San Pedro Market
A bustling, covered market in Cusco offering vibrant produce, authentic Peruvian food, and a wide array of local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce & fewer crowds
San Pedro Market
Best Time
Freshest produce & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling, covered market in Cusco offering vibrant produce, authentic Peruvian food, and a wide array of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
"A lively, colorful market full of local flavor and culture, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles."
🎯 Haggle for the Best Prices
Don't accept the first price! Negotiate respectfully for souvenirs and goods.
🍎 Taste Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Enjoy delicious, made-to-order fruit juices and smoothies from various stalls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Produce & Local Delicacies
Main Market Hall
A kaleidoscope of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks. Taste exotic flavors and vibrant colors.

Handcrafted Souvenirs
Souvenir Aisles
Discover unique textiles, alpaca wool items, and artisanal crafts. Perfect for authentic gifts.

Freshly Squeezed Juices
Juice Stalls
Refreshing and delicious fruit smoothies made to order. A perfect way to cool down and refuel.

Local Food Stalls
Food Court Area
Sample traditional Peruvian dishes and local snacks in a bustling, authentic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Haggling Culture
Navigate with Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Haggle for the Best Prices
Don't accept the first price! Negotiate respectfully for souvenirs and goods.
🍎 Taste Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Enjoy delicious, made-to-order fruit juices and smoothies from various stalls.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Hub
Find a wide array of textiles, alpaca items, and local crafts for gifts.
👃 Avoid the Meat Section
The meat section can have strong odors; spend less time there if sensitive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle for the Best Prices
Don't accept the first price! Negotiate respectfully for souvenirs and goods.
🍎 Taste Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Enjoy delicious, made-to-order fruit juices and smoothies from various stalls.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Hub
Find a wide array of textiles, alpaca items, and local crafts for gifts.
👃 Avoid the Meat Section
The meat section can have strong odors; spend less time there if sensitive.
💰 Keep Valuables Secure
Be aware of your surroundings and protect your belongings in crowded areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Pedro Market is a vibrant, must-visit destination in Cusco, praised for its incredible variety of fresh produce, authentic local foods, and affordable souvenirs. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to experience daily life in the city. While some note strong smells in the meat section and advise caution with belongings, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for its cultural immersion and value.
"This is a fresh market with a wide variety of local souvenirs and food at very affordable prices. If you're looking to buy souvenirs to take home, this is the place to stop. Even on your way to the market, you'll find locals selling goods along the roadside at very reasonable prices."
Ran Bluebells
"This is a decent spot to get a flavor of Cusco in a concentrated way. This market sells a wide range of products, including meats, fruits, flowers, and souvenirs. It's all covered, so it's good to visit any time of the year. If the prices seem high, you haven't learned the proper way to haggle. I bought a few things here for much less than I found elsewhere in Cusco."
Keith Moore
"This is a great spot to visit if you are spending some days in Cusco to acclimatise to the altitude. The market itself is mostly inside so it is perfect for a rainy day. There are different sections for fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, souvenirs and lunch. There are also stands where you can buy freshly made fruit smoothies. These were really tasty and made fresh. The meat1section can smell quite bad so don’t spend too much time here. You can also get souvenirs here. It seemed like we were charged normal prices and the people did not try to scam tourists here. We paid the normal prices everywhere."
Sam H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Pedro Market is centrally located in Cusco, just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. You can easily walk there from most hotels in the city center. Taxis are also readily available and affordable for the short ride.
While there isn't direct public transport to the market itself, it's within walking distance of the main city center where buses and taxis operate. It's a very walkable area.
From Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), the most convenient way is to take a taxi directly to the market. The ride typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Driving to the market is possible, but parking can be challenging in the busy city center. It's often easier to walk or take a taxi.
Yes, it's very close to the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, and the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to San Pedro Market is free. You only pay for the goods you wish to purchase from the vendors.
The market is generally open daily from around 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though some stalls may close earlier. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
Yes, San Pedro Market is typically open on Sundays, though some vendors might have slightly reduced hours.
Mornings, especially on weekdays before 10 AM, tend to be less crowded. Lunchtime can get busy with locals and tourists.
While not strictly necessary, guided tours are available and can offer deeper insights into the market's history and culture. Many food tours also include a stop here.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a vast selection, including alpaca wool clothing (sweaters, scarves, hats), textiles, blankets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and local handicrafts.
Yes, haggling is expected for most souvenir items. Be polite and offer a reasonable price. For produce and food, prices are generally fixed.
Look for stalls with a good display and ask about the material. While quality varies, many vendors offer genuine alpaca items.
Absolutely! You can find a variety of local snacks, dried fruits, nuts, and traditional candies.
Many visitors recommend purchasing textiles, alpaca goods, and unique handicrafts. Some guides suggest sticking to salt, coffee, or chocolate for sanitation reasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a wide range of Peruvian cuisine, from hearty stews and grilled meats to fresh ceviche and empanadas. You can also find fresh fruit juices and smoothies.
Generally, yes. The market is a popular spot for locals and tourists. However, it's always wise to choose stalls that look busy and clean, and consider the advice about sticking to certain food types if you have a sensitive stomach.
Food prices are generally affordable, especially compared to restaurants in tourist areas. You can expect to pay around $5-$10 USD for a substantial meal.
Yes, you can find vegetarian options, particularly in the fruit and vegetable sections, and some stalls offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes. Fresh juices are always a great vegan choice.
This is the official name for the San Pedro Market in Cusco, Peru. It's a central hub for local commerce, culture, and cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their products or themselves. Some may request a small tip.
The vibrant produce displays, colorful textiles, bustling food stalls, and the overall lively atmosphere offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture clear shots. However, the market's energy is palpable throughout the day.
Your smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the vibrant scenes. If you're a photography enthusiast, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more flexibility.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially in areas like the meat section. Always be respectful of vendors and shoppers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Keep a close eye on children in crowded areas to prevent them from getting lost. Consider buying a few small, inexpensive souvenirs to give them a sense of participation in the shopping experience. The market is mostly indoors, making it a good option for a rainy day.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key savings tips: Always negotiate prices for souvenirs. Eat your main meals at the market's food stalls. Compare prices across different vendors before making a purchase.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Visit in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds. Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of people. Be mindful of your surroundings and protect your gear in busy areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Cusco: Culinary Delights
While the market is a fantastic place to sample local cuisine, some travelers advise caution. The meat section, in particular, can have a strong odor. For sanitation reasons, some travel guides recommend sticking to cooked foods or items like salt, coffee, or chocolate if you have a sensitive stomach. However, for most visitors, the food stalls offer an authentic and delicious experience that's significantly more affordable than tourist-oriented restaurants.
The Art of the Deal: Souvenir Shopping
Haggling is an integral part of the shopping experience here. Redditors emphasize that you should never accept the first price offered for souvenirs. Be polite, friendly, and ready to negotiate. Start by offering about half of the asking price and work your way up to a mutually agreeable figure. This practice is expected and can lead to significant savings, making your purchases much more budget-friendly compared to shops in more tourist-centric areas.
Beyond the Stalls: Market Culture
Experiencing the market is about immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. Observe the interactions between vendors and customers, the colorful displays, and the general buzz of activity. It's a fantastic place to acclimatize to Cusco's altitude and get a feel for the city's rhythm. Remember to be respectful, keep your belongings secure, and embrace the lively chaos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit