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 filled with religious art, gilded altars and a series of chapels full of history and tradition. That is why when thinking of 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, directions, must-see sights, 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 to the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures. Marvel at its architecture, admire its artistic treasures and discover how it was built on ancient Inca foundations.

From £15 at Hellotickets

When you buy your ticket for the Cuzco Cathedral, you are in for a fascinating experience. The visit lasts around 1 - 2 hours, enough time 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 (guinea pig) 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 the cultural and religious resistance of the region. It is also ideal for those who enjoy religious art as well as for those who seek to better understand the cultural syncretism that characterises Cuzco.

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

The entrance fees to the Cathedral Basilica of Cuzco are as follows:

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

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

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

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

Why choose a guided tour? The specialised 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, discounted tickets are available for students, seniors and local Cusco residents, namely:

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

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

Yes, children's tickets are available at 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 make the most of your time in Cuzco. By buying your Cuzco Cathedral tickets in advance, you will avoid long queues, especially during the high season.

You can also compare options for guided tours or tickets that include other services, which makes it easier to plan your visit to the most emblematic Cathedral of the ancient Inca Empire.

The Cuzco Cathedral is open from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 - 18:00 hours. However, it is advisable to check opening times beforehand, as they may vary on public 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, as historical and artistic details are explained to 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 more peace and quiet and enjoy the majesty of the building without rushing. In addition, the early hours of the morning 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 take part in a guided tour of the cathedral and other museums and monuments that flank the Plaza de Armas, as they have lighting worthy of being photographed.

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

• On foot: if you are staying in the historic centre, the walk is short and pleasant. The streets of Cuzco are perfect for strolling and exploring, but bear in mind that the surrounding area is hilly and you're at an altitude of 3,300 metres, so you'll need to take it easy.
• 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.
• Taxi or uber: from any point in the city, you can take a taxi. I recommend that you negotiate the price before doing so and make sure it is an official taxi or simply opt for an app such as Uber.
• Public transport: several local bus lines pass through the vicinity of the Plaza de Armas such as RTI-09, RTU-02, RTU-05, RTU-16 and RTU-18, which makes access from other areas of the city easy. 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 XVIII 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 the 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 one that the Spaniards brought to the New World. It is a tangible reminder of the beginning of the conquest and the evangelisation 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 most venerated images of virgins and catholic saints by the people of Cusco, the Virgin of the Remedies.
• El Cristo de los Temblores: also known as the 'Señor de los Temblores' (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 centre of the city, surrounded by monuments and historical sites that also deserve your attention. Here is a list of places not to be missed if you are in the surrounding area:

• Qoricancha Temple (Temple of the Sun): only about 600 metres walking from the cathedral, the Qorikancha was one of the most important temples of the Inca civilisation. This place was covered with gold before the arrival of the Spaniards, who built the Convent of Santo Domingo on its foundations. However, the original stone walls can still be seen, a testimony of Inca architectural skill.
• Inka Museum: 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: besides 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 Cuzco. This is the place to start the walks, to drink a coffee on one of its terraces or simply to enjoy the atmosphere of Cusco. During festivities, such as Inti Raymi or Holy Week, the square is full of life and colour.
• Hatun Rumiyoc Street: If you decide to walk 350 metres from the cathedral, you will reach the famous Hatun Rumiyoc Street, where you will find the iconic Stone of the Twelve Angles , 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 Inca engineering and architectural skill, and is one of the most photographed spots in Cuzco.
• Barrio de San Blas: 500 metres from the cathedral, you will find the bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas, a Cuzco landmark known for its artistic atmosphere and narrow cobblestone streets. Here you will find art galleries, handicraft shops and the church of San Blas, which houses a famous wood-carved pulpit.

• Visit early in the morning: early in the morning you will find fewer tourists and you will be able to enjoy the tranquillity of the cathedral.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: the streets of Cuzco are cobbled and are often steep, as you are at an altitude of more than 3,000 metres. It is therefore important to dress appropriately.
• Stay hydrated: Cuzco's altitude can affect your physical performance, so make sure you stay well hydrated.
• Respect the temple rules: photography and video are not allowed inside the temple. Connect with the spirituality of this place through your senses. By putting away the screens, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity that surrounds you.