Living at AMAUTA Student residence: 10 Amazing Spots Less Than 10 Minutes Away
Living in AMAUTA’s student residence is a special experience. You’ll connect with fellow travelers from around the world who are learning Spanish just like you, immerse yourself in Cusco’s vibrant culture, and best of all, you’ll be just a short walk away from some of the city’s most exciting attractions. Here are 10 must-see spots in Cusco less than 10 minutes from your doorstep!
Plaza de Armas del Cusco – Explore the Historical Center (~ 9min)
If there’s one place you must visit in Cusco, it’s the Plaza de Armas. Once a significant site in pre-Inca times, it later became the epicenter of the Inca Empire. Following the Spanish conquest, the plaza’s original structures were destroyed and replaced with colonial architecture.
Today, Plaza de Armas is a vibrant gathering place that blends history and modern life. Here, you’ll find the majestic Cusco Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, and the Chapel of Triumph. The square is also lined with museums, shops, restaurants, and cozy benches: perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere of this remarkable city.
Mirador de San Blas – Take in the Breathtaking View (~ 6min)
Cusco has several viewpoints, but Mirador de San Blas is one of the most memorable ones, nearby by AMAUTA. After a short climb through streets lined with murals and cozy cafés, you’ll reach a lookout that offers a stunning view of the city surrounded by mountains. Nearby restaurants and cafés with big windows let you enjoy the scenery a little longer.
Mercado San Blas – Try Authentic Peruvian Food (~ 4min)
If you’re staying at Amauta, the San Blas Market is just a short walk away and perfect for daily visits. It’s one of the best spots to try authentic local food at local prices. Inside, you’ll find plenty of food stands offering menús del día, usually including a hearty soup and a main dish. It’s simple, delicious, and budget-friendly; a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Xapiri Ground: Explore this Amazonian Art House (~ 2min)
Xapiri Ground is a cozy art house and café dedicated to showcasing and supporting Peru’s Indigenous communities. Each room features a unique setup, many using multimedia to highlight contemporary Indigenous voices and realities in thoughtful, creative ways. The café is also worth a visit on its own, with a menu that puts local ingredients front and center through innovative drinks and snacks. You will love this space that blends art, culture, and community beautifully.
KM.0 – Experience Live Music with a Drink (~ 3min)
If you’re looking for a fun night out without straying far, KM.0 is the perfect spot. This lively bar offers a generous happy hour from 4 to 9 PM, followed by live music every night starting at 9. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is great, and best of all: you can be in bed five minutes after your last drink.
L’atelier Cafe Concept, Nova Luz, Organika – Enjoy a Unique Cup of Coffee (~ 6-10min)
Exploring the cafés of San Blas is an adventure in itself. Start with L’atelier Café Concept, known for its great coffee and handmade clothes and jewelry. Nova Luz Café offers a quiet space where the owner shares stories behind each cup. Organika Bakery & Coffee is another favorite, praised for its fresh food and warm service. Each café has its own personality; finding your favorite is part of the adventure.
Pachapapa, Green Point, Green Falafel, Miwa – Enjoy a Tasty Meal (~ 2-6min)
Staying at Amauta means you’re just minutes away from some of Cusco’s best restaurants. For a cozy and traditional dining experience, Pachapapa offers classic Cusqueñan dishes in a charming setting. Right across the street, Green Point serves up creative vegetarian cuisine in a lush, plant-filled space. If you’re looking for something quick, tasty, and affordable, Green Falafel is a go-to for hearty falafel wraps. And for something more unique, Miwa offers excellent Peruvian Asian cuisine.
Calle Hatunrumiyoc – Find the Incas’ Twelve-angle Stone (~ 4min)
Calle Hatunrumiyoc is one of Cusco’s original Inca roads, and walking its cobbled path feels like stepping back in time. The street is lined with the impressive stone wall of the former Inca Roca Palace, where you’ll find the famous Twelve-Angled Stone: an example of Inca engineering perfectly fitted without mortar. Follow the street downhill and it will lead you straight to the Plaza de Armas.
El ChocoMuseo: taste Peru’s delicious chocolate (~ 10min)
A visit to the ChocoMuseo is a fun and flavorful experience. The shop offers an impressive variety of chocolates and cocoa-based products, all made from Peruvian cacao. Friendly staff walk you through the chocolate-making process and you get to sample different types of chocolate along the way!
Avenida El Sol: walk down the city’s most famous avenue (~ 10min)
Avenida El Sol is the main avenue in Cusco where you can find shops, restaurants, banks, phone services, museums and more! It’s a convenient place to run errands or explore, all while enjoying a view of the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re just passing through or stopping along the way, it’s a central part of the city’s rhythm.
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