25 Free Things to Do in Cusco: Budget-Friendly Activities
Here is a secret that budget travel guides rarely admit: some of the best experiences in Cusco are completely free. No tickets, no reservations, no credit card required. The city's parks, streets, viewpoints, and cultural spaces offer enough entertainment to fill an entire trip without spending a single Peruvian Sol (S/.).
Here are 25 genuinely free things to do in Cusco — no "free with purchase" gimmicks, no hidden fees.
Free Sightseeing & Landmarks
1. Walk Through Plaza de Armas — central square with cathedral and colonial arcades
The Plaza de Armas — central square with cathedral and colonial arcades neighborhood is a living museum. The architecture, street life, and atmosphere are attractions in themselves. Budget at least 2 hours for a proper wander.
2. Visit Plaza de Armas (Exterior)
Even if the interior charges admission, the exterior of Plaza de Armas is free to admire — and frankly, some of the best photos are taken from outside.
3. Explore San Pedro — market neighborhood with local food stalls
San Pedro — market neighborhood with local food stalls rewards slow exploration. Every side street holds a surprise — a hidden courtyard, a piece of street art, or a local scene that feels completely authentic.
4. Qoricancha Sun Temple Grounds
The grounds and gardens surrounding Qoricancha Sun Temple are typically free to access and beautifully maintained. Pack a sandwich and enjoy.
5. Moray — circular Inca agricultural terraces that look like an amphitheater
Moray — circular Inca agricultural terraces that look like an amphitheater offers panoramic views of Cusco without the crowds or entrance fees. Ask a local for directions — they love sharing this spot.
Free Nature & Parks
6. Morning Walk in the Main Park
Cusco's main park is where the city breathes. Joggers, dog walkers, tai chi practitioners — the morning routine is mesmerizing.
7. Tambomachay — Inca water temple and fountains often skipped by tours
Tambomachay — Inca water temple and fountains often skipped by tours is peaceful, photogenic, and blissfully free of tour groups.
8. Waterfront / Riverside Stroll
If Cusco has a waterfront, walking along it at sunset is one of the most romantic (and free) experiences available.
9. Plaza de Armas cathedral illuminated at night
Plaza de Armas cathedral illuminated at night offers a photographer's paradise — and it costs nothing. Golden hour is the best time; bring your camera.
10. Botanical Gardens or Public Green Spaces
Many of Cusco's green spaces are free to enter. They offer shade, beauty, and a welcome respite from the heat and noise.
Free Cultural Experiences
11. Free Museum Days
Many museums in Cusco offer free entry on specific days or during certain hours. Check locally for the current schedule — it changes seasonally.
12. Street Art Walking Tour (Self-Guided)
The Lucre — nearby lakeside village with colonial ruins neighborhood has a thriving street art scene. Download a walking map or simply follow the walls — each piece tells a story about Cusco's culture and identity.
13. Visit Local Places of Worship
Cusco's temples, churches, or mosques are often free to enter (with respectful dress) and offer stunning architecture and a moment of tranquility.
14. Maras salt mines — cascading salt evaporation pools on a mountain hillside
Maras salt mines — cascading salt evaporation pools on a mountain hillside frequently host free exhibitions, performances, and workshops. Check community bulletin boards or ask at your accommodation.
15. People-Watching at San Cristóbal — hilltop church with panoramic views of the city Square
Find a bench in a busy square and simply watch. The theater of daily life in Cusco — vendors, musicians, families, lovers — is endlessly entertaining and completely free.
Free Food & Market Experiences
16. Market Browsing
You do not have to buy anything to enjoy Cusco's markets. The colors, aromas, and energy are an experience in themselves.
17. Free Tastings
Many food stalls and shops offer free samples — spices, teas, local snacks. It is part of the sales process, and nobody minds if you taste without buying (though buying is appreciated).
18. Supermarket Exploration
Browsing a local supermarket is underrated travel entertainment. The unfamiliar products, the packaging, the local snack aisle — it is a window into daily life.
Free Walking & Exercise
19. Self-Guided Walking Tour of Plaza de Armas — central square with cathedral and colonial arcades
Map out a route hitting the key landmarks and walk it at your own pace. Most tourist information offices provide free maps with suggested routes.
20. Sunrise Walk to Rainbow Mountain striped sedimentary layers at sunrise
Get up early, grab a coffee, and walk to Rainbow Mountain striped sedimentary layers at sunrise for sunrise. The city at dawn is a completely different place — quieter, softer, and all yours.
21. Jog the Local Route
Ask at your hotel where locals go for a run. Following the popular jogging route gives you a unique perspective on the city and a dose of exercise.
22. Tipon — remarkably preserved Inca irrigation system in a quiet valley
Pick a neighborhood you know nothing about — San Blas — steep cobblestone streets with artisan workshops and galleries is a good choice — and explore it with zero agenda. The best discoveries come from unplanned wandering.
Free Entertainment
23. Street Performances
Cusco has a lively street performance scene, especially in the Plaza de Armas — central square with cathedral and colonial arcades area during evenings and weekends. Musicians, dancers, and artists perform for tips — free to watch.
24. Local Festival or Event
Check local event listings — Cusco frequently hosts free festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural celebrations, especially during June to August and Inti Raymi festival (June 24).
25. Sunset from Sacsayhuamán massive stone walls with Cusco below
The best free show in Cusco runs every evening. Find Sacsayhuamán massive stone walls with Cusco below, arrive 30 minutes before sunset, and enjoy.
Budget Comparison
| Activity Type | Paid Version | Free Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Guided tour | $11 | Self-guided walking route (free maps available) |
| Museum entry | $6 | Free entry days or exterior viewing |
| Sunset experience | $8 rooftop bar | Public viewpoint with a packed snack |
| Cultural show | $11 | Street performances and free festivals |
| Nature activity | $8 guided hike | Self-guided park or garden walks |
Pro Tips for Free Activities
- Download offline maps. Navigating free activities often means going off the tourist trail, where cell signal can be spotty.
- Carry water and snacks. Free activities tend to keep you outdoors longer than planned.
- Talk to locals. The best free experiences are often word-of-mouth. Ask hotel staff, cafe owners, and fellow travelers.
- Check Cusco's local event calendar. Festivals, markets, and celebrations are often free and unforgettable.
- Use TripGenie to mix free and paid activities in your itinerary — the AI balances your budget automatically.
The Bottom Line
You could spend a week in Cusco doing nothing but free activities and still have an incredible trip. The best travel experiences — walking a new neighborhood, watching a sunset, tasting something unexpected — have never required a credit card. Save your money for the moments that truly warrant spending, and let Cusco's generous spirit fill the rest.
Planning a trip to Cusco? Let TripGenie create your perfect itinerary — it's free and takes just 60 seconds.
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TripGenie Team
The TripGenie team is passionate about making travel planning effortless with AI. We combine travel expertise with cutting-edge technology to help you explore the world.
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