Whether you’re in Peru to visit Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley or a variety of the country’s other wonders, there’s a good chance your journey will take you to Cusco at one point or another. Many people tend to overlook Cusco as they quickly take off on their adventures heading away from the city, but it’s a charming place that you can quickly be in the heart of in less than a half an hour after stepping out of the airport. So take advantage of every moment you have in Cusco, with these stops to make along the way.

1. San Pedro Market
Start off your day right by finding incredibly fresh produce among the locals in San Pedro Market. This vast space is home to many stalls, and while some are good stops for souvenirs, there are plenty of food options. If nothing else, you can see the sight and grab some delicious fruit to snack on throughout the day.

© Tony Bailey

READ MORE: Virtual City Tour: Lima

2. Plaza de Armas
Also referred to as Plaza Mayor, Plaza de Armas is the bustling hub of Cusco. Travelers aren’t the only ones packing this historic area built around Spanish colonial buildings. Huge festivals and other events take place frequently here. Holidays aren’t the only occasions causing them either, meaning there’s a good chance that any weekend you end up here you could find a stage where with lights and music going late into the night.

© Jennifer Wankmuller

3. ChocoMuseo
Everyone loves free samples, and getting a quick taste of delectable Peruvian chocolate is enough of a reason to stop by ChocoMuseo. This is an easy place to spend as little or as much time in as you want. You can take a quick look around on your own, or a guide will be happy to show you around the small yet incredibly informative building for only the cost of tipping them at the end. There are also options to take a chocolate making class or grab a bite in their little café.

© Jennifer Wankmuller

4. Cristo Blanco
Rio de Janeiro has its famous Christ the Redeemer statue, Santiago has its towering Virgin Mary statue, and Cusco has its Cristo Blanco overlooking the main city. Cristo Blanco may be the least spectacular of three, particularly since a fence mars the up-close view, but it’s still not a sight to be missed due to the amazing view of Cusco from there. The site of Sacsayhuamán is also a close walk from here, in case you’re looking to include more Inca ruins into your Peru itinerary. The walk up to this is area isn’t particularly long, but it is relatively steep and will feel more difficult than usual if you’re not yet accustomed to Cusco’s high altitude.

© Toni Fish

READ MORE: Virtual City Tour: Santiago

5. Limbus Restobar
After taking a nice little hike up Cristo Blanco and seeing Cusco laid out before you in daylight, make your way over to Limbus Restobar. You can watch the sun set from here or even just catch the stunning nighttime view of the city as you try one of their many pisco sours, a must-have drink while in Peru. It’s a busy place for both locals and travelers, so you may be put on a wait. It likely won’t be too long though and is worthwhile way to end a day in Cusco.

© Jennifer Wankmuller