Plaza de San Francisco is one of central Cusco's useful breathing spaces, close to the market streets and a short walk from the Plaza de Armas but less dominated by tour groups. The church and convent of San Francisco anchor the square, while benches, trees, and surrounding arcades make it a practical pause between the historic centre and San Pedro.
It is not Cusco's grandest plaza, but that is part of the reason to stop. The square feels more like a working piece of the city than a stage set, with students, families, vendors, and travellers crossing paths. Use it as a gentler route into the old centre or as a place to regroup after the market.