Fodor's Expert Review Casa Cartagena

Set in a restored, 17th-century property—on a cobblestone street just a few blocks north of the Plaza de Armas—this elegant boutique hotel has whitewashed walls, exposed wood beams, and colorful Peruvian embroidered pillows (also available for sale in the gift shop) juxtaposed with trendy lamps and contemporary Italian furniture. Rooms are spacious, and many have balconies that overlook the well-landscaped courtyard; some have modern soaking tubs. Other amenities include down duvets, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, and oxygen to help with altitude sickness. At the spa, a large indoor hot tub and steam room are open to all guests—great after walking the hilly streets of Cusco.