Perched at 2500m in the shadow of the glorious Andes mountains sits Cuenca, a picturesque Spanish colonial city steeped in Old World European grandeur and the orchid capital of the world. With a heritage rich with conquistadors and Incas, the Old Town is UNESCO-protected and boasts a great many beautiful buildings, like the blue domed New Cathedral. From browsing the local boutiques or indigenous handicraft markets, buying long-stemmed roses from the flower market outside the New Cathedral or checking out museums dedicated to indigenous history and culture, there's plenty to do here. Just outside the city one can explore beutiful hiking trails running through the surrounding mountains. The accommodation here is varied and our collection of the best places to stay in Cuenca range from stylish contemporary stays to rural retreats.

What not to miss:

• Walk down the scenic paths running alongside the Rio Tomebamba, a river that splits-apart the colonial and modern sections of the city.
• Visit the Pumapungo Museum and explore archaeological ruins of indigenous tribes.
• Head out-of-town towards the Feria Libre, an indigenous market dealing with handicrafts.
• Get your hiking boots on and go explore the beautiful El Cajas National Park. It's an easy bus ride to and from the city and is also a great spot to catch a glimpse of local tropical birds.
• Explore the beautiful blue-domed New Cathedral and climb the 150 steps to the top, drinking in the gorgeous views.
• Check out the Parque de los Flores, a flower market by the New Cathedral.
• Head to the Prohibido Centro Cultural, a museum dedicated to ‘Extreme Art’ and is a mish-mash of various artistic mediums. Also not a bad spot for a cocktail!

Steeped in history and Old World architectural grandeur, Cuenca is a fascinating place to visit for culture vultures and history-buffs alike. Don't miss out, check out our list of the best places to stay in Cuenca!

The best places to stay in Cuenca

Stay in style

• Mansion Alcazar is a restored mansion located in the centre of Cuenca. A short walk from the city's hotspots, the hotel boasts freestanding baths, elegant decoration and a chic restaurant.

Perfect for couples

• Traditional and affordable, Hotel Santa Lucia offers antique furniture, beautiful sash windows and a large open-air courtyard which is perfect for a romantic supper.

For a Rural retreat

• Thirty minutes outside of Cuenca, Hosteria dos Chorreras sits amid idyllic countryside. Expect traditional architecture and antique furniture. The restaurant is also a great spot to experience the best of local cuisine.

For an apartment

• If you think that a self catering property would be more suitable, then check out the wide range with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

• The temperature in Cuenca is relatively stable year round and hovers around 20 degrees Celsius, but to minimise the chance of rain, try and avoid visiting between March and May.
• Cuenca has its own airport just outside the town, but this only receives domestic flights. So we'd advise that you fly to Quito and pick up a connection there.
• For those who'd prefer to hire a car we recommend contacting our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Cuenca

• widen the net to include all our Ecuador recommendations,

• or contact one of our gurus for advice.