Hostal El Grial

I’ve stayed in hostels and 5* hotels for years, and this place is in my top 10. It’s extremely underrated, in my favorite neighborhood in cusco, san blas. You can walk everywhere, though the hills give your legs a good workout. The old building is beautiful, even better than the pictures, and rain makes a lovely pitter patter on the roof. My room was a good size and very clean, the beds incredibly comfortable, and there was always hot water. Breakfasts were delicious, and the neighborhood was quiet. I was there in February, so it was probably quieter than usual. I only saw women staying there, which was nice because we tend to be a little quieter. The staff were AMAZING, lovely peruvian women who were kind and friendly. It sounds odd, but I felt really looked after, and they helped me with my spanish. I meant to stay five days and ended up staying eight. Love it here, and thanks to the staff for making my stay so lovely.Gracias al increíble personal!

The breakfast is simple, but really nice, and the place is clean with hot showers and excellent service. The reception staff are lovely. My main problem was the noise, either from the street or from upstairs, where the floorboards squeaked really loudly. I’d still recommend staying here. Just pick your room carefully: the second floor and away from the main road would be best.

A good base for Cusco, in a central spot that still feels quieter, with plenty of good restaurants nearby. The staff were attentive and happy to answer questions about the hotel, tours, and the city. Breakfast is small but tasty and enough, and hot water and (coca) tea are available all day. We left our luggage there during several trips and felt it was safe. We stayed in two different rooms; one was definitely larger than the other, so paying the same price for both didn’t feel entirely fair. Still, both were comfortable and perfectly adequate. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a place to stay in Cusco.

The staff were lovely, and the location was good. I stayed five nights, went on the Salkantay Trek, then came back. They kept my luggage and had it waiting in my room when I returned. The rooms were comfortable, with a great bed and pillows, and everything was super clean. Breakfast was good too, with eggs, bread, jam, coffee, coco tea, and OJ.