Cusco Walking Tour: San Blas, Pisco Sour & Local Music

Summary

Walk ancient Cusco streets taste pisco hear local music stories

You’ll wander Cusco’s historic heart with a local guide who brings stories to life—from Plaza de Armas to hidden corners in San Blas. Taste a real Pisco sour as you look out over the city, listen to live music in a luthier’s shop, and take home a small llama keychain as a reminder of this day that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Opened my eyes to the sound of shoes on old stones—Plaza de Armas already busy, but somehow not rushed. Our guide, Lucía, waved us over near the cathedral steps, her scarf bright against the morning chill. She started with a story about the square that made me look at it differently—like every stone had its own memory. I kept catching whiffs of roasted corn from a street vendor nearby, mixing with incense from a doorway. Didn’t expect to feel so awake so fast.

We wandered down Hatunrumiyoq Street next. Lucía pointed out the famous twelve-angled stone (I’d seen photos but it’s different in person—cool and smooth if you touch it). She laughed when I tried to say “Hatunrumiyoq” properly; I definitely didn’t nail it. Plaza Nazarenas was quieter, almost hushed except for some kids chasing each other around an old fountain. The city felt layered—Inca walls under Spanish balconies—and Lucía seemed to know everyone we passed.

San Blas was my favorite part of this Cusco walking tour. The climb up those narrow cobblestone lanes is no joke (my legs complained), but then you hear guitar strings drifting out from a luthier’s workshop. We stopped inside—he let us hold an instrument while he played something soft and local. There was this moment where time just sort of paused; I still think about that sound echoing off the adobe walls.

After weaving through 7 Borreguitos Street (colorful doors, laundry flapping overhead), we reached San Cristobal Plaza for the view over Cusco. The sky had cleared by then—sun on red rooftops—and someone handed me a cold Pisco sour (included in the tour). I’m not usually into cocktails before noon but honestly? It hit just right after all those steps.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Historic walking tour of Cusco highlights

• Visit Plaza de Armas with commentary
• Explore Hatunrumiyoq Street
• Discover Plaza Nazarenas
• Tour San Blas neighborhood and luthier
• Walk 7 Borreguitos Street
• Ascend to San Cristobal Plaza and viewpoint
• Enjoy a Pisco sour tasting

Top questions

How long does the Cusco walking tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect several hours including stops at main sites and time for music and drinks.

Is pickup included for this Cusco walking tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; the tour starts in central Cusco near Plaza de Armas.

Are drinks or food included?

A complimentary Pisco sour (or non-alcoholic option) is included during the tour.

Is this day trip suitable for families or kids?

The walk is suitable for all fitness levels; infants and small children can use strollers or prams.

Will there be live music during the tour?

Yes, you’ll visit a luthier’s workshop in San Blas where local music is played.

What languages do guides speak?

The guides are bilingual and provide commentary in English and Spanish.

Are there any souvenirs included?

You’ll receive a llama keychain as a complimentary souvenir during your walk.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the starting point in central Cusco.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walks through historic Cusco neighborhoods like San Blas and 7 Borreguitos Street, insightful stories from a professional bilingual guide, entry into a local luthier’s shop with live music, one Pisco sour (or non-alcoholic drink), plus a little llama keychain as your souvenir before heading back on your own schedule.