PRINCIPAL ATTRACTIONS
Cuenca boasts a huge variety of museums and art galleries and is the most important center of craft work in Ecuador. Despite its name, the Panama hat is native to Cuenca. Historically, this style of hat was exported to Panama, and then shipped internationally from there. Visit the interesting Panama Hat Museum to learn more about the hat’s production and to purchase one of your own.
In Plaza de San Francisco everyday hundreds of vendors sell unique souvenirs of high quality, such as Panama Hats, leather jackets, ceramics, ponchos, scarves or traditional alpaca sweaters, which are all produced around Cuenca.
For those looking to take a break from sightseeing and have a relaxing day we recommend spending a day at the Piedra de Agua Fuente Thermal & Spa, a great place to relax and pamper yourself, located very close to the church of Banos, just 30 min away from downtown by bus in 12. It's not only a great spot-on top of a hot springs, but they have a beautiful pool, massage treatment and you can get in a hot spring inside a cave! The entrance price is very reasonable, and they have many promotions available.
The Cathedral
The Cathedral de la Inmaculada Concepción also know as New Cathedral, built in 1885, is the city's main church, with its 3 beautiful sky-blue domes visible from around the city. The roof of the cathedral was recently opened to visitors, with a charge of only $1 per person. A climb up a steep spiral stone staircase leads to an excellent view over the city.
Sagrario Church
The Sagrario Church, dating back to 1557,is located right across the new cathedral and has been transformed into a museum impeccably restored where you can find life-size Jesus and the apostles, many paintings and wonderful art pieces, you can even view the very old Pipe Organ dating back from the 18th century. Worth to see with entrance fee only $2
Tomebamba River
Walk along the river Tomebamba which is separating the colonial section from the modern residential areas of the town of Cuenca, this river walk is known as barranco and features paved trails on both sides connected by numerous bridges. It's a great place to relax on a sunny day, have a drink in one of the many bars along the path or simply enjoy the beautiful views.
Mirador el Turi
Take some amazing pictures at Turi, a viewpoint located to the south of the city. It has great views over the city both during the day and at night. There is no charge for the view, but a taxi to the viewpoint might cost a few dollars.
