San Blas Artisan Market - a man walking down a street next to a market
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San Blas Artisan Market

4.4
·1k reviews·Cusco, Peru

A vibrant hub in Cusco for authentic artisan crafts, delicious Peruvian street food, and essential trek supplies at unbeatable prices.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
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San Blas Artisan Market - a man walking down a street next to a market

San Blas Artisan Market

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub in Cusco for authentic artisan crafts, delicious Peruvian street food, and essential trek supplies at unbeatable prices.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"This was the all in one stop. They had things to buy things to eat things to drink things to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Haggling is Expected

Politely negotiate prices for souvenirs to get the best deals. It's part of the market experience!

🍜 Don't Miss the Noodle Soup

Stall #10 is highly recommended for its homemade beef noodle soup. Generous portions!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handcrafted Souvenirs

Handcrafted Souvenirs

Various stalls

Discover unique textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more, all made by local artisans.

Authentic Peruvian Cuisine

Authentic Peruvian Cuisine

Food stalls

Savor delicious local dishes like lomo saltado, beef noodle soup, and freshly squeezed juices.

Trekker's Paradise

Trekker's Paradise

Specific supply vendors

Stock up on dried fruits, nuts, and chocolates for your hiking adventures at great prices.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Market Maze

San Blas Artisan Market is a vibrant hub for souvenirs and local flavors. Arrive early to beat the crowds and snag the best deals on handcrafted goods. Don't be afraid to haggle politely for a better price, a common practice here.

Culinary Adventures Await

This market is a foodie's paradise! From hearty sandwiches to flavorful lomo saltado and fresh juices, there's something for every palate. Many vendors offer generous portions at incredibly low prices, making it a budget-friendly dining experience.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the crowds, best selection
Crowd
Low
When
Lunchtime
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, delicious food
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Fabrication & Vente Sandales Artisanaux. Next to riad Karmela https://maps.app.goo.gl/iPaxjRsB2RCLBayD8?g_st=ipc #handcrafted #sandals #marrakech #birckenstock #foryou
@katharinalopezkuhlen
63.1K likes • 1M views

🎯 Haggling is Expected

Politely negotiate prices for souvenirs to get the best deals. It's part of the market experience! Reddit

🍜 Don't Miss the Noodle Soup

Stall #10 is highly recommended for its homemade beef noodle soup. Generous portions! Reddit

Wasn’t planning on a part 3 but @Northgate Market just opened their newest/largest location so I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity! 10/10 to their creative/marketing team! The artesanías section is so thoughtfully curated, I want it ALL! 💕 #artesanias #barro #decoracionmexicana #talavera #capula #michoacan #mexico #mexicanhomedecor #orangecounty #northgatemarket #parati #senoralife #mercado #he...
@jacque_cortes
21.4K likes • 177.9K views
This is seriously one of the most amazing markets that I’ve ever been to in Mexico. If you guys want to see a haul definitely let me know. #tianguis #guadalajara #mexico
@ale_roundtheworld
12.9K likes • 275.8K views

🧃 Fresh Juices Galore

Enjoy incredibly refreshing and affordable freshly squeezed juices from various vendors. Reddit

🥾 Trekking Essentials

Find great deals on nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates for your treks. Sample before buying! Reddit

BEST ARTISANAL MARKET IN MEXICO CITY I stopped at La Ciudadela which is an artisanal market in the heart of the city. You will find everything you can imagine in terms of souvenirs and the best part is their prices are the best I’ve seen. #cdmx #mexico #shopping #souvenir enirs
@travelingrosas
12.8K likes • 376.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Haggling is Expected

Politely negotiate prices for souvenirs to get the best deals. It's part of the market experience! Reddit

🍜 Don't Miss the Noodle Soup

Stall #10 is highly recommended for its homemade beef noodle soup. Generous portions! Reddit

🧃 Fresh Juices Galore

Enjoy incredibly refreshing and affordable freshly squeezed juices from various vendors. Reddit

🥾 Trekking Essentials

Find great deals on nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates for your treks. Sample before buying! Reddit

🗣️ Friendly Locals

Don't hesitate to ask for help with menus or translations; patrons are very kind. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the San Blas Artisan Market for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious and affordable food, and wide selection of authentic handcrafted souvenirs. The friendly locals and the opportunity to haggle for great deals are also frequently highlighted positives. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak hours and the uneven terrain, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

"This was the all in one stop. They had things to buy things to eat things to drink things to see we ate twice at this location both times I had the most wonderful meals. The first time we had a Machu Picchu sandwich and the second time I had fried chicken that was probably the most tender chicken I had ever eat Both locations where we were served food. The staff and the cooks were so pleasant and took their time to allow us to order specifically what we wanted we also got freshly squeeze juice, which was amazing all for an incredibly low price. The other patrons there were so kind and friendly and offered to help us translate the menu. Such a fun experience. I highly recommend to anyone."

Teakeyman

"Lovely market. We loved the atmosphere and didn’t have any food which caused us issues. We had sandwiches from 2 different vendors, as well as empanadas (some of the best we had). The fruit stalls were also great, we brought quite a few fruits and the lady helped us pick some that would be ripe enough. Also you can bring the sandwiches to go!!"

Zandra Fjeldgaard Kristensen

"Food stall at San Blas Market. The beef noodle soup was homemade from beef bones along with beef and noodles for 7 soles. The lady was super nice and even split the portions for us so that we could share. We definitely recommend this stall number 10 for their soup."

JMQZ

What People Like

Authentic souvenirs
Delicious & affordable food
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crowded at peak times
Uneven terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is conveniently located near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco. You can easily walk there from most central hotels, as it's only a few blocks away. Reddit

San Blas Artisan Market is located in Cusco, Peru. While Lima also has markets, this specific one is a highlight of Cusco. Reddit

From Cusco's Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), you can take a taxi directly to the market. The ride is relatively short, about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.

While walking is common for central locations, local buses do operate within Cusco. However, for ease and directness, especially with purchases, taxis or walking are generally preferred.

The market can be crowded and has uneven surfaces. While some areas are accessible, navigating with mobility aids might be challenging. It's best to proceed with caution or have assistance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the San Blas Artisan Market is generally free. You only pay for the goods you purchase from the vendors. Reddit

The market typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit earlier in the day for the widest selection and fewer crowds. Reddit

Yes, the San Blas Artisan Market is usually open on weekends, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own reusable bags is highly recommended, especially if you plan on making multiple purchases. Some vendors might offer plastic bags, but it's more sustainable to bring your own.

While the market is active daily, some believe that weekdays might offer slightly better prices as vendors are eager to make sales before the weekend rush. However, the atmosphere is vibrant throughout the week. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find a wide array of handcrafted items, including textiles like alpaca scarves and blankets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, wooden carvings, and traditional Peruvian clothing. TikTok+1

Yes, haggling is a common practice for souvenirs. Be polite and respectful when negotiating, and aim for a price that feels fair to both you and the vendor. Reddit

Look for vendors specializing in dried fruits, nuts, and chocolates. One reviewer found excellent deals on mixed nuts and dried fruits for their Salkantay trek. Reddit

While many vendors offer authentic handmade crafts, it's always good to observe the quality and ask vendors about their process. The market is known for its artisan focus. TikTok

Consider bringing a sturdy backpack or a large tote bag. For larger items, some vendors may offer shipping options, but it's best to inquire directly.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss the lomo saltado, beef noodle soup (stall #10 is a favorite), Machu Picchu sandwiches, and empanadas. Freshly squeezed juices are also a refreshing choice. Reddit

Yes, the food prices are incredibly low, offering great value for money. You can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Reddit

While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find options like vegetable empanadas or fruit-based desserts. Inquire with vendors about ingredients. Reddit

The market generally maintains good hygiene standards, but as with any bustling market, it's wise to choose stalls that appear clean and busy. Reddit

Yes, many vendors offer their dishes to go, which is perfect if you want to enjoy your meal elsewhere or pack it for a hike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products. A smile and a gesture usually suffice. TikTok

The vibrant colors of the textiles, the bustling food stalls, and the intricate details of the handicrafts offer numerous photo opportunities. Capture the lively atmosphere. TikTok+1

Morning light can be softer and less harsh, making it ideal for capturing details. However, the market's energy is high throughout the day. TikTok

Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but respecting vendors' wishes if they decline photography is paramount. TikTok

A versatile lens that can handle both wider shots of the market's atmosphere and closer details of crafts is useful. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for capturing the vibrant scenes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The San Blas Artisan Market offers a stimulating environment for families. The vibrant colors of the textiles and crafts can captivate children's attention, and the bustling atmosphere is exciting. For food, look for familiar options like sandwiches or fried chicken, and the fresh juices are always a hit. Reddit

Tip: Encourage kids to pick out a small, affordable souvenir to remember their trip. The market can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is essential. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

💰 Budget Travelers

This market is a dream for budget travelers. You can find incredible deals on souvenirs by politely haggling, and the food stalls offer delicious, filling meals at very low prices. Reddit Buying trek supplies here is also significantly cheaper than in dedicated trekking stores. Reddit

Tip: Carry small denominations of Peruvian Soles for easier transactions and haggling. Prioritize eating at the market for most of your meals to save money.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Solo travelers will find the San Blas Artisan Market a fantastic place to immerse themselves in local culture. The friendly atmosphere means you'll likely strike up conversations with vendors or other shoppers, making the experience less solitary. Reddit It's also a safe place to explore at your own pace and discover unique finds. Reddit

Tip: Be open to trying new foods and engaging with locals. The market is a great place to practice your Spanish and learn more about Peruvian traditions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Cusco's Craftsmanship

The San Blas Artisan Market is more than just a place to shop; it's a vibrant showcase of Peruvian artistry. Nestled in the historic San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian charm and artisan workshops, the market offers a direct connection to the creators behind the crafts. You'll find everything from intricately woven textiles made from alpaca wool to hand-painted ceramics and unique silver jewelry. Many vendors are happy to share stories about their craft, offering a deeper appreciation for the items you're considering. TikTok+1

This market is a treasure trove for anyone seeking authentic souvenirs that tell a story. Unlike mass-produced items, the goods here are often one-of-a-kind, reflecting traditional techniques passed down through generations. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, with the sounds of chatter and the vibrant colors of the merchandise creating a truly immersive experience. It’s a place where you can truly feel the culture of Cusco.

For those preparing for treks like the Salkantay or Inca Trail, the market is also an essential stop. You can find high-quality, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars at competitive prices, often much better than those found in tourist shops closer to the trailheads. This practical aspect makes the market a dual-purpose destination, catering to both souvenir hunters and adventure seekers. Reddit

A Culinary Journey Through Peruvian Flavors

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure at the San Blas Artisan Market's food stalls. This is where you can experience the authentic flavors of Peru without the high prices of tourist restaurants. Reviewers consistently rave about the quality and affordability of the food, making it a must-visit for any foodie. Reddit

Signature dishes like lomo saltado, a delicious stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, are a popular choice, praised for their rich flavor. Another highly recommended item is the beef noodle soup, with one stall (#10) specifically lauded for its homemade broth and generous portions. Don't overlook the empanadas, which are described as some of the best, and be sure to try the freshly squeezed juices for a refreshing treat. Many vendors also offer sandwiches that can be taken to go, perfect for a picnic or a hiking snack. Reddit

The communal atmosphere of the food section is also a highlight. Fellow patrons are often friendly and willing to help with menu translations or recommendations, adding to the overall welcoming experience. Whether you're looking for a hearty lunch or a quick snack, the San Blas Artisan Market offers a diverse and delicious culinary exploration that captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine. Reddit

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