Cusco’s culture is really rich and its expressions are present in countless representations. Now, markets are one of the best scenarios to immerse in this culture. Perfect for experiencing local gastronomy, buying souvenirs from local artisans, trying fresh fruit, witnessing local bargaining culture and more.
Cusco Markets.
San Pedro Market:
It was built in 1925, due to the expansion of the city. Ever since, it has been considered the city’s central market, with the years it has evolved to a commerce hub and a mandatory touristic stop.
It is located 10 minutes away from the Plaza de Armas, in front of the San Pedro Church.
Top attractions:
- Traditional Andean ingredients (corn, potatoes, quinoa, herbs).
- Exotic fruits from the Amazon.
- Fresh juices and food stalls serving local dishes like caldo de gallina or chicharrón.
- A section of Andean medicinal herbs and dried goods.
- A section of local artisanal bread.
- Authentic local atmosphere—it’s where Cusqueños shop.
Pro Traveler Tip: Visit early in the morning to get the freshest produce and the most flavorful fresh fruit juices.
San Blas Market:
It is located in the colonial neighborhood of the same name (Tandapata St.). This market was organically shaped as the neighbors organized themselves in the need of a place to trade. This initiative started around mid-20th century and by the 1960s it was an established market, without an exact foundation date.
You can get there just a couple of blocks to the south from the San Blas Plaza.
Top attractions:
- Small eateries with cheap and delicious menu del día (set lunch).
- Artisan vibe, frequented by locals, expats, and travelers.
- More relaxed shopping atmosphere compared to San Pedro.
- Specialty coffee.
Pro Traveler Tip: Use your visit to the San Blas to visit artisans’ shops and enjoy the bohemian vibe of the area.
Cusco Artisans’ Market.
It was stablished in the early 21st century as a strategy from local artisans to expand their businesses and have a place to display their work. This market is a dedicated area to promote traditional handicrafts. It is the largest artisans’ market in Cusco with over 340 stores.
Products you can find here:
- Jewelry.
- Silver Work.
- Leather goods.
- Ceramics.
- Wood and stone carvings.
- Paintings.
- Religious imagery
- Alpaca and baby alpaca wool products (scarves, sweaters, ponchos).
- Handwoven textiles with Andean patterns.
- Andean musical instruments.
Pro Traveler Tip: All prices are negotiable, try some bargaining yourself.
Pisac Market.
It has pre-colonial root. Is believed that commercial exchange of agricultural goods was happening from Inca times. Later, during the Spanish Colony it stablished as a commerce hub. As Pisac became a larger town its market developed to be one of the most important in the Sacred Valley. Finally, during the late 1900s, with the positioning of Cusco and Machu Picchu as high demanded destinations, Pisac followed the trend.
It is located about 45 mins away from the city of Cusco and in the southern entrance of the Sacred Valley.
Top attractions:
- Sunday traditional market with Quechua communities exchanging goods.
- High-quality handicrafts and ceramics.
- Organic Andean produce and colorful displays.
Pro Traveler Tip: Visit it with a Sacred Valley day trip and discover the wonders of the Urubamba valley.
