Cuenca is a city best experienced slowly.
Unlike destinations where travelers move quickly between tourist attractions, Cuenca encourages people to walk, explore side streets, spend time in cafés, and enjoy the atmosphere of the city itself.
Many of the city’s most interesting places are located within or near the Historic Center, making it easy for visitors to explore several neighborhoods and landmarks on foot throughout the day.
For travelers staying near:
- Mariano Cueva 9-69
- Gran Colombia 6-59
many of Cuenca’s most recognizable places are conveniently accessible without needing transportation.
Parque Calderón
Parque Calderón is considered the center of Cuenca’s Historic Center and one of the city’s main meeting points.
Surrounded by:
- historic buildings
- cafés
- local shops
- restaurants
- Catedral Nueva
the plaza becomes especially active throughout the mornings and afternoons.
Many travelers begin their day here before continuing toward nearby cafés, museums, and historic streets.
Catedral Nueva
Known for its iconic blue domes, Catedral Nueva is one of Cuenca’s most recognizable landmarks.
The cathedral area combines:
- architecture
- plazas
- cafés
- public spaces
- historic streets
making it one of the city’s most photographed and visited areas.
Visitors often spend time sitting in Parque Calderón before walking through surrounding streets and cafés nearby.
Calle Larga
Calle Larga has become one of Cuenca’s most popular streets for:
- cafés
- restaurants
- nightlife
- galleries
- walkable atmosphere
Located between the Historic Center and Río Tomebamba, the street naturally connects travelers to many of the city’s cultural and social areas.
For remote workers and long-stay travelers especially, Calle Larga has become one of the most comfortable parts of everyday life in Cuenca.
Río Tomebamba
The areas surrounding Río Tomebamba offer a calmer and greener side of the city.
Travelers frequently visit the river area for:
- walks
- cafés
- scenic views
- quieter atmosphere
- riverside restaurants
The combination of historic architecture and natural scenery creates one of Cuenca’s most relaxing environments.
Many visitors spend evenings walking near the river after exploring the Historic Center during the day.
San Sebastián
San Sebastián has gradually become one of Cuenca’s favorite creative neighborhoods.
Known for:
- galleries
- cafés
- quieter streets
- artistic atmosphere
- slower pace
the neighborhood attracts travelers looking for a calmer and more local side of the city.
Compared to busier tourist areas, San Sebastián feels more relaxed while still remaining connected to central Cuenca.
Mercado 10 de Agosto
For travelers interested in experiencing local daily life, Mercado 10 de Agosto remains one of Cuenca’s most traditional markets.
Visitors often explore the market for:
- local food
- fresh fruit
- traditional meals
- flowers
- local products
The market offers a different perspective of the city compared to cafés and historic plazas.
Why Travelers Enjoy Exploring Cuenca on Foot
One of Cuenca’s biggest advantages is walkability.
Visitors staying near the Historic Center can comfortably move between:
- plazas
- cafés
- riverside paths
- museums
- restaurants
- markets
- galleries
without depending heavily on transportation.
For many travelers, this slower and more connected style of exploration becomes one of the most memorable parts of staying in Cuenca.
To discover more corners of Cuenca, continue with our local guide.
