Whether you’re on your way to the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or Lake Titicaca, the chances are that you’re staying in Cusco for a few days. But Cusco should be a destination in itself as it offers more than a stopover city or a base to explore the Sacred Valley. Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic city will merit several days’ stay. So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Cusco for your next Peru trip, this post is for you, as I had plenty of time to visit various hotels. (I ended up staying in Cusco longer than planned due to altitude sickness!) We’ll uncover the best hotels depending on your travel styles and budget. Let’s dive in.
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Best Luxury Hotels in Cusco
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel; This is my top recommendation and easily the best hotel in Cusco. Monasterio, as the name suggests, is a former monastery that dates back to the 16th century. The property is absolutely beautiful, with well-preserved colonial-era features, including cloisters, archways, and courtyards. As a Belmond hotel, you can expect elegance and luxury without being flashy. From cozy rooms to spacious suites, each is meticulously appointed with stylish decor and premium amenities. The rooms are not huge for a luxury hotel because it was a monastery. But the beds are comfortable and the artworks are beautiful. Some rooms come with oxygen due to the high altitude. You can enjoy the Peruvian meals in the open-air courtyard. On weekends you can also dine and enjoy opera at El Tupay in the most romantic setting. They have a 16th-century chapel where you can tie the knot.
Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel; Palacio Nazarenas is another prestigious luxury hotel located just next door to Monasterio. Palacio Nazarenas is located within a meticulously restored 17th-century palace, which was once a convent and later a private residence. Just like Monasterio, Palacio Nazarenas is known for its opulent accommodations, which include sumptuous suites and rooms with handcrafted Peruvian textiles, antique furnishings, and luxurious amenities. What Palacio Nazarenas has and Monasterio doesn’t is a swimming pool. So, if this is important, stay at Palacio Nazarenas. By the way, I was told that I could use the pool at Nazarenas while staying at Monasterio. The rooms are definitely bigger and more modern, compared to Monasterio. However, I prefer Monasterio. I found the rooms at Nazarenas too modern. I really enjoyed the historical setting of Monasterio. But either way, if you’re thinking about where to stay in Cusco, staying at either of them will be great.
Best Mid-range Hotels in Cusco
Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel & Spa; This is a boutique hotel located in the historic center of Cusco. Accommodations at Casa Cartagena are spacious and elegantly appointed, with each room and suite individually decorated with stylish furnishings. Some rooms come with excellent amenities such as jacuzzis and private balconies. Rooms are spacious and ideal for families. It’s a good value for money. A breakfast buffet is included and so are evening cocktails and canapes. Their Quoya spa comes with a steam bath and an indoor pool, as well as various treatments.
Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott; Palacio del Inka is also housed within a restored 16th-century palace with a nice courtyard. Accommodations at Palacio del Inka are spacious and well-appointed, with each room and suite offering a blend of traditional Peruvian decor and modern comforts. You can expect Marriot standards such as plush bedding, excellent furnishings, and amenities such as marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet access. Some rooms come with a terrace or a mountain view. Rooms are excellent and the onsite restaurant Qespi offers good Peruvian food and services. Their spa facility is excellent too. But I personally found it too “Marriotty” in Cusco. There are over 200 rooms which I found too many. But Palacio del Inka is still a great choice if you’re a Marriot fan and expect the same standard. If you’re looking for a bit more unique places to stay in Cusco, I recommend the luxury Belmond hotels or other budget options.
Antigua Casona San Blas; This is a very lovely and friendly place. Although I didn’t stay here, I had a tour of the rooms and the property. Antigua Casona is located in the historic San Blas neighborhood of Cusco, still a very short walking distance to the Plaza de Armas. As soon as you enter Antigua Casona, you feel welcomed and notice the peacefulness of the hotel. You will notice their philosophy focuses on hospitality, community, and sustainability. Their support for the local community and their partnership with environmental groups only enhanced their hospitality efforts. The rooms and suites are simple but you will feel the warmth of the furniture made from locally sourced woods. The interior is designed with a natural chic style throughout and is very relaxing and peaceful. Check out their Yoga studio with Amazonian hardwood floors, it’s beautiful. It’s the kind of place where you want to stay longer to fully appreciate the place. Highly recommended.
Best Budget Hotels in Cusco
Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel; You walk through the small cobblestone street and the entrance is unassuming. But as you walk through the archway tunnel, you’ll find the oasis in the Cusco. The property is Casona style – a “big house” with a courtyard. The rooms and suites are clean and spacious, with good amenities including free wifi. It’s a very family-friendly place. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast (included), lunch, and dinner, offering fusion menus. Enjoy great views from their rooftop terrace. It’s a good choice if you’re on a budget or traveling with family.
Quinta San Blas by Ananay Hotels; Quinta San Blas is close to the above Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel in the central area close to Plaza de Armas. Rooms are simple but clean and bright. Free wifi is also available. Breakfasts are included, although there is no restaurant. But there are plenty of restaurants in the area. If you’re looking for a budget stay in Cusco, consider this.
Sonesta Hotel Cusco; If you’re wondering where to stay in Cusco on budget yet would like modern facilities and room serice, try Sonesta. Although it’s slightly out of town, it’s still only about 15 minutes walk to the central historical area. You can expect all good amenities and services you can expect from modern hotels, such as airport shuttle, laundry, business facilities, a restaurant offering local as well as international cuisine. It may lack local charm, but it’s still a good budget option.
Hope some of my hotel reviews will help you decide where to stay in Cusco. There are plenty of other options, so please share if you know any good places to stay in the comment. Whether you’re heading to Machu Picchu or on your way back to Lima, I wish you a great stay in this wonderful city!