3-Day Shoestring Budget Foodie Itinerary for Machu Picchu, Peru

Day 1: Arriving in Cusco

Cusco, Peru

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sueños de los Andes

Start the day with a hearty Andean breakfast at this local gem, where you can enjoy quinoa porridge and fresh fruit.
Located near Plaza de Armas, easy walk from most hostels.
PEN 15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Explore Plaza de Armas

Stroll through the vibrant heart of Cusco, surrounded by colonial architecture and local craft shops.
Walk around the square, visiting in and out of shops.
Free, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

Discover the ancient Incan temple, which showcases the stunning architecture and spiritual history of the Incas.
Short walk from Plaza de Armas, about 15 minutes.
PEN 10, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Quchuia

Indulge in a filling plate of Lomo Saltado, a traditional Peruvian stir-fry at an affordable spot loved by locals.
Located nearby Qorikancha.
PEN 20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

San Pedro Market

Explore this bustling market brimming with local produce, textiles, and handmade crafts; a great place to soak in the Cusco atmosphere.
About a 10-minute walk from Quchuia.
Free to browse, snack PEN 5, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Bus to Ollantaytambo

Catch a bus to Ollantaytambo for a scenic ride into the Sacred Valley.
Bus station Corto Maltes, 20-minute walk from San Pedro.
PEN 15, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hearts Café

Enjoy a cozy meal here while supporting local empowerment projects; try their delicious vegetable curry.
Located near the train station in Ollantaytambo.
PEN 30, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Overnight at Hostel

Rest well in a budget-friendly hostel, preparing for tomorrow's adventure.
Choose from various affordable options in the town.
PEN 40, N/A
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Day 2: Adventuring in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes, Peru

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Soda de la Ciudad

Start your day with a simple breakfast of bread and avocado, paired with a coffee.
Located near the train station.
PEN 10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Train to Aguas Calientes

Board the early train to Aguas Calientes, admiring beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.
Train station walking distance from the hostel.
PEN 80, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Hike to Machu Picchu

Embark on a breathtaking hike to the historic Machu Picchu, where you will immerse yourself in Inca history.
Follow signs and trails from the entrance of Aguas Calientes.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant

Savor a buffet lunch amidst stunning views of Machu Picchu, with numerous local dishes on offer.
Located within the Machu Picchu complex.
PEN 60, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Machu Picchu

Spend the afternoon exploring the ruins, taking in the architecture and panoramic views from various vantage points.
Wander through the site with your entrance pass.
PEN 152, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Aguas Calientes

Hike back down to Aguas Calientes or take the bus if your feet are tired.
Follow the marked trails back.
Bus: PEN 12, Hike: Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Indio Feliz

Enjoy creative dishes inspired by French and Peruvian cuisines, like their famous lomo saltado served with a twist.
A charming restaurant near the plaza.
PEN 35, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Rest at Hostel

Relax and prepare for another big day ahead, allowing your senses to digest the day’s experiences.
Stay overnight at an affordable hostel.
PEN 40, N/A
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Day 3: Return Journey

Machu Picchu, Peru/Cusco, Peru

6:00 AM

Early Breakfast at Café Bistro

Fuel up with a quick coffee and sandwich before heading back to the site.
Located near the hostel, perfect for a grab-and-go.
PEN 10, 1 hour

7:00 AM

Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Experience the mystical sight of sunrise at Machu Picchu, witnessing the beauty as it unfolds around you.
Hike or take the bus to the site entrance.
Included with your entry pass., 2 hours

9:00 AM

Final Tour of Machu Picchu

Take a guided tour or explore the remaining areas of the ruins you didn’t cover yesterday.
Explore at your pace; keep your entry pass in hand.
Included with pass., 2 hours

11:00 AM

Bus back to Aguas Calientes

Catch the bus for the quick ride down to Aguas Calientes before departing for Cusco.
Bus stop right outside the site.
PEN 12, 30 minutes

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Tree House

Enjoy a light meal featuring local produce and vegetarian options in a cozy atmosphere.
A short walk from the train station.
PEN 20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Train back to Ollantaytambo

Enjoy the scenic views once again as you journey from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo.
Train station located a few blocks from the restaurant.
PEN 80, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Bus Back to Cusco

Take the bus back to Cusco, reflecting on your incredible adventure.
Catch the bus at the Ollantaytambo bus station.
PEN 15, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Snack at Choco Museo

Treat yourself to a sweet chocolate tasting experience or a hot chocolate as you reminisce your adventures.
Head to Choco Museo, a popular spot in Cusco.
PEN 15, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Pachapapa

Enjoy traditional Peruvian flavors with dishes like roasted cuy (guinea pig) or a hearty soup.
Located in Plaza San Blas, a short walk from Choco Museo.
PEN 30, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Evening Departure or Overnight in Cusco

If time permits, either depart for your next destination or settle in for another night in charming Cusco.
Stay or depart from your chosen accommodation.
Varies, N/A
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