Last Updated on April 1, 2026 by Katrina
If you go to Peru’s Andes Mountains to experience Machu Picchu, the town of Cusco will likely be part of your adventure. This former capital of the Inca Empire—later colonized by Spain—is the traditional spot where travelers acclimate to altitude before exploring the 15th century citadel of Machu Picchu. Indeed, Cusco has buzzing markets, the historic Plaza de Armas, and excellent Peruvian cuisine. Lodgings here include mainstream brands as well as boutique hotels—and many offer oxygen-enhanced rooms to ease your acclimation. (After all, Machu Picchu sits at an almost 8,000-foot elevation, and Cusco is 11,000.) Here are the best hotels in Cusco.
Palacio del Inka (Santo Domingo 259; 51-84-231961) Cusco
Forbes Travel Guide writes that this 203-room hotel, now part of the Marriott brand, “was first a palace, then a museum and finally converted into one of Cusco’s most luxurious hotels. The five-century-old mansion has managed to preserve a sense of place and history with décor that includes 195 pieces of artwork.” The hotel also has a spa and an onsite restaurant and bar, and offers extra oxygen in rooms, as well as experiences such as baby alpaca feedings and pisco-sour-making classes. A Google reviewer writes that “we got picked up by tour guides here, but also had access to a lot of restaurants, stores, grocery, and cafes, all within a 10- to 15-minute walking distance.” >> Book this hotel for less
JW Marriott El Convento Cusco (Esquina de la, Ruinas 432; 51-84-582200) Cusco
You’ll find a rich sense of history at this JW Marriott located near the Plaza de Armas. “The 16th-century convent has been lovingly restored to maintain its historical essence while adding all the contemporary touches,” writes Forbes Travel Guide. “You can easily walk to the Cathedral of Cusco or the bustling San Pedro Market before returning to the JW Marriott for a dip in the subterranean spa pool or a cocktail in the sun-dappled courtyard.” The hotel also has an onsite historical exhibit. A Tripadvisor user suggests that travelers “check the hotel’s activity calendar, and make sure to meet the cutest baby alpaca. The best part was the complimentary oxygen cylinder service.” >> Book this hotel for less
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel, Cusco (Nazarenas 337; 51-84-604000) Cusco
“This former 16th-century monastery invites you into a world of stone cloisters, hand-painted frescoes and centuries-old charm,” writes Forbes Travel Guide of this boutique hotel that’s part of the luxury Belmond brand. “Rooms, once the monks’ quarters, have been transformed into serene sanctuaries, some oxygen-enriched to, all dressed in plush alpaca throws and marble finishes.” Take the onsite art walk, or let the staff set you up with a tour in town. “Beautiful grounds, breathtaking artwork everywhere, and live opera with dinner was the highlight of our stay,” writes a Google reviewer. “The rooms were beautiful.” >> Book this hotel for less
Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique (C. San Juan de Dios 255; 51-84-604444) Cusco
Enjoy historic ambience at this 43-room boutique hotel set in a 16th-century mansion just blocks from Plaza de Armas. “Full of colonial artwork, along with period antiques, gilded headboards, and crystal chandeliers, the hotel feels like a historical movie set,” writes Condé Nast Traveler, “only updated with modern amenities like heated floors in the bathrooms and an oxygen system to prevent altitude sickness.” A Tripadvisor user writes that “our room was spacious and beautifully decorated, featuring luxurious linens. The restaurant offers excellent gourmet Peruvian cuisine in a refined atmosphere.” >> Book this hotel for less
Sonesta Hotel Cusco (Av. El Sol Nro 954; 51-84-581200) Cusco
“After visiting Machu Picchu, we stayed at this hotel just a 3-minute walk from Wanchaq train station,” writes a Google reviewer of this branch of the mid-range chain. “The atmosphere was calm and welcoming, and the complimentary welcome tea was quite delicious. The historical center is within walking distance, where you can explore several museums.” Hotel amenities include a grab-and-go eatery, room service, and a free airport shuttle. A Tripadvisor user likes the “very quiet rooms, and the breakfast selections and stations were phenomenal! Wide variety and very nicely presented in Inca-style pottery.” >> Book this hotel for less
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