic of Cusco’s evening energy!
The experience starts at the lively San Pedro Market, where our chef, Marco, guided us through colorful stalls, sharing fascinating tidbits as we picked out fresh Andean peppers, aromatic herbs, and other local ingredients before heading to a cozy cooking studio in the heart of Cusco.
Once we settled in, it was time to roll up our sleeves! Under Marco’s expert guidance, we learned how to prepare three classic Peruvian dishes, including ceviche, causa limeña, and quinoa tamal. Each one was packed with flavor and gave us a real taste of Peru’s culinary soul.
We loved how the class was totally hands-on—no standing around watching! We got to chop, mix, and plate everything ourselves, and each dish was so delicious that we left completely stuffed. The best part? They’ll send you home with all the recipes so you can recreate these flavors in your own kitchen.
This cooking class was such a fun and delicious way to get to know Peruvian culture—it turned an ordinary evening into an incredible adventure!
Check availability and book this hands-on Peruvian cooking lesson here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
For your final day in Cusco, you have two unforgettable options: Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley. If Machu Picchu is already on your agenda for another day, go for the Sacred Valley—you won’t regret it! But if this is your one shot to see the legendary Incan citadel, take the plunge and sign up for a full-day tour to Machu Picchu.
Whichever adventure you choose, you’re in for a day packed with stunning scenery, fascinating history, and memories you’ll be talking about for years. Here’s how to make the most of your last day in this incredible region!
Option 1: Visit Machu Picchu in one day
Machu Picchu is the crown jewel for most visitors to Cusco—us included! But figuring out how to get there can feel like a puzzle. That’s why we decided to join this full-day tour, and it turned out to be the perfect way to see this wonder without the stress.
The day kicks off with a front-door pick-up, which is super convenient for the 4 or 4:30 am start! We were whisked away to the train station, where we boarded the Expedition Train. It’s basic but comfortable enough for the scenic 3.5-hour ride to Aguas Calientes. From there, it’s a quick 30-minute bus trip to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Once inside, our guide, Julio, was funny, super knowledgeable, and so passionate about sharing Machu Picchu’s stories. We spent two hours with him, learning everything from Incan engineering to the spiritual significance of this incredible site. After that, we had time to explore on our own, wandering the terraces, snapping photos, and soaking up those epic mountain views at our own pace.
What we loved most was how this tour took care of everything—round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and an expert guide—so we didn’t have to worry about any surprise expenses. All we had to do was pay for lunch. It’s a small-group tour, too, which made it easy to chat with fellow travelers without feeling lost in a crowd.
If you only have one day to experience Machu Picchu, this is the way to do it!
Book this Machu Picchu day tour with hundreds of five-star reviews here!
Option 2: Spend the day exploring the Sacred Valley
If Machu Picchu is already on your agenda, spending your final day exploring the Sacred Valley is a must. It includes stunning mountain views, fascinating history, and deep Incan culture. With so much to see and limited time, we joined this small-group full-day tour that took us beyond the usual tourist spots and made for a much more personal experience.
Our guide picked us up bright and early at 6:45 am right from our hotel in Cusco. From the get-go, we were surrounded by Peruvian culture and local traditions. First stop: Chinchero. We got to meet some seriously cute guinea pigs and alpacas, and even watched a traditional Andean weaving demonstration. It was the perfect way to kick off the day!
Next up were the Moray ruins, ancient agricultural terraces that showed off just how advanced Incan engineering was. From there, we continued to Maras, home to the famous salt ponds. Seeing thousands of these shimmering salt pans carved into the mountainside was a breathtaking highlight of the Sacred Valley.
After a delicious traditional Peruvian lunch, we explored the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo, a site that once served as the gateway to Machu Picchu. Standing there, you could truly feel the history beneath your feet.
This 12-hour adventure includes transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide who brings every site to life. By the end of the day, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the valley’s history and a head full of stunning mountain vistas that you’ll never forget!
Experience an unforgettable journey and book this Sacred Valley tour here!
Related Read: For more tour options to the Sacred Valley, check out our top 6 favorites here!
Dinner – Rucula Peruvian Restaurant
After a full day of exploring, there’s no better way to wrap up your trip than with a cozy dinner at Rucula Peruvian Restaurant. Open late and just a short walk from the historic center, it’s a warm, welcoming spot that feels like the perfect place to celebrate your last night in Cusco.
The atmosphere here is laid-back and friendly, with wooden beams and flickering candles that make it feel extra special. The menu is all about fresh, local ingredients and traditional Peruvian flavors—think hearty soups, vibrant ceviche, and perfectly grilled meats. We tried the alpaca steak and were totally blown away by how tender and flavorful it was!
If you’re looking for a dinner spot that’s cozy, delicious, and the perfect ending to your Cusco adventure, Rucula is the place. Enjoy your last meal in this magical city—it’s worth lingering over!
Related Read: If you have more time, another great day trip is to Rainbow Mountain. Have a look at the 5 best Rainbow Mountain tour options here!
Where to Stay in Cusco, Peru
Now that you have your ideal itinerary planned out, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! There are plenty of options for accommodations, from reasonably priced hostels to more luxurious hotels, depending on your budget. If these hotels still have availability for your dates, they are my top recommendations:
Luxury – $$$
Located in the city center, Palacio del Inka is a luxurious hotel offering delightful amenities like an internal courtyard perfect for stargazing, excellent dining options, and an indoor swimming pool and fitness center for an additional fee. The interior design combines bold, traditional works of art with modern-day comforts like wifi and cable TV. If you’re feeling the altitude, oxygen and coca tea are available by request.
The price tag here starts at around $380 USD per night. You can check availability and book Palacio del Inka online here.
Mid Range – $$
Costa del Sol Wyndham Cusco is a stylish mid-range hotel housed in a beautiful 17th-century colonial mansion just steps from Plaza de Armas. Rooms blend classic charm with modern comforts like plush beds, flat-screen TVs, and spacious bathrooms. The on-site restaurant and bar serve up local flavors, and the cozy courtyard is perfect for relaxing after a day exploring Cusco.
Rooms here average around $200 USD a night. To snag this deal, check availability and book the Costa del Sol Wyndham Cusco online here.
Budget – $
El Mariscal Cusco is a great budget-friendly hotel located in the quiet San Blas district, just a short walk from the main square. Rooms are colorful, clean, and include private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. A tasty breakfast is served each morning, and the warm hospitality makes it feel like a home away from home.
Private rooms are around $70 USD per night. You can check availability and reserve here through Booking.com.
Check out all of Cusco’s hotel options here!
Related Read: Need more options? Check out our Where to Stay in Cusco guide for the top areas and recommended hotels for a range of budgets!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Cusco is truly a one-of-a-kind city, and after three days of exploring, you will see the best of the best! Whether Cusco is an acclimation stop before you set off on a trek, or it’s the destination, there is so much to see here.
If you need help planning more of your adventures, check out our other South America blogs. We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers, so I’ll leave a few related posts below to inspire your next trip!
9 BEST Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco + Our Personal Reviews