When you stay in Cusco, you stay on the roof of the world. At 3400 metres above sea level, the gateway to Machu Picchu will leave you breathless – in more ways than one!
Although tourists mainly know Cusco as the gateway to Machu Picchu, this charming Peruvian city deserves a few days of its own. Cusco is the country’s cultural capital and its history is rich and VERY old. In fact, Cusco is the oldest living city in the Americas and has been inhabited for over 3,000 years.
But when you’ve got 2 million visitors annually to a town of fewer than 450,000 residents, things can get a bit crowded. Knowing where to stay in Cusco can be dicey. You’ll want to know the best places to stay depending on your interest and budget.
I know that you’ll need to save your energy for that giant hike to the lost city, so I’ve got you covered for Cusco accommodation. I’ve put together this guide on where to stay in Cusco to help you navigate and make the most of this cool little tourist town.
So kick back and read on, intrepid traveller. You’ll soon know exactly where to stay in Cusco.
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Not worried about where you’ll be and just looking for a fit for you as you’re backpacking through Peru? Check out my top picks for Cusco in general!
Antigua Casona San Blas | Best Hotel in Cusco
Strategically located in the middle of the city, this is one of the best hotels and makes for an ideal base in Cusco. Guests can soak up the outdoors on the terrace or have a beverage at the bar. Staff are available 24 hours a day and can assist with booking tours and tickets
Kokopelli Hostel Cusco | Best Hostel in Cusco
Kokopelli in Cusco is located just a 2-minute walk from Cusco’s Main Plaza. Their unique 200-year-old house will offer you the Magic of Cusco fusioned with Kokopelli’s Energy. All their efforts are focused ionoffering all that a traveller needs, and more!
Casa Arcoiris | Best Airbnb in Cusco
This Airbnb offers you a great home for only a great price in San Cristobal in an old colonial building with modern amenities. You get a beautiful view of Cusco from your private balcony, you can see all over the ancient city. Located just out of the city centre, I reckon this joint gives the best hotels a run for their money.
Cook yourself a delicious breakfast in the kitchen or wander out to the local markets, you’re close to Plaza San Cristobal. Plaza de las Armas (the main square) is only a short walk away too if you need some variation in your local markets.
But there’s plenty to choose from…
Below you’ll find a map for easy navigation so you can start sussing out the place. Read on through if you want to see our recommendations.
Historic Centre
The Centro Historico of Cusco is exactly where it sounds – right in the middle! It encompasses much of the tourist area of Cusco and, as such, is a great place to stay for your first time here.
San Cristobal
San Cristobal is a small neighbourhood up the hill from the centre of town. It’s adjacent to the Historic Centre and arguably overlaps in parts.
Plaza de Armas
Technically part of the Historic Centre, Plaza de Armas deserves its own mention as an area to stay! The Plaza itself is a square in the middle of the tourist section of town, lined with churches, Inca ruins, bars and restaurants.
San Blas
A short quick walk up the hill from the plaza is the barrio of San Blas. Rapidly gaining attention as the coolest place to live, work and play in Cusco, this is also our top pick for you!
Lucrepata
Right next to San Blas and only a short walk from Plaza de Armas is Lucrepata. This is a relatively unknown area of town, at least to the tourists.
Located in the Southern Sierras mountain range of Peru, Cusco is a city high up (get it?) on many people’s bucket lists. It’s best known as the stop-off point for travellers before they embark on a multi-day hike to Machu Picchu.
This was the capital of the Inca empire from the 13th to the 16th century when the Spanish conquered the region. Today, it’s a buzzing historic town, with a lot set up for the tourists who flock here throughout the year. You can sample wonderful food, see people in traditional clothing and play with alpacas, all while soaking in the long history of the place.
The neighbourhoods I’ve chosen for you are all grouped quite close, as that’s where the action is. If you’d prefer, you can stay in Wanchaq, an area popular with students and not too far from town. In Marcavalle you’ll find the wealthier crowds, staying near to the classy-sounding Avenida de la Cultura.
And in Huancaro, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the hipsters of the region. I’d recommend you stay at one of the great but affordable hostels in Cusco if you’re here on a backpacking budget. Rest your head in a comfy bed, meet likeminded backpackers, and keep the accommodation costs low!
Whatever your style, I’ve got a place in Cusco for you!
Cusco’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
From budget to family-friendly, to night-life-centred, the neighbourhoods of Cusco can be divided into interest groups… But really the lines blur since many areas are good for most options!
1. Historic Centre – Where to Stay in Cusco for Your First Time
The Centro Historico of Cusco is exactly where it sounds – right in the middle! It encompasses much of the tourist area of Cusco and, as such, is a great place to stay for your first time here.
In the southern end of the neighbourhood is Wanchaq Train Station, one of the main ways in and out of the city. With everything in walking distance, there’s no need for taxis with your luggage as your accommodation will be nearby. It’s called ‘historic’ because it’s here that you can see the remnants of the Inca empire, with the Spanish influence laid over top.
Head to Calle Hatunrumiyoc to wander beside the original Inca walls, you’ll find the Twelve-Angled Stone here too. So perfectly shaped to fit into the surrounding rocks that no mortar has been needed to secure it over its centuries of existence. You’ll find Qorikancha near the wall too – the Inca Sun Temple – though it’s not lined entirely in gold like it once was, you’ll be dazzled!
At these sites, you can enhance your photo opp by asking a traditionally dressed local to stand in with you – for a small fee. There are a bunch of museums and ancient sites to see in this area, so it may be worth getting some kind of package ticket… While Peru can be very safe, it’s super important to remember it’s a tourist trap and to make sure you get travel insurance!
Palacio del Inka | Best Hotel in Historic Centre
Palacio del Inka A Luxury Collection Hotel has been recently refurbished and offers a Turkish steam bath, a sauna and a Jacuzzi. All the modern rooms at this five-star hotel provide a minibar, plus all the necessities for an enjoyable stay. The luxurious rooms will undoubtedly make you want to stay longer in the historic centre.
Pariwana Hostel | Best Hostel in Historic Centre
Pariwana offers top-quality affordable accommodation in a superb location. No matter what you get, a shared or private room, you can rest assured that your stay here will be one of exceptional comfort! Stay in the spacious rooms and meet your new buddies at this epic Cusco hostel.
Lino Studio | Best Airbnb in Historic Centre
The apartment is located in the heart of the historic centre with hotspots within walking distance. The apartment has every amenity you could need including cacao and the host is always open for questions. There’s a guesthouse next door where you’re welcome to leave your bags if you’re going on a tour – even for a couple of days!
Enjoy being in the historic centre and roaming the streets and seeing the sights. Wander up to the main square for a delicious breakfast at the local markets and imbue the rich history of the area.
Things to See and Do in the Historic Centre:
- Feast your senses at San Pedro market – how about trying an entire roasted guinea pig? It’s a local speciality!
- Explore Humantay Lake located north of Cusco, just behind the legendary snow mountain Apu Salkantay.
- Worship the sun at Qorikancha – if it’s shining that day!
- Discover the Peruvian Flavors in Cusco with a cooking class and a walking tour to San Pedro Market.
- Walk down Calle Hatunrumiyoc and try to imagine what those stones have seen.
- See a cultural performance at Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo.
- Go back to the market to pick yourself up an Alpaca wool jumper!
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View on Osprey View on REI2. San Cristobal – Best Place to Stay in Cusco on a Budget
San Cristobal is a small neighbourhood up the hill from the centre of town. It’s adjacent to the Historic Centre and arguably overlaps in parts.I’ve chosen this as the best place to stay in Cusco on a budget for some of the usual reasons, and one not-so-usual.
It’s a bit out of the main square, so naturally, accommodation prices drop as you head out. I’m assuming you’re fit enough for a walk up the hill to your accommodation from Wanchaq Station. The trip is about 25 minutes by foot, otherwise a taxi or bus is going to cost you very little.
The views from up here are fantastic, looking right over the town. The vantage point from in front of San Christobal Cathedral is a great place to try and spot the lines of the ancient city. The best reason though is that you’ll be super close to Sacsayhuaman, the most impressive of the Inca ruin sites.
Now for the sneaky reason… If you get up early, it’s free to enter before 7 am, avoiding the crowds that later morning will bring and the ticket cost. Booya! Just behind Sacsayhuaman is the planetarium and, trust us, up here with such little light pollution, the skies are a real sight to see.
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels | Best Hotel in San Cristobal
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels provides five rooms, each with free wireless internet access, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. A wide selection of cafés and restaurants are also found in the surrounding area. The luxurious rooms at this hotel will have you living the suite life (get it?) for sure!
Saqray Hostel | Best Hostel in San Cristobal
Saqray Hostel features accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi. At the hostel, all rooms are equipped with a patio and a continental breakfast is served each morning at the property. Staff at reception can help around the clock with advice on the area.
Casa Arcoiris | Best Airbnb in San Cristobal
This Airbnb offers you a great home for only a great price in San Cristobal in an old colonial building with modern amenities. You get a beautiful view of Cusco from your private balcony, you can see all over the ancient city. Located just out of the city centre, I reckon this joint gives the best hotels a run for their money.
Cook yourself a delicious breakfast in the kitchen or wander out to the local markets, you’re close to Plaza San Cristobal. Plaza de las Armas (the main square) is only a short walk away too if you need some variation in your local markets.
Things to See and Do in San Cristobal:
- Have fun pronouncing Sacsayhuaman as you wander this ancient site.
- Visit the stunning Christo Blanco for great views over the city.
- See clear, unpolluted night skies from the Planetarium.
- Travel through beautiful landscapes and visit famous archeological sites along the Sacred Valley of the Incas. See Moray, the Salt Mines of Maras, Pisaq, Urubamba Valley, and the stuning town of Ollantaytambo on a full-day tour from Cusco.
- Get a guide to show you around the San Cristobal church.
- Explore the little-known Qolqanpata Historical Park.
3. Plaza de Armas – Best Area to Stay in Cusco for Nightlife
Technically part of the Historic Centre, Plaza de Armas deserves its own mention as an area to stay! The Plaza itself is the main square in the middle of the tourist section of town. Lined with churches, Inca ruins, local markets, bars and restaurants, you’ve got the entire kaleidoscope of Cusco, right here at your doorstep.
It’s a vibrant place, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of and with traditionally clad women with baby llamas, there for that exact purpose. And the plaza’s where a lot of free walking tours meet so it’s worth going in the morning to sort out the day ahead.
The multitude of street vendors can get a bit overwhelming at times so just practise saying ‘no, gracias’ and then ignoring them, and you’ll be fine.
The space itself is beautiful, with the cathedral towering proudly above and the fountain bubbling away as your soundtrack. Getting to and from the plaza is easy and it’s only about a ten-minute walk from Wanchaq Station. This is the main place for nightlife in Cusco, with young backpackers from all over the world converging to celebrate their Machu Picchu odyssey.
La Chupiteria for the shots, Paddy’s for the pints, or Mama Africa for the atmosphere? The choice (along with many other options nearby) is up to you!
Inkaterra La Casona Relais & Chateaux | Best Hotel in Plaza de Armas
Strategically located in the heart of the city, this luxury five-star hotel makes for an excellent base in Cusco. It is steps from the Cathedral of Cusco and is close to the area’s popular attractions and dining spots. The big highlight of being so close to the main square is the accessibility to the local markets, bring on the shopping!
La Posada del Viajero | Best Hostel in Plaza de Armas
La Posada offers a buffet breakfast, WiFi for free and computers to use too, as well as a kitchen to be used as freely as you want. There are security cameras and friendly and helpful staff willing to help you in everything you need. Make the most of being near the main square and look about the initiation to the Inca Trail.
Turi Wasi House Boutique | Best Airbnb in Plaza de Armas
Right in Cusco’s main square, this is a great place to stay, with friendly local staff and an epic location right in Plaza de Armas. The private room, which has a hotel-ish vibe, is very clean, serviced and heated (perfect for cold nights). The property has a lovely warm lounge where free breakfast is served, which is also an amazing spot to meet other guests and travellers.
Things to See and Do in Plaza de Armas:
- Visit the beautiful cathedral of Santo Domingo, built in the 16th century.
- Choose a crudely named shot from the wall at La Chupeteria.
- Get amongst the other backpackers at the legendary Mama Africa.
- Be a patriot (whether you’re from the USA or not) at the interestingly named Norton Rat’s Tavern!
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Grab an eSIM!4. San Blas – Coolest Place to Stay in Cusco
A short quick walk up the hill from the plaza is the barrio of San Blas. Rapidly gaining attention as the coolest place to live, work and play in Cusco, this is also my top pick for you! It’s got a distinctly bohemian feel to the area, possibly due to being that slight bit out of the centre (it’s technically in Centro Historico).
Coffee fans, this one’s for you – San Blas is home to a whole swag of places that can make a great cup of Peruvian coffee. For a real tour, you can visit Carmen Alto, where you’ll find four or five grouped together. How about a one-of-a-kind caffeine crawl to determine the greatest!?
There’s a great plaza in the middle of San Blas where artisans sell their wares on Saturdays and it has stalls going throughout the week. If you keep your eyes open, you might find some vegan-friendly treats at Govinda’s food stall! It’s here you’ll find boutique stores alongside the cheaper alternatives – so you can buy well-made alpaca wool garments for your ma.
Tika Wasi Casa Boutique | Best Hotel in San Blas
Tika Wasi Casa Boutique’s 24 modern rooms provide a private bathroom, a telephone and a private terrace, plus all the essentials for an enjoyable stay. There are also a number of spacious rooms available for families at this three-star hotel. Staying around the main square area is a big vibe for absorbing the Cusco culture.
Tandapata Boutique Hotel | Another Great Hotel in San Blas
The chic Tandapata Boutique Hotel offers easy access to Cusco’s best hot spots. Explore the local markets and main square from this epic city centre location. Tandapata treats guests to luggage storage, a ticket service and a 24-hour reception and in fine weather, an outdoor terrace offers a nice relaxing spot.
Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta | Best Hostel in San Blas
Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta is a beautiful, homey property located in the historic centre of Cusco City, very close to the main tourist attractions in town. Comfortable shared dorms or private rooms are available and it’s a great place to connect to fellow travellers on the Inca Trail journey. There’s a kitchen to meal prep, there’s free tea and coffee all day as well as free delicious breakfast, everything you could desire.
Hidden mini apartment | Best Airbnb in San Blas
This little gem is a very charming but kind of hidden Airbnb, around three blocks from Plaza San Blas. You’ll find every amenity you need. The patio entrance is quite cute and worth sitting down with your coffee for a bit.
Make use of the free laundry service after being out all day! If you don’t want to cook, you can choose from the numerous cafes and restaurants in your area.
Things to See and Do in San Blas:
- Take your time wondering at Iglesia de San Blas.
- Head to Carmen Alto to sample ALL the coffee
- Pick out some souvenirs for the fam at the Andean markets
- Stretch out sore muscles with some yoga at the Healing Center.
5. Lucrepata – Best Neighborhood in Cusco for Families to Stay In
Right next to San Blas, a short walk from Plaza de Armas is Lucrepata – this is a relatively unknown area of town – to tourists. I’ve picked it as the best neighbourhood in Cusco for families as it is right next to the main centre, without being in it. And the transport links are great!
If you want to stay somewhere close to the mountains and be out of the hustle, consider staying at an eco-lodge just outside of Cusco.
It’s a five-minute walk from Wanchaq Station, while the main bus station is right on the southern edge of the neighbourhood. Lucrepata is also home to a bunch of tour agencies, ready to help you book a day trip for the family. Rainbow Mountain – yep, a mountain coloured like a rainbow – is a good one, and you’ll need a tour as it’s three hours’ drive away.
Lucrepata is a residential area, home to a lot of expat families, so you will feel safe and secure, whenever you need to leave the house. You’re away from the rowdy bars and clubs, so you’ll have a better night’s sleep as well!
El Mariscal Cusco | Best Hotel in Lucrepata
El Mariscal Cusco allows for easy access to Cusco’s popular tourist attractions. Those staying at the property can also take advantage of free wireless internet throughout their stay. Guests of this three-star hotel can plan sightseeing trips with the assistance of the tour desk.
Casona La Recoleta | Another Great Hotel in Lucrepata
The front desk operates 24/7 and the friendly staff can suggest sights to visit and provide other tourist information. The property’s apartments are comfortable and provide a kitchenette that is equipped with a refrigerator. They are also fitted with cable/satellite channels and a telephone.
Hospedaje Turistico Recoleta | Best Hostel in Lucrepata
The Recoleta has had so many rave reviews that I’m not sure what more I can say. With just 36 beds you’re guaranteed a small and friendly atmosphere, perfect for solo travellers looking for new friends or a potential hiking buddy up to Machu Picchu.
Charming Mini Apartment | Best Airbnb in Lucrepata
This is a spacious room that feels like you’re staying in one of Cusco’s luxury hotels with the whimsical Peruvian decor. You’ll feel the rich history of Cusco’s culture staying in this apartment in Lucrepata, the home is super close to numerous restaurants, cafes and markets.
So walk around the corner to Cusco’s main square and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the local markets. Make sure to pack warm clothes since heating is very rare in Cusco and it can get quite chilly during the night.
Things to See and Do in Lucrepata:
- Book day-trips easily from any one of several tour operators on the nearby streets.
- Treat yourself with a rub-down at Massage and Healing Center Paramatma Yoga
- Get out to Rainbow Mountain and marvel at how it can possibly be!
- Or, Book your ATV tour in Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley plus get lunch!
- Wander over to San Blas for a day of market trawling.
- Visit the Zoologico UNSAAC centre for rehabilitating wild animals.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Cusco
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Cusco and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cusco
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What are the Highlights of the Local Markets?
There’s a big vibe at the local markets, they’re kind of everywhere, especially around the main square. Get your haggling 101 on lock and practise on the streets of Cusco when you find that perfect treasure.
Can you take San Pedro in Cusco?
If you want to talk about taking a trip, read Will’s Ayahuasca story. I wouldn’t recommend taking San Pedro willy-nilly, these South American communities are serious about their plant medicine. Definitely do your research before rushing off to get a cheap thrill – you might be surprised at what you find.
What’s the best bit of the Historic Centre?
The historic centre is the heart of Cusco and you’re here at the gateway to the Incas Sacred Valley and the Machu Picchu ruins. Once the shimmering capital of the Incan Empire, Cusco is built in the shape of a Puma and the Historic centre is the heart.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cusco
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cusco
This city is not only incredibly picturesque and welcoming, but it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible history and cultural richness. Now, thanks to my guide, you’ll be able to navigate where to stay and what to do in Cusco with ease. You can always wander even further and let me know about any new great finds you make!
Often used as a gateway, Cusco has a lot to offer in its own right and was built in the shape of a Puma. The heart of the Puma was the heart of the Incan empire, so to stand in these streets is to stand on centuries of history. Unlike in much of the world, this history is still alive and visible today.
Ok, so if you’re here now, I’m going to assume you’re a bit undecided on where to stay in Cusco… Staying in my best overall hotel, Antigua Casona San Blas, will have you right in the centre of it all, and at a reasonable price. This is my number one pick for a reason and if you book it, you’ll find out.
If you’re pinching your budget tightly and are looking for a Cusco hostel stay, start with a couple of nights at Saqray Hostel. This hostel is close to local markets and near the main square so you can get into the Cusco vibe here easily.
So that’s it for my ideas on where to stay in Cusco. Remember – Cusco is in the mountains, so rug up warm with one of those alpaca jumpers!
“Does travel bring wisdom? I think there is probably no better place to find out than Peru.”— Anthony Bourdain
Love that guy. If you have anything to comment, if you think I’ve missed anything, or if you just wanna yarn… Hit me up in the comments. I love to chat.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Peru.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Cusco.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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