5 Compelling Reasons to Visit Cusco, Peru: Beyond Just Machu Picchu
About 99% of travelers to Peru pass through Cusco en route to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel high in the Andes, often called the Lost City of the Incas. Yet Cusco deserves more than a quick stop—it's a captivating destination in its own right. During my 10-day stay while completing the Salkantay Trek, I discovered why. (Stay tuned for trek highlights and stunning photos that will inspire your next adventure!) 
Instead of rushing to Machu Picchu, plan a few nights in Cusco—you won't regret it. Here are my top five reasons:
1. A Historic Gem Nestled in the Andes
While Machu Picchu dominates bucket lists, Cusco is a treasure with colonial architecture, an awe-inspiring cathedral, and the vibrant Plaza de Armas. Shop for local handicrafts, woolen textiles, blankets, and pottery at bustling markets. Festivals add cultural flair year-round, all set against dramatic Andean peaks. I spent hours wandering cobblestone streets, admiring ornate wooden balconies, hidden plazas, and quaint churches—often stumbling upon traditional dance troupes in vibrant attire. 
2. Exceptional Culinary Scene
Cusco rivals Peru's top food destinations. Indulge in local and international flavors, a welcome variety after South American travels: Mexican breakfasts, sushi, or French pastries. Must-try Peruvian dishes include cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steak, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, spices, fries, and rice), aji de gallina (creamy chicken in yellow pepper sauce with olives and eggs), and papa rellena (stuffed potatoes with beef, veggies, olives, eggs, and spices). My favorites: papas a la huancaina (potatoes in creamy cheese sauce) and refreshing Pisco Sours.
Recommended spots: Cicciolina's (baked goods), Nuna Raymi (traditional Peruvian), Limo (upscale sushi and Pisco Sour), Pachapapa (cuy), Chicha (Peru's finest—book ahead, credit card required), Map Café (fine dining), Greens (organic), Green Point (vegan), Incanto (Peruvian-Italian fusion), Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse (steaks), and Le Soleil (2014 Traveler's Choice winner). 
3. Rich Inca Heritage Nearby
Beyond Machu Picchu's 1.2 million annual visitors, Cusco offers 10+ Inca sites as easy day trips: Choquequirao (Machu Picchu's 'sister city'), Pisac, Moray (concentric agricultural terraces), Ollantaytambo, Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Puca Pucara, Huchuy Cusco, Tipon (terraces), Maras Salt Pans, and Templo de la Luna. 
4. Charming San Blas Neighborhood
San Blas, Cusco's most picturesque barrio, captivated me—I chose a guesthouse there over anywhere else. Perched on a hillside with steep cobblestone lanes, white buildings, colorful doors, and wooden balconies, it offers panoramic views of red-tiled roofs from rooftop cafes. Explore shops, eateries, and bars—perfect for photography. 
5. World-Class Trekking Options
Cusco is a trekker's paradise with high-altitude routes (often above 15,000 feet) ending at Machu Picchu: Lares Valley (3-4 days), Choquequirao Trail, 1-day hikes, or challenging Vilcabamba Traverse (7-13 days). See National Geographic's top alternatives. My Salkantay Trek (5 days, ~$250) was grueling but rewarding with sacred Salkantay peak (20,500 feet) views—far cheaper than the Inca Trail (~$600, books out months ahead). 
Tip: Opt for alternative treks if Inca Trail is unavailable.
Have you visited Cusco? Share your reasons in the comments!
