Discovering Cuzco: what to see and where to sleep

Walk with us through the most amazing historical monument in Cuzco and some pieces of advice about where to sleep.

Peru is a mysterious and fascinating country, with a rich history and heritage. One of its most magnificent jewels is the city of Cuzco, once the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. The city adopted its more current-day mantle after the arrival of the Spaniards, but the original name for the city, Qosqo, meant "navel of the world". However, this wasn't because of any Inca sense of self-importance, rather, because the Incas believed the city to be the confluence of two worlds; our own, and that of the underworld.

It's no surprise Cuzco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even today, the city is filled with unique streets and buildings dating back to a bygone pre-Columbian era. In this article, we'll explore some of the most essential things to see and do in Cuzco, along with some of the most affordable accommodations in town.

PLAZA DE ARMAS

This beautiful location is not only celebrated for its architecture, but for the meaning it has maintained over the centuries. For the Incas, and was the scene of the last resistance, against the invading Spaniards, by Tupac Amaru, known as Awqaypata in their original language. After the resistance failed to ward off the invading conquistadors, it was also the site where conqueror Francisco Pizarro proclaimed his supremacy over the city. Today, the square is still a popular tourist attraction and is home to the famous Cathedral of Cuzco, dating back to the times of the Spanish conquest.

NEIGHBOURHOOD SAN BLAS

This neighbourhood of the city is a popular one with tourists, but that shouldn't put you off. Despite the large crowds, there's still plenty to enjoy here. In addition to many local craft shops and artisan stalls, the historic streets are lined with beautiful palaces and colonial buildings built atop the foundations of ancient Inca buildings.

SACSAYHUAMAN

This ancient citadel fortress is an architectural wonder. Despite the fact the fortress was constructed with huge stone boulders and limited tools, there's barely a single slit or gap left between the huge rocks.

The historic city of Cuzco itself was designed to represent the shape of a puma from above, the jungle cat being sacred to the Inca people, while the fortress of Sacsayhuaman itself is meant to represent the animal's head. Together with the city of Cuzco, the ancient complex has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

MERCADO CENTRAL DE SAN PEDRO

You only need take a few steps into this historic market and you'll quickly be enveloped by strong scents of traditional spices and aromatics typical of Peru.

Immerse yourself in the traditions and heritage of an ancient culture, still held dear and celebrated by locals. Oh, and don't forget to snap up some chocolate during your trip; Peru's its country of origin after all.

WHERE TO STAY IN CUZCO

Among the hostels in Cuzco on Hostelsclub.com we picked just two of them, because we would like to give all the suggestions you need to live an amazing trip in this amazing Peruvian city.

Our first recommendation is for the Karumi Hostel in Cuzco, one of the cheapest hostels you will find in town. Prices start from 4.83 Euros per night, per person.

WHY STAY AT THE KARUMI HOSTEL?

This hostel is built within a historic building dating back all the way to the sixteenth century, but the stones which form its foundations date back even further. Breakfast is included in the price while the kitchen is readily available to guests who prefer to cook for themselves. What's more, Sacsayhuaman is just a 15-minute walk away. Oh, and for those who can't bear to be apart from the internet, you'll be happy to know that WiFi is free to use throughout the hotel and grounds.

The second hostel on our shortlist is the Bright Hostel Cuzco. Beds go for slightly more here, but at little more than 7.50 Euros per night, that's still incredibly affordable.

WHY STAY AT BRIGHT HOSTEL CUZCO?

This hostel is incredibly central, positioned right next to the Plaza de Armas - ideal for sightseeing. Sheets and bedding are included in the price, as well as free use of hostel lockers to ensure your valuables are well protected while you're out exploring. You'll also find WiFi included in the price, perfect for keeping friends and family back home updated on your trip.

Photo Credit: Cover Image from Intertreck.com