Plaza de Armas, Cusco

Plaza de Armas is Cusco’s main square and the hub of all activity in the city. The pedestrianized square lined with trees is always milling with tourists. The Cusco Cathedral occupies pride of place in the centre of the square whereas the rest of the square is lined with eateries, cafés, bars, and souvenir shops. These spill into the alleys around Plaza de Armas too. There is nothing you won’t find here—from pizzas and hotdogs to Irish beer and Peruvian spirits—Plaza de Armas has something for everyone. Just get a table on one of the balconies on the first floor, overlooking the square. Sip on a drink as you absorb the hustle bustle of one of the busiest areas of Peru and watch people go about their business.

Plaza de Armas is also a perfect place to shop for knick-knacks and souvenirs. There are a couple of supermarkets here where you can stock up on groceries and lots of shops selling Peruvian handicrafts. Pick up some brightly-coloured accessories, a rug for your house, or an alpaca wool sweater for yourself. Don’t forget to bargain. Plaza de Armas is also the ideal place to get yourself clicked with a tiny llama or Peruvian women in traditional attire. Beware—locals are dressed up for photographs but they do expect to be paid money for every photograph. Ask for their permission before you get snap happy.