Hotels in Cusco: best areas to stay according to your trip
We know that choosing hotels in Cusco can be complicated with so many areas and options available. In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to stay depending on your travel style, including prices, advantages, and tips for tourists. This will help you decide between the Historic Center, San Blas, or Wanchaq and find the ideal hotel for your experience.
🏨 Hotels in Cusco: Best Areas to Stay Based on Your Trip
Cusco offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. However, choosing the right area is just as important as choosing the hotel itself.
The most recommended areas for travelers are:
- Historic Center
- San Blas
- Wanchaq
Each one has advantages depending on the type of traveler: first-time visitors, budget travelers, couples, or travelers looking for a quieter stay.
📍 Cusco Historic Center
🏛️ Historic Center
The Historic Center is the most tourist-friendly area of Cusco. Most of the city’s:
- boutique hotels
- restaurants
- museums
- tour agencies
are located here.
It is also home to the famous Plaza de Armas, the cultural heart of the city.
✅ Advantages of Staying Here
- close to major tourist attractions
- great variety of restaurants
- easy access to tours and travel agencies
- historic colonial atmosphere
❌ Disadvantages
- higher prices
- more tourist activity and noise
🎨 San Blas: Charming Hotels with Views
What Is San Blas?
San Blas is a colonial neighborhood located on a hill near the Historic Center. It is known for its:
- artistic atmosphere
- bohemian vibe
- cultural charm
It is very popular among couples, photographers, and young travelers.
✅ Advantages of Staying in San Blas
- panoramic views of Cusco
- charming boutique hotels
- cafés and art galleries
- peaceful atmosphere
❌ Disadvantages
- steep streets
- walking can be tiring due to the altitude
🏙️ Wanchaq: Modern and Budget-Friendly Hotels
What Is Wanchaq?
Wanchaq is a modern and residential area where many locals live.
Here you will find:
- modern hotels
- shopping centers
- local restaurants
- good transportation access
It is also close to the train station to Machu Picchu.
✅ Advantages of Staying in Wanchaq
- more affordable hotels
- fewer tourists
- authentic local atmosphere
- easy access to the airport
❌ Disadvantages
- farther from tourist attractions
- less historic atmosphere
📊 Comparison of Areas for Hotels in Cusco
| Area | 💲 Average Price per Night | 🚶 Distance to Plaza de Armas | 🏨 Type of Hotel | ☀️ Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Center | $70 – $200 | 0–5 min | boutique hotels | first-time visitors |
| San Blas | $60 – $160 | 5–10 min | boutique hotels & hostels | couples |
| Wanchaq | $40 – $120 | 10–20 min | modern hotels | budget travelers |
💰 Hotel Costs in Cusco
Prices can vary depending on the tourist season.
💵 Average Price by Hotel Type
| Hotel Type | Price per Night |
|---|---|
| Budget hostel | $20 – $40 |
| 3-star hotel | $50 – $90 |
| Boutique hotel | $80 – $160 |
| Luxury hotel | $180 – $400 |
✅ What Hotels in Cusco Usually Include
Most hotels offer:
- breakfast included
- WiFi
- 24-hour reception
- tour assistance
❌ What Is Usually Not Included
Some services may have an additional cost:
- airport transportation
- laundry services
- tours to Machu Picchu
🧠 Pro Tips for Tourists
1. Take a Day to Acclimatize
Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, so it is recommended to rest when you arrive.
2. Look for Hotels with Heating
Nights can be very cold, especially between May and September.
3. Avoid Too Many Stairs on the First Day
If you are not acclimatized, walking on steep streets in San Blas can be difficult.
4. Check Airport Transportation
The airport is located about 15 minutes from downtown Cusco.
5. Book in Advance
During the high season (June – August) hotels fill up quickly.
