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Where to stay in Cuenca – A guide to this city of Ecuador
Cuenca is the largest and most populated city in the Ecuadorian region known as Azuay.
Its official name is Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca, in honor of the Tomebamba, Tarqui, Yanuncay and Machángara rivers that run through the city.
It has one of the oldest historical centers in South America, declared World Heritage by UNESCO.
Cuenca is a cultural city, known as the Athens of Ecuador, thanks to its architectural and artistic contributions.
Some of its most visited attractions are the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the University of Cuenca and its large number of museums.
Among its natural attractions are the Mirador Turi, the Bioparque Amaru, and the Yurak Allpa Zoo.
The climate in Cuenca is divided into cloudy summers and cold winters. The best time to get to know the city is from mid-March to June when there is less rainfall.
Cuenca is a city well-connected to the rest of Ecuador, thanks to the Mariscal Lamar International Airport, with flights to and from Quito and Guayaquil.
The main bus terminal also allows you to move to and from other Ecuadorian cities. Similarly, the opening of the Cuenca tram system is expected soon, which will be the first in the country.
Cuenca is one of the most cultural destinations in Ecuador, hosting important international festivals. These include the International Scenic Arts Festival World Scenarios, the “Orquídea” film Festival and the only official plastic arts event in the country, the Cuenca International Biennial.
The area that surrounds the airport and the Historic Center is one of the best areas to stay in Cuenca for its location, entertainment, and variety of hotels. (See accommodation in City Center).
Here’s a guide with the best areas to stay in Cuenca, Ecuador
The Best Areas to Stay in Cuenca, Ecuador
1. Our favorite area: Cuenca City Center
The City Center, Old Town or Historic Center of Cuenca begins at the Mercado 10 de Agosto and extends to the Museo del Banco Central.
Here, you’ll find the center of leisure and entertainment in Cuenca, Calle Larga, with about 15 blocks full of shops, craft fairs, live music, cafes, museums, galleries, bars, and clubs.
In this area, there are also the ruins of Pumapungo, one of the most important archaeological collections of Inca culture in Ecuador.
In addition, the area gathers the most visited museums in the city such as the Museum of Aboriginal Cultures, the Museum of the Monastery of Las Conceptas and the Museum of Pumapungo.
This area connects to the rest of Cuenca by bus, but it is also very pedestrian-friendly.
The City Center is the best area to stay in Cuenca for sightseeing and nightlife.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Cuenca, Ecuador:
- Best area for nightlife
- Museums and galleries
- Best area for sightseeing
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Del Parque Hotel & Suites
Del Parque Hotel & Suites has classic colonial-style décor and offers impressive city views as well as free WiFi. It is located in the center of Cuenca, in Ecuador.
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Budget
ST HOUSE HOSTEL
ST HOUSE HOSTEL has free bikes, a bar, a shared lounge and a garden in Cuenca. All rooms have a kitchen and shared bathroom. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged for a fee.
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Luxury
Hotel Boutique Santa Lucia
Located in a former 19th-century house, this nostalgic boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodation and Wi-Fi. It is located in the old town of Cuenca.
2. Near Mariscal Lamar International Airport
Mariscal Lamar International Airport is the main air terminal of the city, located northeast of Cuenca, between the Elia Liut and España avenues.
The surroundings of the airport offer a quiet, residential and family environment, very different from the center of Cuenca.
It is an area full of parks such as Tosi Park, Alborada Park, Miraflores Park, and the popular Plaza Abdon Calderón.
The main bus terminal of the city is a 12-minute walk from the airport, on España Avenue, ideal for reaching any corner of Cuenca.
The airport operates flights from airlines such as Air Cuenca, Icaro Air, and LAC, with direct connections to Guayaquil and Quito.
Therefore, this is the best area to stay in Cuenca, Ecuador, for weekend trips, during a layover or for business travelers.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Cuenca, Ecuador:
- Bus terminal
- Best area for business travelers
- Parks and green areas
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