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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection
San Blas Artisan Market
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub in Cusco for authentic artisan crafts, delicious Peruvian street food, and essential trek supplies at unbeatable prices.
"This was the all in one stop. They had things to buy things to eat things to drink things to see."
🎯 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handcrafted Souvenirs
Various stalls
Discover unique textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more, all made by local artisans.

Authentic Peruvian Cuisine
Food stalls
Savor delicious local dishes like lomo saltado, beef noodle soup, and freshly squeezed juices.

Trekker's Paradise
Specific supply vendors
Stock up on dried fruits, nuts, and chocolates for your hiking adventures at great prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Market Maze
Culinary Adventures Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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!
🧃 Fresh Juices Galore
Enjoy incredibly refreshing and affordable freshly squeezed juices from various vendors.
🥾 Trekking Essentials
Find great deals on nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates for your treks. Sample before buying!
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!
🍜 Don't Miss the Noodle Soup
Stall #10 is highly recommended for its homemade beef noodle soup. Generous portions!
🧃 Fresh Juices Galore
Enjoy incredibly refreshing and affordable freshly squeezed juices from various vendors.
🥾 Trekking Essentials
Find great deals on nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates for your treks. Sample before buying!
🗣️ Friendly Locals
Don't hesitate to ask for help with menus or translations; patrons are very kind.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
San Blas Artisan Market is located in Cusco, Peru. While Lima also has markets, this specific one is a highlight of Cusco.
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.
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.
Yes, the San Blas Artisan Market is usually open on weekends, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
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.
🎫 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, the food prices are incredibly low, offering great value for money. You can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find options like vegetable empanadas or fruit-based desserts. Inquire with vendors about ingredients.
The market generally maintains good hygiene standards, but as with any bustling market, it's wise to choose stalls that appear clean and busy.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Morning light can be softer and less harsh, making it ideal for capturing details. However, the market's energy is high throughout the day.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but respecting vendors' wishes if they decline photography is paramount.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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
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.
A Culinary Journey Through Peruvian Flavors
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit