5 Best Bars in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Peru

You can come to this bohemian bar and hangout for snacks such as salchipapa brava (Peruvian-style hot dogs and fries) or barbecue alitas (chicken wings), but where it really shines is the selection of craft beers and daily live music shows featuring Peruvian artists. It's a perfect San Blas meeting spot for rubbing elbows with artsy locals and passing travelers.

The place to experience Pisac's creativity and meet some local musicians, this intimate club hosts jam sessions on Sunday afternoons and is generally a good place to meet both locals and creative spirits passing through.

If you only have time for one bar while you're in Cusco, make it this atmospheric spot. Not only does it serve great pisco drinks (you can even get a pisco tasting on the fly), but it also offers tapas if you want to nosh as you drink. There's often live music as well.

The dark-wood, second-floor Paddy's serves pints of Guinness and old-fashioned Irish pub grub such as Philly cheesesteaks, pita sandwiches, and chicken baguettes.

Dance the night away at Ukukus, a hugely popular pub and disco that hops with a young crowd, often until 3 am. This is one of the best (and only) places in town to hear DJ sets and live music from local talent, often featuring traditional Peruvian tunes with a modern twist.