The day would kick off with an early hotel pickup, ready to dive headfirst into the historic heart of Cusco (elevation: 11,152 ft / 3,399 m). I can already picture myself meeting a local guide and setting off on foot through the city’s stunning streets, letting the high-altitude air fill me with anticipation. The plan is to see how Incan and Spanish colonial cultures collided and merged, creating something entirely new and fascinating.

First on my hit list is the Church of the Company of Jesus. I’m desperate to see its famously elaborate Baroque facade with my own eyes. I’ve heard you can climb one of its towers, and I can’t wait to get that incredible, panoramic view of the Plaza de Armas from above. It feels like the perfect way to start getting my bearings and to soak in the city’s dramatic setting.

Next, I’d head to the iconic Cusco Cathedral. There’s something so powerful about visiting a place built on the foundations of an ancient Inca citadel back in 1559. It’s a literal representation of the history I want to understand. I imagine I’ll spend ages just marveling at the art inside, especially the legendary choir, which is said to be carved entirely from cedar wood. It’s these kinds of surreal details that truly bring a place to life for me.

From there, the tour would continue to the Archbishop’s Palace. This 16th-century building sounds like an open-air museum in itself. I’m particularly excited to see the unique paintings from the Cusco School, which blend biblical stories with scenes of local life—a true glimpse into the city’s cultural fusion. And, of course, a visit here wouldn’t be complete without finding the famous Twelve-Angled Stone. Let’s be honest, getting a photo with this piece of Inca genius is a suitably touristy stop-off I won’t be missing.

The perfect end to this spiritual journey would be a visit to the Church of San Blas. I love the idea of wandering up to the charming Plaza de San Blas, which I hear offers some of the best views over the city. The church itself, one of the oldest in Cusco, sounds magical. I’m especially keen to see the pulpit, a masterpiece supposedly carved from a single tree trunk by an artist named Juan Tomás Tuirutupa. With its pre-Columbian engravings and beautiful wooden ceilings, it feels like the kind of place that holds countless stories.

Walking away from that final church, I know I’d feel like I’d just scratched an itch I’ve had for years, having finally connected with the thriving, mystical heart of this incredible city.