Under $100: Cuzco, Peru

The Peruvian city of Cuzco is the gateway to the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, but its picturesque streets and raucous nightlife often tempt travelers into staying for a few nights.

For breakfast, head to Jack’s Cafe ($8) for a huge plate washed down with strong coffee and thick milkshakes. Suitably fortified, visit the Potato Museum, which as its name suggests is devoted to the history of one of Peru’s most famous exports. From here, go to the famous central market, where you will see many kinds of potatoes for sale alongside other more exotic items, including ayahuasca.

Pisac Market © Pixattitude | Dreamstime

For the rest of the morning, wander around the old town and take in the Plaza de Armas before lunch at Inka Grill ($14). Among the staple choices are alpaca steaks and roasted guinea pigs, which are a local favorite. In the afternoon, buy yourself a one-day pass to a series of ruins including Sacsayhuaman ($40) and San Blas church. Cuzco is the oldest continually inhabited city in South America, and the tourist pass gives you a chance to see a variety of archaeological sites both in the city and along the Sacred Valley.

Plaza de Armas © Matewe | Dreamstime

Dinner at El Fogon ($3.50) will leave you with some change to spare for some nighttime adventures, when most tourists will be found in either Mama Africa or The Temple. Drinks cost around $2 each, and you’ll have plenty of time to indulge in your favorite tipple before the doors close around 4 a.m.