Cusco isn’t just the gateway to Machu Picchu – it’s a vibrant city full of history, culture, food, nightlife, and adventure. For young travelers, especially backpackers and digital nomads, Cusco is a meeting point where every day can feel different. In this guide, you’ll find 10 must-do experiences in Cusco, with practical info on prices, schedules, and how to get there.

1. Explore Plaza de Armas and the Historic Center

Plaza de Armas is the heart of Cusco and the best place to start your journey. Surrounded by colonial churches, restaurants, bars, and shops, it perfectly blends Andean and colonial vibes.

What to do:

• Visit Cusco’s Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus.

• Have a coffee in one of the balconies overlooking the square.

• Wander through the cobblestone streets of San Blas neighborhood.

Practical info:

• Cathedral entrance: Around 40 soles (includes other churches on the religious circuit).

• Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

• Tip: Always carry water and sunscreen – Cusco is 3,400 m.a.s.l. and the sun is intense.

2. Taste Local Food at San Pedro Market

One of the most authentic experiences is eating at a local market. San Pedro Market is famous for its colorful vibe and wide range of food.

What to try:

• Fresh fruit juices (5–8 soles).

• Traditional lunch menus with soup and main dish (10–15 soles).

• Andean cheese, bread, and local sweets.

Practical info:

• Location: 10 minutes walking from Plaza de Armas.

• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

• Tip: Perfect for breakfast before heading on a tour.

3. Hike Up to Sacsayhuamán for a City View

The Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán is not only an impressive archaeological site but also one of the best viewpoints in Cusco.

What to do:

• Explore the giant Inca stone walls.

• Have a picnic with panoramic views.

• Walk to nearby Qenqo and Puca Pucará.

Practical info:

• Entrance: Included in the Tourist Ticket (70 soles partial / 130 soles general).

• How to get there: 25 minutes uphill walk or taxi (10–15 soles).

• Tip: Bring snacks and water – the altitude makes it more challenging.

4. Enjoy Cusco’s Nightlife

Cusco is famous for its party vibe. From bars with live music to nightclubs, there’s always something going on.

Where to go:

• Bars in Plaza de Armas: Many offer 2-for-1 happy hours.

• Salsa classes: Several bars start the night with free dance lessons.

• Hostel events: Pariwana Hostels organize karaoke nights, beer pong, and DJ sets.

Practical info:

• Average cost: Beers from 10 soles, cocktails from 20 soles.

• Hours: Most places start around 10:00 p.m. and go until 4:00 a.m.

• Tip: Bring a jacket – nights in Cusco get cold.

5. Join a Free Walking Tour

Walking tours are a great way to learn about Cusco’s history and culture on a budget.

What’s included:

• Tour around colonial streets and Inca remains.

• Stops at highlights like San Blas and the market.

• Insights into local traditions.

Practical info:

• Duration: 2–3 hours.

• Cost: Free (tips recommended: 10–20 soles).

• Times: Usually at 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

6. Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Cusco, filled with traditional towns, markets, and ruins.

Highlights:

• Pisac and its artisan market.

• Ollantaytambo with its impressive fortress.

• Chinchero, known for its textiles.

Practical info:

• Day tours: 70–120 soles (entrance fees not included).

• Archaeological sites: Require the Tourist Ticket.

• Tip: If heading to Machu Picchu, stay overnight in Ollantaytambo and take the train from there.

7. Day Trip to Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, is one of the most popular hikes from Cusco.

What to expect:

• Stunning high-altitude landscapes.

• A 3-hour round-trip hike.

• Views at over 5,000 m.a.s.l.

Practical info:

• Tour cost: 80–120 soles (includes transport and guide).

• Duration: 12 hours (4:00 a.m. departure – 5:00 p.m. return).

• Tip: Bring warm clothes, energy snacks, and coca leaves for altitude.

8. Discover Humantay Lake

A breathtaking spot for nature lovers, Humantay Lake has turquoise waters framed by snow-capped mountains.

What to do:

• Moderate 1.5-hour hike.

• Incredible photo opportunities.

• Relax by the lakeside.

Practical info:

• Tour cost: 100–140 soles.

• Duration: Full day (4:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.).

• Tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and gloves – it gets cold.

9. Take a Peruvian Cooking Class

Peruvian food is world-famous, and Cusco is a great place to learn how to cook it.

What to expect:

• Learn to make dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado.

• Pisco sour tasting.

• Interactive lessons with local ingredients.

Practical info:

• Cost: 100–150 soles per person.

• Duration: 3–4 hours.

• Where: Pariwana Hostels offers cooking activities for guests.

10. Visit Machu Picchu

No trip to Cusco is complete without visiting Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire.

Ways to get there:

• Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo (60–120 USD).

• Classic Inca Trail trek (4 days, book in advance).

• Alternative Hydroelectric route (cheaper, but longer).

Practical info:

• Entrance tickets: From 152 soles (book early).

• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

• Tip: Choose an early morning slot for fewer crowds and magical sunrise views.

Where to Stay in Cusco

To get the full backpacker experience, staying at a social hostel makes all the difference. Pariwana Hostels Cusco offers dorms and private rooms, plus daily activities like cooking classes, karaoke nights, and tours – the perfect space to meet travelers from all over the world.

Conclusion

Cusco has something for every young traveler: party-goers, nature lovers, foodies, and history buffs. The key is to mix activities and embrace everything the city has to offer. And at the end of the day, you’ll always find a vibrant community waiting for you at Pariwana Hostels.