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15 Photos to Inspire You To Visit Cuenca

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After the crazy year 2020 turned out to be, I was just itching to travel abroad again. Initially, I wanted to check off a new destination to start off 2021, but when I really thought about it, my hometown of Cuenca is such a beautiful city and the perfect place to escape to. The last time I was in Cuenca was in 2012, and so much has changed since then. If you’ve never been to Cuenca before, you’re missing out on a true gem. Here are 15 photos to inspire to visit Cuenca, Ecuador!

One of the biggest changes I’ve seen since last being in Cuenca in 2012 is how much the city has focused on enhancing dining experiences. There are many more “photo-worthy” restaurants now than before.

15 Photos to Inspire You To Visit Cuenca, Ecuador
A transformed courtyard behind the New Cathedral – now lined with different restaurants with a view of the blue Cathedral domes in the background.
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
Another insta-worthy dining option right in the heart of the Historic Center of Cuenca: Casa del Parque
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
Palier Cafe, another photo worthy dining spot. Menu wise, this place is more for coffee and quick bites, but it’s also a bookstore. You can grab a book and spend an afternoon reading and sipping coffee while the occasional music performer serenades you.

The historic center of Cuenca is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you will see a lot of well preserved colonial architecture as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets.

15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
The judicial building in the historic center.
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
Tons of history within the city center — you can tour the Old Cathedral and even visit the catacombs beneath.
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
All the Santorini vibes here behind the Old Cathedral
Lots of colorful murals spread around the city make for great photo backdrops.
Wander around the different markets near Plaza San Francisco
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
Head on over to one of the many viewpoints around the city to get panoramic views of Cuenca! Make sure to bring along your zoom lens! (For a full list of spots to get panoramic views of Cuenca: https://mybucketlistjourneys.blog/5-spots-for-panoramic-views-of-cuenca/)

Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life or like a more tranquil vacation out in nature, Cuenca has it all! Being in the Sierra region of the country, you will find yourself surrounded by mountains.

Enjoying a sunset at Mega Park Icto Cruz
15 Photos to Inspire You To Visit Cuenca, Ecuador
Take a fishing trip out in El Cajas National Park.
15  photos to inspire you to visit Cuenca Ecuador
Most popular site for Incan ruins in Ecuador — the ruins of Ingapirca.
Tomebamba River

I hope these images inspire you to visit Cuenca someday, it’s truly a gem of a city! From history, culture, to food, Cuenca has something for everyone!

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