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 Cusco is mainly known by tourists as the gateway to Machu Picchu, this charming Peruvian city deserves a few days of its own.
Cusco is the cultural capital of the country. 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.
With its cobbled streets and terracotta tile roofs, Cusco might just remind you of an ancient European village. With a unique blend of Inca and Spanish influences, the architecture here is pretty damn cool.
But when you’ve got 2 million visitors annually to a town of fewer than 450,000 residents, things can get a bit crowded. 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 in the accommodation department. 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 be feeling your Incan independence, knowing exactly where to stay in Cusco.
Not worried about where you’ll be and just looking for a fit for you? Check out our top picks for Cusco in general!
If you’re backpacking through Peru and happen to stop over in Cusco, we’d recommend you stay at one of the great but affordable hostels in Cusco. Rest your head in a comfy bed, meet likeminded backpackers, and keep the accommodation costs low!
Antigua Casona San Blas | Best Hotel in Cusco
Strategically located in the middle of the city, this 3.5-star hotel 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 minutes 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 in offering all that a traveller needs, and more!
Homely apartment with great view | Best Airbnb in Cusco
Super cosy, right in the centre with great attractions around and comes with a great view – if this sound s good to you, check out this Airbnb. The apartment is located in the heart of the historic centre with hotspots in walking distance. From your living room, you’ll have an amazing view of Coricancha. The apartment has every amenity you need and the host is always open for questions.
Cusco Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Cusco
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, though it has an illustrious history of its own.
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 new meats (guinea pig, anyone?), see people go about their lives in the traditional clothing of the area and play with alpaca, all while soaking in the long history of the place.
The neighborhoods we’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.
Whatever your style, we’ve got a place in Cusco for you!
Cusco’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in…
From budget to family-friendly, to night-life centred, the neighborhoods of Cusco can be divided into interest group, but really the lines blur since many areas are good for most options!
#1 Historic Centre – Where to Stay in Cusco 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 neighborhood 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 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 or the surrounding walls over its centuries of existence.
You’ll find Qorikancha near to the wall too, the Inca Sun Temple. Though it’s not lined entirely in gold, like it once was, you’ll still be dazzled!
At all of these sites, you can enhance your photo opp by asking a traditionally dressed local to stand in with you – for a small fee.
There is a bunch of museums and ancient sites to see in this area, so it may be worth getting some kind of package ticket, both so you can know where to go and to save you some soles.
Things to See and Do in Historic Centre:
- Feast your senses at San Pedro market – how about trying an entire roasted guinea pig? It’s a local speciality!
- Worship the sun at Qorikancha – if it’s shining that day!
- 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!
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 5-star hotel provide a minibar, plus all the necessities for an enjoyable stay.
Casa Choquequirao | Best Hotel in Historic Centre
The rooms at the 3-star Casa Choquequirao feature an in-room closet and a private bathroom. Cusco’s attractions, including Mercado Central Cusco and Qurikancha, are within easy walking distance of Casa Choquequirao.
Pariwana Hostel | Best Hostel in Historic Centre
Pariwana offers top quality affordable accommodation in a superb location. No matter what you get, a share or private room, you can rest assured that your stay here will be one of exceptional comfort (leaving intact your piggy bank)!
Homely apartment with great view | Best Airbnb in Historic Centre
Super cosy, right in the centre with great attractions around and comes with a great view – if this sound s good to you, check out this Airbnb. The apartment is located in the heart of the historic centre with hotspots in walking distance. From your living room, you’ll have an amazing view of Coricancha. The apartment has every amenity you need and the host is always open for questions.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 San Cristobal – Where to Stay in Cusco on a Budget
San Cristobal is a small neighborhood up the hill from the centre of town. It’s adjacent to the Historic Centre and arguably overlaps in parts.
We’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 away from the main square, so naturally, accommodation prices drop as you head out. We’re assuming you’re fit enough for a walk up the hill to your accommodation from Wanchaq Station (about 25 minutes) but if not, 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. Not only that, but if you get up early, it’s free to enter before 7am, avoiding both the crowds that later morning will bring and the cost of the ticket!
Just behind Sacsayhuaman is the planetarium and, trust us, up here with such little light pollution, the skies are a real sight to see!
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.
- Get a guide to show you around the San Cristobal church.
- Explore the little known Qolqanpata Historical Park.
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels | Best Hotel in San Cristobal
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels provides 5 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.
El Retablo Cusco | Best Hotel in San Cristobal
El Retablo is within walking distance of Q’inqu, Sacsayhuaman and Qurikancha. In fine weather, an outdoor terrace provides a nice place to relax. El Retablo has 17 rooms, all of which are filled with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay.
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. A continental breakfast is served each morning at the property. Staff at reception can help around the clock with advice on the area.
Cosy room in shared flat | Best Airbnb in San Cristobal
This Airbnb offers you a great home for only little money. Right in between San Cristobal and San Blas, you’re close to the central area while being able to enjoy the more affordable neighborhood. The room is clean, cosy and fully belongs to you, while the rest of the apartment will be shared with the kind host. Get even more out of your stay and ask him for recommendations!
#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 a square in the middle of the tourist section of town, lined with churches, Inca ruins, bars and restaurants. You’ve got the entire kaleidoscope of Cusco, right there at your doorstep!
It’s a vibrant and bustling place where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of and with locals, including 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 ahaead.
The multitude of street vendors can get a bit overwhelming at times so just practise saying ‘no, gracias’ then ignoring, 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 upcoming or recently completed odyssey to Machu Picchu.
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!
Things to See and Do in Plaza de Armas:
- Head to Paddy’s Irish Pub where you’re guaranteed a great pint and great craic!
- 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 US or not) at the interestingly named Norton Rat’s Tavern!
Inkaterra La Casona Relais & Chateaux | Best Hotel in Plaza de Armas
Strategically located in the heart of the city, this luxury 5-star hotel makes for an excellent base in Cusco. It is steps from Cathedral of Cusco and is close to the area’s popular attractions and dining spots.
Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza | Best Hotel in Plaza de Armas
Tierra Viva has 20 stylish rooms offering all the necessities to ensure an enjoyable stay. Those staying at Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel can enjoy a unique dining experience at the on-site restaurant, ideally situated for those who want to stay nearby for a meal.
La Posada del Viajero | Best Hostel in Plaza de Armas
La Posada offers a buffet breakfast, WiFi for free, computers with Internet free as well, a kitchen to be used as freely as you want, security cameras and friendly and helpful staff willing to help you in everything you need.
Cute room in great location | Best Airbnb in Plaza de Armas
Tucked away from the main street, but only half a block away from Plaza de Armas, this Airbnb is amazing for nightlife enthusiats. The private room, which has a hotel-ish vibe, is very clean, serviced and heated (perfect for cold nights). The property even has it’s own coffee shop in the courtyard, which is also an amazing spot to meet other guests and travellers.
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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 our 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 (though, again, it’s technically in the Centro Historico).
It’s here you’ll find boutique clothes stores right alongside the cheaper alternatives – so you can buy that nice, well-made alpaca wool garment for your ma, and a few less authentic (and cheaper) items for the siblings!
There’s a great little 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!
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!?
Things to See and Do in San Blas:
- Get something tasty to fuel your wanderings at Pantastico bakery.
- 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.
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 rooms available for families at this 3-star hotel.
Tandapata Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in San Blas
The chic Tandapata Boutique Hotel offers easy access to Cusco’s best hot spots. Tandapata treats guests to luggage storage, a ticket service and a 24-hour reception. In fine weather, an outdoor terrace offers a nice place to relax.
La Wak’a Perdida | Best Hostel in San Blas
La Wak’a Perdida, is a beautiful, homey and very quiet property located in the historical centre of Cusco city, very close to the main tourist attractions in town. Comfortable shared dorms or private rooms are available.
Hidden mini apartment | Best Airbnb in San Blas
This little gem is a very charming but kind of hidden Airbnb, around 3 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 after being out all day! If you don’t want to cook, you can choose from the numerous cafes and restaurants in your area.
#5 Lucrepata – Best Neighborhood in Cusco for Families
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.
We’ve picked it as the best neighborhood in Cusco for families as it is right next to the main centre, without being in it. And the transport links are great!
It’s a five-minute walk from Wanchaq Station, while the main bus station is right on the southern edge of the neighborhood.
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. Worth it for that view and those photos though!
Lucrepata is a residential area, home to a lot of expat families, so you and your young ones will feel safe and secure, whatever time you need to leave the house. You’re also a little way away from the rowdy bars and clubs that go until the wee hours in Plaza de Armas and San Blas, so you’ll have a better night’s sleep as well!
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!
- Wander over to San Blas for a day of market trawling.
- Visit the Zoologico UNSAAC centre for rehabilitating wild animals.
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 3-star hotel can plan sightseeing trips with the assistance of the tour desk.
Casona La Recoleta | Best 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 we’re not sure what more we 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.
Spacious apartment for families | Best Airbnb in Lucrepata
Nothing can be more annoying than being packed into the same room when travelling with your family. This Airbnb is spacious and accommodates up to 5 people without a problem – no claustrophobic vibe here! The home is super close to numerous restaurants, cafes and markets. Make sure to pack warm clothes since heating is very rare in Cusco and it can get quite chilly during the night.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cusco
Here’s what people usually ask us 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
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cusco
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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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 our 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 us know about any new great finds you make!
Though often used as a gateway, Cusco has a lot to offer in its own right. The heart of the Puma that was the heart of the Inca empire, 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.
Staying in our best overall hotel, Antigua Casona San Blas, will have you right in the centre of it all, and at a reasonable price!
So that’s it for our travel experts’ ideas on where to stay in Cusco. Remember – Cusco is in the mountains, so rug up warm with one of those alpaca jumpers! If you want to stay somewhere close to the mountains and be out of the hustle and bustle of the city, consider staying at an eco-lodge just outside of Cusco.
“Does travel bring wisdom? I think there is probably no better place to find out than Peru.”— Anthony Bourdain
While Peru can be very safe, it’s super important to make sure you get travel insurance!
- 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.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
