Cusco Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in the Inca Capital

If you’re planning a trip to Peru, you’ll no doubt find yourself in Cusco at some point and for good reason. Keep reading to find our ultimate Cusco itinerary for the perfect 2 days in Cusco Peru (easily extendable).

Not only is Cusco the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu it’s also a world-class destination in its own right. Full of beautiful colonial architecture, a vibrant food scene and local, Incan culture Cusco was, for me, and many, the most beautiful city in Peru. 

Cusco was the capital of the Incan empire for three centuries until the Spanish Conquest making it a hot pot of local, mystical Andean culture as well as its colonial history. While not being a very big city 2 days is enough to get your bearings and to see the highlights.

During your Cusco itinerary, you’ll be able to explore some rustic, colonial houses, beautiful brick churches, hilltop ruins and city views. Cusco offers this and so much more. 

Here are the top things to do and see in Cusco in 2 days and why it’s a city that should be very high on your bucket list. We’ve also included the best places to stay and where to eat to make your itinerary for Cusco truly unforgettable.

*This ‘ 2 days in cusco itinerary’ post might contain affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top quality content for free.

Two Days in Cusco Itinerary Overview

How to Get to Cusco, Peru

Flights to Cusco

If you’ve started your Peru trip in Lima or even Arequipa, Peru’s White City, it’s a good idea to fly into Cusco. Peru is a huge country and while popular destinations are linked by bus, it takes a long time!

You’ll fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) which is located about 3.5 miles from the center of Cusco. To get to Cusco City Center from the airport it’s best to take a taxi which are very inexpensive, otherwise, you can also book this reliable airport transfer ahead of your flight.

Search for flights to Cusco below

Bus to Cusco

The next best way to get to Cusco is by bus. There are several companies such as Civa, Cruz del Sur that operate long-distance bus services around Peru.

Depending on the class of ticket you buy, buses can be luxurious and very comfortable even though journeys can be extremely long. From Lima, for example, you’re looking at a 21-hour trip to Cusco. This is due to the mountainous winding roads and constant changes in altitude.

I’d personally only recommend taking the bus if you’re arriving in Cusco from fairly nearby such as Puno or Lake Titicaca, overwise, it’s better to fly given how much time you’ll save.

Train to Cusco

PeruRail offers several luxury train journeys that begin in Cusco. More on those in the bonus section at the end of the article.

Otherwise, normal passenger trains don’t run in Peru.

2 Days in Cusco Itinerary- Best Things to Do

CUSCO ITINERARY DAY ONE

Explore Plaza de Armas

Cusco is best explored on foot and one of the best things to do is to walk around looking up. The heart of the city is the historic center and within that Plaza de Armas- the city’s most important square.

On Plaza de Armas you’ll find a green central square surrounded by Cuscos’ most important buildings, the Cusco Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus as well as beautiful colonial buildings with brightly painted balconies. Narrow, cobbled streets radiated out from the central square, flanked by rustic, stone houses.

As you walk around make sure not to miss Hatunrumiyoc Street, where you’ll find the famous Inca Stone Wall and in it the Twelve-Angled Stone. The huge stones in the wall fit together perfectly without the use of mortar, showing you just how advanced the Inca civilization was.

I highly recommend walking around the area, perhaps taking some time out to people-watch and popping into all the significant landmarks around the large square.

Cusco Cathedral

One of Peru’s most important churches is Cusco Cathedral and if there’s just one church you visit in Cusco, make it this one. A masterpiece of colonial architecture, Cusco Cathedral was built in the 16th Century on the foundations of an important Incn temple.

While the cathedral is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles it’s also a stark reminder of the decimation of Incan culture this time.

On its facade, you’ll find two solid bell towers and an ornately carved doorway. Inside, a rich collection of colonial art, including the famous painting of the Last Supper with a local twist: the traditional Andean guinea pig as the main dish.

Inside you’ll also see intricate gold leaf altars, ornate chapels, and religious relics, reflecting the deep religious history of the region. The blend of Catholic and Andean elements makes Cusco Cathedral one of the most unique in the world.

Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus

Another beautiful church on the Plaza de Armas to add to your Cusco itinerary is Compania de Jesus Church. This striking Jesuit church is renowned for its magnificent baroque style. Inside you’ll find more ornate altars and a rich collection of artwork including a beautiful ceiling.

Santa Clara Arch

As you walk from Plaza de Armas towards San Pedro Market, you’ll soon stumble through Santa Clara Arch. This baroque style arch is another fine example of colonial architecture featuring some ornate stonework.

The 19th Century Arch once marked the entrance to the traditional and vibrant neighborhood of San Pedro. As you walk through it, the road narrows and you’ll notice cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, local markets, and quaint cafes.

San Pedro Market

Nothing gives a more authentic experience than seeing a local market. Head to the famous San Pedro Market where you can just wander and marvel at the amazing variety of local produce on offer from the Andes to the coast.

You can stock up on some local fruit or even some coca leaves or tea for future high-altitude adventures. You can also stock up on local products like quinoa or the superfood maca. The market is also brilliant for local food and you’ll find local stalls serving bowls of steaming soup as well as stir-fried meat and rice.

You’ll also be able to grab a smoothie from a vendor and continue browsing for a few hours. While some markets around the world can be a little exhausting and full-on, San Pedro Market is very laid-back and quiet.

Cusco Historic Center City Tour (Optional)

Cusco’s Historic Center is compact yet there is so much to see and do as well as history to discover. One of the best ways to discover the Historic heart is to take a city tour with a local guide for a few hours.

While this is optional, it’s something I would highly recommend. City Tours in Cusco are very affordable yet the guides are super knowledgeable about the city’s historical past, its Incan roots, and the landmarks the city is known for most.

In just a few hours you’ll get a great overview of the city while also learning more than you would on your own.

Watch the Sunset at Sacsayhuaman

In the light of the Golden Hour and for one of the best things to do in Cusco town, climb up to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

While being a bit of a tough climb, especially at this altitude, you’ll pass through some charming streets on your way and get a glimpse at local life. 

Sacsayhuaman was an Incan fortress of which only the largest stones remain today and is a great introduction to the buildings and practises of the Incas.

Take it in but make sure not to miss the amazing view. You can see the whole valley as well as the city of Cusco. I recommend coming up as close to sunset as you can for the best light and colours. 

Make sure to check sunset time and opening hours ( 7 am- 5.30 pm) before you visit. If the sun sets too late why not try catching the sunrise here instead?

Important Note: To visit Sacsayhuaman and many other ruins in the Sacred Valley you’ll have to buy a ‘boleto turistico’ or tourist ticket. You can do so at any of the major museums or sites. 

The boleto turistico also includes entry to Qorikancha, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay as well as Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins among others.

Bonus: Grab a Hot Chocolate at the ChocoMuseum

ChocoMuseo, while located in many cities across Latin America, provides an excellent pitstop during a day of wandering. They make a delicious hot chocolate with many flavours on offer. I tried the chilli one and it was amazing.

In Cusco, ChocoMusem is located in a gorgeous colonial building, so why not wander in and order a hot chocolate, take a seat on the rustic, wooden balcony and watch the city below?  ChocoMuseo also does several different ‘bean to bar’ workshops and even a cooking course. Find out more here.

Read more: Your Short Guide to What to Do in Lima

CUSCO ITINERARY DAY TWO

Visit Corichanka Temple (Qorikancha)

The Qorikancha Temple, located in the heart of Cusco, Peru, is an iconic site that epitomizes the fusion of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture and culture. Originally named ‘Coricancha’ meaning ‘Golden Enclosure’ in Quechua, this temple was the most important shrine dedicated to the Sun God, Inti, in the Incan Empire.

Its walls were once famously lined with sheets of gold, embodying the Incan reverence for the sun. Following the Spanish conquest, the temple’s riches were looted, and the Convent of Santo Domingo was built atop its foundations, creating a unique juxtaposition of Incan stonework and colonial architecture.

Today, Qorikancha is a captivating museum that offers insights into both Incan and Spanish religious practices.

Visit the Inka Museum

Cusco has a handful of great museums so I highly recommend spending a few hours wandering around a couple to get to know Incan Culture a little more.

The Inka Museum in Cusco is one of the best in the city. Housed in a historical Admiral’s House, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Incan culture, from its origins to its zenith and eventual decline. Y

You’ll be able to have a look at an extensive collection of artefacts, including ceramics, textiles, mummies, jewelry, and tools, providing a vivid window into the daily life and customs of the Incas.

Informative displays and models, including a replica of an Inca qocha (water reservoir), provide context and deepen the understanding of this influential and sophisticated society. The information learned here comes in useful when understanding some other Incan Ruins in the Sacred Valley.

Explore the Pre-Colombian Art Museum

What to do in Cusco Peru doesn’t stop there. Another exceptional museum in Cusco is the Pre-Colombian Art Museum. The museum houses an array of artefacts from Peru’s pre-Columbian civilizations, that’s over 3,000 years of history.

The collection features a diverse range of items including ceramics, gold and silver ornaments, textiles, and wooden sculptures, offering insights into the life and culture of various indigenous peoples.

Each exhibit is thoughtfully displayed, highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic skills of ancient cultures such as the Moche, Nazca, and Inca – a real celebration of the Pre-Colombian civilisations of Peru.

Read more: 6 Best Ayahuasca Retreats in Peru

Explore the San Blas Neighborhood

With 2 days in Cusco, you have plenty of time to explore the trendiest neighbourhoods.

San Blas is the ‘hippie’ or ‘cooler’ neighbourhood of Cusco. In my opinion, it’s a brilliant neighborhood to explore for its exceptional cafes and restaurants.

It’s known as the bohemian and artistic part of the city, full of life both in the day and night. You can walk around, admire the independent boutiques and have a coffee at one of the many good coffee shops.

Some other points of interest in San Blas include Sapatiana Aqueduct, Mirador de San Blas for amazing views over Cusco, San Blas Market and Templo de San Blas. Make sure not to miss any of these when wandering around.

It’s also full of bars and restaurants if you’re wandering what to do in Cusco Peru at night.  When arriving in Cusco make a beeline for this neighbourhood.

Top Day Trips from Cusco

While two days in Cusco is certainly enough for the city, you’ll want to have a few extra days in your Cusco itinerary for exploring Cusco’s surroundings or the stunning Sacred Valley.

While I’d recommend more than one day in the Sacred Valley, if you have limited time then one day might be enough, perhaps on the way to Machu Picchu. If you’ve only got one day for day trips outside Cusco, I’d highly recommend tours to not lose any extra time and to take the stress out of booking everything yourself.

Cusco to the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the most beautiful places in Peru. Visiting this beautiful place is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Inca civilization. This picturesque valley, cradled by the Andes, is dotted with ancient ruins, traditional villages, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

I spent a week in the Sacred Valley and my highlights from this area were Pisac Market Town, Ollantaytambo as well as the Salt Mines of Maras. I’d recommend focusing on these and perhaps choosing a tour that incorporates most of them if not all.

Pisac is known for its vibrant market and impressive terraced ruins overlooking the valley.

Ollantaytambo is a living Inca town with remarkably well-preserved ruins where you can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and step back in time. From here it’s fairly easy to get to Machu Picchu too, so it makes sense to visit before or after your trip to the World Wonder.

While it’s hard to find a tour that includes all three top sites, this Full-Day Tour from Cusco prioritises Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo, while this Ultimate Sacred Valley Tour includes Moray, Maras, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo.

Machu Picchu

Let’s face it- most people visit Cusco on their way to or from Machu Picchu so leaving these remarkable Incan Ruins off this 2 Day Cusco Itinerary guide would be unthinkable.

While Machu Picchu needs no introduction, the iconic citadel set high in the Andes Mountains of Peru is a mesmerizing experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its archaeological significance and breathtaking views, offers a glimpse into the Inca civilization like nowhere else on Earth.

You’ll want to book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance of your trip, I’d recommend booking them as soon as you know your travel dates.

For more details on planning your visit to Machu Picchu check out How to Get to Machu Picchu and A Guide to Machu Picchu Tickets.

Rainbow Mountain

Visiting Rainbow Mountain from Cusco, Peru, is an exhilarating adventure that leads to one of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Officially known as Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain is famous for its surreal, multi-colored striations, a result of mineral deposits over centuries.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain, during your Cusco itinerary, is a challenging yet rewarding experience, taking you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Peruvian Andes. As you ascend, the trail winds through vibrant green valleys, past traditional Quechua communities, and alongside grazing alpacas and llamas.

The altitude and steep paths make the trek really demanding, but the sight of the mountain’s vivid stripes in shades of red, yellow, green, and blue is a spectacular reward.

Bonus: See the Rest of Peru by Train

No other country in South America does luxury train travel quite like Peru. If you are looking to elevate your Peru trip to a whole new level then make sure to miss out on the following, curated train journeys.

Two of the most incredible Peru train journeys are the Andean Explorer by Belmond and the Titicaca Train by Peru Rail.

PeruRail’s Titicaca train links Cusco with Puno on Lake Titicaca where you’ll spend a full day cruising through the Andes, indulging in a gourmet lunch, traditional events and dances and other events. Trains leave Wanchaq Station in Cusco and arrive at Puno (or the other way around). It’s best to check their website for more details on timetables.

For the ultimate Peruvian adventure, there’s the Andean Explorer. Belmond’s signature train operates four different routes between Arequipa, Cusco and Lake Titicaca on a multi-day journey through the Andes and Peru’s stunning scenery.

The routes offer spectacular views, top-notch service, high-end private en-suite cabins and gourmet dining.

If you’re looking for something a little different or a bucket list experience in Peru to last a lifetime, then don’t let these magical train journeys pass you by.

Where to Stay in Cusco

The best areas to stay in Cusco are either in the Historic Center or in San Blas. In the historic center you’ll find the more colonial, luxury properties while San Blas has more of a hippy/vegan scene where you’ll find more hostels and budget-friendly properties.

Both areas are central and easily walkable to all the city’s major sights and attractions. I personally preferred staying in the Historic Center as the accommodation offered here is just better. Here’s our selection of the best places to stay in Cusco.

Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel – A majestic blend of historical grandeur and contemporary luxury. The hotel occupies a former monastery dating back to 1592 and perfectly combines historical culture with modern luxury. While the price point is high, it’s worth forking out on. Check availability and book here.

Inkaterra La Casona – Occupying an exclusive colonial mansion, this property is just to die for. Elegant and timeless decor, large rooms and superior service. Find out more here.

Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco – a stunning fusion of historical richness and contemporary luxury. Situated in a centuries-old palace, the hotel boasts opulent interiors, showcasing intricate colonial architecture and indigenous art. Find out more and book here.

Palacio Manco Capac – For the best luxury, design hotel at the best price point look no further than Palacio Manco Capac. This beautiful property is simply swoonworthy and located just a short walk from Plaza Mayor. Find out more and book here.

Where to Eat in Cusco, Peru

MAP Café – Located inside the Pre-Colombian Art Museum, the standout cuisine here brings together some of the best of Peru’s ingredients. You’ll find quinoa, lucuma and cuy (guinea pig) featured among others.

LIMO – Peru is known for its Nikkei cuisine, or Peruvian Japanese fusion and this is one of the best spots for it in Cusco. You’ll find a menu full of Peruvian classics with Japanese flare.

Green Point – The most popular 100% plant-based restaurant in all of Cusco for many years now. This place has become an institution and if there’s one place you can’t miss it’s this. A highlight is the daily lunch menu + their vegan barbecue, large enough for a group to share.

Republica del Pisco – One of the best bars in Cusco for all things pisco. Try the classic pisco sour or another exciting concoction.

Read more: The Best Vegan Eats in Cusco

Looking for more things to do in Cusco, Peru?

How Many Days in Cusco

It is possible to see Cusco in two days. With 48 hours in Cusco, you’ll be able to explore the main neighborhoods like the historic center and San Blas as well as visit many of the landmarks and significant sights. I probably wouldn’t recommend less than two days in Cusco.

If you’re planning to explore the Sacred Valley and visit Macchu Pichu, you’ll need more time. 5 days for Cusco and the Sacred Valley, including Macchu Pichu is a good amount of time.

Avoiding Altitude Sickness in Cusco

At 3,400m/11,150ft, Cusco is one of the highest points you’ll spend time in Peru. Travelers to Peru often encounter altitude sickness, a challenge due to the significantly high altitudes in the Peruvian Andes.

Symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue are common and can intensify with increasing elevation. In extreme cases, these symptoms can be life-threatening.

To prevent altitude sickness during your Cusco itinerary, these are some Cusco travel tips to bear in mind:

↠ Begin your Peru itinerary at sea level and gradually ascend to higher elevations. Flying straight to Cusco is not a good idea but instead going to Lima, then Arequipa and then Cusco prepares you well for the higher altitudes. You also want to leave high and strenuous treks for your final days. This is the best way to avoid altitude sickness.

↠ Drink coca tea or chew coca leaves, a traditional Andean remedy for altitude sickness.

↠ Stay hydrated, particularly during physical activity. Drinking water with added electrolytes is beneficial as it helps restore essential nutrients lost through sweating.

Spending 2 days in Cusco? Ask me anything! Leave a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.

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