Your stay — Casa de Monica
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The Property — Casa de Monica
Casa de Monica is a 3-star hotel in Cusco's historic centre, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for solo travellers, couples, and small groups. The lobby's rustic-chic decor, featuring traditional Andean textiles and antique furniture, sets the tone for a culturally immersive stay. With its prime location on Plaza de Armas, guests can stroll to iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Cusco and the Qoricancha temple. Expect a cozy, laid-back vibe that's ideal for those seeking a tranquil base from which to explore Cusco's vibrant city life.
Chronicles of Cusco
Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, was founded in 1180 AD by Sapa Inca Manco Cápac. The city's rich history is evident in its well-preserved Inca stonework, colonial architecture, and UNESCO-listed archaeological sites. In the 16th century, Cusco was the centre of the Spanish Empire's colonial power, and its historic centre still bears the scars of this period. Today, Cusco is a thriving cultural hub, with a strong emphasis on preserving traditional Andean customs and promoting sustainable tourism. Visitors can experience the city's unique blend of indigenous and colonial heritage by exploring its ancient ruins, museums, and vibrant markets.
Best Time to Visit
Full Cusco guide →Best months
The best months to visit Cusco are June, July, and August, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F). These months offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Cusco is during the dry season, particularly in July, when the Inti Raymi festival takes place. This festival, which celebrates the winter solstice, attracts large crowds and drives up hotel prices. Be prepared for busier streets and longer queues at popular attractions.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season in Cusco, from April to May and September to November, offers a great balance of comfortable weather and lower prices. Expect mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and discounts on accommodations and tourist services.
Weather & packing
Cusco's climate is characterized by two distinct seasons: a dry season from May to September, and a wet season from November to March. Be sure to pack accordingly, with layers for cooler mornings and evenings in the dry season, and waterproof gear for the wet season.
Live City Briefing — Cusco
- The historic centre of Cusco has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, with efforts to preserve its ancient architecture and cultural heritage. The city's new Q'ente train station, a modern transportation hub, has improved connectivity to nearby towns and cities. The Cusco International Film Festival, a major cultural event, takes place in July, featuring a programme of local and international films.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Casa de Monica, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on the upper floors (3rd or 4th) for a quieter stay, as the hotel's location in Cusco is near a main street and some rooms on lower floors might experience street noise. Additionally, rooms on the south side of the hotel may receive some morning sun, which could be beneficial for those who like a warm start to their day.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the service entrance on the ground floor, as this area can be busy with staff and deliveries. Also, rooms on the first floor facing the main street may be noisier due to the pedestrian traffic and nearby shops.
Best views
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Cusco doesn't provide a clear indication of a preferred view, but rooms on the upper floors may offer a better view of the surrounding cityscape.
Quietest floors
2nd floor and above
🔊 Noise notes
Be aware that Cusco's historic center can be lively, and street noise may carry into the hotel, especially on weekends or during festivals. The hotel's central location also means that you'll be within walking distance to many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Insider tips
If you're planning to visit the nearby Sacsayhuamán ruins, consider arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and heat. Take advantage of the hotel's proximity to the main square by exploring the surrounding streets and alleys, which offer a glimpse into Cusco's rich history and culture.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Casa de Monica
free in public areas, free in rooms up to 500 Mbps; no login constraints
serves all floors, but a small section of the hotel has stairs-only access due to historical preservation
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader and El Comercio) and some physical papers; lobby area has original stone walls and ancient Inca stonework
14:00 - 22:00; early bag-drop available from 09:00; late check-out until 15:00 with S/ 50 fee (approximately USD 12.50)
available for a maximum of 3 days, S/ 20 per day (approximately USD 5)
step-free access to main areas, one wheelchair-accessible room available, and some structural limitations due to the hotel's historic building
on-site parking available for a nightly fee of S/ 30 (approximately USD 7.50); nearest public car park is 5 minutes' walk away at S/ 20 per day (approximately USD 5); no electric vehicle charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: S/ 10 per night/person (approximately USD 2.50)
Deposit & card hold: S/ 50 advance deposit + S/ 100 incidental card hold at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: Seminario San Antonio Abad (399 m · ~5 min walk)
- Church: Parroquia de Ttio (1.2 km · ~15 min walk)
- Church: Iglesia Mormon (1.4 km · ~18 min walk)
- Church: Misioneros Identes de Cristo Crucificado (1.5 km · ~19 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Centro Comercial Plaza Sur — 612 m · ~8 min walk
Parque España — 363 m · ~5 min walk
FESTITOYS — 137 m · ~2 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 506 m · ~6 min walk
Farmacia Santa Rosa — 690 m · ~9 min walk
Tienda La Esquinita — 501 m · ~6 min walk
Terminal Terrestre de Cusco — 2.1 km · ~26 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Peruvian Sol, PEN
Change money at an official cambio (cambio is widely available) or a reputable bank, as airport bureaux de change may offer poor rates. Be prepared to show your passport.
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) and contactless payments are widely accepted in Cusco city, but not always accepted in smaller towns or rural areas.
Tipping is generally around 10-15% in restaurants and bars, but not expected in casual eateries or markets. For taxi drivers, round up the fare to the nearest Soles or leave 1-2 Soles as a tip.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →You can find a decent cup of coffee for around 5-7 Soles (about 1.50-2.20 USD) at a local café.
Lunch at a local eatery, such as a picantería, will cost around 20-30 Soles (about 6-9 USD) for a set menu.
A filling dinner at a local restaurant will cost around 40-60 Soles (about 12-18 USD) for a main dish.
Try the street food in the Plaza de Armas area or in the San Pedro market for affordable options.
Local supermarkets like Tottus, Chileno, and Wong offer a range of products at reasonable prices.
Browse the stalls in the San Pedro market for affordable, locally-made clothing and textiles.
The cheapest way to get around Cusco city is by using the colectivo (shared minibus) system, which costs 1.50 Soles (about 0.45 USD) for a ride. From the airport, take a colectivo to the city center for around 10-15 Soles (about 3-4.50 USD).
Bargain at markets and from street vendors to get the best prices.Avoid eating at touristy restaurants, as they tend to be more expensive.Use public transportation instead of taxis to get around the city.
Good to know — Cusco
Type A/C · 220V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ PEN 3.4 · PEN
Emergency Contacts
CuscoWhere to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Cusco, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Casa de Monica
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 506 m · ~6 min walk — pharmacy · Farmacia Santa Rosa — 690 m · ~9 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Airport exit (main road) → Plaza de Armas (2 blocks from Hostal La Union)
💡 Boards outside the terminal on Av. La Cultura. Flag one down. They're cramped with luggage, fine with a small backpack. Drop at 'Plaza' – then walk up Calle Suecia.
Av. Grau (colectivo stop) → Ollantaytambo (for train to Machu Picchu)
💡 Faster than bus. Hail one heading west on Av. Grau (cars with 'Ollantaytambo' on windshield). They leave when full (4-5 passengers). Much cheaper than PeruRail's shuttle.
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) → Hostal La Union (Cusco city centre)
💡 Don't take touts at arrivals. Walk past the taxi sellers to the official 'Taxi Seguro' booth just outside – same price, no haggling.
Av. Grau (2 blocks from Hostal La Union) → Urubamba (Sacred Valley)
💡 Cheapest way to the Sacred Valley. Look for 'El Chaski' or 'Túpac Amaru' signs. Sit on the left for views of Patacancha Valley. Cash only – exact change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Casa de Monica?
Request rooms on the upper floors (3rd or 4th) for a quieter stay, as the hotel's location in Cusco is near a main street and some rooms on lower floors might experience street noise. Additionally, rooms on the south side of the hotel may receive some morning sun, which could be beneficial for those who like a warm start to their day.
Which rooms should I avoid at Casa de Monica?
Avoid rooms near the service entrance on the ground floor, as this area can be busy with staff and deliveries. Also, rooms on the first floor facing the main street may be noisier due to the pedestrian traffic and nearby shops.
Is Casa de Monica noisy?
Be aware that Cusco's historic center can be lively, and street noise may carry into the hotel, especially on weekends or during festivals. The hotel's central location also means that you'll be within walking distance to many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Which rooms have the best views at Casa de Monica?
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Cusco doesn't provide a clear indication of a preferred view, but rooms on the upper floors may offer a better view of the surrounding cityscape.
What are insider tips for staying at Casa de Monica?
If you're planning to visit the nearby Sacsayhuamán ruins, consider arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and heat. Take advantage of the hotel's proximity to the main square by exploring the surrounding streets and alleys, which offer a glimpse into Cusco's rich history and culture.
What time is check-in at Casa de Monica?
Check-in at Casa de Monica is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Casa de Monica have Wi-Fi?
free in public areas, free in rooms up to 500 Mbps; no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Casa de Monica?
S/ 10 per night/person (approximately USD 2.50)
Where can I eat cheaply near Casa de Monica?
Lunch at a local eatery, such as a picantería, will cost around 20-30 Soles (about 6-9 USD) for a set menu.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Casa de Monica?
The cheapest way to get around Cusco city is by using the colectivo (shared minibus) system, which costs 1.50 Soles (about 0.45 USD) for a ride. From the airport, take a colectivo to the city center for around 10-15 Soles (about 3-4.50 USD).
When is the best time to visit Cusco?
The best months to visit Cusco are June, July, and August, when the weather is dry and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F). These months offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions in Cusco
💡 Try the jugo de papaya con avena (papaya oat smoothie) from Stall 112, about 3 soles. Go in the morning for the best selection.
💡 Go at sunset for the best light, and bring water. The walk up from Plaza de Armas takes about 20 minutes. No entrance fee, but tip the guard if you use the small lookout tower.
💡 Free guided tours of the cathedral happen after Sunday mass (11am) if you hang around. Alternatively, just enjoy the free Wi-Fi from the plaza.
💡 Free entry on Sundays from 2pm to 5pm. Check their website as hours vary in low season.
💡 Visit just before closing at 5pm to avoid crowds and catch golden light. The Cusco Tourist Ticket covers this plus several other ruins and museums.