San Pedro, Cusco Travel Guide

Discover the lively San Pedro neighborhood in Cusco, Peru, where bustling markets, historic architecture, and vibrant street life create an unforgettable experience.

San Pedro is a dynamic and colorful neighborhood in Cusco, Peru, renowned for its bustling markets, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant street life. At the center of it all is the San Pedro Market, a must-visit attraction where tourists can immerse themselves in the local way of life. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and traditional Andean crafts to exotic fruits and local delicacies. The market is a sensory overload, offering an authentic experience of Cusco's daily rhythm. Beyond the market, San Pedro is home to stunning colonial architecture and charming narrow streets that invite you to explore. The neighborhood's historic churches, such as the San Pedro Church, provide a tranquil escape from the lively streets. The cobblestone pathways lead you through a tapestry of history, where each building tells a story of Cusco's rich past. San Pedro's proximity to the main square, Plaza de Armas, makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Cusco. Whether you're looking to delve into Incan history at the nearby museums or enjoy a cup of coca tea at one of the quaint cafes, San Pedro offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The neighborhood's friendly locals add to its charm, always ready to share a smile or a story, making your visit truly unforgettable.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring San Pedro.

Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the freshest produce.
Carry small denominations of Peruvian Soles for easier transactions at local stalls.
Explore the narrow streets around the market for hidden gems like local eateries and artisan shops.
Take time to visit the San Pedro Church for a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle.
Stay hydrated and take it slow; Cusco's high altitude can be challenging for first-time visitors.

Explore San Pedro: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in San Pedro

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Mercado Central de San Pedro

Discover the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Cusco at Mercado Central de San Pedro, a bustling market filled with local delicacies and unique crafts.

4.2

Saqsaywaman

Explore Saqsaywaman, an iconic Incan archaeological site in Cusco, Peru, known for its massive stone walls and stunning views of the Andes.

4.7

Qorikancha

Explore Qorikancha, the iconic Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peru, where Inca history and stunning architecture come alive amidst a vibrant cultural backdrop.

4.7

Temple of the Moon

Discover the Temple of the Moon, a captivating site in Cusco, Peru, where ancient Incan spirituality and breathtaking landscapes unite.

4.7

Best landmarks in San Pedro

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Plaza Mayor de Cusco

Discover the vibrant heart of Cusco at Plaza Mayor, a cultural hub blending rich history, stunning architecture, and lively local life.

4.7

Mercado Central de San Pedro

Explore Mercado Central de San Pedro in Cusco for an authentic taste of Peruvian culture, delicious food, and unique local crafts.

4.2

Saqsaywaman

Discover the awe-inspiring Saqsaywaman, an ancient Incan fortress offering breathtaking views and remarkable architecture in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

4.7

Qorikancha

Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Qorikancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

4.7

Best restaurants in San Pedro

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LIMBUS RESTOBAR

Experience exquisite dining at Limbus Restobar in Cusco - where flavorful cuisine meets breathtaking views.

4.4

Republica Del Pisco - Cusco

Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Republica Del Pisco in Cusco - where tradition meets modern gastronomy.

4.6

Organika Restaurant

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Organika Restaurant in Cusco's historic center—where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.

4.8

Chicha por Gaston Acurio

Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio in Cusco's historic Plaza Regocijo.

4.4

Best bars in San Pedro

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LIMBUS RESTOBAR

Experience the flavors of Peru and breathtaking views at Limbus Restobar, the perfect blend of cuisine and scenery in Cusco.

4.4

La chupiteria the shot bar

Discover the heartbeat of Cusco's nightlife at La Chupiteria, the ultimate shot bar with an extensive menu and vibrant atmosphere.

4.8

Ukukus Music Club - Bar

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Ukukus Music Club - Bar, where live music and great food come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Paddy's Irish Pub

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Paddy's Irish Pub in Cusco, where great food and drinks await in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in San Pedro

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Inka Team

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Inka Team, a disco club where music and dance meet Peruvian culture in an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

El Muki

Discover the pulse of Cusco's nightlife at El Muki, where dancing and vibrant music create unforgettable memories.

4.1

Chango Club Cusco

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Chango Club, where eclectic music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.

3.8

Mama Africa

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Cusco at Mama Africa, where music and culture create unforgettable experiences.

3.9

Best shops in San Pedro

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Mercado Central de San Pedro

Discover the heart of Cusco at Mercado Central de San Pedro, where vibrant culture meets authentic Peruvian flavors and artisanal crafts.

4.2

ARTESANIAS LLANCAQMAKI

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Peru at Artesanias Llancaqmaki, where unique crafts and authentic souvenirs await every traveler.

4.3

Handicraft Center Cusco

Discover the vibrant artisan culture at Handicraft Center Cusco, a haven for unique crafts and souvenirs reflecting Peru's rich heritage.

4.4

Mercado Artesanal de Productores Inti Paqarek

Discover the essence of Peru at Mercado Artesanal de Productores Inti Paqarek - a vibrant marketplace of crafts, culture, and culinary delights in Cusco.

4.2

Explore San Pedro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in San Pedro, mapped for you.

San Pedro Essentials

San Pedro is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Cusco. It is located about a 10-minute walk from the historic city center (Plaza de Armas). You can also take a local taxi or a mototaxi, which are common forms of transport in the area and are relatively inexpensive. If you're coming from the airport, a taxi will take around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
San Pedro is a compact neighborhood that is best explored on foot. However, if you're looking to venture further, local buses and vans (known as combis) run frequently and are a cost-effective option. Bicycles can be rented from nearby shops, and taxis are readily available for longer distances or more convenience.
While San Pedro is generally safe for tourists, it is important to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas like the market. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of pickpockets in busy places. Areas near the bus stations can be less safe after dark, so it's best to avoid those late at night.
In case of an emergency, you can dial 105 for police assistance or 116 for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available, and many have English-speaking staff.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local markets or religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, and be prepared to cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat for the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake, and a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food but ensure that it's from a busy vendor. Don't refuse food or drink if offered, as it may be considered rude.
To experience San Pedro like a local, visit the San Pedro Market where you can find fresh produce, traditional textiles, and local delicacies. Engage with vendors and try some street food, like salchipapas or empanadas. Also, explore the nearby neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local art galleries. Participating in local festivals can also provide a deeper understanding of Cusco's culture and traditions.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for San Pedro

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in San Pedro. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [OH-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-DYOHS]
- YesSí
  [SEE]
- NoNo
  [NOH]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-VOHR/de NAH-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [GRAH-syahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [PEHR-dohn/loh SYEHN-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [KOH-moh ehs-TAHS]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too?]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [AH-blahs een-GLEHS?]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [NOH ehn-TYEHN-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah vehr ehl MEH-noo, poor fah-VOHR]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [NOH KOH-moh KAHR-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-LOOD]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah pah-GAHR, poor fah-VOHR]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [VEH-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [YAH-mah ah lah poh-LEE-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [YAH-mah ah oon dohk-TOHR]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-TOY pehr-DEE-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-TOY ehn-FEHR-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah kohm-PRAR]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [SOH-loh ehs-TOY meer-AHN-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [EH-soh ehs deh-mah-SYA-doh KAH-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [PWEH-deh BAH-hahr ehl PREH-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh OR-ah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah OO-nah]
- Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee MEH-dee-ah (DEE-ehz)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-NYAH-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [TAHR-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [NOH-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-YEHR]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-NYAH-nah]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [KWAH-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [SEEN-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [SYEH-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [OH-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [NWEH-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [DOHN-deh ehs-TAH ehl/lah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [KWAHL ehs lah dee-rehk-SYOHN]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [PWEH-dehs mohs-TRAHR-meh (ehn ehl MAH-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [KWAHN-doh ehs ehl PROK-sy-moh (ow-toh-BOOS)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-LEH-toh (ah ....)]

History of San Pedro

San Pedro, located near the heart of Cusco, has its roots in the Inca civilization, which thrived in the region before the Spanish conquest. The area was part of the vast network of the Inca Empire, known for its sophisticated agricultural practices and impressive architectural feats. The nearby Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha) served as a spiritual and cultural hub, influencing local communities, including those in San Pedro.
With the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, San Pedro transformed significantly. The Spanish established colonial structures, often repurposing Inca buildings for their purposes. The San Pedro Church, constructed in the 17th century, is a prime example of colonial architecture that combines indigenous and Spanish styles. This era marked the imposition of European culture and religion, which left a lasting impact on the local community.
By the late 19th century, the San Pedro Market began to take shape, becoming a crucial center for trade and commerce in Cusco. The market became a vibrant hub where local farmers, artisans, and merchants gathered to sell their goods, reflecting the region's rich agricultural heritage. This bustling marketplace continues to thrive today, attracting both locals and tourists seeking authentic Peruvian products and culinary experiences.
Throughout the 20th century, San Pedro experienced a cultural revitalization as Cusco became a focal point for tourism, particularly after Machu Picchu was rediscovered. The neighborhood celebrated its indigenous heritage through festivals, traditional music, and dance, fostering a sense of identity among its residents. This resurgence of interest in local culture has made San Pedro a vital part of Cusco's contemporary cultural landscape.
In recent years, San Pedro has seen significant developments aimed at enhancing its appeal to tourists while preserving its cultural roots. Renovations of historical sites, improvements to infrastructure, and the promotion of cultural events have contributed to a vibrant atmosphere. The neighborhood serves as a gateway to experiencing the rich tapestry of Cusco's history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.