Exploring the Heart of the Andes: A Family Adventure in Cusco

San Blas and Beyond: A Day of Cusco's Charms

Today was a delightful immersion into the heart of Cusco, a day where the city's artistic soul and historical echoes resonated deeply. From the quaint Plazoleta de San Blas to the panoramic views from San Cristobal and the insightful Regional Historical Museum, every moment was a step further into understanding and appreciating this Andean jewel. And of course, no day is complete without savoring the local flavors, from breakfast to a late-night drink.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Rucula Peruvian Restaurant. It was a delightful start, fueling us up for a day of exploration. Kai, ever the adventurous eater, tried the alpaca anticuchos, declaring them surprisingly tender. Lena opted for the trout in pesto gnocchi, while I enjoyed the seafood rice, which reminded me of a Peruvian paella. The service was impeccable, and the organic ingredients added a special touch. I made a mental note to try their pisco sour next time; Jennifer Drum highly recommends it!

With our stomachs happy and energy levels high, we ventured towards the Plazoleta de San Blas. This neighborhood, often called the artisan district, is a treasure trove of narrow, cobblestone streets and vibrant art galleries. As we ascended the Cuesta de San Blas, the steep slope leading up from the Plaza de Armas, we were immediately captivated by the bohemian atmosphere. The air was filled with the sounds of traditional music, and the colorful buildings seemed to hum with creativity. I could see why it has been known as the barrio de los artesanos for so long. Lena, with her curator's eye, was particularly drawn to the intricate wood carvings and vibrant paintings displayed in the numerous workshops. Kai, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, found a hand-painted ceramic mask that he proudly added to his growing collection.


Discover the artistic charm of Plazoleta de San Blas in Cusco, where vibrant culture meets breathtaking views in a historic setting.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of a city, where art and history intertwine.

As we wandered through the Plazoleta, we soaked in the unique blend of Andean and European styles, marveling at the colonial architecture that gracefully incorporates ancient Inca stonework. The Plazoleta itself was a hive of activity, with local vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to traditional textiles. We paused to admire the Iglesia de San Blas, a beautiful church built in 1563 on top of an Incan Huaca, dedicated to the Lightning God, Illapa.

Next on our itinerary was San Cristobal, offering one of the best views of Cusco. The climb was a bit challenging, especially at this altitude, but the panoramic vista was well worth the effort. From this vantage point, we could see the entire city sprawling beneath us, with the Plaza de Armas in the foreground and the majestic Ausangate Mountain looming in the distance. It was easy to imagine Manco Capac surveying his kingdom from this very spot centuries ago. The Spanish destroyed Manco Capac’s Qolqampata palace and built the San Cristobal church in its place. I tried to imagine what this place must have looked like back then.


Discover the spiritual beauty and architectural wonders of San Cristobal Church in the heart of Cusco, Peru's historic capital.

After taking in the breathtaking scenery, we made our way to the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco, housed in the former home of Garcilaso de la Vega. The museum provided a fascinating overview of the region's history, from pre-Inca times to the colonial era. Kai was particularly interested in the archaeological artifacts from different Peruvian cultures, while Lena was captivated by the displays of religious art from the Cusco School. I appreciated the well-organized exhibits and the clear explanations in both Spanish and English. The museum gave us an insight into Pre-Inca, Inca and Colonial times. There was a lot of religious art to get through, which can get a bit repetitive and tiresome, but I still enjoyed my visit to the Historical Museum of Cusco. It's a well-organized and easy to navigate museum with clearing signing in Spanish and English.


Explore the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco, a captivating journey through Peru's rich Incan and colonial heritage.

For lunch, we decided to try A Mi Manera, a restaurant known for its straightforward Peruvian dishes. We shared a variety of plates, including the ravioli, lomo saltado, and ceviche. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and efficient. It was a great spot to relax and refuel after a morning of sightseeing. I also enjoyed the fancy decor and homey atmosphere.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at A Mi Manera in Cusco's historic center, where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves drawn to the lively atmosphere of Paddy's Irish Pub. It was a bit of a quirky choice in the heart of Peru, but the promise of a cold beer and some good company was too tempting to resist. The pub was buzzing with tourists from all over the world, and we struck up conversations with fellow travelers from Australia and Canada. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the Guinness was surprisingly good, considering we were thousands of miles from Dublin. I had a massive burger and some fries. Kai ordered the all-day breakfast which looked good and contained all the usual suspects – sausages, rashers, the Peruvian version of baked beans, fries, toast and eggs. It's not haute cuisine, its solid pub grub, and perfect for accompanying a cold beer or whatever football is on the telly.


Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Paddy's Irish Pub in the heart of Cusco, where great food and drinks meet vibrant local culture.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Cusco with my family. Each location we visited, each meal we shared, and each conversation we had added another layer to our understanding of this remarkable city. I'm particularly grateful that we didn't forget any of our trip essentials today!

Tomorrow, we're heading to Pisac, a town in the Sacred Valley known for its impressive Inca ruins and vibrant market. I'm looking forward to exploring the Parque Arqueológico Pisac and browsing the Mercado de artesanías for more unique treasures. I'm also excited to try some local cuisine at Fusion Andina, a restaurant that comes highly recommended. Before that, we'll have breakfast at Something Special Cusco and we'll have dinner at PER.UK.

As I sit here writing, the sounds of Cusco slowly fading into the night, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. This journey has been a reminder of the importance of embracing new experiences, connecting with different cultures, and cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones. Mahalo nui loa, Cusco, for a day filled with art, history, and unforgettable memories.

And as I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of the adventures that await us in the Sacred Valley. I'm sure I will need my portable phone charger tomorrow, as there will be a lot of photo opportunities again!