Plaza de San Blas and Church
Cusco's bohemian artisan quarter, featuring a charming plaza, historic church, and winding streets filled with art and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Plaza de San Blas and Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cusco's bohemian artisan quarter, featuring a charming plaza, historic church, and winding streets filled with art and stunning views.
"A picturesque neighborhood with a rich artistic heritage and breathtaking city vistas."
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and hills require good footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Carry water and sip on coca tea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Church of San Blas
Plaza de San Blas
Admire the intricate Baroque altarpiece and the stunning pulpit carved from a single piece of wood.
Artisan Workshops
San Blas Neighborhood
Explore workshops showcasing traditional crafts, from ceramics to textiles, and meet local artists.
Panoramic City Views
Upper San Blas
Climb to higher vantage points for breathtaking views of Cusco's red-tiled roofs and surrounding mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Altitude
Wander Beyond the Main Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and hills require good footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Carry water and sip on coca tea.
📸 Capture the Charm
Wander the narrow streets for unique photo opportunities. Every corner is picturesque!
💰 Free to Explore
The plaza and neighborhood are free to wander, offering great value.
What to do in Cusco?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and hills require good footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Carry water and sip on coca tea.
📸 Capture the Charm
Wander the narrow streets for unique photo opportunities. Every corner is picturesque!
💰 Free to Explore
The plaza and neighborhood are free to wander, offering great value.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Plaza de San Blas and its church for their traditional charm, artistic atmosphere, and beautiful architecture. The artisan workshops and panoramic views are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some note that the area can be crowded and the steep, cobblestone streets require comfortable footwear.
"A small plaza in the Mariscal neighborhood of Quito."
John Dupon
"San Blas Square in the center of Quito is very beautiful, with a beautiful church and very traditional surrounding buildings. As a recommendation, I can say that security is lacking to remove homeless people from the site, which creates a bad image."
Diego Maldonado
"Monument to Brother Miguel and the traditional games of hopscotch and marbles. The central fountain needs maintenance. Recommended for a rest stop. It has public restrooms and security, and the parking is a paid blue zone."
Angel Gen Parra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de San Blas is a pleasant uphill walk from the main Plaza de Armas, taking about 10-15 minutes. Follow the signs or simply head uphill from the cathedral. +1
While walking is the most common and recommended way to reach San Blas, local buses do pass through the general area, though they might not drop you directly at the plaza. Taxis are also readily available.
The best way is on foot! Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for steep, narrow, cobblestone streets. Getting lost is part of the charm.
Parking in the San Blas area can be challenging due to narrow streets. It's generally recommended to rely on walking or taxis if you're not staying nearby.
If your hotel is near the Plaza de Armas, walking to San Blas is very feasible and highly recommended to soak in the city's atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de San Blas and the surrounding neighborhood are public spaces and are free to enter and explore.
While the plaza is free, there might be a small entrance fee or donation requested for entry into the Church of San Blas itself, especially if you wish to see the interior details.
The church typically follows local religious hours, usually open in the mornings and afternoons. It's best to check locally upon arrival as hours can vary.
Yes, many Cusco city tours and walking tours will include a visit to the San Blas neighborhood and its church, offering historical context.
Absolutely! Most artisan workshops welcome visitors to browse and admire their work without any obligation to purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
Wander the narrow, winding streets, especially Calle Hatun Rumiyoc with its famous 12-angled stone. Look for colorful doorways and balconies.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially artisans at work.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The Church of San Blas itself, the intricate stonework on Calle Hatun Rumiyoc, and the panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cusco are prime photo locations.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the San Blas neighborhood has many charming cafes and restaurants offering local Peruvian cuisine and international options.
You'll find traditional Andean dishes, fresh juices, and often more contemporary fusion cuisine in the restaurants around the plaza.
While some restaurants can be upscale, you can find more affordable local eateries and cafes if you explore the side streets.
Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask or check menus beforehand.
While street food can be tempting, it's generally safer to stick to established restaurants and cafes, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, it's advisable to visit during weekday mornings when it's less crowded and cooler. The panoramic views from the upper parts of San Blas can also be a great way to show kids the scale of Cusco. Remember to take frequent breaks and listen to your children's needs, especially regarding the altitude.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid feeling rushed and to better appreciate the atmosphere. Walking from the Plaza de Armas is also a significant cost-saver compared to taking taxis. Many of the most memorable experiences in San Blas, like discovering hidden alleys and enjoying the views, are entirely free of charge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Heart of Cusco: San Blas Neighborhood
Exploring San Blas is best done on foot, allowing you to discover hidden courtyards, picturesque corners, and breathtaking viewpoints. The climb up can be steep, but the rewards are immense. Many visitors find that simply getting lost in its labyrinthine alleys is a highlight of their Cusco experience. The area also boasts a lively culinary scene, with charming cafes and restaurants offering delicious Peruvian and international dishes.
Beyond the art, San Blas holds historical significance. The Church of San Blas, a beautiful colonial-era church, is a focal point of the plaza. Inside, you can marvel at its ornate Baroque altarpiece and, most notably, a stunning wooden pulpit carved from a single piece of wood, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. The neighborhood offers a more tranquil and authentic atmosphere compared to the bustling main square, making it a perfect escape for a few hours.
Navigating Cusco's Altitude
Many travelers recommend a gradual acclimatization process. This means spending your initial hours in Cusco resting or engaging in light activities, such as a gentle stroll around the Plaza de Armas or the lower parts of San Blas. Some visitors also find that avoiding alcohol and caffeine for the first day or two can help their bodies adjust more smoothly. If symptoms are severe, consult a medical professional.
While the altitude can be challenging, it's also part of what makes Cusco so unique. The thin air contributes to the crisp mountain atmosphere and the stunning clarity of the Andean skies. By being prepared and taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize the impact of the altitude and fully enjoy the magic of this ancient city.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit