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Not sure which Cusco neighborhood is right for you? Let us help you decide.
This high-altitude city is full of ancient sites, colorful streets, and colonial charm, but where you stay can seriously shape your trip. After multiple visits, we’ve explored the city’s best areas and learned what makes each one special.
Want to be steps from the Plaza de Armas? Or tucked into a peaceful hillside with local flair? In this guide, we’re breaking down four of our favorite Cusco neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and reasons to love it. Let’s find the perfect base for your Cusco adventure.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Cusco is the Historic Center! We love the lively atmosphere and historic charm, plus we were within walking distance to the Plaza de Armas and other top sights.
We recommend staying at the Wyndham Costa del Sol. It offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!
Where To Stay in Cusco Map
Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Cusco
Cusco is compact, walkable, and full of charm. While the hills can be a challenge, most neighborhoods are just a short stroll apart. From the buzz of the Historic Center to the quiet views of San Cristobal, the artsy energy of San Blas, and laid-back Lucrepata—each has its own vibe and standout stay.
Here’s a look at four of our favorite areas and a mid-range hotel we personally stayed at and loved.
- Historic Center – The beating heart of Cusco, this area is full of colonial charm, busy plazas, and iconic landmarks like Qorikancha and Plaza de Armas. We stayed at Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco, a converted 17th-century mansion with comfy rooms, coca tea on tap, and the city’s sights just steps away.
- San Cristobal – Perched above the city, San Cristobal offers peaceful vibes and amazing views. Palacio Manco Capac was our quiet hilltop retreat, with lush gardens, dreamy rooms, and an excellent on-site restaurant—all just a short walk from Sacsayhuamán and the heart of town.
- San Blas – Cusco’s artsy, bohemian quarter is packed with galleries, artisan shops, and cobbled streets. We loved Quinta San Blas for its warm decor, leafy courtyard, and excellent location just minutes from local boutiques and cafés. Bonus: the beds were next-level comfy.
- Lucrepata – A mellow, local-feeling neighborhood just above San Blas, Lucrepata was our perfect escape from the tourist rush. Muru Homely Hotel Cusco offered us clean, cozy rooms, a standout breakfast, and a peaceful terrace, while still being close enough to walk to everything. It’s relaxed, quiet, and full of value.
Important Tip
Multiple Cusco trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Cusco accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Cusco
Historic Center
If it’s your first time in Cusco, or you just want to be right in the middle of everything, there’s no better place to stay than the Historic Center. This is where the city comes to life. We loved waking up and walking straight out into the buzz of Plaza de Armas, with its colonial facades, lively cafés, and local street performances.
You’ll be surrounded by centuries of history here, from the stunning Qorikancha Temple (the former Inca Sun Temple) to the intricate details of the Cusco Cathedral. The area is super walkable, and you’re within easy reach of everything: markets, museums, top restaurants, and endless historic landmarks. We felt like every cobblestone street had a story to tell—and many do!
It’s also the most convenient base for day trips to the Sacred Valley, since nearly all tours and drivers depart from this part of the city—saving you time and early-morning hassle. Be sure to check out our guide to the best Sacred Valley tours here to find the right one for your trip.
This is also where you’ll find some of the city’s most luxurious hotels, making it a fantastic choice if you’re after a more indulgent stay. But even if you’re on a tighter budget, there are still great finds tucked between the boutiques and galleries.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just want to be close to the action, staying in the Historic Center makes every moment in Cusco feel unforgettable.
Pros
- Walkable and super central, with top attractions right at your doorstep
- Bustling energy and incredible colonial architecture
- Best selection of upscale hotels and rooftop bars
Cons
- Can be noisy, especially around Plaza de Armas
- Prices tend to be higher here compared to other neighborhoods
- Gets very crowded during festivals and peak season
Luxury – $$$
Staying at the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco feels like stepping into a piece of living history—only with a serious upgrade in comfort. Built inside a 16th-century convent, the hotel blends colonial architecture with modern luxury in the most elegant way. Think vaulted stone ceilings, peaceful courtyards, and a spa that’s perfect after a long day of exploring.
The rooms are beautifully designed with rich wood accents and even offer oxygen enrichment (yes, really), which made a huge difference for us adjusting to the altitude. We also loved the breakfast buffet here, and the Qespi Bar was a dreamy spot for a post-adventure pisco sour.
You’re just a short stroll from Plaza de Armas, but it’s so serene inside you’d never know you were in the middle of the city. Rates range from $350 to $600 USD per night, depending on the room and season.
Treat yourself to a luxe stay and book Cusco’s most iconic hotel here!
Mid-range – $$
We stayed at the Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco both before and after our Machu Picchu trek, and it was such a cozy and convenient home base. The hotel is set inside a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion, complete with a blooming colonial courtyard that’s just begging for a slow morning coffee.
Our room was super comfy with all the modern essentials, and the breakfast buffet had everything we needed to refuel—plus a few unexpected treats. Location-wise, it’s hard to beat. You’re just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas, La Merced Church, and the San Pedro train station, which made getting around a breeze.
We also loved the warm hospitality here – the staff were kind, helpful, and always ready with coca tea (a lifesaver at altitude). Rooms typically range from $180 to $260 USD per night, and the value for what you get is seriously impressive.
Snag a great deal and book your stay at Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco here!
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or location, Casa Andina Standard Cusco Plaza is such a solid pick. I stayed here during my first trip to Cusco and couldn’t believe how close I was to everything—just steps from Plaza de Armas and around the corner from Plaza Regocijo.
The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, with great water pressure (a big win in my book) and plenty of space to unwind after long days of sightseeing. We especially appreciated the free coca tea available 24/7 in the lobby, and the staff here were genuinely kind and happy to store our bags or help with transport.
It’s a no-frills spot, but it gets the job done well, and the price point is hard to beat for this central location. Rooms typically range from $120 to $200 USD per night, including breakfast.
Stay central and save—book Casa Andina Standard Cusco Plaza here!
Related Read: Make sure you add one of our 10 favorite things to do in Cusco to your trip itinerary!
San Cristobal
If you want the magic of Cusco without the noise of the Historic Center, San Cristobal is the spot. Perched just above Plaza de Armas, this hillside neighborhood offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. I’m talking postcard-level gorgeous, especially at sunset!
It has a quiet, local feel that we really appreciated after long days out exploring, and we found it ideal for couples or solo travelers looking to stay somewhere peaceful but still close to everything.
One of the area’s standout features is the Iglesia San Cristobal, a beautiful 16th-century church with sweeping views over Cusco. It’s also one of the best access points for visiting Sacsayhuamán, the massive Inca fortress ruins just a short walk uphill.
Staying here means you’ll get a unique blend of colonial architecture, cultural significance, and easy nature access—plus the daily reward of those stunning city views. Keep in mind, though, that some uphill walking is part of the deal!
San Cristobal feels like a calm little world of its own, and I loved returning here each evening to unwind above the bustle.
Pros
- Breathtaking views overlooking the city
- Quiet and peaceful, away from tourist crowds
- Close to Sacsayhuamán and historic churches
Cons
- Requires walking uphill or short taxi rides from the center
- Limited dining options in the immediate area
- Fewer hotel choices than other neighborhoods
Mid-range – $$
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay Hotels feels like a secret retreat hidden above the city. It’s tucked into the hillside in San Cristobal, just a short walk from Sacsayhuamán, but worlds away from the noise below. We loved how peaceful it was here!
The property itself is a beautifully restored colonial mansion, with lush gardens, original stonework, and the kind of calm that makes you want to extend your stay. Our room was huge, super cozy, and had these dreamy garden views that made mornings feel like a scene out of a movie.
The on-site restaurant seriously impressed us, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Getting into town does involve a short walk downhill, but the views and quiet more than make up for it. Rooms range from around $200 to $460 USD per night, depending on your suite and season.
Experience Cusco’s quiet side and book Palacio Manco Capac here!
Budget – $
Casona Plaza Hotel Cusco is the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at ease—clean, comfortable, and just the right mix of simplicity and charm. We stayed here for a couple of nights and found it to be the perfect budget base for exploring San Cristobal and the Historic Center, which is only about a 5–10 minute walk away (with barely any uphill climbing—win!).
The rooms are basic but really well kept, with strong Wi-Fi, hot showers, and comfy beds that hit the spot after long walking days. The staff were genuinely warm and helpful, and even packed us a takeaway breakfast for an early start one day.
It’s tucked on a quieter street, but you’re close enough to the action without feeling like you’re in the thick of the tourist crowd. Rooms typically range from $50 to $90 USD per night, which is an amazing value for this location and level of comfort.
Check room rates and secure your stay at Casona Plaza Hotel Cusco here!
Related Read: If you’re short on time, you can follow our 2-day Cusco itinerary here for a quick trip or even our 1-day guide here for an even shorter visit.
San Blas
San Blas was hands-down one of our favorite neighborhoods in Cusco. Tucked just uphill from the Historic Center, this artsy enclave is bursting with character—think narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with bright blue doors, and the sound of Andean flutes drifting through the air.
It’s often called the “artisan quarter,” and once you explore its craft markets and workshops, you’ll see why. We loved browsing the local ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, and even got to chat with a few artists in their studios.
This area is perfect for travelers who want to soak up Cusco’s creative side while staying somewhere walkable and atmospheric. You’re still within 10 minutes of Plaza de Armas, but San Blas feels more laid-back and local. Highlights include the San Blas Church, known for its intricate wood-carved pulpit, and the Twelve-Angled Stone—an Inca engineering marvel just down the street.
While there are a few uphill climbs and the streets can be steep, the vibe here more than makes up for it. We always looked forward to returning to San Blas for sunset views, good coffee, and cozy restaurants tucked into old colonial buildings.
Pros
- Quirky, artsy atmosphere with local flair
- Great for boutique shopping, galleries, and cafés
- Short walk to the Historic Center
Cons
- Steep and uneven streets—bring good shoes!
- Can be noisy in the evenings near bars
- Fewer large hotels or luxury options
Mid-range – $$
Tucked into a quiet street in the heart of San Blas, Quinta San Blas by Ananay Hotels is effortlessly charming. It’s set in a beautifully restored colonial house with warm, colorful decor and a leafy little patio that made us feel like we’d found our own little retreat in the city.
Our room had big windows overlooking the courtyard and the comfiest bed we slept on in Peru. We loved the thoughtful touches, like the all-day tea station and handmade textiles, and the staff were so welcoming and helpful throughout our stay. Breakfasts here were especially great, with fresh juice, fruit, and eggs made to order.
It’s just a couple of minutes’ walk to the San Blas Church and all the neighborhood’s boutiques and cafés, so location-wise, it couldn’t be more convenient. Rooms typically range from $160 to $280 USD per night, depending on the suite and season.
Experience San Blas’ artsy charm and book this mid-range stay here!
Budget – $
Tariq Boutique really surprised us—in the best way. For a budget-friendly stay, it felt stylish, peaceful, and full of thoughtful details. The rooms are bright and clean with minimalist decor and little pops of color, and we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. But the real star? That panoramic view!
The dining area overlooks Cusco’s red rooftops, and sipping our morning coffee with that view became a daily ritual we seriously miss. We also appreciated the hotel’s sustainable touches (no single-use plastics!) and the cozy garden courtyard where we could catch our breath after wandering the streets of San Blas.
The staff were incredibly welcoming and helped us with taxis and tips on where to eat nearby. It’s just a short walk downhill to the main square, but you still get that quiet, tucked-away vibe. Rooms typically range from $80 to $120 USD per night, including a solid breakfast.
Check availability and secure this budget-friendly stay here!
Related Read: If you need help planning your time in Cusco, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary full of the best things to do and places to eat!
Lucrepata
If you’re after a more local experience in Cusco without being too far from the action, Lucrepata might just be your spot. Tucked uphill behind San Blas, this quiet residential area feels peaceful and unpolished in the best way.
We really liked staying here because it gave us a glimpse of daily life in Cusco—morning markets, neighborhood parks, and friendly locals going about their routines. There was something really refreshing about being surrounded by local families instead of tour groups. It felt like we got to slow down and settle into the rhythm of the city.
Lucrepata is ideal for travelers who prefer a slower pace and don’t mind being a little off the beaten tourist track. We still walked to the Historic Center in about 15 minutes, and it was a nice way to start the day.
Plus, being just above San Blas means you’re close to its cafés, galleries, and artisan shops—without the steepest climbs or the late-night noise.
While it’s not packed with sights, Lucrepata is a great jumping-off point for exploring less-touristy parts of Cusco or heading into the hills for a hike. It’s also where you’ll find some excellent budget and mid-range stays with more space and a homier vibe.
Pros
- Quiet, residential feel away from the tourist crowds
- Walkable to San Blas and the Historic Center
- Great value stays with a local atmosphere
Cons
- Limited restaurants and nightlife in the immediate area
- Fewer attractions or landmarks nearby
- Some uphill walks to get back from town
Mid-range – $$
Muru Homely Hotel Cusco really lives up to its name—it felt warm, welcoming, and just right for a relaxed stay in Cusco. We originally booked for a couple of nights and ended up extending because it checked all the boxes: clean, cozy rooms, lovely staff, and a super peaceful vibe.
Our room was bright, modern, and spotlessly clean, with a comfy bed and thoughtful touches like tea and coffee-making supplies. The breakfast here was a real highlight with fresh fruit, local cheese, pancakes, and eggs cooked just how we like them. Plus, the terrace offered a great little spot to enjoy the morning sun before heading out for the day.
Lucrepata’s residential vibe made it feel like we had our own corner of the city, while still being close enough to San Blas and the Historic Center for daily sightseeing. Rooms typically range from $80 to $140 USD per night, and include breakfast and free parking.
Book your quiet Cusco stay at Muru Homely Hotel here!
Budget – $
Hotel Kapac Inn-San Blas was one of those pleasant surprises that totally exceeded our expectations. Tucked between Lucrepata and San Blas, it gave us easy access to both neighborhoods while still feeling quiet and relaxed.
Our room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and had big windows with views over Cusco’s rooftops—the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. We really appreciated the warm hospitality here. The staff went out of their way to help with bags, taxis, and tour recommendations, and even offered to store our luggage while we were off on a multi-day trek.
It’s only a short walk to Plaza de Armas, but it felt like a peaceful little pocket of the city. Rooms typically range from $65 to $95 USD per night, and it’s a great choice for travelers on a budget who still want comfort and convenience.
Browse room options and book your budget stay in Lucrepata here!
Related Read: Once you’ve picked your base, don’t miss our roundup of favorite tours in Cusco here
to make the most of your time here.
Other Activities to do in Cusco
Now that you have your ideal hotel figured out, you can start planning your itinerary! We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in the city below, but you can also dive deeper with our full guide to the most exciting things to do in Cusco here. You’ll have a hard time being bored here!
- Visit Machu Picchu – One of the most iconic places in Peru, you can’t come all this way without visiting Machu Picchu. These incredible ruins are among the New Seven Wonders of the World, with more than 150 stone buildings hidden away amongst the mountains. Take the most famous way to get here by hiking the Inca Trail. Or try this train tour that takes you through the mountains before you enjoy a guided tour of the ruins.
- See the Sacsayhuamán Fortress – This is the largest structure ever built by the Incas! It was constructed completely by hand in the 15th Century – long before machines could help. The stonework here is incredible, with some stones weighing 100 tons. Join this half-day tour to see the fortress and get a bonus sightseeing tour around Cusco’s main square, including a peek inside Cusco Cathedral to see the oldest surviving painting in the city.
- Wander around Cusco – The charm of this city is in its history as you walk down narrow, cobblestone streets to some pretty fascinating places. Don’t wander aimlessly, though (and potentially miss out on what’s all around you!). Instead, get a feel for the city with this sightseeing tour that will take you to the colorful stalls at the local market and the famous Twelve-Angled Stone. Or if you like to snack and sightsee at the same time, this walking food tour of Cusco lets you meet local street food vendors and taste their delicious meals.
- Make chocolate – If you have a sweet tooth (like me!), a visit to the Chocolate Museum in Cusco is a must. Peru is one of the top chocolate producers in the world, so take the chance to learn the history of cocoa up close. This Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop lets you make your own chocolate creations that you’ll get to take home… if they make it that far without some sampling!
- Take a cooking class – Peruvian food is insanely delicious, so if you want to make it upon your return, book this Peruvian cooking class. A local chef will take you to the San Pedro Market for all the ingredients before making local dishes with a modern twist! You’ll also taste pisco sours, try exotic fruits, and get to know the culture.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
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SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you are an adventurous traveler looking to hike, dive into ancient Incan culture, and stroll through charming streets, Cusco is a must-visit! And before you can jump into all of these fun activities, booking the ideal place to stay will give you peace of mind, so you know you will have somewhere to rest and recharge.
If you need help planning the rest of your trip, check out our other Peru blogs. We absolutely loved our time in South America and have lots of recommendations for the best areas to visit, things to do, and how to stay safe while traveling. Here are a few more blogs to get you started:
9 BEST Machu Picchu Tours from Cusco + Our Personal Reviews
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Cusco, Peru: An Ideal 3-day Itinerary