Cusco - also Cuzco or Qosq’o - is the cosmopolitan former capital of the Inca Empire, and as well as being arguably one of the most fascinating cities on the continent, it's also the closest city to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. So it’s quite a busy place as far as visitor numbers go. If you like the look of our Gurus' recommendations for the best places to stay in Cusco - which include some really characterful hotels housed in converted heritage properties - then don’t hang about too long before booking!
The beautifully preserved colonial architecture, and the way it’s arranged around the older Incan structures, is one of the most appealing aspects of Cusco. Narrow cobbled passages open out into graceful squares, while ornate churches rub shoulders with low-rise Incan temples - you’re just as likely to see pet llamas as you are to see expensive alpaca wool clothing for sale. Just walking the streets you soak up layer upon layer of history, with Spanish buildings right on top of the Incan city walls, and ruins dotted all over. Several important Incan structures remain in very good condition - for example Qoricancha, the Sun Temple. There are also a number of great museums here, as well as excellent markets for souvenir hunting. Local specialties include cut, chicha and alpaca.
Above all, Cusco is a great starting point for hiking the Inca trail and accessing Machu Picchu. At an altitude of 3400m above sea level, it's a great place to acclimatise before setting off.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Cusco range from luxury hotels through heritage boutique properties, to several budget options.