Best Places to Go in Argentina – Top Destinations for Your Bucket List

Discovering the best spots in Argentina is like uncovering hidden jewels—each location offers unique experiences that are sure to enrapture any traveller.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of bustling city tranquillity of secluded beaches, or the thrill of outdoor activities, Argentina has something for you.

This South American gem is a banquet of natural wonders and cultural treasures, from the majestic Iguazu Falls in the lush northeast to the sprawling, serene wetlands teeming with wildlife.

As you plan your adventure, consider the stunning city of Salta, a less-trodden path where authenticity rings through its peaceful streets.

If you’re seeking sun-kissed moments, Mar del Plata boasts the central hotel-casino, echoing Argentina’s stylish modernization era.

For the history enthusiast and culture seeker, the streets of Buenos Aires invite you to immerse yourself in a world where every corner tells a story. There’s an endless array of activities, and each destination promises memories that echo long after the return journey home.

Embark on your Argentine escape with confidence, knowing that each step will lead to an encounter with enchanting vistas, rich flavours, and warm hospitality. Gear up for an adventure that is as diverse as it is captivating, ensuring that your travel tales will be as varied and vibrant as the country’s heritage. Get ready to make your mark on the map, and let Argentina leave its mark on you.

Exploring Major Cities and Their Cultural Offerings

Argentina’s urban heartbeats promise vibrant cultural experiences, from the spirited steps of tango in bustling Buenos Aires to the serene sips of Mendoza’s finest Malbec wines.

Buenos Aires: The Heart of Tango and Nightlife

Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps, pulsing with the rhythm of tango that echoes through its historic neighbourhoods, like La Boca and San Telmo. Here’s what you can’t miss:

• Dance Tango: Sneak into a milonga (tango hall) for a dance or watch a professional tango show.
• Nightlife: Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife in Palermo with its plethora of clubs and bars.
• Cuisine: Treat your taste buds in the city’s top-notch restaurants, offering a fusion of European and local flavours.

Mendoza: Savoring Malbec in Wine Country

Mendoza, nestled at the foot of the Andes, is a paradise for wine lovers. Engage your senses with:

• Wine Tours: Visit various vineyards, learn about wine-making, and participate in wine tasting.
• Local Cuisine: Pair a glass of Malbec with Argentina’s famed asado (barbecue) at a winery’s restaurant.
• Outdoor Activities: For a change of pace, go hiking or horseback riding amidst the vineyard-laden countryside.

Cordoba: Argentinian History and Colonial Architecture

Cordoba grants a journey into Argentina’s rich history and architecture. Be sure to explore:

• Museums: Delve into the city’s past in its many museums showcasing colonial art and relics.
• Architecture: Gaze at the grandeur of colonial buildings like the Cordoba Cathedral in the city centre.
• Cultural Festivals: Check out local festivities that often take place in various plazas throughout the year.

Rosario: The Birthplace of the Argentine Flag

Rosario, rich in history and bustling with modernity, is a blend of the past and present. High points include:

• Monumento Nacional a la Bandera: Visit the national monument commemorating the Argentine flag.
• Riverfront: Enjoy the scenic waterfront of the Paraná River, which is dotted with parks and artworks.
• Art and Culture: Discover the city’s vibrant art scene at local galleries and theatre productions.

Engage with these cities, embrace their stories, and create unforgettable memories of your own.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

Argentina is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with landscapes that range from the icy spires of Patagonia to the thunderous waters of Iguazu Falls and the vibrant, culture-rich northwest. Each place promises its unique outdoor excursions and scenery.

Patagonia: From Glaciers to the Southernmost Tip

Patagonia’s untamed wilderness beckons with its dramatic ice fields and remote southern reaches. Los Glaciares National Park is home to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, a colossal river of ice that’s one of the few glaciers in the world that’s actually growing.

For a truly memorable experience, you can trek across its crevassed surface. The park also offers trails leading to spectacular viewpoints, like Laguna de los Tres, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife. El Chalten is another gem in Patagonia, often dubbed the trekking capital, where paths weave through starkly beautiful scenery, ideal for hiking or mountain bike adventures.

The Iguazu Falls: Nature’s Power on Display

Witness the awe-inspiring force of nature at the Iguazu Falls, located on the border with Brazil. These massive waterfalls are a series of cascades that create a thunderous roar and a mist that can be seen from miles away. Visitors can explore the surrounding subtropical rainforest through a network of trails and walkways, offering close-up views of the falls from numerous vantage points.

Don’t miss the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), where the falls’ largest flow occurs. The nearby national parks also provide a sanctuary for myriad exotic bird species, enhancing your nature escapade.

Salta and Jujuy: Colors and Culture of the Northwest

The provinces of Salta and Jujuy offer rich cultural experiences set against the backdrop of multi-hued mountains and valleys. The Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, radiates with colourfully striped canyon walls that tell tales of geological history. The town of Tilcara sits nestled in these valleys, near ancient ruins and bustling markets.

Close by, the charming city of Salta serves as a jump-off point to the region, with beautiful colonial architecture and deep cultural roots. Throughout this area, numerous trails lead visitors across diverse altitudes, unveiling varied landscapes from cacti-filled deserts to verdant valleys.

Unique Experiences and Lesser-Known Gems

Argentina offers a rich tapestry of adventures, from serene lakeside towns to the remote reaches of Antarctica, each brimming with unique cultures and natural beauty.

The Welsh Settlements of Patagonia

In the lush valleys of Patagonia, you’ll find a little slice of Wales. The towns of Gaiman and Trelew are famous for their traditional Welsh afternoon tea, complete with delicious cakes and warm Welsh cakes, a nod to the 19th-century settlers who made this corner of Argentina their home. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the vibrant Eisteddfod festival, a celebration of Welsh poetry and music.

• Visit: October for the Eisteddfod festival
• Enjoy: A traditional Welsh tea

Antarctica Journeys: Cruising the End of the World

Embark on a voyage like no other to the icy realm of Antarctica. Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is your gateway. Here, cruises set sail through the Beagle Channel, offering sightings of glaciers and wildlife, including majestic southern right whales and playful penguins.

• Depart from Ushuaia
• Wildlife: Penguins, whales

The Pampas: Gaucho Culture and Estancias

Experience authentic Argentine life in the Pampas, where the gaucho culture thrives. Visit an estancia (ranch) where you can ride horses, savour a traditional asado (barbecue), and learn about the rural customs of these Argentine cowboys. The vast, open plains are a sight to behold, contrasting sharply with the bustling city life.

• Activities: Horseback riding, asado
• Stay at: A local estancia

Travel Essentials: Getting Around and Where to Stay

Navigating through Argentina’s lush landscapes and bustling cities is an adventure waiting for you, and finding the perfect home away from home is key to an unforgettable journey.

Transport Options: From Planes to Buses

Argentina is vast, stretching from the subtropical north to the subantarctic south. Travelling across this South American gem means considering various transportation options to suit your itinerary.

• Planes: For long distances or saving time, catching a flight is your best bet. Argentina has a well-developed domestic flight network connecting major cities and remote regions.
• Buses: Known as “micros,” these are the lifeblood of Argentine road trips. They range from budget-friendly to luxurious, offering different levels of comfort. Semi-cama buses have partially reclining seats, while cama-suite buses offer fully reclining seats and meals.
• Road Trip: If you prefer setting your own pace, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

🚍 Tip: When visiting large cities like Buenos Aires, public transit, such as buses and the metro, is a practical option.

Accommodations: Choosing the Perfect Stay

Your choice of accommodations can make or break your trip, and thankfully, Argentina caters to every traveller’s need.

• Hotels: From five-star luxury to cosy budget options, hotels are abundant. City centres often house a range of international and boutique hotels, while remote areas offer unique stays like estancias (ranches).
• Hostels: For solo travellers or those on a budget, hostels provide not only a place to sleep but also a space to meet fellow wanderers.
• Vacation Rentals: Want to live like a local? Vacation rentals grant you the space and amenities to feel at home.

Remember: Booking in advance is key, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best spots.

💡 Whether you’re soaring through the skies or rumbling on the roads, pack with purpose and ensure your lodgings are locked in before you set off. Your adventure in Latin America awaits!