Hidden Gems of Cusco: Exploring the City Like a Local
Cusco is best known as the gateway to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, but the city itself is a treasure trove of culture, history, and local charm. Beyond the main squares and popular attractions lie hidden gems that reveal the authentic heart of the city.
At Rainbow Mountain Expeditions, we encourage travelers to go beyond the obvious. While you might join a Rainbow Mountain Peru tour or a Sacred Valley tour, make sure you also leave time to explore Cusco like a local. Here are our top recommendations.
San Blas Neighborhood: The Bohemian Quarter
Just a short walk uphill from the Plaza de Armas, San Blas is a neighborhood filled with narrow streets, artisan workshops, and cozy cafés. It’s quieter than the main square, offering a more relaxed vibe.
Local craftspeople sell unique souvenirs, from handwoven textiles to intricate jewelry. Stop for a coffee or herbal tea while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Mercado San Pedro: A Taste of Everyday Life
While many tourists pass through, few take time to appreciate the San Pedro Market fully. Here, locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and traditional remedies.
Grab a fresh juice, sample Andean cheese, or try an authentic meal for just a few soles. Exploring the market gives you a firsthand look at daily life in Cusco and is a must for food lovers.
Hidden Plazas and Courtyards
Beyond the Plaza de Armas are smaller, lesser-known plazas like Plaza San Cristóbal or Plaza Regocijo. These quiet spaces offer a chance to escape the crowds, admire colonial architecture, and watch daily life unfold.
Wandering side streets often leads to unexpected courtyards, ancient walls, and charming hidden corners — a rewarding way to explore without an agenda.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
Cusco has more than just the famous Inca Museum. Discover smaller museums such as the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, which showcases ancient artifacts with modern presentation, or the Coca Museum, offering insight into the cultural significance of coca leaves.
These museums provide depth and context to the broader history you’ll encounter on a Cusco Peru day trip.
Local Food Spots
Instead of dining only in tourist-focused restaurants, venture into local eateries. Small family-run establishments serve hearty meals like ají de gallina or chairo soup. Many of these hidden gems are tucked away in residential streets and offer both affordability and authenticity.
Pair your meal with a glass of chicha morada (purple corn drink) for the full Andean experience.
Festivals and Everyday Celebrations
Cusco is alive with festivals year-round. From grand celebrations like Inti Raymi to neighborhood parades and local saint’s days, you’ll often stumble upon colorful processions with music and dance. These spontaneous encounters add joy and authenticity to your visit.
Exploring Cusco like a local means slowing down, stepping off the main tourist track, and embracing the city’s hidden corners. From artisan neighborhoods to bustling markets and tucked-away plazas, these experiences reveal the real soul of the city.
At Rainbow Mountain Expeditions, we believe that travel is about connection as much as discovery. While we specialize in adventures like a Rainbow Mountain Peru tour or Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco, we also encourage you to savor the charm of Cusco itself.
Ready to see both the famous sights and the hidden gems of Peru? Contact us today and let’s craft your perfect Cusco experience.
