November 12, 2025
Museum of Popular Art of Cusco: What to See, How to Get There, and Useful Tips
Did you know that right in the historic center of Cusco there is a museum dedicated exclusively to popular art? The Museum of Popular Art of Cusco houses unique pieces that reveal the creativity and talent of the region’s most outstanding artisans. In this guide, we’ll tell you what you can find inside, how to get there easily, and some useful tips that will make your visit more complete and interesting.
General information about the museum
What is the Museum of Popular Art?
The Museum of Popular Art is a space dedicated to the exhibition of works created by Cusqueñan artisans, highlighting the talent and creativity of the region. This place allows visitors to learn more about the traditions, customs, and artistic expressions that are part of Cusco’s cultural identity.
The museum is managed by the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Cusco and is part of the local cultural heritage. Its main mission is to revalue Andean popular art, promoting its dissemination both locally and internationally.
Brief history and creation of the museum
The Museum of Popular Art was created in 1974 by the Association of Popular Artists of Cusco (ASAR), with the purpose of having a space to preserve and exhibit their works. Since its inception, it has been an important showcase for handmade Cusqueñan art, in techniques such as ceramics, imagery, and textiles.
Over the years, the museum has grown in importance and has become part of the cultural tourism circuit of Cusco’s historic center. Today, it features permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, making it a meeting point between traditional art and visitors.
Note: If you already plan to visit other places in Cusco, it’s best to buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Entry to the Museum of Popular Art is included, so you don’t need to pay separately. It’s a great way to save money and visit more places with a single pass.
What kind of art is exhibited?
In the museum, you can find works of popular art such as ceramic sculptures, wood carvings, altarpieces, masks, textiles, and traditional paintings. All the pieces are made by local artisans, many of whom are national award winners for their dedication and creativity.
There are also religious representations, festive images, and scenes of daily life, where the fusion between Andean tradition and colonial influence can be clearly seen. These works showcase the technical skill and symbolic message of each artist, allowing visitors to appreciate Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.
Tickets and duration of the visit
What are the opening hours?
The Museum of Popular Art of Cusco is usually open from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, it’s recommended to check the updated schedule before your visit, as it may vary during holidays or special circumstances.
The schedule is designed so that both tourists and locals can explore the museum at a relaxed pace during the day. It’s an ideal place to visit in the morning or afternoon, especially if you’re exploring Cusco’s historic center.
Is it included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
Yes, the Museum of Popular Art is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC), specifically in the partial circuit 2. This means you can visit it at no additional cost if you’ve already purchased the ticket for other attractions within the historic center.
This benefit makes it an accessible and convenient stop within the cultural route. Additionally, since it’s located just a few steps from the Plaza de Armas, it’s easy to include it in your daily itinerary without needing transportation.
How long does it take to tour the museum?
A tour of the Museum of Popular Art takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the visitor’s interest. It’s a small museum but full of valuable content, so you can take your time to observe each piece calmly.
If you’re a lover of Andean art and culture, you might want to stay longer to appreciate the details and read the descriptions of the pieces. There are even areas where you can buy some handicrafts, which can extend your visit a few more minutes.
Useful tips for visitors
Are photographs allowed inside the museum?
Yes, taking photographs for personal use is allowed in most rooms of the Museum of Popular Art. However, flash photography is restricted to protect the most delicate pieces, especially those made of wood and textiles, which can deteriorate with intense light.
Tripods, selfie sticks, or professional equipment are not allowed without prior authorization. If you wish to conduct a more elaborate photo session, it’s best to request permission in advance at the ticket office, where they will inform you about the conditions and any possible additional fees.
What are the best days to visit the museum?
The least crowded days are usually Tuesday to Thursday mornings, when you can explore the rooms more peacefully and spend more time on each piece. Avoiding peak hours —between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.— also helps reduce contact with large groups of visitors.
On the other hand, weekends and holidays tend to be busier, as many tourists and locals take advantage of those days for cultural activities. If your schedule allows, planning your visit midweek will provide a calmer and more comfortable experience.
Note: Due to its location very close to the Plaza de Armas, it’s ideal for starting your cultural route or saying goodbye to the city with a final, peaceful visit. In addition, it’s a small museum, so you can explore it in less than an hour.
Are there guided tours or informational panels?
The museum features informational panels next to each artwork, describing the technique, author, and cultural context of the pieces. These signs are available in Spanish and have a clear design to make reading easy for all visitors.
It’s also possible to arrange a guided tour in advance at the ticket office or with the Directorate of Culture. A specialized guide will accompany you, explaining details about the materials, the crafting process, and the historical importance of each artistic expression, which greatly enriches the experience.
What to bring or not bring during the visit?
We recommend bringing a small backpack or handbag to carry personal items such as a wallet, water bottle, and a hat or cap for the outdoors. It’s also useful to carry a notebook and pen if you wish to write down information about the pieces or artisans’ contacts.
Do not bring food, drinks (except for your sealed water bottle), or bulky objects such as large suitcases or instruments that may obstruct the way. Also, avoid carrying heavy backpacks on your back; if you have them, it’s best to leave them in the lockers or cloakroom available at the reception.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the Museum of Popular Art of Cusco located?
The museum is located at Avenida El Sol 103, inside the Tourist Galleries of the Municipality of Cusco, just a few steps from the Plaza de Armas. It is located in a basement, right next to the Municipal Theater.
2. How much is the entrance fee without the Tourist Ticket?
Admission is free for local visitors who present their DNI. For tourists without the Tourist Ticket, it’s best to check directly whether an independent fee applies.
3. Is it open on Sundays and holidays?
Yes, the museum is open on Sundays and holidays with reduced hours, usually from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It’s ideal to visit before any tour.
4. Is the museum accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Since the museum is located in the basement of a building, it may present access difficulties. There is no official information about available ramps or elevators.
5. Is there parking near the museum?
There is no exclusive museum parking in the area, but since it is in the historic center, you can find private parking lots a few blocks away.
6. Can I enter just to see a temporary exhibition?
Most pieces belong to the permanent collection. To confirm if there are active temporary exhibits and whether separate entry is allowed, it’s best to inquire in advance.
7. Are card payments accepted at the ticket office?
There is no clear information on whether card payments are accepted. In small museums in Cusco, it’s recommended to carry cash just in case.
8. Is the museum signage available in English?
Although some pieces have bilingual signage, most of the information is available only in Spanish.
9. Is there a gift shop inside the museum?
There is no confirmed information about a gift shop inside the museum. However, nearby there are artisan stores where similar products can be purchased.
10. Does the museum have public restrooms?
There is no official information about available restrooms. It’s recommended to take precautions before entering, especially if traveling with children or elderly people.