5 Best Cities in Argentina to Visit

Are you dreaming of a trip to Argentina? This amazing country has a great deal to offer, from bustling cities to breathtaking natural beauty. Planning your first visit can feel a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry! I’m here to help you discover the most remarkable places to explore. Get ready to be inspired as I guide you through some of the very best cities in Argentina to visit, ensuring your adventure is unforgettable.

When I visited Argentina, I fell in love with everything it has to offer, especially the food! From delicious steaks to sweet treats, my taste buds were singing. However, it’s not just about the food; the culture, landscapes, and friendly people make Argentina a truly special destination. This post will take you on a virtual tour of cities that capture the heart of Argentina, making it easy for you to choose where your first adventure will begin.

Whether you’re looking for the vibrant energy of the capital, the stunning mountain scenery of Patagonia, or the world-renowned wine regions, I’ve got you covered. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse experiences waiting for you in this South American gem.

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Bariloche (San Carlos de Bariloche)

Nestled on the shores of the vast Nahuel Huapi Lake and surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, Bariloche offers a breathtaking Patagonian landscape that feels like stepping into a European fairy tale. Known for its Swiss-style architecture and delicious artisanal chocolate, this city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. During the summer months, hiking trails abound, offering panoramic vistas of glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. As winter approaches, Bariloche transforms into a premier ski destination, with Cerro Catedral boasting world-class slopes. The scenic Circuito Chico, a picturesque loop drive, is a must-do for any visitor, showcasing stunning viewpoints, quaint craft shops, and the iconic Llao Llao Hotel. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes, tranquility by the lake, or simply indulging in some of the country’s best chocolate, Bariloche provides an unforgettable Patagonian escape.

• Drive or cycle the Circuito Chico: This famous scenic route offers stunning views of lakes, mountains, and forests, with several key viewpoints like the Cerro Campanario. It’s a perfect way to experience the diverse natural beauty surrounding Bariloche.
• Take a boat trip on Nahuel Huapi Lake: Explore the pristine waters of the lake and visit picturesque islands like Victoria Island and the Bosque de Arrayanes (Arrayanes Forest). These excursions offer incredible photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature.
• Indulge in local chocolate: Bariloche is renowned for its chocolate production, with numerous chocolatiers lining the main streets. Sampling the various flavors and types of chocolate is a delightful and essential part of the Bariloche experience.

Bariloche City Tours

• Bariloche: 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Road Trip
• Bariloche: Circuito Chico with optional Cerro Catedral
• Bariloche Chocolate Tour: Patagonian Flavors on Foot
• Bariloche: German Immigration and History Walking Tour
• Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour
• Private Full Day Tour of Bariloche

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s pulsating capital, is an unforgettable introduction to the country’s rich culture and European flair. This sprawling metropolis, often dubbed the “Paris of South America,” captivates visitors with its grand architecture, vibrant street life, and passionate tango culture. First-time travelers will find a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern dynamism. Explore the distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character: the colorful houses and tango dancers of La Boca, the bohemian cobblestone streets of San Telmo, the elegant avenues and mausoleums of Recoleta, and the trendy boutiques and cafes of Palermo. The city’s culinary scene is a highlight, with world-class steakhouses (parrillas) serving up succulent Argentine beef and, of course, plenty of opportunities to savor delicious empanadas and alfajores. Whether you’re soaking in the history at Plaza de Mayo or dancing the night away to the rhythms of tango, Buenos Aires promises an immersive and exhilarating experience.

• Wander through San Telmo: This historic neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets and antique markets, especially on Sundays when the Feria de San Telmo takes place. You can find unique souvenirs and experience impromptu tango performances in the plazas.
• Visit the Recoleta Cemetery: More like a city of the dead, this opulent cemetery is the final resting place of many of Argentina’s most prominent figures, including Eva Perón. Its intricate mausoleums are architectural marvels worth exploring.
• Experience a Tango Show: No trip to Buenos Aires is complete without witnessing the passion and artistry of a live tango performance. Many venues offer dinner and a show, providing a complete cultural immersion.

Buenos Aires City Tours

• Buenos Aires: Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour
• Buenos Aires: Teatro Colon Guided Tour
• Buenos Aires: Palermo Foodie Walking Tour
• Buenos Aires: Rooftop Barbecue, Wines & Argentinean Flavors
• Buenos Aires City Private Tour with Local Guide
• 5 hrs Small Group City Tour of Buenos Aires (Optional Street Food)

El Calafate

El Calafate, situated on the southern shores of Argentina’s vast Argentino Lake, is the gateway to the unparalleled natural wonder of the Perito Moreno Glacier. This charming Patagonian town serves as the perfect base for exploring the dramatic landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park. The star attraction, the Perito Moreno Glacier, is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, offering a mesmerizing spectacle of massive ice walls calving into the turquoise waters below. Visitors can walk along extensive boardwalks that provide breathtaking, up-close views of this colossal ice formation, or opt for boat tours that bring them even closer to its magnificent face. For the truly adventurous, ice-trekking excursions on the glacier itself offer an unforgettable experience. Beyond the glacier, El Calafate offers opportunities for boat trips to other glaciers in the park, such as Upsala and Spegazzini, and the surrounding area is perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

• Marvel at the Perito Moreno Glacier: This is the absolute highlight, with a network of boardwalks offering spectacular vantage points to witness the glacier’s immense scale and hear the thunderous sound of ice breaking off. The sheer power and beauty are truly awe-inspiring.
• Take a boat tour on Lago Argentino: Several boat excursions are available that cruise across Lago Argentino, allowing you to get closer to the Perito Moreno Glacier and visit other impressive glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini. These tours provide a different perspective and a deeper appreciation of the glacial landscape.
• Embark on an ice-trekking adventure: For an unforgettable, up-close encounter with the glacier, consider a guided ice-trekking tour on the Perito Moreno Glacier. Equipped with crampons, you’ll walk across the ice, exploring crevasses and ice formations.

Calafate City Tours

• El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Optional Boat Cruise
• From El Calafate: Torres del Paine Full Day Tour
• El Calafate Native Experience Lakes and Caverns
• El Calafate City Tour and Walichu Caves
• El Calafate, Its Landscapes and Flavors

Mendoza

Mendoza, the undisputed capital of Argentine wine, offers a more relaxed and sun-drenched experience, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes Mountains. This oasis city is a pilgrimage site for wine lovers, particularly those who cherish the rich, velvety taste of Malbec. The surrounding Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo regions are home to hundreds of vineyards, many of which welcome visitors for tours, tastings, and exquisite meals. Beyond wine, Mendoza is a hub for adventure activities, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and even world-class mountaineering on Aconcagua, the highest peak outside of Asia. The city itself is characterized by wide, tree-lined avenues, charming plazas, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind and savor the fruits of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply appreciate beautiful scenery and good food, Mendoza promises a deeply satisfying journey.

• Visit a winery for a tasting and tour: Explore the renowned vineyards of Mendoza, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the world’s finest Malbec. Many wineries offer guided tours and delicious food pairings.
• Cycle through the vineyards: Renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore the wine regions at your own pace, stopping at various wineries for tastings and enjoying the picturesque countryside. It’s an active and immersive way to experience the local culture.
• Hike or explore the Andes: Mendoza serves as a gateway to the stunning Andes Mountains. Consider a day trip to explore the scenic beauty, or for the more adventurous, there are opportunities for trekking and even mountaineering.

Mendoza City Tours

• Tour and Tasting in 3 Wineries and 1 Olive Tree in Maipu
• Mendoza Food Safari – 4 Top Restaurants in One Night
• Mendoza: City Tour
• Argentine Hands-On Cooking & Wine Experience in Mendoza
• Mendoza: Sunset Horse Back Riding in the Mountains and BBQ
• Mendoza: Walking Tour of the City

Ushuaia

Ushuaia, proudly proclaiming itself the “City at the End of the World,” is the southernmost city in Argentina and a thrilling embarkation point for Antarctic expeditions. Nestled between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, this dynamic city offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and frontier spirit. Visitors are drawn to the dramatic landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where lush forests meet the sea, and hiking trails lead to stunning viewpoints. A cruise along the Beagle Channel is a quintessential Ushuaia experience, bringing travelers face-to-face with sea lions, cormorants, and charming colonies of penguins on islands like Martillo. The city itself is compact and easy to explore, with museums detailing its history as a penal colony and its maritime heritage. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Antarctica, the captivating natural scenery, or the thrill of being at the edge of the continent, Ushuaia delivers an adventurous and memorable journey.

• Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park: This park offers incredible hiking opportunities through subantarctic forests, along coastlines, and to stunning viewpoints like Lapataia Bay, the end of the Pan-American Highway. It’s a pristine environment showcasing the raw beauty of Patagonia.
• Cruise the Beagle Channel: A boat trip on the Beagle Channel is a must-do, offering close-up views of sea lion colonies, diverse birdlife, and the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Many tours also include a stop at Penguin Island for an unforgettable penguin encounter.
• Visit the End of the World Train: This historic train line, once used by prisoners of the Ushuaia prison, now takes visitors on a scenic journey through the park, sharing stories of the region’s past. It’s a unique way to experience the history and landscapes of Tierra del Fuego.

Ushuaia City Tours

• Ushuaia: National Park & Train of the End of the World Tour
• Ushuaia: Tierra del Fuego National Park
• Ushuaia: Beagle Channel, Seal Island & Bridges Islands Tour
• City tour and Wine Tasting
• Whiskey Tour through Tierra del Fuego
• 5-Hour National Park + City tour – Ushuaia (Private Tour)
• Crab Route through Tierra del Fuego from Ushuaia

Final Thoughts

From the lively streets of Buenos Aires to the glaciers of El Calafate and the vineyards of Mendoza, Argentina offers a spectrum of experiences that will surely leave you with lasting memories and a longing to return. Trust me, the food alone is worth the journey, but combined with the stunning sights and warm culture, you’re in for an incredible adventure. Start planning, and get ready to fall in love with Argentina!

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