🏙️ 10 Essential Tips to Explore Cusco City Like a Local

1. 🚶‍♂️ Walk — but venture beyond the Plaza de Armas

Yes, the main square is beautiful. But the soul of Cusco lives in its side streets and hidden alleys. Stroll down Siete Cuartones, wander up to San Blas through tiny staircases, or explore the quieter areas of San Cristóbal.

Every street has a story — and a view waiting to surprise you.

2. 🍽️ Eat where the locals eat — in markets and picanterías

Skip the tourist menus and try real Cusqueñan food at:

La Cusqueñita (traditional picantería)

San Blas Market

Wanchaq Market

Must-try dishes: adobo, chairo soup, tamales, and chicharrón.

3. 🚌 Take public transportation — at least once

Hopping on a colorful minivan (combi) with names like “Batman” or “El Chaski” is a true Cusco experience. For just 1 sol, you'll be immersed in the city’s rhythm — Spanish, Quechua, and all.

4. 🛍️ Shop at local fairs instead of tourist boutiques

On weekends, places like Av. Túpac Amaru or the Huancaro fair offer fresh produce, crafts, and textiles — often much cheaper and more authentic than in tourist shops. You can talk directly with the artisans and vendors.

5. ☕ Grab a coffee in San Blas with a view

Skip the generic cafés and check out locally loved spots like:

L’atelier Café Concept

Monkey Coffee

Café D’Wasi

Enjoy Peruvian high-altitude coffee with views over Cusco’s red rooftops.

6. 📿 Take a class — Quechua, ceramics, or weaving

Don’t just observe culture — experience it. Cusco has workshops where you can:

Learn basic Quechua

Take a ceramic or textile class

Join an Andean cooking workshop

You’ll leave with a deeper connection to the place.

7. 🌅 Catch the sunset from secret viewpoints

Sure, San Cristóbal, Sacsayhuamán, and Cristo Blanco are popular spots, but for a quieter view, try Limoqpunco, a peaceful viewpoint with a magical sunset over the city.

8. 🥤 Try local drinks — not just pisco sour

Branch out from cocktails and taste:

Chicha de jora (fermented corn beer)

Frutillada (sweet chicha with strawberries)

Emoliente andino (herbal tea mix)

Muña or coca tea (perfect for altitude adjustment)

It’s a flavorful way to experience the Andes.

9. 🎭 Join a local celebration

If you visit Cusco between June and July, don’t miss:

Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun)

Corpus Christi

Virgen del Carmen

These celebrations are full of color, music, and ancient tradition.

10. 💬 Talk to people — and really listen

Cusqueños are warm, proud of their heritage, and full of stories. Whether it’s your guide, a market vendor, or an elderly man sitting in the plaza — start a conversation.

You might learn something that’s not in any guidebook.

✨ Conclusion

Cusco is not just a place to visit — it's a place to feel, taste, walk, and truly live. Follow these tips, and you’ll discover that seeing the city like a local will change your entire experience — and maybe even how you travel in the future.