Cusco Markets
The markets in Cusco are fabulous places to buy souvenirs, food to prepare at your hostel and full meals.
The most famous is San Pedro but I also love the San Blas Market, the Wanchaq Market and the Saturday market in the Plaza Túpac Amaru.
Mercado San Pedro is famous for souvenirs and dozens of juice stalls where you can get fresh fruit juice and smoothies. I recommend trying a creamy smoothie of lúcuma, strawberry and milk. San Pedro is the only market with good souvenir stalls. It’s dark inside because of the metal roof designed by Gustave Eiffel.
Mercado San Blas is much smaller and has better breakfast and lunch sections than San Pedro. It doesn’t have souvenirs but is better for photos because it has more natural light than San Pedro.
Mercado Wanchaq is the best for buying fruits and veggies, with a bigger selection than any other market. It’s not good for breakfast or souvenirs.
The Saturday market at the Plaza Túpac Amaru is great for souvenirs, breakfast, lunch, plants, pets and has dozens of dessert stands. Even if you don’t want to take a cactus home, walk by the plant shops and you’ll see hundreds of South American plants. This is the best place to try Peruvian sweets.
Markets are usually open from 6am to 5pm. They are great for breakfast and lunch but don’t plan on dinner at a market. See Eating at Markets.