Ever wondered what it feels like staying in a 500-year-old monastery while enjoying modern luxury? Welcome to Cusco, where centuries of history meet a world of comfort. Perched high in the Andes at 11,200 feet above sea level, this ancient capital of the Inca Empire offers a fascinating mix of the past and present, with every cobblestone street telling a story.
Let me take you through some of the best options, ensuring your stay in this high-altitude wonderland is nothing short of unforgettable.
PS:
If you haven’t decided which area in Cusco you’d base in yet, check out our guide. We also have a handy guide on the must-visit landmarks in Peru, as well as all the other stuff Peru is known for! If you’re hiking to Machu Picchu, check out this guide to the classic Inca trail.
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Top Picks for Every Traveler’s Need!
TRAVEL TIP: DON’T WAIT to book a hotel you like, they go fast at popular destinations. Book it first with free cancellation to lock in the room; just cancel it if plans change. You’ll save hours of time & effort from trying to find another later.
Best Luxury Hotels In Cusco
JW Marriott El Convento
For someone who is craving for a luxurious retreat at the heart of Cusco that has the right blend of historic charm and modern comfort, JW Marriott El Convento is an amazing choice. This five-star hotel is a beautifully restored 16th-century convent that is just a few minutes walk away from museums, like the Religious Art Museum and Inka Museum, and the city’s main square, Plaza de Armas, where you’ll find iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Cusco. It is an ideal base for those eager to explore the city’s rich history while being centrally located so you’d never be far from restaurants, shops, and attractions that make Cusco a fascinating destination.
I think what makes this place special is that you’d feel like you’ve stepped back in time the moment you step inside with its high vaulted ceilings, antique exposed brick, and ornate stone arches give this place so much character. The full-service spa is one of its most wonderful facilities as they offer various treatments and it has a sauna, a relaxing indoor pool, a steam room, and other amenities that you’d surely appreciate. They offer a free breakfast buffet, while the on-site restaurant (Qespi Restaurant) and bar (Qespi Bar) have fantastic food options and a great wine list.
If you think that this accommodation will satisfy you, don’t hesitate to check all the available packages on Hotels.com and compare prices with Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Religious Art Museum (1 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (5-6 min walk), Plaza de Armas (6 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Avenida Tullumayo Stop (1 min walk), San Pedro Train Station (14-17 min walk), Wanchaq Train Station (18-19 min walk)
Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco
At Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco, a converted 17th-century mansion, you’d feel like a nobleman surrounded by centuries of history and timeless elegance. All the rooms are spacious, fully-carpeted, and well-equipped with heating, premium bedding, and all the other essentials you would need, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The terrace is a great place to lounge in while appreciating the gorgeous arches and pillars that fill the whole hotel. There’s an exceptional free breakfast buffet everyday, the two restaurants on-site (Paprika Restaurant and Walak Bar) offer local and international cuisine, and they even have a wine cellar that you can visit that is perfect for tastings.
It is near some of Cusco’s most iconic landmarks: a short walk brings you directly to Plaza de Armas, the majestic Cusco Cathedral, and the ornate Basilica Menor de la Merced.For a taste of local life, the San Pedro Market is also nearby where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.
I’d say that Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco is definitely a must-stay, and if you agree then I recommend looking for decent rates at Hotels.com, but Booking.com also has some good booking offers as well.
Nearby Attractions: Plaza de Armas (4-5 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (6-7 min walk), San Pedro Market (10-12 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Plazoleta Santa Teresa Bus Stop (1 min walk), San Pedro Station (11-12 min walk)
Novotel Cusco
I think that Novotel Cusco will give you the opportunity to turn your vacation into something special while immersing yourself in the heart of Cusco’s rich history. Housed in a beautiful 16th-century building with Andean-inspired decor just three blocks from Plaza de Armas, this four-star hotel offers a peaceful and elegant stay near some famous attractions.
Inside, the lobby and restaurant are set within a covered historic courtyard, creating a charming and intimate atmosphere that reflects the hotel’s colonial roots. Dining is very convenient as they offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, you can even request special diet meals to suit your needs. They have a minibar and a snack bar for drinks and a quick bite, while a full-service spa is available if you want some private relaxation time. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with heating, work desks if you’re crunching for a few leftover tasks, cable TV for entertainment, and private bathrooms. Some rooms include flat-screen TVs, and 24-hour room service is available for added ease.
I’d recommend checking out Hotels.com for booking options, but you might also catch better deals at Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Plaza de Armas (6 min walk), Qorikancha (6 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (6-7 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Station (15-18 min walk), Cusco Wanchaq Station (17-18 min walk)
Best Family-Friendly Stays near Plaza de Armas
Sonesta Hotel Cusco
Sonesta Hotel Cusco is a fantastic option if you’re hoping for a suitable base during a family getaway. Located just a few minutes drive from the historic center, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, yet keeps you close enough to easily explore Cusco’s vibrant heart. The hotel’s location near the San Pedro Market and within walking distance of cultural landmarks like Qorikancha means you can dive into local life and history without straying far.
One of the things that makes this place really convenient for families is their free shuttle service to and from the airport. And trust me, it is a huge plus when wrangling luggage and jet-lagged kids.The staff can help arrange family-friendly tours and they’ll even pack lunches for your day trips if you ask in advance. There’s a breakfast buffet that offers a wide variety of options and Sonesta also boasts an on-site restaurant, Mamaji, where you can enjoy a fusion of Peruvian and international dishes throughout the day. And with amenities like a picnic area, free WiFi, 24-hour room service, and soundproofed rooms, your stay will be as restful for every member as it is memorable.
There are pricing options that you can browse at Hotels.com, but Booking.com has some competitive packages worth checking out as well.
Nearby Attractions: Qorikancha (8-9 min walk), Religious Art Museum (15 min walk), Plaza de Armas (14-17 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Cusco Wanchaq Station (2 min walk), Plazoleta Santa Teresa (17 min walk)
Casa Andina Premium Cusco
Casa Andina Premium Cusco checks all the boxes for families wanting a culturally immersive and practically comfortable stay. Tucked in the safe and quiet Limacpampa neighborhood that is just a short walk from the lively Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and several landmarks, it strikes a great balance between central access and peaceful surroundings.
What stands out to me is that stepping inside feels like you’re walking through a living museum because of the elegant colonial architecture, wooden balconies, intricate stonework, and vibrant local textiles throughout. The spacious connecting rooms that families would appreciate are designed around colonial-style courtyards with wooden balconies, giving a cozy atmosphere for parents to unwind. To keep the younger guests entertained, board games and puzzles are available, and if they’re lucky, they could catch a glimpse of the baby alpaca that visits every morning. Traveling with family is also made easier with soundproofed rooms, daily housekeeping, and an on-site grocery/convenience store for snacks and quick essentials.
Take a peek at the prices in Hotels.com and compare them with those at Booking.com so you can find the most suitable package for you and your family.
Nearby Attractions: Qorikancha (2 min walk), Religious Art Museum (5 min walk), Plaza de Armas (9-10 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Cusco Wanchaq Station (14-15 min walk)
Best Affordable Hotels in Cusco
Tierra Viva Cusco Centro
In Tierra Viva Cusco Centro, you can definitely experience a clean, quiet, and highly affordable stay at Cusco without sacrificing comfort or location. This three-star Art Deco hotel is ideal for budget travelers who still want a charming base, thoughtful service, reliable amenities, and walkable access to all the action. It’s only a few minutes away from Plaza de Armas and San Pedro Market if you’re eager to explore Cusco’s vibrant food and artisan scene right outside your door.
I appreciate how this place doesn’t skimp out on their service and facilities despite the value pricing. The rooms are equipped with all the basics you’d need and other touches like flat-screen TVs, comfortable beds, and private bathrooms that include rainfall showers. There’s even an area shuttle, laundry facilities, and a small business center if you’re squeezing in work or travel planning. And the complimentary breakfast buffet, served each morning, is a great fuel for a whole day of visiting the city’s attractions.
You can take a peek at Hotels.com for reliable packages, but Booking.com has other options that you can check out as well.
Nearby Attractions: San Pedro Market (4 min walk), Plaza de Armas (9-10 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (10-12 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Station (6 min walk)
Amaru Inca
If you’re looking for a place to stay at Cusco’s San Blas art district without blowing your budget, Amaru Inca might be the one for you. Set inside a restored colonial house, with wooden balconies and a peaceful garden courtyard, this charming hotel offers simple but thoughtfully decorated rooms, complete with housekeeping, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi. Every morning, you can enjoy a free breakfast buffet, then unwind in the garden, sip some tea from the complimentary tea station, or plan your day with help from the friendly front desk.
San Blas is full of little art galleries, craft shops, and cute cafes, so you’ll have plenty to explore right outside your door. It is a little uphill from the main square so it has fewer tourists and is quieter with an authentic local vibe while being in walking-distance from several landmarks, such as the Cusco Cathedral and Inka Museum.
There are several booking options available at Booking.com and you can compare them with the packages that Hotels.com offers.
Nearby Attractions: Cusco Cathedral (6-7 min walk), Plaza de Armas (7-8 min walk), Qorikancha (11 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Station (15-19 min walk), Cusco Wanchaq Station (21-23 min walk)
Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Historico
Hotel Hacienda Cusco Centro Historico is another budget-friendly gem nestled in the heart of Cusco Historic Center. Just a short walk from both San Pedro Market and Plaza de Armas, this hotel is perfect if you want an affordable and comfortable base while staying close to the city’s top attractions. Travelers who appreciate both location and value would get a solid retreat whether you’re in town for a short stopover before heading to Machu Picchu or spending a few days exploring Cusco
I think one of the standout features is the filling breakfast and exceptional service, they’ll even pack food for you if you’re heading out before the buffet opens! The on-site Hacienda Cusco Restaurant serves a delightful mix of international and Peruvian dishes in a space that combines traditional charm with a modern twist. For a relaxing evening, the bar is a great spot to unwind, and when the weather’s nice, the garden and sun terrace offer a peaceful escape. Plus, given Cusco’s high altitude, they always keep oxygen readily available for guests who may experience altitude sickness.
You can head on over to Hotels.com for the best rates. Or check other deals on Booking.com too.
Nearby Attractions: San Pedro Market (9-10 min walk), Plaza de Armas (13-15 min walk), Inka Museum (16-17 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Train Station (8-10 min walk)
Best Boutique Hotels with Andean Charm
Antigua Casona San Blas
Tucked into the artisan-rich San Blas neighborhood, Antigua Casona San Blas blends colonial charm with understated luxury in a way that few boutique hotels in Cusco can. Family-owned and operated, this thoughtfully designed hotel is set around a tranquil central courtyard with cozy fireplaces, just steps away from the San Blas Temple and a few minutes walk from Plaza de Armas.
Guests are greeted each morning with an exceptional breakfast buffet featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and can savor Peruvian and international cuisine throughout the day at the on-site Piedra y Sal Restaurante. The in-house spa, complete with a sauna, steam room, and hyperbaric chamber, offers deep-tissue, Thai, and hot stone massages for a post-trek wind-down, while the yoga studio and art gallery create a calming, culturally enriched environment. But what makes this place special for me is the central patio with a firepit where you can hangout in the evenings while sipping on complimentary coca tea.
If you think that Antigua Casona San Blas is the perfect boutique hotel for you, go to Hotels.com for any packages that you might like, though Booking.com has a variety of booking options you can choose from as well.
Nearby Attractions: Religious Art Museum (6-7 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (10 min walk), Plaza de Armas (11 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Train Station (19-22 min walk), Wanchaq Train Station (20 min walk)
Union Hotel Cusco
Not every hotel in Cusco will make you feel like you’re getting a closer look at the city’s history, but Union Hotel Cusco does it with charm and quiet confidence. It’s just a short distance away from Plaza de Armas and really close to San Pedro Market, this boutique hotel in the Historic Center will give you a luxurious base that feels both local and cozy. With the perfect mix of warm hospitality, colonial elegance, and a family-friendly atmosphere, I’d say that this is a place that will surprise you in the best way.
I really like how the vibe here is relaxed but intentional. The leafy garden and rooftop terrace offer peaceful spaces to unwind between excursions, while the arcade and game room make it a hit with families traveling with kids. If you’re flying in, the free airport pick-up is a thoughtful touch that makes arrival a breeze. A buffet of local favorites, plus vegetarian and gluten-free options is served daily, and the on-site restaurant caters to different dietary needs. The quaint open common area in the middle of the hotel where you can lounge and listen to the free live music every evening provides a great space to chill. There’s even Kiki, the resident rescue alpaca, which could make your vacation a tad more memorable!
Union Hotel Cusco is definitely an ideal accommodation to consider, and if you think so as well, you can check their room availability on Hotels.com or browse Booking.com for decent rates.
Nearby Attractions: San Pedro Market (4 min walk), Plaza de Armas (12-13 min walk), Cusco Cathedral (13-15 min walk)
Nearby Transport: San Pedro Station (3 min walk)
Find Your Perfect Cusco Stay
Choosing where to stay at Cusco, with its height in the mountains and pretty serious altitude, means that you have to pick a spot that will bring you the ultimate comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to elevation. But once you’ve acclimated yourself, then the real magic could begin. You’ll be ready to wander the cobblestone streets, explore ancient Inca ruins, and dive into the rich mix of cultures that make Cusco so unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Your perfect Peruvian base is waiting!
