Your Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Cusco
Acclimate to the breathtaking heights of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the magnificent gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
Cusco is reached by flight from Lima (or overland for the adventurous). At 3,400 m, altitude sickness is common—arrive a day or two early, rest, drink water, and avoid alcohol at first. Dry season (May–September) is best for Machu Picchu; book permits and trains months ahead. Use Cusco as a base for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu; allow time for the Plaza de Armas, San Blas, and local markets. Pack layers—days can be warm and nights cold. Guided treks (Inca Trail, etc.) require advance booking.
Discover the best landmarks, where to eat, and where to stay in Cusco.
Best Time to Visit Cusco
Spring
21°C / 6°C
Pleasant days, transitioning into wet season
Summer
20°C / 7°C
Wet season, lush and green but frequent rain
Fall
20°C / 5°C
Rains ending, skies clearing up
Winter
19°C / 1°C
Dry season, sunny days but freezing nights
Day 1
Plaza de Armas Cusco
Lively urban gathering place offering colonial arcades, a cathedral, gardens & a central fountain.
Morning activity: Plaza de Armas Cusco.
Chicha por Gaston Acurio
Lunch nearby: Chicha por Gaston Acurio.
Qorikancha
Inca ruins of a prominent 15th-century temple that once had walls & floors covered in pure gold.
Afternoon sightseeing: Qorikancha.
Limo Restaurant
Dinner in the area: Limo Restaurant.
San Blas Neighborhood
Evening experience: San Blas Neighborhood.
Day 2
Sacred Valley Tour
Morning activity: Sacred Valley Tour.
Tunupa Restaurant
Lunch nearby: Tunupa Restaurant.
Ollantaytambo Ruins
Incan archaeological site used as a city, fort & royal estate with big terraces & a ceremonial area.
Afternoon sightseeing: Ollantaytambo Ruins.
Cicciolina
Dinner in the area: Cicciolina.
Mercado San Pedro
Bustling covered market with stalls for produce, meat, clothing, souvenirs, snacks & fresh juices.
Evening experience: Mercado San Pedro.
Day 3
Machu Picchu
Iconic hilltop ruins of a large 15th-century Inca city featuring numerous structures & terraces.
Morning activity: Machu Picchu.
Sanctuary Lodge
Tranquil hotel near the entrance to Machu Picchu, offering 2 restaurants, a bar & free breakfast.
Lunch nearby: Sanctuary Lodge.
Sun Gate
Dedicated to the Sun god, this archeological site on the Inca Trail offers views of Machu Picchu.
Afternoon sightseeing: Sun Gate.
Indio Feliz
Dinner in the area: Indio Feliz.
Cusco Planetarium
Evening experience: Cusco Planetarium.