Cusco Cathedral Tickets and Tours

The Basilica Cathedral of Cuzco shares the title of heart of the city with the Plaza de Armas, where it is located. This magnificent building will not only allow you to admire its impressive baroque façade, but also to explore its interior full of religious art, golden altars and a series of chapels full of history and tradition. That is why when thinking about things to see and do in Cuzco, a visit to this temple tops the itineraries of religious and non-believers alike.

Here you can learn about the mestizo culture that fuses Inca art with Spanish influence in every corner of this monument. In this article, you will find a guide with prices, opening hours, address, must-see aspects, tips, discounts and more, so you can make the most of your visit.

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Cuzco Cathedral Tickets

Tickets for the Cathedral of Cuzco

Delve into the history and majesty of Cusco with these tickets to its cathedral, declared a World Heritage Site. Explore this magnificent temple, witness of the fusion between the Inca and Spanish cultures. Marvel at its architecture, admire its artistic treasures and discover how it was built on ancient Inca foundations.

From $18 at Hellotickets

When you buy your ticket for the Cuzco Cathedral, a fascinating experience awaits you. The visit lasts about 1 - 2 hours, enough to appreciate the richness of the details, from its sculpted stone façade, to the tour of the multiple chapels, where the famous painting of the Last Supper with local elements such as the cuy stands out.

You can also admire the Cross of the Conquest and the impressive High Altar, covered with 1,250 kg of silver. It is a tour that immerses you in the colonial and religious history of the region, making the temple a symbol of cultural and religious resistance in the region. In addition, it is ideal for those who enjoy religious art as well as for those who seek to better understand the cultural syncretism that characterizes Cuzco.

Recommended if you are in the mood for a deep immersion activity in the history and culture of Peru, all in one place.

The price of the entrance tickets to the Cathedral Basilica of Cuzco is as follows:

• Standard ticket for foreigners over 10 years old from 18 €.

This price varies depending on whether you purchase a standard ticket or if it is included in a tour package, which allows combined access to other points of interest. Also, please note that prices may fluctuate during special events or high tourist seasons.

You must purchase your entrance ticket for the Cuzco Cathedral independently as it is not included in the Cusco tourist passes.

Although there are no official exclusive guided tours for the Basilica Cathedral of Cusco, its location, historical and cultural relevance makes it a key point within the guided tours of Cusco Being this city the central axis of the Inca Empire, it has been recognized as a World Heritage Site, and the epicenter of these sovereign sons of the sun is shared by the cathedral and the Plaza de Armas.

Why choose a guided tour? Specialized guides will provide you with detailed information about the history, art and architecture of the Cathedral, enriching your experience. You will discover how Andean and Spanish beliefs were fused in this imposing building, and you will learn fascinating facts about its construction and the treasures it houses. In addition, you will have the opportunity to visit other emblematic sites of Cusco such as:

• The Koricancha Temple, the primary Inca temple that preserves its pristine architecture.
• The Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park, an impressive Inca complex with huge stone walls.
• The Puka Pukara Fortress, also known as 'the Red Fortress', an Inca military construction with terraces and staircases.
• Tambomachay, an archaeological site that in its structure tells the story of the Inca spas as well as their cult of water.

Undoubtedly, one of the best activities in Cuzco, where you can appreciate the historical and cultural richness of the city in a single tour, understanding the importance of each site and its connection with the past.

Yes, there are discounted tickets available for students, seniors and local Cusqueños, namely:

• Standard ticket for nationals over 10 years old starting at 9 €.
• Standard ticket for national or foreign students from 10 €.
• Standard ticket for local people over 60 years old 50% discount applicable only at the ticket office.

Important: to benefit from these fares, you will need to present a valid ID, in addition to the ISIC card (in the case of students), proving your status. These discounts may vary depending on the season, so please check the options before purchasing your tickets.

Yes, children's tickets have special rates:

• Standard ticket for children under 10 years old from 10 €.

Carla's Tip

Please remember that you are in a sacred place. All visitors, including children, are requested to maintain a respectful attitude at all times.

Buying tickets online is the best option if you want to optimize your time in Cuzco. By buying your Cuzco Cathedral tickets in advance, you will avoid long lines, especially during the high season.

You will also be able to compare options for guided tours or tickets that include other services, which facilitates a better planning of your visit to the most emblematic Cathedral of the ancient Inca Empire.

The Cuzco Cathedral is open from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. However, it is advisable to check the opening hours beforehand, as they may vary on holidays or during religious events, especially if you have chosen to visit Cusco between June and July, when Corpus Christi, Inti Raymi and Fiestas Patrias fill the streets and iconic sites with the festive atmosphere.

To enjoy the Cuzco Cathedral and explore it thoroughly, I suggest you dedicate at least 1 to 2 hours. This time will allow you to calmly appreciate its altars, chapels and works of art. If you opt for a guided tour, this visit could be extended, since historical and artistic details are explained that enrich the experience.

The best time to visit the Cuzco Cathedral is during the early opening hours, if you feel like touring the place when there are fewer tourists. This will allow you to walk through its spaces with greater tranquility and enjoy the majesty of the building without rushing. In addition, the early morning hours offer a natural light that highlights the architectural and artistic details of the place.

On the other hand, one of the best things to do in Cuzco at night is to participate in a guided tour that runs through the cathedral and other museums and monuments that flank the Plaza de Armas, as they have a lighting worthy of being photographed.

Getting to the Cathedral of Cuzco is easy, as it is located on the north side of the Plaza de Armas, even the transfers from Cusco airport will leave you in this area. Here are some options to get there from different points:

• On foot: if you are staying in the historic center, the walk is short and pleasant. The streets of Cuzco are perfect for walking and exploring, but keep in mind that the surroundings are steep and you are about 3,300 meters above sea level, so the walks should be done calmly.
• Cusco Hop on Hop off Bus Tours: if you have bought your ticket for the Cuzco tourist bus, it will drop you off one street away from the Plaza de Armas. It is a comfortable option to move around the city and visit other points of interest.
• Cab or uber: from any point in the city, you can take a cab. I recommend that you negotiate the price before doing so and make sure it is an official cab or simply opt for an app like Uber.
• Public transportation: several local bus lines pass through the vicinity of the Plaza de Armas as the RTI-09, RTU-02, RTU-05, RTU-16 and RTU-18, which facilitates access from other areas of the city. There are also minibuses or 'combis' covering these routes and they run every 5 minutes.

On your visit to the Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption, better known as the Cathedral of Cuzco, there are several elements that you should not miss:

• The High Altar: this impressive altar, covered by more than a ton of silver, stands out for its majesty and the intricate details of the baroque design that positions it as one of the main attractions of the temple.
• The Last Supper in Cusco: this painting, created by Marcos Zapata in the 18th century, is a local representation of the famous biblical scene, but with a Cusquenian touch: the dinner table includes a guinea pig, a typical animal of Andean gastronomy. This unique work is a clear example of mestizo art, a fusion of Inca traditions with the Christian influence brought by the Spaniards.
• The Cross of the Conquest: this cross is considered the first that the Spaniards brought to the New World. It is a tangible reminder of the beginning of the conquest and evangelization of the Incas.
• The Chapel of the Virgin of the Remedies: this chapel, located on the left side of the main altar, houses one of the images of virgins and Catholic saints most venerated by the people of Cusco, the Virgin of the Remedies.
• The Christ of the Tremors: also known as the 'Lord of the Tremors', it is an image of a crucified brown Christ. It is said that in the earthquake of 1650, this image was taken out in procession and miraculously the tremor ceased, so the Christ was adopted as the protector of Cuzco against earthquakes.

The Cathedral of Cuzco is located in the center of the city, surrounded by monuments and historical sites that also deserve your attention. Here is a list of the places you cannot miss if you are in the surroundings:

• Qoricancha Temple (Temple of the Sun): only about 600 meters walking from the cathedral is the Qorikancha was one of the most important temples of the Inca civilization. This place was covered with gold before the arrival of the Spaniards, who built the Convent of Santo Domingo on its foundations. However, you can still see the original stone walls, a testimony of Inca architectural skill.
• Museo Inka: located one street away from the cathedral, this museum is the perfect place to delve into Inca history and culture. Its impeccable collection includes ceramics, textiles and mummies that will transport you to life in the ancient Inca empire and places it among the best museums in Cusco. It is an ideal complement to understand the historical context in which the cathedral was built.
• Plaza de Armas: in addition to the cathedral, the Plaza de Armas is the historical and social heart of Cuzco. Surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings with carved wooden balconies, it is the meeting place of the different city-tours of Cusco. At this point you arrive to start the walks, drink a coffee on one of its terraces or simply enjoy the atmosphere of Cusco. During festivities, such as Inti Raymi or Holy Week, the square is full of life and colors.
• Hatun Rumiyoc Street: If you decide to walk 350 meters from the cathedral, you will reach the famous Hatun Rumiyoc Street, where you will find the iconic Twelve Angles Stone , one of the places that every tourist must visit in the Peruvian capital This sample of the ancient work of the Inca stonemasons is a symbol of the engineering and architectural skill of the Incas, and is one of the most photographed spots in Cuzco.
• San Blas neighborhood: 500 meters from the cathedral, you will find the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a Cusco landmark known for its artistic atmosphere and narrow cobblestone streets. Here you will find art galleries, craft stores and the church of San Blas, which houses a famous pulpit carved in wood.

• Visit early: early in the morning you will find fewer tourists and you can enjoy the tranquility of the cathedral.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: the streets of Cuzco are cobblestone and, in addition, they are usually steep, since you are more than 3,000 meters above sea level. Therefore, it is important to dress appropriately.
• Hydrate yourself: Cuzco's altitude can affect your physical performance, so make sure you stay well hydrated.
• Respect the rules of the temple: photographs and videos are not allowed inside the temple. Connect with the spirituality of this place through your senses. By putting aside the screens, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility that surrounds you.