Cusco Pictures

The heart of the city – both during Incan times and present day – the Plaza de Armas is constantly buzzing with activity.  Glowimages Getty Images

Most travelers come to Cusco in order to make the trek (either on the Inca Trail or by train) to Machu Picchu.  Markus Daniel Getty Images

Machu Picchu remained hidden throughout the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The site remained a secret until Yale University professor Hiram Bingham stumbled upon its striking ruins in 1911. laszlobolgar Getty Images

Adorable llamas and alpacas graze along Machu Picchu's mossy green landscape. ATicuS Getty Images

Machu Picchu's Temple of the Condor features stones laid out in the shape of a condor, a symbol associated with heaven in Incan mythology. MacJewell Flickr

As you board one of the PeruRail trains departing from Cusco, try to snag a seat on the left side for the best views on the journey up to Machu Picchu. MacJewell Flickr

The three-night, four-day hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is moderately difficult, but well worth it to many travelers.  R. Tyler Gross Getty Images

Make sure to get acclimated to the altitude for at least a couple days before starting your journey on the Inca Trail.  Fernando de la Torre Gomez Getty Images

Eye-catching dancers in traditional Peruvian costumes fill the Plaza de Armas during colorful annual Andean fiestas. mckaysavage Flickr

Bright colored textiles and handcrafts can be found across Cusco's cobbled streets. mckaysavage Flickr

Cusco's colorful markets host a myriad of stalls selling local fruit and vegetables. MacJewell Flickr

The Spanish built a Catholic monastery on top of the foundation of the Qorikancha.  Kelly Cheng Travel Photography Getty Images

Sacsayhuamán was once a massive Incan fortress, before much of the structure was used as building materials for the Spanish conquistadors.  Kelly Cheng Travel Photography Getty Images

Legend has it that the zigzagging walls of Sacsayhuamán are meant to be the teeth of the puma-shaped Incan empire.  Patrick Gijsbers Getty Images

The center of activity in historic Cusco is around the Plaza de Armas. Most hotels and many restaurants are located just off the square.  Rob Kroenert Getty Images

One of the most well-known speciality dishes in Cusco is cuy – grilled or roasted guinea pig.  Bee-individual Getty Images

A standard Peruvian dish, cerviche is a cold dish of fresh raw fish with spicy citrus flavors.  joannatkaczuk Getty Images