The building and grounds are spectactular, especially the internal courtyard. I thought the rooms were a little small/dark (we were in a deluxe room) for the price. The service was good (for Peru). Overall, a lovely hotle and definitely one of the best options in Cusco.

The main thing I liked about Hotel Monasterio is its history. I like the fact that it was a former monastery and university and is now a national monument. The ambience of the hotel made you feel like you were going back to the 15th century. I liked the piped-in Gregorian music in the halls and dining area at the ground floor. The lobby also had this antiquated and cozy feel. The halls of the hotel were nice to walk in and had nice view of the higher areas of Cuzco. The church in the hotel also had a grandiose yet still cozy feel. Our room, though small, made us imagine that it was once a dorm room of a priest. I also liked the very old cedar tree in the middle of the building. I liked the fact that part of the building is still made of ancient Incan walls.

As to other aspects, the hotel staff was very friendly, approachable, and made one feel at home. I liked it that they had house tea at the lobby to fight off "altitude sickness." Also, its location is central since it's only two streets away from the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cuzco. Plus there's a little plaza just right outside the hotel.

I would very much recommend this hotel to anyone who would want to experience Cuzco and its ancient history.

Arrived there on the evening of 24th of December, booked a luxury room with oxygen to end up with a very nice and large bed in a tiny room, not sure the oxygen was working by the way,,,, went for dinner, poor service and food not at the level to be expected in such a highly prized hotel and in Peru (where food is usually superb), so all in all not a stunning experience and will not go back there, there are alternatives in town and even on same square.

As an avid, world-wide traveller, this hotel was impressive - very clean, comfortable and luxurious. Beautiful! Also, highly recommend the Orient Express as a trip adviser - they arranged our entire Peru trip which included a stay in Lima and hiking the Mountain Lodges of Peru (Inca Trail). One of my all time favourite trips ever.