Peru cities or towns recommendations

Hey there, just looking for recent recommendations for places to stay for 4 to 6 weeks in Peru. Ideally cheap, safe and with good food, small or big places isn't am issue. If there's museums or culturally interesting places that's cool. Also open to places in nature as I'm into hiking. Doesn't need to be lively, good at being on my own. Just want to experience the country and improve my spanish. TIA.