Forget roughing it with backpacks and hostels to visit the Inca ruins in Machu Picchu. You can enjoy this destination hotspot with every bit of luxury you would expect from a European vacation while taking in all that Peru has to offer.
Where to stay in Cusco
If you've just experienced Machu Picchu, before flying into Lima, a stopover in Cusco is the best bet to get adjusted to the altitude change. But be warned -- you'll want to spend more than just a day in Cusco, with its lively nightlife, amazing architecture and fantastic food. Arrange for sightseeing tours with Gray Line so you won't miss any of the main attractions. The most luxurious spot to stay is Casa Cartagena, right in the heart of the city. The peaceful quad was recently renovated and modernized with an opposing mix of rustic old wooden floors and sleek white furniture. It's like a quiet alcove of luxury in the middle of a bustling city.
If you're not looking to stay in a bustling city, but still want to indulge, make a stop over in the beautiful Sacred Valley at the Rio Sagrado Hotel. Private villa-style rooms that over look the Urubamba River offer a peaceful setting and a stunning spa will help you relax after your time at Machu Picchu.
Where to eat in Cusco
Instead of where to eat in Cusco, it's more like where to start. Cusco offers a wide variety of Peruvian cuisines, from traditional meals and rustic dishes, to high-end restaurants that infuse Peruvian cuisines with Asian, Spanish and Italian influences.
If you're looking for a light lunch, stop by MAP Café (just steps away from Casa Cartagena inside the Pre-Colombian Art Museum). The trout tartar is divine and a creamy trio of soups (potato, corn and squash) will get you through the afternoon.
LIMO Cocina Peruana and Pisco Bar (located at the Plaza de Armas square) is another great choice for Peruvian cuisine. From melt-in-your-mouth civiche, to the yummy yucca balls, you will have no trouble finding something tempting. Be sure to also sample a couple of their variations on Pisco Sours -- you'll be hard pressed to find a better dink in Cusco.
Finally, a feast in Cusco would not be complete without having dined at Cicciolina. Warm and cozy, the restaurant is known as one of the best in the city featuring fine Peruvian cuisine with modern twists, and nothing tops their salads and soups (we recommend the chicken and avocado salad and a hearty, rustic onion soup).
Nightlife in Cusco
Cusco is bustling by day, but by night, it's even more so. Go dancing at one of the many Discos (you'll find several in the Plaza de Armas square), but make sure to stop by Fallen Angel for a drink before dancing the night away. The eclectic bar has a stunning interior of mixed styles of contemporary art and vintage finds. Not a single space is left untouched by owner and designer Andres Zuniga Pena's artful hand. And if you're looking to crash in a spot unlike any other, the Fallen Angel also has five luxe rooms -- all designed differently with quirks and character -- that are perfect to rest in before catching a flight back home.
Visit these sites when planning your Peru adventure
LAN.com
Peru Rail
SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel
Casa Cartagena Hotel
Gray Line Peru
Rio Sagrado Hotel
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Looking for a taste of Peru in Toronto? Check out the Babaluu Supper Club in Yorkville for their authentic South American fare.
