San Blas is one of my favourite parts of Cusco and it’s here I stayed for a week when I first arrived in Cusco. San Blas is certainly one of the most interesting and picturesque districts of Cusco and you can spend many a happy hour just wandering around the picturesque streets, stores and artist’s workshops.
San Blas is characterized by it’s narrow cobbled stoned streets, colonial architecture and abundance of unique artisan stores, galleries and workshops. There are also several high quality restaurants and hotels in the San Blas area making it a popular place for tourists to stay in.
San Blas also provides some great views over the city of Cusco.
Although an interesting place, there are not many attractions in San Blas and thrill seekers will certainly find it a little boring. But if you’re the kind of person that enjoys wandering around and admiring interesting and unique architecture, or arts and crafts, then you will almost certainly enjoy your time in San Blas.
The San Blas district is in central Cusco, less than a 5 minute walk north of the main Plaza de Armas. If you head up Triunfo and past the Inca Wall that features the famous 12 sided stone, you will find yourself in San Blas. Reaching the centre of San Blas involves walking up some steep narrow streets so take it easy, particularly if you’ve only just arrived in Cusco and are still adjusting to the altitude.
If you’re heading to San Blas straight from the airport then get a taxi to the heart of San Blas. It’s about a 15-20 minutes journey by car.
Iglesia de San Blas
Open Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sundays and holidays 10am – 6pm.
Apart from the stores and workshops, the main attraction is the church. This is the oldest parish church in Cusco and definitely worth a visit. The Cusco tourist ticket allows you entry to this church. Inside you will find several great works of Spanish art, as well an intricately carved pulpit that was carved by indigenous artisans.
The best hotel in San Blas is probably Casa San Blas, a boutique hotel with fairly reasonable prices. This hotel is usually very highly rated on most of the travel review sites.
The best travellers Hostel in San Blas in almost certainly Casa de la Gringa which always seems to attract some of the most interesting and friendly travellers and backpackers you will meet in Cusco.
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