Where to Stay in Cusco: Best Luxury Hotels

Where to stay in Cusco, Peru: luxury hotels, neighbourhoods and dining, with research-based guidance from Peters Signature.

Where to stay in Cusco: the best hotels and neighbourhoods

Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco is the ancient heart of the Inca Empire, a city where rich history and vibrant culture converge. Immerse yourself in a luxurious journey through cobblestone streets, majestic ruins, and a spiritual ambiance that transcends time. Discover an unparalleled Andean experience, blending ancestral traditions with sophisticated comforts.

• Location: Cusco, Peru
• Region: South America
• Recommended length of stay: 3–5 nights

Best neighbourhoods to stay in Cusco

San Blas

Artistic, bohemian, and charming, with narrow cobbled streets and artisan workshops.. Best for Unique handcrafted souvenirs, independent galleries, and panoramic views of Cusco.. Where to stay: Exploring the numerous artisan workshops and finding one-of-a-kind art..

Centro Histórico

Grand, historic, and bustling, centered around the Plaza de Armas.. Best for Colonial architecture, major cathedrals, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants.. Where to stay: Visiting the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and Cusco Cathedral..

Nazarenas

Exclusive, tranquil, and luxurious, adjacent to the main square.. Best for Boutique luxury hotels, upscale spas, and quiet courtyards.. Where to stay: Indulging in a high-altitude massage at an exclusive hotel spa..

Poroy

Gateway to the Sacred Valley, rural and peaceful.. Best for Luxury train departures (e.g., Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu), scenic landscapes.. Where to stay: Enjoying the scenic views from the observation car of a luxury train..

Where to eat near your hotel in Cusco

• Cicciolina — Andean-Mediterranean Fusion — $$ — Their famous homemade pastas or the Alpaca tenderloin, paired with an excellent wine from their cellar.
• MAP Café — Modern Peruvian — $$ — The 'Lomo Saltado' prepared with a modern twist, or the guinea pig confit.
• Palacio del Inka, Luxury Collection Hotel (Inti Raymi) — Traditional Andean Gourmet — $$ — The Andean trout or a sample of their rich traditional stews.
• Chicha by Gastón Acurio — Regional Cusco Cuisine — $$ — The 'Cuy Chactado' (fried guinea pig) or any of the regional stews.

Local intel: what to do in Cusco

• Engage a private guide specializing in Inca history for an in-depth, personalized exploration of ruins like Sacsayhuamán.
• Arrange a private sound healing or shamanic ceremony with a local spiritual guide for a profound cultural immersion.
• Experience a private tasting of unique Andean ingredients, from rare potatoes to exotic fruits, curated by a local culinary expert.

A 3–5 nights plan for Cusco

1

Morning: Private guided tour of the Historic Centre, including the Qorikancha, Cusco Cathedral, and the Plaza de Armas. Afternoon: Explore the artistic quarter of San Blas, visiting bespoke galleries and enjoying panoramic city views. Evening: Dinner at Cicciolina, enjoying Andean-Mediterranean fusion in an intimate setting.

2

Morning: Full-day private luxury excursion to the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisac market (luxury artisan section) and the Ollantaytambo fortress. Afternoon: Exclusive visit to a traditional weaving cooperative, learning about ancient textile techniques, followed by a gourmet picnic lunch. Evening: Return to Cusco for a relaxing evening, perhaps a spa treatment or a light dinner at your luxury hotel.

3

Morning: Private sunrise visit to Sacsayhuamán, followed by explorations of Q'enqo and Pukapukara with your expert guide. Afternoon: Immersive private cooking experience focused on traditional Andean ingredients, or a curated antique shopping tour. Evening: Farewell dinner at MAP Café, enjoying modern Peruvian cuisine within the tranquil setting of the museum.

Getting around Cusco

Luxury SUV services with adept, local drivers are paramount for navigating Cusco's winding streets and for comfortable excursions to the Sacred Valley. For journeys to Machu Picchu, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers an unparalleled opulent experience, complete with gourmet dining and live entertainment.

Travel tips for international visitors to Cusco

• How long to stay: 3–5 nights
• Language: Learning a few basic Quechua greetings (e.g., 'Rimaykullayki' for hello) will be highly appreciated by locals, particularly in more traditional settings.

What to skip in Cusco

• Over-exertion on the first day due to altitude; allow time for acclimatization.
• Purchasing souvenirs from unofficial street vendors; seek reputable artisan shops.
• Drinking tap water, only consume bottled water or treated water.

The best luxury hotels in Cusco, Peru cluster in a handful of districts, and the district matters more than the name on the door. Plan on 3–5 nights to do Cusco properly.

Cusco city guide · reviewed luxury hotels · best time of year to go · destinations across South America · luxury hotels by city · compare Cusco with other cities

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