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Cusco

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About Cusco

Cusco - also Cuzco or Qosq’o - is the cosmopolitan former capital of the Inca Empire, and as well as being arguably one of the most fascinating cities on the continent, it's also the closest city to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. So it’s quite a busy place as far as visitor numbers go. If you like the look of our Gurus' recommendations for the best places to stay in Cusco - which include some really characterful hotels housed in converted heritage properties - then don’t hang about too long before booking!

The beautifully preserved colonial architecture, and the way it’s arranged around the older Incan structures, is one of the most appealing aspects of Cusco. Narrow cobbled passages open out into graceful squares, while ornate churches rub shoulders with low-rise Incan temples - you’re just as likely to see pet llamas as you are to see expensive alpaca wool clothing for sale. Just walking the streets you soak up layer upon layer of history, with Spanish buildings right on top of the Incan city walls, and ruins dotted all over. Several important Incan structures remain in very good condition - for example Qoricancha, the Sun Temple. There are also a number of great museums here, as well as excellent markets for souvenir hunting. Local specialties include cut, chicha and alpaca.

Above all, Cusco is a great starting point for hiking the Inca trail and accessing Machu Picchu. At an altitude of 3400m above sea level, it's a great place to acclimatise before setting off.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Cusco range from luxury hotels through heritage boutique properties, to several budget options.

The Best Places to Stay in Cusco

For a city break

  • The Palacio del Inka is an elegant 203 room hotel right in the heart of town. The decor is colourful, from the smallest room to the excellent Andean restaurant. There’s also a range of spa treatments available.
  • El Mercado offers a fabulous mix of tradition and contemporary decor in the centre of Cusco. There are exposed beams and white washed walls but there are also some great pieces of modern art. There are 31 rooms plus a gorgeous terrace, perfect for drinks in the evening.
  • Casa Son Blas is nestled in Cusco's artisan quarter. Rooms are named after symbols from Peruvian textile tradition and feature rustic-style furnishings and exposed wooden beams, while suites offer split-level living. Drinks are served on the pretty terrace.

Heritage boutique

  • Casa Cartagena is housed in a stunning brick and adobe building, offering guests an authentic taste of historic Cusco. The individually styled suites are spacious and contemporary, with restored wooden balconies overlooking the hotel courtyard. The Andean-inspired spa is a plus. It's very popular, so book early.
  • Abittare is a colonial-era manor house turned boutique hotel. Guestrooms line a traditional flagstone courtyard and feature contemporary design and period balconies; book a luxury suite for a separate living room.
  • The slightly larger (43 room) Aranwa Cusco is housed in a 16th-century colonial mansion, but it still has a boutique feel. Rooms have classic interiors to complement the heritage property's original features, from frescoes to exposed stone walls. Book a luxury suite for a hot tub and living space. It's another super popular choice, so plan early if you like the look of it.

Top end luxury

  • You might recognise some of the name, and yes, the Belmond Hotel Monasterio is the same Belmond as the Orient Express. So you can expect a similar kind of luxury and charm here. Built in the 16th century this converted monastery with its leafy courtyard gardens, antique furnishings and original art and features is a really memorable place to stay.
  • The Belmond Palacio Nazarenas shares the first bit of the name too so you can expect the same service and luxury, but this time in a remodelled palace with walls made of stones carved by the Incas. There are 55 rooms and suites, all elegant, but the suites come with their own bar and butler. There’s also a wonderful spa.
  • Inkaterra La Cason is an 11 room hotel in a beautifully converted colonial mansion. If you’re interested in the history of this city then this is the place to stay. Decorated with antiquities dating back to the days of the Spanish Empire. The Peruvian restaurant is superb. And you’re just two minutes walk from the cathedral.
  • Last, consider the lovely El Convento Cusco for some heritage luxury. It combines historic grandeur with modern comfort in a renovated 16th-century convent. Guestrooms line the gallery of the interior courtyard; inside, original exposed walls are framed by floor-to-ceiling windows alongside bespoke furniture.

For best value

  • Right in the heart of Cusco, just short walk from the Plaza de Armas, Unaytambo is a large colonial house with 14 rooms - many with private balconies. There’s a beautiful terrace and the decor is colonial too. Rooms start from around £80 per night.
  • The larger Costa del Sol Ramada Cusco is in a converted 17th century mansion in the centre of town. There’s still something rather splendid about this 90 room hotel. It’s arranged around an arcaded central courtyard and there’s an excellent Peruvian restaurant.
  • El Retablo is a quirky budget B&B option in a restored heritage building, close to the centre. Interiors feature colourful and traditional 'retablo' motifs hand-painted by local artisans, in addition to handwoven tapestries and cosy linens; splash out on a luxury suite for a balcony with city views.

For an apartment or cottage

  • If you'd prefer your own space, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com for a range of properties to suit the needs of all visitors.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport a mere 3km (1.8 miles) from Cusco. The airport serves a combination of both domestic and international connections.
  • Catch a train to Cusco with services to Machu Picchu.
  • If you want to rent a car, for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
  • Best time to visit - May to October is the dry season with mild temperatures - making it great for exploring.

Still not sure?

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Best Hotels in Cusco

  • El Retablo Cusco City Centre 17 rooms from AU$130

    City Style  -  Set in a historic property in central Cusco, renovated with the help of local artists, this hotel has plenty of local city style
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic atmosphere at this laid-back hotel; book a deluxe room for a charming private balcony
    Local exploring  -  With Plaza de Armas a few blocks away, this hotel provides the perfect base for local exploring in Cusco
    Local markets  -  Visit the San Pedro Market, a vibrant local market frequented by vendors from the indigenous communities in Peru's highlands
    GardenViewsNo pets

    Set in a restored heritage building, this charming B&B sits close to the centre of historic Cusco. Interiors feature traditional 'retablo' motifs hand-painted by local artisans, in addition to handwoven tapestries and cosy linens; book a luxury suite for a balcony with city views. An inviting hotel. See More

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  • Hotel Abittare Cusco City Centre 44 rooms from AU$141

    City Style  -  Set in a heritage property in Cusco with contemporary interiors, this hotel has lots of chic city charm
    Local exploring  -  With the main city attractions within easy distance, this hotel is perfect for local exploring in Cusco
    Families  -  This hotel offers family rooms which can accommodate children, perfect for parents
    Sights nearby  -  Arrange a tour to Machu Pichu through the hotel and benefit from great value deals; enquire at reception for details
    Air conditioningParkingNo pets

    A colonial-era manor house is the setting for this boutique hotel in Cusco. Guestrooms line the property's traditional flagstone courtyard. Inside, suites feature contemporary design in a sandy palette and a period balcony; book a luxury suite for a separate living room. A stylish heritage hotel. See More

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  • Casa San Blas Cusco City Centre 18 rooms from AU$154

    Local exploring  -  Set in the picturesque artisan's quarter of the city, this hotel is perfectly placed for local exploring
    Romantic Break  -  Couples rate this boutique bolt-hole highly; book a suite for split-level living with great city views
    City Style  -  With boutique interiors and a central city location, this hotel has lots of chic Cusco style
    Local markets  -  Shop like a local with a trip to the San Pedro Central Market, a thriving market with local produce and crafts
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsNo pets

    This boutique hotel is nestled in historic Cusco's artisan quarter. Inside, rooms are named after symbols from Peruvian textile tradition and feature rustic-style furnishings and exposed wooden beams, while suites offer split-level living. Drinks are served on the pretty terrace; a cosy hotel. See More

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  • Unaytambo Cusco 14 rooms from AU$154

    City Style  -  The hotel enjoys a wonderfully central location and so is the perfect base from which to explore the city
    Value chic  -  Great accommodation in a fantastic location. Doubles from $105 per night.
    Sights nearby  -  Check out San Blas Church or head to Sacsayhuaman archeological site which is less than a mile from the hotel
    Local markets  -  A visit to Cusco is incomplete without a visit to the bustling San Pedro market
    No pets
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    Unaytambo is located in the heart of Cusco just a short walk from Plaza de Armas. Set in a large house it features rooms with a traditional colonial decor which offer private balconies and plasma TVs. Sit out on the terrace and relax or explore the area! A charming stay in a brilliant spot. See More

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  • Costa del Sol Ramada Cusco Cuzco, Peru 90 rooms from AU$212

    Local exploring  -  This central 17th-century mansion is the ideal jump off point for exploring this ancient city by foot.
    Sights nearby  -  Just two minutes from La Merced Church, one of Cuscos most important churches dating back to the sixteenth century.
    Local markets  -  Just steps from Mercado Central de San Pedro, Cusco's central food market, open everyday.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsNo pets

    The Marquis of Picoaga's converted 17th century mansion in the centre of the ancient city of Cusco. Retaining its old splendour, the more characterful rooms are set around a charming arcaded courtyard. The restaurant serves international and Peruvian dishes. Ideally placed to explore the city. See More

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  • Palacio del Inka Cusco 203 rooms from AU$248

    Romantic Break  -  Luxurious accommodation to make you feel like royalty, superb cuisine and a range of spa treatments-perfect for a romantic trip
    City Style  -  Make the most out of the property's excellently central location to fully explore all that Cusco has to offer
    Sights nearby  -  Coricancha, the Incas' temple of the sun, is located less than a mile away and is a must visit!
    Great walks  -  Stroll around the streets getting a feel for the city and Cusco's unique atmosphere
    SpaRestaurantSwimming Pool

    This stunning property is situated in the heart of Cusco, a great base from which to get to know the city. It offers extremely elegant rooms with stunning use of diverse colours and has its own excellent restaurant focusing on Andean ingredients. A top-notch and classy choice for a city stay! See More

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  • El Convento Cusco Cusco City Centre 153 rooms from AU$286

    Spa breaks  -  Boasting a luxury spa that draws on traditional Incan healing practices, book this hotel for your next Latin American spa break
    City Style  -  Set in a historic, 16th-century property in central Cusco, this luxury hotel has reams of local city style
    Local exploring  -  Set in close proximity to the city's main attractions, this hotel is a perfect base for local exploring
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the landmark Cathedral of Cusco, a colonial-era church that took almost one hundred years to complete
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsNo pets

    Historic grandeur and modern comfort combine in this renovated 16th-century convent-cum-hotel in Cusco, Peru. Guestrooms line the gallery of the interior courtyard; inside, original exposed walls are framed by floor-to-ceiling windows alongside bespoke furniture. Dine at Qespi; a cultured bolt-hole. See More

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  • Aranwa Cusco Cusco City Centre 43 rooms from AU$411

    Local exploring  -  Situated in the historic centre of the city, this hotel makes a great base for local exploring in Cusco
    Romantic Break  -  Book a luxury suite with a hot tub for added indulgence on your couples' getaway
    City Style  -  Housed in a heritage property in Cusco, this hotel has lots of local style
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the 16th-century Cathedral of Cusco, a major landmark that took nearly 100 years to complete
    Air conditioningRestaurantNo pets

    This boutique hotel is housed in a 16th-century colonial mansion in Cusco, Peru. Rooms have classic interiors to complement the heritage property's original features, from frescoes to exposed stone walls. Book a luxury suite for a hot tub and living space. Dine at Mishti Restaurant; a stately hotel. See More

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  • El Mercado Cusco 31 rooms from AU$453

    Local exploring  -  Centrally located walking distance from restaurants, museums and Cusco’s main Plaza de Armas.
    Local markets  -  Explore the authentic and oldest market of Cusco; San Pedro Market.
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure not to miss the fascinating Inca 'Temple of the Sun'.
    Restrictions on children  -  Not suitable for children.
    RestaurantNo pets

    A fabulous mid-ranged property in the heart of Cusco. Stunning rooms mix tradition and contemporary styles; think exposed beams, white washed walls, in-room free standing baths and modern art. A gorgeous terrace is perfectly primed for evening drinks. Walking distance to the cities' sights. Superb. See More

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  • Belmond Hotel Monasterio Cusco (Plazoleta Nazarenas) 122 rooms from AU$509

    City Style  -  This property is situated in the heart of Cusco's historical centre, a perfect location for getting to know the city
    Great walks  -  The hotel puts on a two-day trek to Machu Picchu if you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Santa Domingo Church, Sacsayhuaman archeological site or the ancient Coricancha temple
    Local markets  -  The vibrant and diverse San Pedro Market is an absolute must visit
    Restaurant

    This stunning former monastery is situated in the heart of Cusco's historical centre. Boasting luxurious colonial-style accommodation with plenty of artwork, the hotel also has a beautiful courtyard garden and several bars and restaurants. Be treated like royalty at this utterly gorgeous city spot. See More

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  • Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel Cusco (Centro Histórico) 15 rooms from AU$660

    Local exploring  -  Located close to Cusco's main square, Plaza de Armas, this hotel is a great base for local exploring
    City Style  -  Set in a heritage property with contemporary interiors, this hotel has chic and modern Cusco style
    Romantic Break  -  Couples rate this sleek spa hotel highly; book a couples' massage for a romantic evening in
    Local markets  -  Shop like a local with a trip to San Pedro Central Market, a fresh produce market frequented by indigenous communities
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenNo pets

    Set inside a beautiful brick and adobe property, this boutique hotel offers guests an authentic taste of historic Cusco. The individually styled suites are spacious and contemporary, with restored wooden balconies overlooking the hotel courtyard. The Andean-inspired spa is a real plus. See More

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  • Inkaterra La Casona Cusco (Plazoleta Nazarenas) 11 rooms from AU$790

    Romantic Break  -  Set in a colonial mansion steep in romance, it's perfect for couples looking to unlock the historic city of Cusco.
    Local exploring  -  Perfect for exploring the historic city of Cusco.
    Sights nearby  -  Two minutes walk from the Cathedral of Cusco.
    Local markets  -  Explore the bustling local markets of Cusco.
    RestaurantNo pets

    Brimming with heritage, Inkaterra La Casona offers a glimpse into the rich history of Cusco. Set in colonial mansion, the hotel is packed full of antiques and artefacts dating back to days of the Spanish Empire. Luxurious rooms and a superb Peruvian restaurant complete this magnificent hotel. See More

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  • Belmond Palacio Nazarenas Cusco (Plaza Nazarenas 276) 55 rooms from AU$946

    City Style  -  The hotel enjoys a fabulously central location and is the perfect base from which to explore Cusco
    Local exploring  -  Go for a meander around the city and check out all the sights
    Great walks  -  Head for long walks along the beach and take in the sea views or simply wander through the city
    Local markets  -  The quintessentially Peruvian San Pedro market is an absolute must visit
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    This remodelled Palace is situated in central Cusco and has walls made of Inca stones. It features elegantly decorated suites which each come with their own bar and butler! Go for a refreshing dip in the pool or totally relax in their wonderful spa. An absolutely magical spot and unforgettable stay. See More

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