The 12 best places to visit in Argentina

Shafik Meghji

Nov 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Rock climbing in El Chaltén, south Patagonia, Argentina

Plan your trip to Argentina with this guide to the very best places to visit © Alex Eggermont / Getty Images

Argentina is one of the most popular destinations in South America , and it isn't hard to see why.

Home to lively cities and tranquil wildernesses, majestic waterfalls and soaring mountains, not to mention wildlife-filled wetlands, glorious architecture, rich culture and renowned steakhouses, it's the whole South American package.

But Argentina is a big country, measuring 3800 km (2360 miles) from end to end, so there's some serious ground to cover.

For those unsure where to start, we can help you narrow it down with this list of our favorite 12 places that shouldn’t be missed, from  national parks carved by glaciers to vineyards in the shadow of the Andes.

1. Buenos Aires

Best for eating out

Sultry tango clubs and cacophonous football matches, beautiful barrios (neighborhoods) and historic cemeteries, world-class museums and raucous nightlife – Buenos Aires has everything you need for an immersive, big city experience.

Above all, the Argentine capital is a fantastic place to eat out . Its parrillas (steakhouses) – such as Don Julio , named the best restaurant in Latin America by the World's 50 Best Restaurants  – serve what could be the finest beef on the planet.

You'll also find a multitude of international joints, serving everything from Armenian to Peruvian cuisine, plus an ice cream parlor on virtually every block.

Planning tip: Buenos Aires is a big city, so it pays to base yourself close to the areas you want to explore. The neighborhoods of Recoleta , Retiro, Palermo and San Telmo offer a great mix of sights, places to eat, and local character.

Argentine gaucho family enjoying outdoor midday meal

2. The Pampas

Best for experiencing cowboy life

The flat, fertile grasslands that cover much of central Argentina are known as the Pampas , a place dominated by the cattle industry and synonymous with gaucho (cowboy) culture.

For an introduction to rural life, head to the town of San Antonio de Areco , whose museum and annual Dia de la Tradición festival showcase all things gaucho .

Planning tip: To get the best from a trip to the Pampas, stay a few nights at one of the many estancias (ranches) scattered across the region, which offer horseback riding, polo lessons and traditional asados (barbecues).

Want some help? Let Elsewhere plan your next trip.

3. Buenos Aires province

Best for beaches

Argentina isn’t well known for its beaches , but the Atlantic coast south of Buenos Aires is dotted with appealing seaside resorts.

Although big, brash Mar del Plata draws the largest crowds, there are several smaller, quieter and more appealing stretches of sand. They include the forest-fringed beaches of Cariló, Mar de las Pampas and Mar Azul, great spots for sunbathers and novice surfers alike.

Planning tip:  Although you can explore the beaches of Buenos Aires province by bus, hiring a car makes things a lot easier.

Visitors on a boardwalk at Foz do Iguazu Waterfalls

4. Iguazú Falls

Best for epic waterfalls

Shared between Argentina and Brazil , stretching for 3km (1.85 miles) and flanked by subtropical rainforest, this magnificent string of waterfalls is one of the greatest natural wonders on Earth.

A network of trails, walkways and bridges run through the surrounding national park, allowing visitors a close-up look at the 250-plus cascades and cataracts.

The centerpiece is the Garganta del Diablo (“Devil’s Throat”), a seething mass of white water that produces a deafening roar and sends up great clouds of spray.

5. Parque Nacional Iberá

Best for birdwatching

The hot, humid wetlands of this recently created national park in northeastern Argentina are home to more than 360 species of birds, including kingfishers, jabiru storks and roseate spoonbills.

Dubbed the “Argentine Pantanal,” the reserve is undergoing a major rewilding process that is introducing rare or endangered creatures, such as red-shouldered macaws.

Its reed-lined channels and lagoons are best explored by boat, from which visitors can also expect to spot an abundance of mammals and reptiles, from caimans to capybaras, the world’s biggest rodent.

Planning tip: The best way to explore Parque Nacional Iberá is on the water. Guided boat and kayak trips are easy to arrange in the village of Colonia Carlos Pellegrini, the main gateway to the park.

Train in Santa Province, Argentina

Best for historic architecture

In the far northwest of Argentina, near the Chilean and Bolivian borders, this charming city is known as “Salta la Linda” (“Salta the Beautiful”).

On the edge of the Lerma valley, overlooked by mountains, Salta is filled with historic mansions, churches, municipal buildings and plazas, some of which date back to the city’s founding in 1582.

It also has a varied cultural scene encompassing excellent museums and galleries – such as the Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña , which explores Inca culture and the practice of human sacrifice – and atmospheric folk-music clubs called peñas .

7. Mendoza province

Best for wine tasting

Argentina is the world’s fifth biggest wine producer and the industry’s heartland is Mendoza province.

In the midwest of the country, close to the Andes, the region is carpeted with vineyards and wineries, many of which offered guided tours, tastings, accommodations, and even the chance to help out with the harvest.

And while Mendoza is rightly famous for its Malbec, plenty of other delicious wines – reds, whites and rosés – are also produced in the province.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the grape harvest from February to April. Expect plenty of demand for accommodations during the popular Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia wine festival in March, Mendoza's biggest celebration.

Fisherman

8. The Argentine Lake District

Best for stunning landscapes

Glimmering bodies of water, emerald-green forests, and towering mountains and volcanoes dusted with snow – it’s not hard to understand why Argentina's Lake District is a traveler hot spot.

The gateway to this verdant region, the northwestern part of Patagonia, is the attractive lakeside city of Bariloche . Here you can pick from a wealth of outdoor activities – from hiking and mountain biking to fishing, kayaking and skiing – inside the surrounding Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi .

Planning tip: In winter (corresponding to the northern hemisphere summer), Bariloche becomes Argentina's premier ski hub . It's a busy time at the resorts around the city, but the powder is some of the world's best.

9. Cueva de los Manos Pintados

Best for ancient art

In a remote canyon surrounded by the Patagonian steppe, the Cave of the Painted Hands has an enigmatic collection of rock art created between 13,000 and 9500 years ago.

This Unesco World Heritage Site takes its name from the 800-plus stenciled outlines of human hands covering the walls.

Red, white, black or ochre in color, their purpose remains a tantalizing mystery. There are also images of pumas, guanacos (a wild relative of the llama) and rheas, as well as hunting scenes. Guided tours are offered from the towns of Perito Moreno and Posadas.

People in orange life jackets lean over the edge of a boat to take photographs of a southern right whale that has come right up to the boat

10. Península Valdés

Best for whale watching

The frigid waters off Península Valdés , a chunk of northeastern Patagonia jutting out into the Atlantic, teem with life.

A breeding ground for endangered southern right whales, who arrive in their hundreds between mid-June and mid-December, they are also home to elephant seals, sea lions and orcas, as well as more than 180 species of birds.

Accessed from the town of Puerto Madryn, this Unesco World Heritage Site offers a variety of boat, kayaking and diving trips, though marine life can often be spotted from the shore.

Further down the coast, 250km (155 miles) south of Puerto Madryn, Punta Tombo has South America’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins.

11. Ushuaia

Best for uplifting isolation

A famous sign in Ushuaia informs you that this is the “Fin del Mundo” – the physical end of the world. The far-flung capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego sits on the shore of the Beagle Channel, more than 3000km (1865 miles) south of Buenos Aires.

It is the gateway to rugged Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego , the world’s most southerly railway line, and several winter sports centers, as well as the embarkation point for cruises to Antarctica, just 1000km (620 miles) to the south.

People hiking on the Perito Moreno glacier, Argentina

12. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Best for awesome glaciers

Spanning more than 5956 sq km (2300 sq miles) of iceberg-filled lakes, jagged Andean peaks and – most notably – gigantic glaciers, this park in southern Patagonia is one of Argentina’s signature tourist attractions.

The southern section – famous for the Perito Moreno Glacier – is accessed from the touristy town of El Calafate , while the northern part, a haven for hikers and climbers, is best visited from the rustic village of El Chaltén .

Planning tips: All manner of treks are possible from El Chaltén and El Calafate, from day hikes to multi-day adventures, and many routes can be attempted without a guide.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated November 2023

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12 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

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Bright, daring and brilliant, Argentina entices with its energetic cities, passionate culture, and vast selection of natural wonders. The home of the tango, there is more to Argentina than first meets the eye. Along the paved European style streets of bustling Buenos Aires, a captivating cosmopolitan creativity oozes from the numerous cafes and street side hangouts. There’s the city of Cordoba with its selection of Spanish architecture, and Mendoza located deep in Argentina’s wine region.

On a visit to Argentina, wildlife and natural attractions are never too far away. The subtropical north of Argentina is where the impressive Iguazú Falls are located, with the surrounding area ideal for hiking.

Map of Places to Visit in Argentina

Map of Places to Visit in Argentina

Taking a trip the Los Glaciares National Park in the Patagonia region means the chance to see penguins and graceful glaciers. Visiting the Golfo Nuevo brings the amazing opportunity to glimpse Southern Right Whales. Plan your trip to this delightfully diverse travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Argentina.

12. Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata

Once a retreat for Argentina’s aristocracy, Mar del Plata today is the country’s top beach resort city. Located on the Atlantic Coast in the Buenos Aires Province, Mar del Plata attracts millions of tourists every year to its sandy beaches and lively culture. During the summer weekends it can get very crowded here but outside the summer months, the city takes on a much more relaxed feel.

Mar del Plata is a beautiful city of both historic and modern architecture from charming Spanish chalets and Victorian homes to high rise hotels and casinos. In addition to a wide range of restaurants, the city also offers an aquarium, zoo, five golf courses and a major sports stadium.

By far, the main attractions in Mar del Plata are its sandy beaches. The most popular beaches are the ones conveniently located near the city center such as Bristol, La Perla and Popular. Other favored choices are Playa Grande and Playa Mogotes.

Although crowded during the summer months between December and March, these beaches offer restaurants, shops, bars and numerous water sports and activities. The Southern Beaches are where young people often hang out with live music and parties.

11. Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Dating back thousands of years, the Quebrada de Humahuaca is an arid and underrated mountain valley in the Jujuy province of north-western Argentina. During its heyday, it was known for its convenient caravan road that was part of an important ancient trading route during the Inca Empire.

The valley is defined by cacti, lamas, rugged mountains and colorful sandstone escarpments. Authentic little towns are dotted around, such as Humahuaca (the main town the valley is named after) that’s home to just over 10,000 residents, and smaller, lesser-known mountain villages like Iruya and Purmamarca, with its lovely market.

Purmamarca

Surrounded by the Sub-Andean hills to the east, the Altiplano to the west, and the Valles Templados in the south, the mountain scenery of the Quebrada (which means ‘broken’) is truly exceptional, particularly the Sierra de Siete Colores with its unforgettable rainbow-colored hills.

For those interested in history, the Quebrada de Humahuaca valley was the site of many bloody battles during the Argentine War of Independence. The historical fortress in Tilcara is also worth a visit. This ancient Incan site has been restored to its former glory.

10. Ibera Wetlands

Ibera Wetlands

The Ibera Wetlands is a protected natural reserve boasting marshy swamps, moss-covered bogs, and shallow lagoons. It also happens to be one of the largest wetlands on the planet, only surpassed in size by the Pantanal in Brazil.

The wetlands are located in the northeastern province of Corrientes, roughly 400-miles from the capital city of Buenos Aires. Due to its remote location, the Ibera Wetlands have remained virtually untouched by mass tourism, giving visitors the chance to see nature at its most stunning.

The wetlands are the place to go in Argentina to see an abundance of exotic wildlife. Alligators, giant otters, capybaras , monkeys, and anacondas can be found lurking throughout the wetlands. The wetlands are also home to over 350 different species of birds: it’s common to see herons, eagles, magpies, and even the giant, ostrich-like great rheas.

Cordoba

At the geographical center of Argentina is Cordoba, the country’s second largest city . The city is tknown as La Docta (the Learned) because of its abundant colleges and universities.

Surrounded by three mountain ranges and set along the banks of the Primero River, Cordoba boasts a beautiful collection of old colonial architecture juxtaposed by much more modern buildings. Its 17th-century Jesuit churches are a must visit. Because Cordoba is home to more than 200,000 students, there is also a surprisingly good nightlife scene and a social calendar jam-packed with cuarteto music and rally car racing.

One of the best ways to soak up the spirit of Cordoba is by deep diving into its culture. The city is home to a collection of theaters, cultural complexes, and arte bars, so you can pick the experience that suits you.

8. Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn

Located on the shores of Gulfo Nuevo, the city of Puerto Madryn is best known as the gateway to Peninsula Valdes . It is also a popular place to visit in summer because of its beautiful beaches although the water can be very cold.

With the explosion of tourism in recent years, Madryn has undergone rapid growth, and the town’s small permanent population swells exponentially during the summer months. Whale Watching tours are also popular as the Southern Right Whale uses the waters of Gulfo Nuevo for breeding and giving birth. From July to September the whales are so close they can be viewed from the mainland.

Peninsula Valdes

Jutting out into the South Atlantic , the mushroom-shaped Peninsula Valdes is connected to the mainland by a thin strip of land. The peninsula is a breeding ground for a variety of fascinating marine mammals , such as seals, penguins, orcas, and sea lions. The headland is a superb spot for bird watchers as there are over 180 species of birds recorded here. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for the migratory Snowy Sheathbill, Patagonian Canastero, Rusty-backed Monjita, and much more.

The only settlements on the peninsula is the small village of Puerto Piramides and a few ranches. The village consists of two main roads, offering a market, souvenir shops and several good restaurants serving fresh seafood. There are also a few bars as well here to enjoy drinks, music and socializing.

It should be noted that Peninsula Valdes is privately owned and visitors are not allowed to explore on their own. All visits to the peninsula should be arranged with tour operators from the nearby city of Puerto Madryn. These operations include bus and boat tours.

7. Bariloche

Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche, also known simply as Bariloche, can be found nestled on the slopes of Cerro Otto in Argentina’s enchanting lake district. Overlooking the magnificent royal blue lake and avocado mountain slopes of the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi , the views from Bariloche are simply sensational.

With prime real estate along the shores of the lake, the town has its own beach, but it’s small, and certainly not the major drawcard . Instead, Bariloche is one of the country’s most popular sporting destinations – tourists descend on this lakeside town to enjoy its skiing, trekking, rock climbing, and water sporting opportunities.

Nahuel Huapi National Park

During the winter, the town has the feel of a Swiss ski resort, with plenty to tempt avid skiers and snowboarders. Home to Cerro Catedral ski resort, San Carlos de Bariloche is a winter wonderland, with Argentinian chocolate boutiques and breweries to lure you out of the cold.

West of Bariloche are stunning waterfalls and glaciers near Pampa Lenda while the Seven Lakes Road north of the city offers breathtaking vistas of the lakes and mountains. During the summer, the lakes are excellent for fishing, and the beaches offer swimming, sun bathers and water sports.

Ushuaia

Serving as a popular base for Antarctica cruises, Ushuaia is the largest city in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province. Tucked within the Beagle Strait, it’s one of the most southerly-located cities in the world – something that’s earned it its nickname as the ‘ End of the World ’.

Despite its out-of-the-way location, Ushuaia is now a popular resort town and you’d never guess the city’s once dreary history with a glance at its modern-day casinos and upmarket hotels. Dig a little deeper though and you’ll discover the city was once served as an exile prison and an Argentinian naval base.

Beagle Channel

Today, the city’s main tourist attractions are split from east to west: the End of the World Train and Tierra del Fuego National Park can be found to the west while Fagnano Lake and plenty of scenic hiking trails can be found to the east. A visit to the Beagle Channel offers views of sea lions and penguins.

There’s plenty to discover closer to the city center too. Highlights include the chance to explore the Maritime and Old Prison Museum with its eerie prison cells and a hike to the blissfully snow-capped Martial Glacier for a bird’s eye view over the city.

Mendoza

Located in Latin America’s largest wine producing region, Mendoza is a popular tourist destination not only for its wine but also for its proximity to Aconcagua , the highest mountain in the Americas. Furthermore, Mendoza offers access to beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures such as hiking, horse riding, river rafting and more.

At the heart of Mendoza is its main square, Independence Plaza, which is surrounded by restaurants, shops and beautiful buildings that are illuminated at night.

winery in Mendoza

What makes Mendoza such a great spot for wine-making is unusual. Despite being a vastly arid desert region, Mendoza has an interesting irrigation system that keeps the region well-watered. You’ll find these natural waterways on either side of the road, with bridges for pedestrians and cars.

Many of the bodegas (wineries) in the Mendoza region run regular vineyard tours and wine tasting sessions. Each winery offers something a little different for visitors to enjoy, whether it’s private tastings with the estate sommelier or wine tasting by bike.

Whatever time of year you visit, you can likely find some wine events on the social calendar; many offer walk-in tours, so you don’t have to book in advance. However, if you visit Mendoza during March and April, the region’s harvesting season , bear in mind that the wineries are often booked up weeks in advance, so plan accordingly.

4. El Chalten

El Chalten

El Chaltén is a delightful frontier town that was initially formed as an outpost in the late 70s in the Patagonian region of southern Argentina. Small it may be, but Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torres – two of Patagonia’s most extraordinary peaks – have put this scenic little village on the map for hiking, mountain biking, and trekking adventures. In the summer months, you can expect to find the town heaving with tourists.

Overlooking the northern part of Los Glaciares National Park , the village of El Chaltén is the starting point for an abundance of hiking trails. The one you choose depends on your personal preference.

Popular hikes include the relatively easy trek to the isolated Lago del Desierto , the sunrise spot at Laguna Capri, and the longer, more challenging hike to Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre. After a day on the trails, the village’s La Cerveceria local brewery is the go-to hotspot in town for a post-hike thirst-quencher.

3. Los Glaciares

Los Glaciares

The gorgeous Los Glaciares or Glaciers National Park is Argentina’s second-largest park, and one of the largest and most easy-to-get-to ice fields on the planet. Numerous boardwalks and boat rides allow visitors to view these spectacular displays up close in addition to floating ice bergs of remarkable colors and shapes.

The repeated advancing and retreating cycle of the glaciers presents a never ending show of cracking ice and thunderous booms as giant blocks break away and crash into the lakes with enormous splashes. While the glaciers are located in the southern section of the park, the northern section features majestic mountains such as Mount Fitz Roy , offering hiking and mountain climbing.

Despite the captivating scenery of turquoise lakes and forest-clad slopes, Glaciers National Park is most famous for the Perito Moreno Glacier , which draws trekking and rock climbing enthusiasts from far and wide. Its continual movement causes sheets of ice to plunge dramatically into the water below, which is truly a sight to behold.

2. Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Pulsating with vitality and seductive charm from colorful European architecture to animated neighborhoods, sensational shopping and sizzling nightlife, it is no wonder that Buenos Aires gave birth to the captivating tango dance . Located off the southeastern coast of South America, Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and one of Latin America’s largest cities.

Within the sprawling cityscape, with its French and Italian-style architecture, there is plenty to tempt tourists, from theater shows and glitzy bars to stylish art galleries and an exciting party scene. Everything happens late here – from dinner to late-night clubbing – so if you want to do it all properly, don’t expect to get a lot of sleep in Buenos Aires.

Caminito art street

The vibrant cosmopolitan city is composed of several districts called barrios . Some of the most visited of these barrios include the Microcentro where The Obelisco is located. San Telmo is popular for its flea markets while La Boca ’s multicolored architecture and tango street dancing make it a world famous district.

Overflowing in museums, art galleries and world class theaters, the city boasts one of Latin America’s most active cultural scenes. One of the most popular things to do in Buenos Aires is attending the tango dances frequently performed in various streets and venues.

1. Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls

The thundering Iguazu Falls (meaning ‘Big Water’) is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in the world. Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, these massive waterfalls are made up of hundreds of individual cascades.

Interestingly, the tallest waterfall, known as Devil’s Throat , is almost double the height of Niagara Falls! The falls in and of themselves are a breathtaking spectacle, but their beauty is all the more enhanced by the surrounding lush forest teeming in exotic wildlife.

Iguazu Falls

The waterfall is located within its own national park near Puerto Iguazu – Parque Nacional Iguazú – that’s filled with some fantastic flora and fauna, including some of the last surviving Atlantic rainforests on Earth. The park features many excellent walkways while boat rides are available which take people close enough to the falls to get wet from the spray.

But while Iguazu Falls are undeniably the main attraction here, a fascinating array of wildlife is another major lure to Iguazu. On a jungle safari through Iguazu National Park, you can see howler monkeys, giant anteaters, jaguars, ocelots, caymans, and over 2,000 species of plants.

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Reader interactions.

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March 5, 2020 at 5:23 am

YOU guys don’t mention the NORTH. Best area of Argentina, amazing landscapes and hotel. Impressive

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July 22, 2019 at 9:43 am

the city, 9 julio ave, and the Momuments were beautiful – a bustling downtown area full of life

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October 5, 2016 at 2:25 pm

There´s a special corner of our country, not well know yet, therefore visitors are few, but the destination is well worth a visit. I am talking about Mocona Longitudinal Falls, located only aprox. 260 km from Iguazu most magnificent waterfalls, and who doesn´t visit that place!?? If you visit Iguazu, and you want to see real nature, real jungle, more butterflies than ever in your life, and hundreds of species of birds, this is the place. Book a Lodge in the jungle (and there are many!!) and start enjoying the real power and energy of nature and wildlife. I suggest a place called La Perla de la Prelva Lodge. Great food, merged in the jungle, and most relaxing spot ever.

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November 10, 2014 at 10:36 pm

Also Capilla del Monte from Córdoba province is a great place to visit if u luv mountains, adventure tourism and of course … the ufo sightings.

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February 27, 2014 at 5:09 pm

Since El Calafate is just a town close to the Perito Moreno Glacier, I would drop it from the list to include the beautiful North-West: Salta and Jujuy. I would also rename Bariloche as Lake District, given that there are several beautiful towns in the area, such as Villa La Angostura, San Martin de Los Andes and Esquel. Travellers should know that it’s impossible to know the whole country in just one trip.

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September 8, 2013 at 9:56 pm

Iguazu Falls is simply stunning, Definitely a place to visit when you where in Argentina.

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The Top 15 Places to Visit in Argentina

Buenos Aires is home to cobblestone boulevards, sensual tango halls, century-old cafes, and designer boutiques. If you venture to the east, the Atlantic Ocean offers surfing and the chance to see whales, and penguins. To the north, explore mountains, cactus forests, and lunar landscapes that give way to subtropical jungle, wetlands, and waterfalls. And in the south, Patagonia is filled with the adventure of snow-capped peaks and turquoise glacial lakes. Including both city and countryside, these are the top 15 places to experience Argentina in all of its richness.  

Buenos Aires

A cosmopolitan hub that’s both gritty and glamorous, Buenos Aires is a huge city the size of four Chicagos and is composed of many manageable barrios (neighborhoods). San Telmo is the bohemian historical district filled with cobblestone streets, picturesque old bars such as El Federal, and a tango scene with clubs like El Viejo Almacen. Palermo is filled with cute cafes, some lovely vegetarian restaurants (not easily found elsewhere in this red-meat-loving country), shopping, and an abundance of charming boutique hotels such as Fierro and Home Hotel. Recoleta is a refined old-money neighborhood with upscale shops and the ultra-luxury hotels Alvear Palace, Palacio Duhau, and the Four Seasons. 

Museums in Buenos Aires are inexpensive or free—art lovers should not miss MALBA, the contemporary art museum. Buenos Aires comes alive at night, with dinners beginning around 9 p.m. and drinks lasting until the early hours of morning. Hit up iLatina restaurant in Chacarita for an exquisite Latin American food experience and follow it up at a speakeasy such as The Harrison or Floreria Altantico. 

At the very southern tip of Argentina, Ushuaia is a starting point for most Antarctica trips. A rugged land filled with glaciers and towering mountains, the best of this destination lies outside of the city center. Tierra Turismo is the most reputable guiding company for trips into the National Park, to kayak or to off-road, and for visiting nearby Harberton to see the penguins. Foodies should make a reservation at Kalma , where chef Jorge Monopoli celebrates the native wild foods of the region, or stop into the casual and quirky Volver for local king crab or other fresh seafoods. For even more perspective, travelers can scuba dive the chilly Beagle Channel with Ushuaia Divers or get an aerial view with Heli Ushuaia. 

Peninsula Valdes

In what feels like another world from nearby bustling cruise-hub Puerto Madryn, wildlife lovers will appreciate this tranquil haven set on a jutting peninsula where southern right whales, orcas, and penguins can be seen in abundance.  Oceano is the go-to hotel in Puerto Piramides, set right on the beach so at certain times of the year guests can laze in bed with coffee and watch whales breaching in the morning. There is a small sandboarding hill, incredible mountain biking through the dunes and along the beach, and scuba diving with sea lions (this is the scuba diving capital of Argentina, after all). 

Giving Napa Valley and the wine regions of Italy and France a run for their money, Mendoza is known for its sunny skies, highly Instagrammable vineyards right at the foot of the Andes, and Malbec, Argentina’s national varietal. Horseback ride with Nino Masi from El Viejo Manzano, fly fish with Trout and Wine, or raft the nearby Mendoza River. There’s even hot springs nearby en-route to Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak. 

Vineyard tasting rooms range from tiny and cute (Carinae), eclectic and poetic (El Enemigo), homey (Matervini), to large and modern (anything in the Clos de los Siete complex). If budget permits, a stay in a villa at the Vines of Mendoza with dinner at Francis Mallmann’s onsite open-fire restaurant Siete Fuegos is the ultimate Mendoza experience.

Looking more like the Swiss Alps than Latin America, Bariloche is a town in northern Patagonia set on the coast of Lago Nahuel Huapi and bordered by the Andes that are dotted with wildflowers. It is known for its chocolate (here’s looking at you, Mamushka and Rapa Nui!) and its microbreweries (Blest is a local favorite). It’s an outdoor paradise with some great day hikes and multi-day treks, kitesurfing, and Cerro Cathedral for skiing in the winter months of July to September. Bariloche gets crowded with tourism in the middle of summer and winter, so a visit in spring when the wildflowers bloom or in autumn when the leaf colors begin to change is recommended. 

Piedra Parada

Still relatively unknown outside of serious rock-climbing circles, Piedra Parada is about an hour and a half from Esquel and a few hours south of El Bolson. It’s Argentina’s sport climbing paradise in the desert of rural Chubut Province and has some of the continent’s best single pitch sport routes going all the way up to 5.14d (very difficult). Nearby climbing hotspots include Cochamo in Chile or Frey in Bariloche, but Piedra Parada has much easier access. There’s a campground, or for more comfort, there is Hosteria Mirador Huancanche in the nearby town of Gualjaina run by a wonderful couple who can not only recommend routes, but can teach about the history, wildlife, indigenous culture, and unique geology that makes this place so special.

El Bolson has one of the most spectacular artist markets in South America (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and around half-capacity on Sundays). Drink the local microbrew (the raspberry beer from Cerveceria El Bolson is delicious), or devour Argentina’s most revered gelato at Jauja, where everything is organic and all-natural, with no artificial flavors or colors. Hike the Cajon de Azul, ski the super relaxed and family-friendly Cerro Perito Moreno, or grab a bus or hitch to nearby Lago Puelo where locals flock in the summer to swim in the gorgeous yet chilly lake.

Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata is a modern and developed resort city on Argentina’s Atlantic coast. It is the second most visited city in the country after Buenos Aires, due mostly to its 10 miles of sandy beaches like the wide Punta Mogotes and the popular Playa Grande with its surf breaks. It is a cross between a seaside escape and a bustling city, with museums, an aquarium, and a vibrant nightlife. While Argentina is famous for its red meat, seafood fresh from the ocean rules here. Right around the port there are a ton of reasonably priced restaurants to try the day’s catch. Mar del Plata is family-friendly but also home to a raucous party vibe that enjoys clubbing and drinking until the wee hours of morning, so it definitely has a little something for everyone.

Just an hour by train from the center of Buenos Aires, Tigre is the ideal day trip to get out of the city. This town is home to its delta of hundreds of islands and waterways. There is even a museum of yerba mate, the herbal drink that Argentines are crazy about. The best way to experience Tigre is by small boat or kayak (recommended is Sudeste Paseos), as these can go down the smaller, less traveled waterways where there is a better chance to spot wildlife.  

Villa La Angostura

In the picturesque Lakes Region, this is a main town along the Siete Lagos drive. Most activities revolve around the lake, as Lago Nahuel Huapi is a center point here. There’s sunset sailing, fly fishing in Correntoso (the world’s shortest river), and gorgeous hiking in myrtle (arrayan) forests. It is local legend that Walt Disney was so inspired by the magic of the forests in the region that he based the scenery of Bambi on them.

This place is like Avatar, if only the land in the movie Avatar was overrun by tourists with cameras. But no matter how many tourists crowd the walkways, it’s still worth a visit. Iguazu National Park has some of the most stunning waterfalls on this planet, and these are accessible from both the Argentine side and the Brazilian side of the border. There are around 275 falls in total, ranging from gentle trickles to full-on powerhouses like Devil’s Throat. Walk the trails, explore up close and personal from a boat tour, or if there is cash to spare, do a fly-over in a helicopter.

If Argentina has some of the world’s best waterfalls, mountains, and deserts, why shouldn’t it also get a huge glacier that puts on a show every time it calves in thunderous breaks?  While the town of El Calafate is overpriced and not that interesting (nearby El Chalten is much more charming), it happens to have the draw of the National Park that has one of the country’s most visited attractions, Perito Moreno glacier. For those really into that sort of thing, there are multi-day boat tours that get to lesser-known and even more stunning glaciers.  But for those with the time or budget to just see one, an adventurous trek atop Perito Moreno with crampons is the way to go.

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

In the northwest of the country, this is the place to unwind and experience live folkloric music, some of the best empanadas in the country, and local varietals of wine, such as Torrontes, in droves. Salta city is colonial and cultured—take time to see the world’s most well-preserved mummies, the Children of Llullaillaco, on exhibit at the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology. Heading just north of town are laid-back pueblos such as Tilcara and Purmamarca, where the famous seven-colored mountains can be hiked and photographed in all their glory.

Bahia Bustamante

Bahia Bustamante is a private sheep farm in Patagonia sprawling over about 210,000 acres. It welcomes up to 18 guests at a time from August through May, who mostly come for the unique wildlife experience. It's a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and an IBA (Important Bird and Biodiversity Area) due to its diversity of both seabirds and marine mammals.

In full transparency, the town itself is congested and leaves much to be desired. But it makes the list for one strong reason: dinosaurs. The Ernesto Bachmann Municipal Museum exhibits the remains of Giganotosaurus carolinii (the name means “great lizard of the south”), considered to be the largest carnivorous dinosaur of all times. And the Argentino Urquiza Palaeontological Museum has the most complete Titanosaur in the world. In San Patricio del Chañar, an Aeolosaurus (wind lizard) was discovered during the building of Familia Schroeder Winery. It's currently on display in one of its rooms.

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Your Trip to Argentina: The Complete Guide

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Los Glaciares National Park: The Complete Guide

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Worldly Adventurer

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Argentina: For Hikers, Sightseers and Wildlife-Lovers Alike

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 24th January 2024

Argentina, one of the popular gateways to South America, plays host to some of the southern hemisphere’s most dramatic landscapes: think vast, millennial-old glaciers, historic bodies of water, and the weather-chiseled ridge of the Andes Mountains separating it from its neighbor, Chile. 

But Argentina isn’t just a place defined by its natural magnificence.

It’s also home to one of the most bewitching capital cities – an unmissable destination for foodies and football lovers alike – as well as curious Welsh settlements, chaotic colonies of animals, and sunkissed vineyards producing world-class wines.

I’ve had the fortune to explore practically the entire country, traveling slowly along the length and breadth of Argentina as part of multiple trips spanning a couple of months in total.

Off the back of that research, here are what I consider to be the best places to visit in Argentina. 

Click to navigate this article:

The multicoloured Quebrada de Humahuaca canyon in Argentina

Northern Argentina

1. track rare wildlife in the world’s second-largest wetlands, the esteros del iberá .

Home to the world’s second-largest wetland in the world, the Esteros del Iberá (Iberá Wetlands), are a remote, pristine, and hugely important ecosystem in Argentina.

Comprising a 13,000-km 2 nature reserve in the north-central province of Corrientes, this protected area is one of the most important freshwater reservoirs in South America and houses an abundance of wildlife. 

A fierce-looking Jaguar by a tree in Pantanal, Brazil, one of the most remote destinations to visit in South America.

Over 320 bird species are resident here, making it a top destination for birders, while capybara, maned wolves, giant anteaters and even a thriving population of jaguar – reintroduced in 2021 by conservationists – make the Esteros del Iberá one of the best places in Argentina to spot wildlife.

Situated a three-hour journey from the nearest airport, getting here is part of the adventure and explains why it remains such a remarkably untouched and unvisited part of Argentina. 

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2. Appreciate one of the world’s natural wonders, Iguazu Falls

Step aside, Niagara Falls: there’s a much more impressive set of waterfalls awaiting in Argentina. Comprising 275 cascades and spanning an area 2.7 kilometers wide, Iguazu Falls are a remarkable 195 meters high – dwarfing Niagara, which is a measly half the size. 

Iguazu falls, one of the new seven wonders of nature and one of the best places to visit in Argentina.

Though you cannot see all of the falls that make up this vast fury of water from the Argentine side – you’ll need to cross into the Brazilian side to tick off them all – visiting Parque Nacional Iguazú (Iguazu National Park) in Argentina will still grant you spellbinding views of these dramatic falls.

Hike through the dense jungle of the national park – where toucan and brown capuchin monkeys might be glimpsed – to the Garganta del Diablo (the Devil’s Throat), where a platform perched above this fall gives you utterly unforgettable views as the water cascades down with a deafening roar. 

3. Road trip to the land of “white gold”, Salinas Grandes

Neighboring Bolivia might take the crown for the world’s largest salt flats , but Salinas Grandes in the Argentina puna remains a dreamlike destination and a worthy place to visit in Argentina. 

Argentina economy update

The Argentine economy is a huge mess at the moment, with inflation expected to hit 200% this year. Using Argentine pesos can therefore be a nightmare – and mean you lose a lot of money. The blue dollar (an unofficial exchange rate that gives you a better conversion than the official rate) is around, but if you want to avoid carrying lots of cash, you can now pay using your credit card and get an exchange rate similar to the blue dollar rate. You must choose to pay in Argentine pesos (not USD!) to secure this rate.

Both Mastercard and Visa give you what is called the MEP rate, which is almost as good as the blue dollar rate. Mastercard will charge you the official rate but refund you the money a few days later; Visa will charge you the MEP rate from the beginning.

If you do want to have some Argentine pesos for paying in cash (which I highly recommend as you will need them for some restaurants and attractions), it’s best to use Western Union, whereby you send cash to yourself using the Western Union app and then withdraw it in Argentine pesos from one of their branches in Argentina. Bear in mind, those in El Calafate and Ushuaia can run dry of notes, so it can be easiest to do this in Buenos Aires.

Additionally, you can bring USD (unmarked and untorn hundred dollar bills), which you can exchange at “cuevas” (unofficial exchange houses). These will be able to give you the blue dollar rate and any hotel owner will be able to tell you where your nearest one is. Souvenir shops in most parts of the country will be able to give you pesos in exchange for dollar bills – although they might not give you the best rate.

Avoid cash machines. Currently, the maximum withdrawal is the equivalent of $15 USD in Argentine pesos and it will cost you $10 USD in fees.

Spanning more than 500 kilometers and with salt melting away into the distance as far as the eye can see, this curious, high-altitude landscape lends itself to comical perspective photography. Visit by hiring a vehicle or taking a tour from Purmamarca, Jujuy, or Salta; en route, you’ll catch dazzling views of splendid lagoons and walnut plantations. 

4. Photograph the rainbow hues of the Quebrada de Humahuaca

Argentina’s northwestern provinces are packed with otherworldly sights and the Quebrada de Humahuaca (Humahuaca Canyon) is no exception. This 155-kilometer-long mountain valley is famous for its vibrantly colored rock formations as well as for its historic, Quechua-speaking villages. 

The Quebrada de Humahuaca, a mountain of many colours in the north of Argentina and one of the best places to visit in the country.

To the south, the  Cerro de Los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colours) lives up to its name with a magical rainbow of hues caused by the mineral content of the soil and towers over the colonial village of Purmamarca.

Adobe houses rub shoulders with the centuries-old Iglesia de Santa Rosa, while a daily market on the town square makes this an excellent place to purchase sweaters and blankets wove from llama wool. 

5. Discover the enchanted village of Iruya

Still within Quebrada de Humahuaca, but miles away from the typical tourist trail, the enchanting village of Iruya lies within the sheer walls of the canyon, with many of its adobe houses built up into the valley sides.

The setting is dramatic; clamber up to the Mirador de la Cruz to appreciate the full magic of this village or head to Mirador del Condor to catch sight of Andean condors, which typically take to the sky around 3pm.

6. Appreciate colonial architecture in Córdoba

As the country’s second-largest city, Córdoba is an easy pick when it comes to choosing the best places to visit in Argentina. You can feel both the pre-Hispanic and colonial influences in much of this pretty city, which houses some of the best-preserved colonial buildings in the whole of Argentina. 

A beautiful view of the inner-courtyard patio at a Jesuit Missionary Building in Cordoba, Argentina.

Crowned the Cultural Capital of the Americas in 2006, Córdoba thrives on its blend of old and new. With three universities in the city, it’s no wonder there’s plenty to do here.

Browse one of its four municipal galleries – covering everything from fine art to contemporary work – and spend an evening in the Güemes neighborhood, where independent craft stores and crowded bars attract students and visitors alike.

7. Tour Talampaya National Park in a 4WD

The dusty stone pillars of Parque Nacional Talampaya (Tamlampaya National Park), chiseled away by millennia of rain and wind count as some of the most surreal rock formations you’ll find in Argentina.

Scenic mountains of Talampaya National Park.

Lying in the eastern province of La Rioja, this desert landscape is best explored by 4WD and you must take a guide; visit Talampaya’s official website to arrange a tour.

Most head directly to the Cañón de Talampaya, where guanaco, rhea, and condors can be sighted, as well as its focal point, the Cajon de Shimpa, a deep gorge with towering, 80-meter-high walls that are only seven meters wide at its base.

8. Learn about Andean cultures in Salta

Much of Argentina’s northwestern regions have more in common with Bolivia than they do Argentina. Salta is a fine example. While its handsome buildings and ornate church, the Iglesia San Francisco, belie its colonial origins, this city is packed with museums dedicated to the pre-Columbian cultures that came before. 

One of the best is the Museo de Arequeología de Alta Montaña , which specializes in the Inca and their child sacrifices – with the bodies of three such children discovered on a nearby mountain peak now, controversially, on display in this museum. 

There’s so much to see and do in the city, and our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Salta will see you adding it to your Argentinian itinerary in no time.

Northeastern Argentina

9. get familiar with argentine literature in san antonio de areco.

Located about an hour and a half northwest of Buenos Aires, the town of San Antonio de Areco is the perfect day trip from the capital. Known as the National Capital of Tradition, it’s rich in the history and culture of the Argentine countryside and blessed with a wealth of museums, including the Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Güiraldes .

Dedicated to the author Ricardo Güiraldes, it also covers the culture of the local gauchos, the name for the cowboys who are both a folk symbol and a typical feature of pampas life in Argentina.  

10. Drink, dance, and dine in Buenos Aires

Most visitors to Buenos Aires pass a few days in its dazzling capital, home to Parisian architecture and Latin passions.

Unsurprisingly, Buenos Aires is home to many of Argentina’s top and most well-known tourist attractions , and it’s remiss to spend time in this city without dancing in a tango hall ( milongas ), dining like a king in a local steak house ( asado ) or making pilgrimage to the Cementerio de la Recoleta to track down Eva Perón’s grave . 

A Tango performance in San Telmo, Buenos Aires

In the south, the working-class neighborhood of La Boca has transformed into a prime tourist destination.

Wander through the open-air museum of El Caminito, where tenement shacks have been transformed with a lick of brightly colored paint, before catching a beautiful game at La Bombonera, where legendary team Boca Juniors play. 

For a truly porteño experience, don’t miss the Feria de San Telmo, a weekly Sunday market hosted in one of the city’s prettiest neighborhoods. Craft stalls and tables groaning beneath the weight of countless antiques await, while you can even catch music performances and impromptu tango dancing, too. 

11. Surf the waves of Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata, a city 415 kilometers south of Buenos Aires, is a popular escape for porteños during the hot, summer months. With its beachside hotels and 47 kilometers of beaches, it’s got everything for a spot of relaxation – although, during summer, you’ll find it’s got too many other visitors, as well.

However, surfers have found their Mecca, particularly as the best surfing conditions are found between April and October.

Head to Playa Grande for the most consistent breaks and, if you’re new to surfing, sign up with one of the many surf schools to guide you in choosing the location and practicing your moves before you hit the water. 

Northwestern Argentina

12. summit the lofty peak of volcán aconcagua.

The highest mountain outside of the Himalayas, Aconcagua invites adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies looking to summit one of the “Seven Summits” – the highest mountains in each continent.

Just a few thousand people try to reach its 6,960-metre peak every year and even the easiest route – the route up the Northwest Ridge – isn’t technical but still poses a real challenge due to the altitude. 

All hikers must apply for a permit in nearby Mendoza and travel with experienced trekkers or, better still, a guide, is highly recommended. 

13. Go wine tasting in viticulture capital Mendoza

With its vine-slung valleys fed by a clever system of irrigation and backdrop of snowy Andean peaks, Mendoza is itself a remarkable place to visit in Argentina. However, oenophiles from across the globe head here in order to sample the region’s most famous export: malbec. 

Vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina with a backdrop of mountains

Local wineries abound and those in nearby Maipú can be easily visited either on a wine tour directly from Mendoza or using public transport. Head further afield to the wineries of the Valle de Uco or Luján de Cuyo to encounter those at the forefront of Argentine wine production.

Southern Argentina (Patagonia)

14. conquer the summit of volcán lanín.

Lying in the far west along the ridged backbone of the Andes Mountains, Parque Nacional Lanín (Lanín National Park) is another of Argentina’s most spectacular protected areas .

If you’re keen to summit a volcano but don’t quite have the expertise – of the lungs – for Aconcagua in the north of the country, the perfectly conical Volcán Lanín might be the perfect alternative. 

A breathtaking view of the Lanin Volcano, an iconic landmark in South America.

Set within forests of southern beech typical to Patagonia and with other easier hikes available, the route to the 3,776-metre summit of Volcán Lanín normally follows the north face and takes two days.

While it remains a challenging activity and one for which it’s highly recommended to use the services of a local guide, hiking to the top of this mountain – and absorbing the incredible panoramic views of lakes and mountains from its peak – will be utterly unforgettable. 

15. Drive the Ruta de los Siete Lagos

Ruta 40, the highway that slices down through Argentina from the very northern tip of the country to the far south, is considered one of Patagonia’s finest road trips . But the section dubbed Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes) is perhaps the most picturesque of all. 

Connecting San Martín de los Andes in the north with Villa La Angostura 108 kilometers south, this drive takes you along the banks of seven shimmering lakes, with the scenery tied to the seasons.

Drive it in summer (December through February) for landscapes vibrant green or travel here in autumn (March and April) when the trees turn burnt umber. 

16. Go hiking and biking from Swiss-inspired Bariloche

Sitting at the heart of the Argentine Lakes Region and within the mountain and lake-scattered landscapes of Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (Nahuel Huapi National Park), Bariloche (sometimes known as San Carlos de Bariloche) attracts visitors in their droves.

Summer is peak season for visitors, who head to this town on the banks of Lago Nahuel Huapi to enjoy everything this capital of adventure has to offer. 

Autumn colours in Lake Gutierrez, near Bariloche, Patagonia, Argentina

Whether you’re keen to mountain bike on lakeside gravel paths or head up into the snow-dappled peaks of Cerro Catedral (which becomes the region’s most visited ski destination in winter), Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi has it all.

Best of all, Bariloche, with its Swiss-inspired architecture, surprisingly good craft beer, and even more surprisingly fantastic chocolate, make this a town where you won’t regret whiling away a good few days. Be aware that Bariloche can be packed in the summer months between December and February.

17. Go wildlife watching in Península Valdés

Considered one of the best places to see wildlife in Argentina (and South America), the Península Valdés has been recognized by UNESCO for its abundance of wildlife, which includes everything from sea lions and elephant seals to Magellanic penguins.

But it’s the fact that the waters off this peninsular are the habitat for the largest breeding population of southern right whales in the world is what makes this region so unique. 

Eubalaena Australis, asouthern right whale, breaching the surface of the Atlantic Ocean close to the Península Valdés in Argentina.

Between June and mid-December is when these mammals arrive to reproduce and the best way to catch sight of them is as part of a boat tour , which can be arranged in nearby Puerto Madryn or on the peninsula itself at Puerto Pirámides. Between mid-February and mid-April, orcas can also be seen at high tide on the beaches snatching sea lions from the shore.

18. Meet Welsh settlers in Gaiman

You’ll likely be surprised to learn that Argentina has the highest number of Welsh speakers outside of the United Kingdom. It’s all down to the Welsh settlements found in the Patagonian steppe, where 153 hardy arrivals from Europe landed on the shores of the Chubert Province in 1865. 

Now over a hundred years later, these remain the epicentre of Welsh-Argentine culture. Tours from Trelew (itself an attractive but useful base) take you to quintessentially Welsh Gaiman where you can indulge in a very Welsh activity – afternoon tea – in one of the traditional teahouses dotted around the town.  

19. Discover the 10,000-year-old cave paintings at the Cueva de las Manos

Tucked into the recesses of a large cave lie one of Argentina’s most significant prehistoric discoveries. Now known as the Cueva de las Manos – the Cave of Hands – this site is covered by around 800 handprints, which are thoughts to have been marked on the wall around 7370 BCE. 

Cueva de las Manos, 10,000-year-old hand prints in a cave near Perito Moreno and another must-do thing when In Argentina

You can take a tour from Perito Moreno or Los Antiguos or drive yourself here with a hire car ; one-hour tours ($12 USD) depart from the entrance to the site. 

20. Stretch your legs in Los Glaciares National Park

Those who crave adventure should add Los Glaciares National Park to their Argentine itinerary. Situated deep into Argentine Patagonia near the Chilean border, this national park stretches north to south along the eastern edge of the incredible hielo sur , the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

In fact, a quarter of this national park sleeps beneath ice, with much of it high above ground level and caught in the granite spires of the mountains that dominate this terrain. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Patagonia and Argentina as a whole.

Laguna de los Tres, an unmissable hike accessible from El Chalten in Argentine Patagonia and an essential stop on a one week or two week Patagonia itinerary

The most iconic is the 3,405-metre Monte Fitz Roy, beneath which sits the glacier-meltwaters of Laguna de los Tres – and to which hikers make their pilgrimage along a challenging one-day trek. This hike departs from the nearby town of El Chaltén, which is considered the national trekking capital.

Other paths abound for nature lovers and trekkers alike, including the 70-kilometre Huemul Circuit, while visitors will fall swiftly in love with the park’s glorious blend of high-altitude mountains and low-elevation steppe, that’s punctuated by freshwater lakes and rich in wildlife, including Andean condors, rare huemul deer and even pumas. 

21. Stay at a traditional Patagonian ranch

Sheep ranching in the late 19th century saw both Argentine and Chilean Patagonia become some of the most important sheep farming areas in the world. Ranches built to house the farmers are some of the only remaining relics of this boom and you can even stay in one of these historic, and often remote, homes. 

One of the best is Estancia La Estela , a family-run ranch that sits on the shores of Lago Viedma equidistant between El Calafate and El Chalten and offers horseback riding excursions, as well as traditional lamb barbecues. 

22. Catch calving icebergs at the Perito Moreno Glacier

Glacier El Perito Moreno is Argentina’s most famous glacier , sitting within the mountainous terrain of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares (Los Glaciares National Park) in Patagonia and one of the reasons why Argentina is among the best countries in South America for dazzling natural landmarks .

Situated just a short bus journey from the town of El Calafate, this ice giant kneels in the grey-blue water of Lago Argentino – one of Argentina’s most stunning lakes – covers an incredible 25,000 hectares and calves egg-blue icebergs at a remarkable frequency from its frigid tongue. 

Argentina’s most iconic glacier: Perito Moreno

The best way to catch this remarkable phenomenon is from the boardwalks situated a few hundred metres from its snout; late afternoon after the ice has warmed during the day is the most likely time to see it happening.

23. Go to the ends of the earth in Ushuaia

Right at the very tip of the South American continent sits Argentina’s southernmost city: Ushuaia.

Described by many as at the very ends of the earth, Ushuaia has a magical quality, aided no end by its spellbinding scenery: situated at the edges of Tierra del Fuego island, it’s hemmed in by the Beagle Channel in the south and snow-heavy mountains in the north. 

Hikers climbing up to Glaciar Martial near Ushuaia

Founded as a penal colony, Ushuaia has a curious history. There’s no better place to learn about it than at the vast and fascinating Museo Maritimo y Museo del Presidio , which is set in the city’s former prison. 

Alternatively, head for the White Continent from here to go to the true ends of the earth: expedition cruises to Antarctica leave from here, many of which visit Cape Horn along the way. 

Need some advice for choosing an Antarctica cruise? I highly recommend Swoop Antarctica, whose staff have extensive, first-hand experience of sailing to Antarctica and, because they sell cruises for all the well-known companies, can give you handy, impartial advice for choosing the one that best suits you.

Check out their cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula – for a chance to set foot on mainland Antarctica and explore some of the most beautiful parts of the continent – and to South Georgia and the Falklands – for a wildlife bonanza.

We’ve also explored when’s the best time to visit Antarctica – which I highly recommend reading before you start considering a trip. The Antarctica travel season is short and the experiences in different months vary wildly.

24. Hike in the superlative scenery of Tierra del Fuego National Park

West of Ushuaia lies another of Patagonia’s finest national parks. Packed with day hikes that take in stupendous views across dense forests of southern beech and onto the watery depths of the Beagle Channel, Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego (Tierra del Fuego National Park) is one of the must-visit destinations in Argentine Patagonia. 

Views across the Beagle Channel from the top of the Cerro Guanaco trail in Tierra del Fuego National Park, near Ushuaia.

You’ll find plenty of birdlife, including condors and albatrosses, as well as the Southern Fuegian Railway.

Better known as the Train to the End of the World , this 500 mm gauge steam railway was originally used to transport prisoners working to chop timber and now takes you deep into the national park on the final seven kilometers of track. It’s a bit of a tourist trap, but if you love your railways, then it’s a must-do activity. 

25. Visit Tierra del Fuego’s first estancia

Founded in 1886 by Anglican missionary Thomas Bridges, Estancia Harberton takes the title of the island’s first ranch. Now operated by Bridges’ descendants, and with the excellent Museo Acatushún that showcases the area’s marine mammals and bird species at its heart, it’s a worthwhile place for a day trip. 

Boat tours from Ushuaia take you via the Beagle Channel, the 240-km strait separating Tierra del Fuego from Chile, and where colonies of fur seals, Magellanic penguins, and cormorants can be spotted. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins in the water. 

FAQs about Argentina

What is the most beautiful part of argentina.

Patagonia is arguably the most beautiful part of Argentina. Some would not agree, as much of it is wild and barren, but it’s these qualities that equally make Patagonia so enchanting. In this vast region, you’ll find towering glaciers, vast, unspoiled lakes, and endemic wildlife, with renting a car and taking a road trip around Patagonia , as well as hiking in the region’s national parks , two of the best ways to dive into the region’s beauty. 

Is Argentina safe to visit?

Argentina is ranked 68th in the 2021 Global Peace index and third among the safest South American countries . With that said, it’s best to keep some safety considerations in mind. For instance, avoid dark alleys at night and don’t wear anything flashy when wandering the city’s streets. Read our guide to safety in Buenos Aires for more information.

Is Argentina expensive to visit?

On average, the cost of living in Argentina is lower than in the US or Western Europe, meaning Argentina is affordable for travelers. However, flights can be expensive (considerably more so than in neighboring Chile ), with long-distance bus travel often a much more affordable way to cover large distances. Staying on a budget is not impossible here; cooking your own meals, not dining out often, and using public transportation can help trim down your expenses. Learn more about traveling to Patagonia on a budget .

Is English widely spoken in Argentina?

Many people in Argentina speak English, although only a small percentage speak it fluently. In cities familiar with tourism, such as Buenos Aires and Mendoza, you can get by with English as most restaurants provide English menus and museums have English-speaking tour guides. This may not be the case in a small town deep in Patagonia. In that case, we recommend learning basic Spanish so you’ll be able to ask for directions and prices, hire a local guide, or join a group of experienced travelers.

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Home » Travel Guides » Argentina » 15 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

15 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

A land at once vast and wild, bustling and serene, Argentina goes from dust-choked desert plateaus through rolling Pampas grassland to the icefields of the Patagonian reaches.

It’s a country that’s laced with fascinating Spanish conquistador history and elegant colonial treasures, enthralling native peoples and gorgeous backcountry aplenty. Check out this selection of the top spots that should be on every itinerary through Argentina.

Let’s explore the best places to visit in Argentina:

1. Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

The sprawling, seething capital of Argentina rose on the banks of the Rio del Plata when Iberian seafarer Pedro de Mendoza first marked out the colonial streets of what is today San Telmo district; Buenos Aires’ gorgeous Spanish come Francophone-styled historic heart, where Baroque churches rub shoulders with Parisian cafes populated by artists and bohemian types.

The artsy district of La Boca, meanwhile, shimmering with multicolours, draws crowds to its galleries and boutiques, while Palermo pulses with dance shows and aromatic parrillas (casual roadside grills with perfect gaucho meat cuts). And then there’s the night time, ushering in one throbbing scene of tango and Latin jazz, sleepless dub bars and all-night steakhouses.

Yes sir, there’s plenty to fall in love with in uber-passionate BA!

Cordoba, Argentina

Cordoba’s UNESCO-attested center is a gorgeous patchwork of 17th-century Spanish churches and convents, Jesuit sites and cobblestone alleys, all nestled between the rolling plains of the Argentine Pampas and the half-baked ridges of the Sierras Chicas.

But a fine historical heart is not Cordoba’s only draw.

No sir, students still flock here to the lecture rooms of the National University of Cordoba – the oldest and one of the most prestigious in the nation.

This erudite population breathes life into paleontological museums and the Caraffa Fine Arts Museum alike, theatre productions and public art displays, all whilst fuelling a particularly hedonistic nightlife in the Ex Abasto area.

3. San Antonio de Areco

San Antonio de Areco

Set on the cusp of the gaucho heartland, where the rolling plains of the grass-clad Pampas claim the horizon, San Antonio de Areco is one truly handsome Argentine town.

Elegant colonial builds from the 1700s line the streets; their red-tiled roofs slanting in an Andalusian fashion; their Baroque adornments mirroring the palazzos of Madrid.

Swaying palms and ombu trees pepper the squares, where earthy steakhouses mix with leather workshops and weavers’ homes.

This rustic outback town is a great place to get a taste of Argentina’s rich cowboy history, and perfect if you love the sleepy siesta routines of the Pampas hinterland!

Mendoza

Jack of all trades and master of one, Mendoza does nothing better than wine.

Tasters flock from all over the planet to sample the famed Criolla Grande and Malbecs betwixt the city’s cellar doors.

But that isn’t it.

This 100,000-strong cityscape is also one darn charming place to spend a week (or two), edged right up to the Argentine Andes.

Its streets are lined with blooming shade trees, parks ring their way around the bodegas, and Plaza Espana – as the name suggests – oozes Spanish charm.

And as if that’s still not enough, Mendoza has risen as one of Argentina’s prime outdoors bases, rivalling even Patagonia with its offering of soaring Aconcagua, the treeless plateaus of the high plains and ski fields to boot.

Ushuaia

Icy and alone at the far reaches of the Argentine south, Ushuaia sits in the shadow of the snow-topped Martial ranges.

Here it can be found cascading down to the chilly waters of the Beagle Channel, its docksides awash with fishing vessels and hardy steel sloops bobbing about the waves.

Today, travelers flock to this remote town – considered the southernmost city in the world – on the meandering tracks of the so-called End of the World Train, which cuts right the way through the main attraction: Tierra del Fuego National Park.

After stocking up on boots and camping gear in the outfitters of Ushuaia, travelers can strike out into this Patagonian wilderness, spying the Martial Glacier, rugged Lapataia Bay and mirror-like Lago Roca on the border with Chile.

6. San Ignacio Mini

San Ignacio Mini

Close to the tristate join of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina, amidst the red-hued fields and yerba plantations of Misiones Province, travelers will discover the fascinating ruins of San Ignacio Mini.

Tagged by UNESCO back in 1983, this collection of crumbling cloisters and church walls, living quarters and cemeteries is one of the prime examples of what’s come to be known as the Guarani Baroque style.

Fusing together elements of tribal art and craft and regal Spanish architecture, the remains belie the curious meeting of cultures that took place here during the decades of the Conquistadores, and are regular chart toppers on lists of Argentina’s must-see attractions.

7. El Calafate

El Calafate, Argentina

Standing pearly-white like a peppermint against the deep blues and rugged rock granite ridges of the Los Glaciares National Park, the ice-carved bulwarks of the Perito Moreno Glacier are a real wonder to behold.

Almost singlehandedly have they thrust the far-flung backwater town of El Calafate into the limelight, and today thousands of intrepid travelers make their way to the Patagonian backcountry around the city, eager to seek out bobbing ice bergs and the crags of Onelli Bay alike.

The settlement has grown up in recent decades too, going from a wool trader outpost to a series of paved streets lined with outdoors outfitters, quaint timber homes and the cutting-edge exhibitions of the Glaciarium.

8. Puerto Iguazu

Puerto Iguazu

The last little taste of Argentina before crossing the border into Brazil or Paraguay is a friendly enough place, complete with oodles of well-honed hotels and guesthouses, more than its fair share of restaurants, and souvenir shops ten to the penny.

But that’s not why so many people come here.

No sir, they come in droves for the roaring cataracts of the Iguazu Falls, which cascade over the cliffs close by.

Trips to the bucket-list waterfalls are uber-easy to organise, with a tourist train weaving through the jungles and designated walking paths opening up onto the famous Devil’s Throat section of the site, where the waters crash a whopping 82 meters from top to bottom.

Remember the waterproofs!

9. El Chalten

El Chalten

Dramatic broadsides of the mighty Fitz Roy peaks delineate the horizon at El Chalten; a town of low-rise cottages and Austrian-esque guesthouses that’s perched right up on the edge of the Patagonian Andes and the northern icefields of Los Glaciares.

The de facto trekking capital of the nation, the spot is packed with walkers and hikers and mountaineers, all coming in search of trails like the Laguna de los Tres and Condor Mirador, which soar high above the town and close to the towering peaks that encase it.

A spa is at hand for any who want to sooth the muscles post-adventure, while a clutch of breweries and backpacker bars makes for an interesting evening complete with pilsners and black beers.

10. San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche by Albertina

Argentina’s answer to New Zealand’s Queenstown, France’s Chamonix and all the world’s other alpine, outdoorsy gems comes in the form of San Carlos de Bariloche (that’s just Bariloche to the locals and regulars). Hugging the sparkling waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake, the town is encompassed by verdant swathes of lengas and Chilean cedar and bamboo.

Luxurious hotels looking plucked straight out of Geneva meet wooden snow cabins between the city streets, while Swiss chocolatiers belie the town’s long Germanic historical connection – as does the glorious Gothic cathedral! Skiing at Cerro Catedral causes the town to boom during the colder months, as riders come in search of one of the continent’s largest ski areas, complete with 120 kilometers of groomed piste.

11. Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata

Chock-a-block with sunbathers and fashionistas, volleyball hitters and Atlantic swell swimmers right throughout the summer, Mar del Plata is the Argentinian seaside resort extraordinaire.

The early decades of the 1900s was when the beaches here made their name, giving a golden age that’s still visible in the occasional Art Deco high-rise along the shore.

Today, del Plata pumps to the tune of electric tango each evening, the throbbing cocktail bars of Alem Street drawing the biggest crowds.

Fantastic fish eateries also abound, while Mirador Waikiki offers something a little more secluded than the major sand stretches that line the city.

12. Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn

A town of sloping beaches and windswept Atlantic dunes, where the rugged, seal-spotted coves of Chubut Province meld together between the Valdes Peninsula and Punta Ninfas, Puerto Madryn is one part sunbather paradise (great if you fancy leaving behind the booming crowds of Mar del Plata!), one part whale watchers’ mecca.

The great mammals (southern right whales to be precise) flock to the shore during the colder months, and can be seen from the rocky headlands around town, while summertime draws Buenos Aires locals to its less-trodden inlets and the penguin-packed rocks of Punta Tombo alike.

Welsh heritage is very much alive here too, so don’t be shocked if you hear the odd diolch mixed in with the Spanish!

13. Antofagasta de la Sierra

Antofagasta de la Sierra

A whopping 3,200 meters above sea level, amidst the coal-coloured cinder cones of the Puna and the colossal caldera tops of Galan, Antofagasta de la Sierra is a whole world away from the ice-caked Patagonian wilds and the grasslands of the Pampas.

Here, dust devils twirl in the air and the sweeping Andean plateaus are interrupted only by the occasional bump of an ancient volcano.

Llama calls are the backing track, and farmers squeeze a living from the wastelands and the high-altitude lakes.

Antofagasta itself is little more than a village, the prime gateway to this truly breathtaking region of Argentina, although increasing annual visitor numbers are slowly beginning to change things.

14. Trevelin

Trevelin

Trevelin rose in the wake of the fabled Welsh explorer and settler El Baqueano, who used this spot as a base for his intrepid excursions in the Pampas during the 1890s.

Today, this curious little backwater settlement still remembers its Celtic roots with pride, and the Welsh tongue still echoes amidst the pretty, tree-lined streets.

In fact, spots like the Dyffryn y Merthyron pay homage to the fallen heroes of the Welsh frontier caravans, while cakes straight out of Brecon feature heavily on the menus of the quaint tearooms in town.

The setting is beautiful too, as the rising peaks of the Andes dominate to the west and the Chubut lowlands roll out, undulating forever into the east.

Salta, Argentina

Salta can be found spread out along the base of the dust-caked, ochre-hued Lerma Valley, a mass of square-cut blocks and traffic-choked streets that hides one magnificent colonial core at its heart.

Yes sir, expect palm-peppered plazas like Julio Square and Ninth of July Plaza, where al fresco cafes throb with Spanish chatter, curious tango-folk and the smells of yerba mate, theatres twinkle in lights and elegant Baroque frontispieces ooze with tales of the town’s 500 years of history.

Of course, the backcountry is another draw (it always is in Argentina), and after devouring all the empanadas possible, many travelers make a beeline for the wild Valles Calchaquies, or even across the Andes, to the saltpans of southern Bolivia!

15 Best Places to Visit in Argentina:

  • Buenos Aires
  • San Antonio de Areco
  • San Ignacio Mini
  • El Calafate
  • Puerto Iguazu
  • San Carlos de Bariloche
  • Mar del Plata
  • Puerto Madryn
  • Antofagasta de la Sierra

Adventures & Sunsets

Argentina Destinations: 22 Incredible Places to Visit in Argentina (You Didn’t Know Existed)

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2023

If you’re planning a South America trip, it may be difficult to decide on which places to visit in Argentina . I know that I was actually unfamiliar with the pure scope and extensivity of Argentina destinations before my trip. But after ending up spending over two months there, I can attest that Argentina is one of the most incredible, varied, naturally gorgeous, culturally diverse, and culinarily incredible countries on earth.

I worked my way through all the things to do in Argentina from Patagonia in the south, to Buenos Aires in the east, to the Iguazu Falls in the north, to Salta and Jujuy in the west. I didn’t even plan on spending too much time in Argentina, but now I can happily say it’s my favorite country on Earth.

Argentina truly has everything – from cold and alpine rocky mountains, to barren wine country, to amazing European-esque cities, to thick jungle, to the most colorful highland desert landscapes you’ll ever see. With each new Argentina destination, my mind was blown more and more until I decided that it truly couldn’t get any better – this was one of the most amazing countries on earth.

Want to read more about Argentina? Make sure to check out the posts I have linked below and also my Complete Argentina Bucket List here.

Check out these incredible places to visit in Argentina that you may have never heard of! From mountain to jungle to desert to city, these argentina destinations will blow your mind.

Places to Visit in Argentina: Destinations in the South

Here are the best places to visit in Argentina’s south, a mostly mountainous, chilly, and scenic region including Patagonia.

Known as the “End of the World,” Ushuaia is the adventurous gateway to Antarctica and the southernmost city in the Americas. Flights and cruises to Antarctica will all leave from here, the closest point to it that you can get.

Ushuaia understandably gets very cold in the southern hemisphere winters, and is well-known for islands full of penguins, incredible mountainous scenery,  colorful houses, and Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Ushuaia Things to Do

  • End of the World Train
  • End of the World Museum – Learn Indigenous Culture
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park Trekking
  • Martillo Island Penguins
  • Beagle Channel Cruise

Ushuaia Places to Stay:

  • Compare prices on Ushuaia Hotels or Ushuaia Hostels .

el calaate perito moreno glacier argentina destinations

El Calafate

El Calafate is another adventure hub of southern Patagonia, and is an important stop on any Argentina itinerary. It’s the best known for the Perito Moreno glacier, which is easily the most incredible glacier I’ve ever seen.

However, it’s also a great hub for day trips to other viewpoints, Torres del Paine National park in Chile , boat tours through different arms of glacier lakes, a few other glaciers, and some gaucho-run ‘estancias’ out in the remote mountain desert.

El Calafate Things to Do and Where to Stay

For info on all tours from El Calafate, what to do, and where to stay in town, check out my guide to El Calafate tours.

El Chalten is a smaller mountain town three hours north of El Calafate also known also for its adventurous activities. It is namely known for a world-famous and mind-blowing hike to Laguna de Los Tres with a view of Mount Fitz Roy , a dramatic and jagged almost-other-worldly view.

The town is small and quaint, with scenic landscapes all around, the possibility for river rafting and rappelling, and kayaking, too.

What to Do and Where to Stay in El Chalten

For all the info on what you can do and where you should stay in El Chalten, check out my classic Patagonia itinerary below, which outlines a two-week itinerary through Argentinian and Chilean southern Patagonia. Book transfers between Argentina destinations in advance on bookaway.

Bariloche is one of the most popular holiday places to visit in Argentina. It has options for both the backpacker and the traveler who has a bit more disposable income, if you know what I mean. There are luxury resorts all over the place, and nice restaurants to complement the high-end mountain and lake views.

Things to do + Where to Stay in Bariloche

I have included Bariloche and the 3 destinations below this in my “ Northern Patagonia Itinerary ,” in which I highlight the best things to do and places to stay in each destination.

In short, Bariloche is known for some other incredible hikes up to jagged and carnivorous peaks, a famous bike ride around a national park and mountain lakes (with stops at a few different breweries!), for its incredible chocolate, and skiing in the winter.

villa la angostura - best places to visit in argentina

Villa La Angostura

Villa La Angostura is a hidden gem I discovered while backpacking through as many Argentina destinations as I could. It’s another tiny mountain town full of restaurants and souvenir shops, and has an absolute winner of a hike that was one of my favorites in South America.

Down near Puerto Angostura (just outside of the main town), there’s a huge peninsula with a hike along its backbone. It presents incredible views of the lakes and water on either side of it, and is surely a great spot in Patagonia.

Things to do + Where to Stay in Villa La Angostura

I also elaborated on Villa La Angostura in my Northern Patagonia Itinerary, with lots more details on the hike and where to stay. Check it out here.

El Bolson is like a mountain hippie town, full of eco-lodges, crystal-ridden craft markets, and nature lovers. Like many places in Patagonia, there are lots of incredible hikes to do here as well as markets and shops in town.

Things to do + Where to Stay in El Bolson

Check my Northern Patagonia itinerary, linked below, to read more in-depth about what to do and where to stay in El Bolson and the towns surrounding it.

San Martin de Los Andes

San Martin de Los Andes is a larger Patagonian town than all the rest described here, situated at the northern edge of Patagonia and on some beautiful lakes (surprise, surprise).

Up at this end of Patagonia there are more volcanoes, and there are quite a few in the region of San Martin that you can visit (or you can cross the border into Chile and check out the active V olcan Villarrica in Pucon).

Things to do + Where to Stay in San Martin de Los Andes

Other than that, it’s like a little skiing town with beautiful hikes surrounding it. As with the past 4 places to visit in Argentina, check my Northern Patagonia itinerary for more specifics on what to do and where to stay in each.

Places to Visit in Argentina: Destinations in the Center

Here are some places to visit in central Argentina that you should have on your radar.

Mendoza has to be one of your Argentina destinations if you are making a trip. That is, only if you love wine! Mendoza is known to be the home of Malbec, and actually also has some other incredible wine varietals made in its three different wine regions at the base of the Andes Mountains.

Things to do + Where to Stay in Mendoza

Other than wine tasting, which is a given, Mendoza is actually also a hub to many other adventures.

  • River Rafting Adventures
  • Visiting Geothermal Spas
  • Andes High Mountain Tours
  • And of course, wine tasting! There are many different tours.

Check out the wine tasing tour I did in Mendoza here for more information.

Cordoba is one of the most central places to visit in Argentina and a good stopover hub between Mendoza and Salta/Buenos Aires. It’s quite an industrial city, but that doesn’t mean that there’s not much to do! I stayed with a good friend in Cordoba for a weekend and really enjoyed myself. Check out this 2 day Cordoba itinerary if you aren’t sure what to do!

Things to do in Cordoba

  • Explore the Town Center + Museums, or take a city tour
  • On weekends, check out the street market and trendy bars downtown
  • Visit La Cumbrecita
  • Really though, there have been tons of conspiracy theories of aliens existing in these Sierras – specifically Capilla del Monte. There have been reported crop circles, mysterious beings, and more… check this article for more!

Where to Stay in Cordoba

Compare the best hotels in Cordoba and hostels in Cordoba here.

Rosario may not always be on the tourist trail, but as a happening student city and one of the most populous in the country, it cannot be left out when naming places to visit in Argentina.

Rosario has a happening bar, club, and food scene, rich history, plenty of museums and historical monuments, parks, markets, theaters, beaches, and a lovely waterfront along the Parana river.

Things to Do in Rosario

  • Go kayaking in the Parana River
  • Take a city bike and explore the city
  • Visit some of the best clubs in the world

Where to Stay in Rosario

Compare Rates for Hotels in Rosario and Hostels in Rosario.

Catamarca (San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca)

It may not be the biggest tourist city, but Catamarca is an interesting Argentina destination just the same. Within the town of San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca (which is the capital of the province of Catamarca), you can find interesting religious monuments, parks, amazing food, and plenty of bars.

However, the biggest appeal in Catamarca may come from its mountains. The city is in a sort of valley surrounded by high mountains and volcanoes, some even exceeding 6,000 meters! This means that climbing and mountaineering are popular activities in this area.

Things to do in Catamarca

  • Mountain climbing and hiking
  • Many religious festivals throughout the year
  • Fiambala Hot Springs

Where to Stay in Catamarca

Compare prices for the best hotels in Catamarca .

the best places to visit in argentina palermo buenos aires

Places to Visit in Argentina: Destinations in the East

Here are some popular destinations in Argentina on the east side, from the capital to some smaller coastal cities.

Buenos Aires

Well… duh! Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina, the “Paris of Latin America,” one of the economic centers of South America, and one hell of a bustling city. I totally fell in love with its food, culture, nightlife, and pulse, and I can’t wait to go back.

This is the main of all Argentina destinations, and the place to come to try the classic Argentina foods- parilla steaks, incredible pizza, alfajores cookies, dulce de leche, and more recently, craft beer.

Buenos Aires has a tangible energy that is apparent in all who live there. Whether at bustling nightclubs, speakeasy bars, street art-covered alleyways, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and busy shopping malls, Buenos Aires really has it all – it’s a very livable city, and of course visit-able as well 😉

Tigre Delta

When in Buenos Aires, one of the coolest places to visit in Argentina is the Tigre Delta. You can sail here from Buenos Aires on a day tour and see another summer destination for Argentinians. Read more about it and more awesome Buenos Aires Tours here.

What to Do and Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

Since I wrote an entire 6000+ word guide to Buenos Aires, I’m going to go ahead and send you over to that my Buenos Aires guide to learn ALL about what to do, where to stay, what tours to take, and where to go, eat, and party in Buenos Aires. Enjoy!

what to do in buenos aures parilla steak la cabrera

Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata, or “la Plata,”  is where Porteños, as people from Buenos Aires are called, tend to vacation (that is, if they aren’t ferrying across to Uruguay!). There are massive expanses of beaches and great parties in the summertime, and oftentimes some of the best festivals in South America.

What to do in Mar del Plata

Mar de Plata is a great weekend destination to relax at the beach, visit museums or water parks, or take a day trip from Buenos Aires. 

Where to Stay in Mar del Plata

Compare prices for Mar del Plata Hotels here or Mar de Plata hostels here.

Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn is technically still in the Patagonia region although it’s on the complete opposite (east) coast of the country to other popular Patagonian destinations. It’s got beaches for the summertime, but the most appealing thing about it is its wildlife. There are many Puerto Madryn excursions that will take you to beautiful points of interest and wildlife.

You can whale watch here, and more excitingly actually scuba dive with playful, twisting and turning sea lions. I’ve seen some incredible videos of people paddling through a sea of hundreds of them flitting about through the water – it’s pretty incredible, really. The Peninsula Valdes is also an incredible place to visit.

Things to do in Puerto Madryn

  • Whale watching tours 
  • Visit nearby nature reserves and the Valdes Peninsula
  • Scuba Dive with Sea Lions  
  • Penguin Colony Visit 

Iguazu Falls best places to visit in argentina

Places to Visit in Argentina: Destinations in the North

Northern Argentina should now be forgotten as it has a truly different landscape than anywhere else in the country.

Puerto Iguazu + Iguazu Falls

In the northwest corner or Argentina, you’ll find a completely different vibe than anywhere else in the country: a humid, dense jungle! At that, it’s a jungle that borders the largest waterfall system in the world. How’s that for appealing?! I still remember when I got off the plane from freezing Buenos Aires to a pleasant 27 degrees C (about 80F) and was completely stunned.

Puerto Iguazu is a small town that borders two rivers – one that separates it from Brazil, and one that separates it from Paraguay. It’s got a much deeper indigenous culture than a lot of Argentina.

I personally think that the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls is the best, but I recommend visiting the Argentinian side (pictured) of course while you’re here so you can get the best of both worlds!

What to do + Where to Stay in Puerto Iguazu/Iguazu Falls

I also wrote another entire post detailing what to do in Puerto Iguazu, how to visit Iguazu Falls from both the Argentinian and Brazilain sides , and where to stay.

places to visit in salta - quebrada del toro northern argentina geology

Places to Visit in Argentina: Destinations in the Northwest

Northern Argentina should now be forgotten as it has some of the truly most incredible places to visit in Argentina. Here are the places you need to know about.

This is a province in Argentina’s northwest with lots of treasures to be found. Jujuy city is the capital of Jujuy province, which along with Salta is rich in indigenous culture and incredible landscapes and highlands. The next few destinations below are all in Jujuy province.

Tilcara + Humahuaca Gorge

Humahuaca and Tilcara are small dusty desert towns inside the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Humahuaca Gorge. Tilcara is well known for having the best preserved Pucara, or fortress, used by the pre-hispanic peoples before the Incas. Humahuaca has incredible culture, shopping, and history.

There are many other points of interest along the Humahuaca Gorge that are detailed in my Quebrada de Humahuaca post , as well as a booking link for the tour I did if you are interested. It’s best known for the incredible mountain landscapes with yellow, pink, red, and green that look like they were painted!

purmamarca argentina

Purmamarca is home to the ‘Cerro de Siete Colores,” or the Hill of 7 Colors. And let me tell you – it’s probably more than seven colors! It’s one of the most spectacular places to visit in Argentina and is a great place to find indigenous souvenirs, too. There are lots of places to stay in Purmamarca, or you can see it as part of tours I will link below.

Where to Stay in Jujuy

To read more about Jujuy province and different Argentina destinations in the north, see my Guide to Northern Argentina’s Salta + Jujuy Provinces .

Salta is the capital of the Salta province, which is directly next to its slightly greener counterpart, Jujuy. There are similarly colorful desert landscapes and incredible road trips here through gorges and salt flats.

Salinas Grandes

The Salinas Grandes are technically half in Salta and half in Jujuy, and are a massive expanse of salt flats that are still used for extractions to export salt. They’re one of the lesser-known Argentina destinations. But, they’re amazing just the same, and much easier to get to than Uyuni in Bolivia!

You can get to them via Purmamarca and some incredible mountain roads in the Jujuy region, or via a Highway 51 road trip through the El Toro Gorge.

San Antonio de Los Cobres – Tren a Las Nubes

The Tren a Las Nubes is definitely one of the most unique things to do/ places to visit in Argentina. It’s one of the highest altitude train rides in the world at over 4200m elevation, and goes through some watercolored highlands and a magical viaduct.

To get to the train you drive the same road trip linked above, and ride the train at the end. Read more about my experience here !

Although within the Salta province, Cafayate requires its own description because it’s by far one of the top places to visit in Argentina. Cafayate is Argentina’s ‘other’ wine region, producing high altitude (just over 1500m) wines and specializing in a white wine varietal called Torrontes.

The ‘Cafayate Wine route” is a trail of dozens of wineries in the region that you can link together into a big wine tour (over a while, of course!). But, the special part about Cafayate is that there are at least a dozen wineries within walking/biking distance of the main town. Lots of people rent bikes to ride between the closer ones (and there are 4 in town you can walk to!).

Not only is there tons of amazing wine, but there are hikes, cheese farms, and other incredible nature in Cafayate as well. Read my 3-day Cafayate Itinerary here.

Quebrada de los Conchas

The Quebrada de Las Conchas is an area of outstanding natural beauty that falls on the road between Salta and Cafayate. There are almost impossible-looking rock formations in unnaturally bright colors, and it’s all-in-all simply amazing. Read more about how to visit in my post above.

Well, there you have it! Which of these places to visit in Argentina have you been to? Are there more Argentina destinations I should add to the list? Let me know in the comments!

50 places to visit in argentina

Don’t forget to pin these places to visit in Argentina! 

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[…] Argentina Destinations You Didn’t Know Existed […]

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22 Famous Places in Argentina You Should Visit Once In Your Lifetime

22 Famous Places in Argentina You Should Visit Once In Your Lifetime

Argentina, a country located in the southern part of South America, is a destination blessed with natural wonders, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning landscapes to world-class wine regions.

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country, here is a guide to 22 famous places in Argentina that you must visit. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia, Argentina has something to offer every traveler. Get ready to explore the wonders of Argentina and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

22. Tigre Delta

Tigre Delta

Located just a short distance from the bustling city of Buenos Aires , the Tigre Delta is a peaceful escape into nature. This small town is known for its intricate network of waterways and lush green islands. Visitors can explore the delta by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the region.

As you navigate through the waterways, you’ll be surrounded by the unique flora and fauna that call the Tigre Delta home. The region is dotted with charming islands, quaint cottages, and waterfront restaurants , offering a true retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Don’t miss the Puerto de Frutos market, where you can find a variety of local crafts and artisanal products. And of course, no visit to the Tigre Delta would be complete without indulging in a traditional Argentinian barbecue, or asado, at one of the elegant riverside resorts.

21. Quebrada de Cafayate

Quebrada de Cafayate

Nestled in the northwest of Argentina , the Quebrada de Cafayate is a breathtaking canyon famous for its vibrant rock formations and natural wonders. The region is known for its striking red rock formations, which create a stunning contrast against the clear blue sky.

It’s a place that offers incredible photo opportunities, with every turn revealing a new breathtaking vista. But the Quebrada de Cafayate isn’t just about nature’s wonders; it also boasts some of the best wineries in the country. Visitors can explore the region’s wineries, sampling the unique high-altitude wines of Cafayate.

The town of Cafayate itself is a charming destination, with its colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Don’t miss the Quebrada de las Conchas, a scenic route showcasing the geological beauty of the canyon, with its stunning rock formations.

20. Iglesia San Francisco, Salta

Iglesia San Francisco, Salta

In the heart of the city of Salta, the Iglesia San Francisco stands as a testament to Argentina’s colonial heritage. This historic church features stunning colonial architecture, with its ornate carvings and vibrant paintings telling the story of a bygone era.

Visitors can climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Salta and the surrounding landscapes, providing a unique perspective on the city’s rich history. Iglesia San Francisco is not just a religious site; it is a significant cultural and architectural landmark in Salta and a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s history.

The church’s tranquil courtyard offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets, allowing visitors a moment of reflection and serenity.

19. Mar del Plata Beaches

Mar del Plata Beaches

Mar del Plata is a city located on the Atlantic coast of Argentina, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant summer culture. The city boasts a picturesque coastline, offering a range of stunning beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Playa Grande, with its wide sandy shores, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The beachfront promenade is perfect for a stroll, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues lining the way.

Mar del Plata’s beaches attract surfers, swimmers, and beachgoers from around the world, seeking the perfect combination of relaxation and fun. The city’s lively beach culture includes beach volleyball, live music, and seaside dining experiences, making it an unforgettable summer getaway destination.

18. Cueva de las Manos

Cueva de las Manos

Tucked away in the Patagonia region of Argentina, Cueva de las Manos, or “Cave of Hands,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases ancient rock art. The site is home to prehistoric cave paintings, including vibrant handprints and indigenous artwork dating back thousands of years.

Exploring the caves, visitors can marvel at the rich history and cultural significance of rock art, which provides a unique glimpse into the traditions and creativity of early inhabitants.

Cueva de las Manos is nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Patagonia region, adding to the overall experience of immersing oneself in the natural beauty of the area. It’s a place where history comes alive, allowing travelers to connect with the past and appreciate the artistic legacy of Argentina’s indigenous peoples.

17. Aconcagua

Aconcagua

Aconcagua , the highest mountain in the southern and western hemispheres, stands tall in the Andes mountain range, on the border of Argentina and Chile. Its majestic peaks and snow-capped summits provide a dramatic backdrop for adventurers and nature lovers.

Aconcagua is a popular destination for mountaineers, offering a thrilling challenge and the opportunity to conquer one of the world’s highest mountains.

The region is home to Aconcagua National Park, which showcases diverse ecosystems, glacier-fed rivers, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a nature enthusiast, a trip to Aconcagua offers awe-inspiring vistas and the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andes. It’s an experience that will leave a lasting impression and a sense of accomplishment.

16. Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a region of Argentina celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. This enchanting destination features a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions, colonial history, and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the colorful rock formations, ancient ruins, and traditional villages that dot the Quebrada.

The town of Humahuaca, the region’s main hub, hosts lively markets where local crafts, textiles, and artisanal products are on display.

Festivals and celebrations in the region offer a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of northern Argentina, with music, dance, and elaborate costumes taking center stage. Quebrada de Humahuaca is a place where time stands still, allowing visitors to connect with the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Chaco

14. Southern Fuegian Railway

Southern Fuegian Railway

The Southern Fuegian Railway, also referred to as the “End of the World Train,” presents a unique opportunity to embark on a historic and picturesque journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

As passengers traverse this route, they are treated to spectacular views of the southernmost region of South America, offering an immersive experience of the region’s natural wonders and indigenous heritage. A stop at the historic La Macarena Station allows travelers to delve into the area’s early 20th-century penal colony, adding a historical dimension to the scenic ride.

Ultimately, the Southern Fuegian Railway provides an unforgettable way to explore the remote and captivating landscapes of the region, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of southern Argentina.

13. Rosario

Rosario

12. Tucumán

Tucumán

11. Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón , located in Buenos Aires, is a renowned opera house celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, making it one of the world’s premier opera venues.

The theater’s architecture beautifully showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and offers guided tours for visitors to explore its opulent interiors.

Here, guests can witness world-class performances and concerts, immersing themselves in the vibrant arts scene of Latin America’s largest city without needing any explanation or justification.

10. Aconcagua Mountain

Aconcagua Mountain

A must-visit for outdoor challenges, Aconcagua Mountain stands as the highest peak in South America , attracting adventurers and mountaineers to its stunning landscapes within the Andes range.

Nature lovers are drawn to this popular destination for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. With its diverse species of plants and unique ecosystem, Aconcagua is a tourist attraction that offers a great place for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an adventure in the Southern Hemisphere.

While exploring the best time of year to visit this iconic mountain, travelers can also plan a road trip to witness the beauty of the Andes range, making it one of the best things to do in Latin America.

9. Salinas Grandes

Salinas Grandes

Nestled in the Puna region, Salinas Grandes stretches as a vast salt flat, offering expansive and otherworldly landscapes for visitors to explore. The mesmerizing salt crust formations present a perfect opportunity for capturing breathtaking photographs.

This natural wonder is not just about salt; it boasts unique biodiversity, adding to its natural charm and making it a great place to experience the great outdoors.

Salinas Grandes is a top-notch tourist attraction, showcasing the best of Argentina’s natural beauty, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Latin America. With its unforgettable vistas and unique flora, this destination offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

8. Ushuaia: The End of the World

Ushuaia: The End of the World

Ushuaia, the southernmost city globally, serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Tierra del Fuego National Park.

The city boasts diverse tourist attractions catering to adventure enthusiasts and offers the allure of being at the “end of the world.” Visitors can explore the Beagle Channel, renowned for its fascinating wildlife and picturesque viewing platforms.

Positioned in the southern hemisphere, Ushuaia is a great place for a road trip, offering the best way to experience the beauty of the Patagonian region, including the famous Fitz Roy and the town of El Calafate. Additionally, the region offers the best things to see, such as the Devil’s Throat and the stunning glaciers, making it a must-visit destination in Latin America.

7. Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula

Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula

Nestled on the coast, Puerto Madryn is a haven for tourist attractions with its rich marine life and vibrant ecosystem in the Valdés Peninsula. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a hotspot for observing the captivating breeding grounds of majestic southern right whales and a prime spot to witness the playful antics of sea lions and elephant seals.

Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula in the southern hemisphere offer an unparalleled wildlife experience, attracting visitors throughout the year.

The region’s Atlantic coast is a great place for nature enthusiasts and offers an extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature and observe diverse species of plants and animals in one of the most picturesque locations in Latin America.

6. Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Nestled in the southern hemisphere, Tierra del Fuego National Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts. The park boasts diverse landscapes, from lush forests to pristine lakes, offering a haven for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.

Visitors are captivated by the rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Additionally, the park provides a unique glimpse into the end of the world, adding a sense of adventure to the experience.

Tierra del Fuego National Park stands as one of the most extraordinary tourist attractions in Latin America, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the southern hemisphere.

Mendoza

Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza beckons with its world-renowned Malbec and breathtaking landscapes, featuring the majestic Andes mountains and sprawling vineyards. Visitors are treated to a myriad of experiences, from wine tastings and horseback riding to invigorating mountain treks.

Beyond its viticulture, Mendoza boasts a vibrant cultural scene, encompassing art galleries, museums, and locally crafted treasures. Noteworthy is the annual Vendimia festival, a jubilant commemoration of the region’s wine heritage and rich traditions.

4. Bariloche

Bariloche

Nestled in the scenic Lake District of Argentina, Bariloche boasts stunning natural beauty and a wide array of outdoor activities. Visitors can partake in hiking, mountain biking, and water sports while immersing themselves in the town’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s summer or winter, Bariloche offers attractions all year round, making it a prime tourist destination .

The Swiss-style architecture further enhances the town’s allure, adding to its unique charm and distinct character. With its picturesque setting and abundance of outdoor pursuits, Bariloche is undeniably a great place to visit in Latin America, offering an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

3. El Calafate

El Calafate

El Calafate, the gateway to the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, offers access to the natural wonders of Patagonia. Visitors can partake in glacier treks, boat rides, and ice hiking adventures, immersing themselves in the region’s beauty.

The town’s serene ambiance perfectly complements its breathtaking surroundings, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, El Calafate is renowned for its local specialties, artisan crafts, and cultural allure, attracting food and culture enthusiasts alike.

This charming town in southern Argentina truly embodies the essence of the region and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Latin America’s tourist attractions.

2. Laguna Torre

Laguna Torre

Laguna Torre, nestled in Los Glaciares National Park, is a captivating glacial lake celebrated for its mesmerizing turquoise waters set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Adventurous explorers have the opportunity to partake in an enriching trek to reach the picturesque shores of this stunning lake.

The tranquil ambiance of Laguna Torre makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photography aficionados seeking refuge in its unspoiled natural beauty, while the surrounding landscapes offer a feast for the eyes, showcasing the raw and untamed allure of the region.

1. Recoleta Cemetery

Recoleta Cemetery

Nestled in Buenos Aires, the Recoleta Cemetery stands as an architectural masterpiece and a significant cultural heritage site in Latin America. This historical gem serves as the final resting place for numerous influential Argentine personalities, attracting visitors with its elaborate mausoleums and sculptures.

The serene ambiance of the cemetery offers a unique blend of art, history, and urban exploration, making it a must-visit tourist attraction for those seeking an immersive experience. The Recoleta Cemetery provides an intriguing glimpse into the early 20th century, beckoning travelers to uncover the stories of the prominent figures laid to rest within its hallowed grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Argentina?

Some popular tourist destinations in Argentina include Buenos Aires, known for its European-style architecture and vibrant culture. The Iguazu Falls, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls. Bariloche offers stunning lakes and mountains, while Mendoza is famous for its wineries and scenic landscapes.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known places to visit in Argentina?

Famous places in Argentina, Argentina is full of hidden gems and lesser-known places to explore. Consider visiting Cafayate, a charming town renowned for its wineries and breathtaking landscapes. Bariloche, nestled in the Andes mountains, offers stunning views and outdoor adventures. Don’t miss the Valdes Peninsula, a nature reserve where you can witness whales, penguins, and other fascinating wildlife up close.

How can I make the most of my time in Buenos Aires?

To make the most of your time in Buenos Aires, take a walking tour to explore iconic landmarks and architecture. Immerse yourself in the tango culture by watching a live performance or taking a dance class. Don’t miss out on visiting museums and art galleries to learn about Argentina’s rich history and culture. And of course, indulge in the local cuisine, especially steak and empanadas, at traditional restaurants or food markets.

What are some must-try foods and drinks in Argentina?

Famous places in Argentina, Some must-try foods and drinks in Argentina include asado, a traditional Argentine barbecue, and empanadas, savory pastries filled with meat or cheese. Don’t miss out on trying mate, a caffeine-rich tea-like drink, and Malbec wine, a well-known Argentine export.

In conclusion, Famous places in Argentina, Argentina is a country filled with diverse and breathtaking destinations that cater to every traveler’s interests.

From the stunning Tigre Delta to the historical Recoleta Cemetery, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural attractions, or outdoor adventures, Argentina has it all.

So pack your bags and start planning your trip to this amazing South American country. Don’t forget to share your travel experiences on social media and inspire others to visit these famous places in Argentina too. Happy travels!

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Ferona Jose Travelistia Blogger & Writer

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Rebecca and the World

Places to Visit in Argentina: 15 Can’t-Miss Destinations in 2024

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Wondering where to go in Argentina? Here, I’m sharing my absolute favourite places to visit in Argentina, researched over two years of living there.

Argentina is a country of stunning diversity. Think cosmopolitan cities, snow-capped mountains, rushing waterfalls, moon-like landscapes, delicious wines and crystal-clear lakes.

While you’re inevitably going to end up in Buenos Aires – spoiler alert, it’s number one on this list of Argentina destinations to visit – you also have to get out of Buenos Aires and head to some of the other incredible places across the immense landscape of the world’s 8th largest country.

So, from cities to natural wonders, from Patagonia to the desert, here are 15 of my favourite places to visit in Argentina. This list has been curated after living in the country for two years and travelling extensively from top to bottom. I encourage you to have a look through and think about which places you’ll be adding to your Argentina itinerary .

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Map of the best places to visit in Argentina

What's in this article (Click to view)

1. Buenos Aires

An aerial view of Buenos Aires from Palacio Barolo, showing dense, varied architecture, a large green park in the centre, and a striking red-domed building in the foreground. The background shows a cloudy sky over the urban expanse.

The seductive capital of the country and the most European of all the cities in South America, it’s easy to fall under Buenos Aires’ spell. Start your Argentina trip here to explore stunning architecture, eat juicy steak, drink full-bodied wines and watch an intimate tango show.

For a day-by-day  Bueno Aires itinerary , follow my checklist for  3 days in Buenos Aires .

The  architecture  in Buenos Aires is dazzling, and just walking along the streets will make you gasp in delight. Head inside historic buildings like  Palacio Barolo ,  Teatro Colón  and  El Ateneo Grand Splendid . Consider booking a guided tour  so you can squeeze in all the key sites.

Buenos Aires’ love of art and culture is on display in many of its museums, including the  Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes  and the  Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires .

Step back in time in the antique shops that line  San Telmo’s cobblestoned streets. Every Sunday the entire neighbourhood comes alive with a huge street market. Plan your visit so that you have a Sunday in Buenos Aires just so you can experience this market.

If you want a custom leather jacket made, stop in at one of the many tailors in Buenos Aires (check out my guide here to the  best shopping in Buenos Aires ). Do this at the start of your trip, as a leather jacket can usually be turned around in a rapid 48 hours.

No Argentina visit is complete without food, and the city is full of  restaurants for all budgets  as well as many secret bars. To learn about the culture of Argentina, sign up for a food experience with  The Argentine Experience . Or, take a  food tour  that explores the city’s famous parrillas .

End the night with a  tango show . I recommend Bar Sur for its intimate setting. The lavish Faena Hotel has a  raunchy Rojo Tango performance  – and the hotel itself is worth checking out for its eccentric design.

  • Where to stay in Buenos Aires

The city has plenty of places to stay, including:

  • BE Jardin Escondido by Coppola   was once Francis Ford Coppola’s house and is now a cosy boutique hotel in the trendy Palermo neighbourhood. | Check rates and book online with  Booking.com or Expedia
  • The rooms at  Hotel Club Frances , in the heart of Recoleta, are spacious and some have a sauna and spa bath. |  Check out the latest rates at  Booking.com and Expedia

Here’s more Buenos Aires inspiration:

  • Buenos Aires bucket list: 101+ things to do
  • Where to eat in Buenos Aires

A neat vineyard with rows of grapevines leading to a large building with a red roof, set against a backdrop of towering mountains with snow-capped peaks and a clear blue sky. Mendoza is one of the best places to visit in Argentina for wine lovers and people who want to try adventure activities in Argentina.

If you like wine, then one of the best places to visit in Argentina is Mendoza. Home to Argentina’s famous Malbec varietal, in a few days you can easily visit several wineries, many of them set against the beautiful backdrop of the Andes.

There are three different wine regions: Maipú , Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley . Maipú is the closest to Mendoza city and therefore easier to visit, but it’s well worth going out further to taste wine in the stunning Uco Valley.

To explore the wineries, you can rent a bike, hire a private driver ( this tour with driver includes a 3-course lunch! ) or your own car (drink responsibly!) or grab a ticket for the hop-on, hop-off Bus Vitivinicola . We had fun doing a guided winery tour by bike .

When wine gets too much (but does it ever?), Mendoza is also one of the top Argentina destinations for adventure, and there’s rafting, climbing, horseback riding and other outdoor adventures. Or you can explore the city’s museums, churches and plazas. Outside of the city, there’s the famous Puente del Inca (Incan bridge) and hot springs .

Foodies will delight in the many options available, including two restaurants owned by Francis Mallmann, South America’s most well-known chef.

Where to stay in Mendoza

Bohemia Hotel Boutique   is located in the quiet residential streets of Mendoza, yet still close to the main areas. | Book your stay on  Booking.com or Expedia

3. Bariloche

A shoreline near Bariloche with clear blue water, with people sitting and exploring, some wearing orange life vests. The background features majestic mountains with snowy peaks, under a bright blue sky.

Located in northern Patagonia, Bariloche is popular year-round, with visitors flocking here for skiing, mountain biking, hiking and fishing.

If that all sounds a little too adventurous, Bariloche is also one of the best places in Argentina for chocolate, and it’s easy to spend hours tasting the various chocolates and ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the imaginative window displays. Rapa Nui , Argentina’s most popular chocolate brand, is a must, and I dare you not to bring home boxes of chocolate.

Base yourself here and rent a car to drive the Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Road of the Seven Lakes). The 110 kilometre route is a spectacular journey that winds through – you guessed it – seven lakes. Renting a car in Argentina is straightforward and a great way to see the country.

Just two hours by bus from Bariloche is El Bolsón , a hippy town where you can taste local craft beers and sample vegetarian and vegan food.

Where to stay in Bariloche

Design Suites Bariloche  has spacious rooms with views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. | Book a room online today with  Booking.com  or Expedia

4. San Martín de los Andes

A pebbly lakeside beach near San Martin de los Andes, with people sunbathing and walking. The water is a deep blue and the opposite shore is lined with dense, green forests. The sky is clear and blue, suggesting a warm, sunny day. Chill out on Lago Lacar, a beach nearby San Martin de los Andes - one of the prettiest places to visit in Argentina.

You could be forgiven for thinking you’d somehow stumbled into a quaint Swiss ski village when you turn up in San Martín de los Andes. It’s one of the most unexpected places to visit in Argentina!

Wander around town, take a boat trip on Lago Lácar, go bike riding or head to Playa Catritre and spend the afternoon at the beach alongside Lago Lácar.

Where to stay in San Martín de los Andes

We had a comfy stay at Hosteria La Posta Del Cazador . It’s in a great location, just a hop, skip and jump from Lago Lácar. This Alpine-style hotel is family-owned and operated, and has a snack bar available all day. |  Check rates and availability at  Booking.com online now

5. Ruta de los Siete Lagos

A rustic two-story stone house with a wooden balcony, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant purple and yellow wildflowers. A tranquil lake and forested hills are visible in the background under a cloudy sky. This is some of the stunning scenery along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos - one of the best road trips in Argentina.

One of the best road trips in Argentina is the Ruta de los Siete Lagos. Stretching a stunning 110 kilometres between Villa La Angostura (near Bariloche) and San Martín de los Andes, this scenic route winds through a series of lakes, each a shade of teal or turquoise that have to be seen to be believed.

Spend a day driving the route, take a guided tour or get a bit more adventurous like we did and bike the Ruta de los Siete Lagos in a couple of days!

Where to stay on the Ruta de los Siete Lagos

You can start the route in Villa La Angostura/Bariloche and end in San Martín de los Andes or vice versa. See suggested accommodation in those sections above.

A woman (the author of the article) at a dining table preparing to eat a large, bright orange crab. Various dishes, glasses, and a smartphone are scattered on the table, capturing a lively mealtime atmosphere. Try Ushuaia's famous king crab!

Head on down to the end of the world – literally. Ushuaia is the southernmost populated city in the world and is the jumping off point for boats headed to Antarctica. Surrounded by natural beauty, it’s a great city for adventure with plenty of Argentina tourist attractions given the tourism appeal of this small city.

There are so many things to do in Ushuaia . Boats crisscross the Beagle Channel , where you’ll see birds and seals sun-baking on guano -covered islands of rocks. On land, you can go 4×4 adventuring into the forests and around the lakes, and visit penguin colonies. It’s a great place to visit in Argentina to get active and outdoors.

Don’t forget to try the enormous king crabs!

Where to stay in Ushuaia

The 5-star  Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa  will be hard to leave. With only 55 rooms it doesn’t have the feel of other large resorts. The resort has a Jacuzzi, indoor pool, sauna and Turkish steam bath. | Check the latest rates and book a room at  Booking.com  or  Expedia

7. Perito Moreno Glacier

A panoramic view of Perito Moreno Glacier flowing into a lake. The glacier's surface is a vivid blue-white, and it is surrounded by dark green foliage and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky. One of the best things to do in Argentina is go ice trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier.

One of the reasons to visit Argentina is to experience nature at its best.

And one of the most impressive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Argentina is the chance to walk on a glacier . Strap on some crampons and make your way across the thousands-of-years-old Perito Moreno Glacier . What’s unique about this glacier is that it is advancing up to 2 metres a day.

Trekking on the glacier is one of the coolest things to do in Argentina . It can only be done on an organised tour ( book online here ), but you can visit the national park on your own and wander through the well-maintained walkways with their impressive views of the glacier. There are also great boat tours that take you up close to the glacier.

At the glacier, you’ll witness the roaring crack of the ice “calving” (breaking off) and the subsequent boom as chunks of ice the size of small cars hit the icy waters below.  

Back in El Calafate, the town closest to the glacier, the city has a glaciarium that shows how glaciers are formed and an ice bar serving drinks in ice glasses to coat-swaddled guests. At certain times of the year, you can spot flamingos on Lake Argentina.

Where to stay in El Calafate

We loved staying at  Hostería La Estepa with its stunning sweeping views over Lago Argentina. |  Check rates for this and other hotels in El Calafate on  Booking.com

8. El Chaltén

A rugged landscape in El Chalten, Argentina, featuring a mix of sharp and rounded mountain peaks, some with snowy crests. A creek winds through a valley with lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky. El Chalten is one of the best places to visit in Argentina for hiking.

El Chaltén, in Argentine Patagonia, is the base for hiking to the Fitz Roy and Torre mountains. There are a number of different hikes in the area, ranging from easy to strenuous to those that require technical skills to attempt.

Your hotel can provide a map of the various hiking routes in El Chaltén , but always check in with the park rangers for the latest conditions. The best (and busiest) time to visit is December to February; from May to September most places shutter up as icy winds and snow descend.

The small town may not have great wifi or telephone service, but what it lacks in technology it makes up for with a great food and craft beer scene. Both of which you’ll need after a long day of hiking!

Where to stay in El Chaltén

The spacious, padded dome tents at  Patagonia Eco Domes  have amazing views of the surrounding mountains. There’s no mobile phone coverage or internet, and each dome is powered by solar energy. | Book online at  Booking.com  or  Expedia

A grand, ornately decorated church in Salta illuminated at night, with its facade bathed in warm orange light against the dark sky. Its architectural details are highlighted, and a few people can be seen near the entrance. Salta is one of the many gorgeous cities in Argentina.

Known as Salta La Linda (the pretty one), Salta is a great city to visit in Argentina both for its own beauty and as a base for exploring Argentina’s vast northern region .

The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña offers a fascinating insight into Incan culture. The highlight of the museum are the mummified bodies of three children who were sacrificed on a nearby mountaintop. Their features are eerily frozen in time. The three bodies are rotated every few months to ensure they are carefully preserved.

You can take a guided walking tour or wander the city by yourself, admiring its well-preserved colonial architecture and churches. Don’t forget to sample the region’s famous empanadas salteñas : pastries filled with vegetables and meat. Ask for them fried (rather than baked).

Where to stay in Salta

Design Suites Salta  (where we’ve stayed when we visit Salta) is a modern hotel with spacious bedrooms. It’s located within walking distance of the main area of the city. |  Book your stay today on  Booking.com  or  Expedia

10. Purmamarca

A woman (the author of this article) stands with her back to the camera, overlooking a dramatic landscape of multicolored mountain slopes in shades of red, purple, and gray. A small village with terracotta rooftops is nestled at the mountain's base beneath a clear blue sky. One of the most beautiful places to visit in Argentina is Purmamarca, where you can see the Cerro de Siete Colores (Hill of 7 colours).

Way north, 160 kilometres from Salta, lies the stunning Cerro de Siete Colores , a layering of pinks and purples and oranges like you’ve never seen. It’s one of the most stunning Argentina sights. You can base yourself in this tiny town with a population of a few hundred people and explore the surrounding region.

It’s a popular town to pick up local crafts including colourful blankets and hand-sewn llama dolls.

Nearby day trips include visits to the equally tiny towns of Tilcara and Humahuaca or to the Salinas Grandes , the second largest salt pan in the world.

Where to stay in Purmamarca

At the foothills of the Cerro de los Siete Colores,  El Manantial del Silencio  is designed like an old  estancia . Rooms are decked out with wrought-iron beds and terracotta tiled-floors. It’s such a beautiful place to stay. |  Check the latest rates on  Booking.com or Expedia

11. Cafayate

A close-up of a vineyard sign labeled "torrontes" attached to a tree trunk, indicating the variety of grapes grown there. Torrontes is a great white wine varietal that you can try in Cafayate, one of Argentina's best wine regions.

While Mendoza may be most well-known for Argentina wine production, Cafayate offers a different wine experience. Here, you can try the region’s Torrontés variety, a dry white wine that is one of my favourites. It’s easy to spend a few days in Cafayate , driving or biking to the dozens of wineries around the area.

Wine tasting is inexpensive and at most places it’s not necessary to book in advance. San Pedro de Yacochuya , Piattelli and El Porvenir are wineries all close to the town centre.

Wine is in everything here. Try a scoop of Malbec or Torrontés-flavoured ice cream from one of the stores surrounding the town’s main plaza.

Where to stay in Cafayate

Just a few minutes outside the wine town of Cafayate, the rooms at  Grace Cafayate have huge bathtubs and great views over the vineyards. |  Check rates at Booking.com

A sunlit, tree-lined street with white buildings and a clear blue sky. Mountains are visible in the distance, and people are scattered along the sidewalk. We loved the beautiful small town of Cachi in Argentina's north.

Cachi is a charming village in the country’s north. It’s one of the best places in Argentina to visit to chill out, relax and wander the streets, but if you’re after something more adventurous, local companies offer hiking and biking trips; ask around.

Head out to Miraluna (7 kilometres from Cachi in the small village of La Aguada) for a tour of the bodega. It’s one of the highest wineries in the world. Take a bottle (or two) of their great Malbec back to your hotel to enjoy with a picada plate (Argentina’s version of charcuterie).

We spent a few days here on our North Argentina road trip, but I could have easily relaxed here for a week.

Where to stay in Cachi

La Merced del Alto  is a white-washed adobe building with ceramic-tiled floors. The service is detailed and attentive. | Book your stay online with Expedia

13. Iguazú Falls

A view of Iguazu Falls with water cascading down multiple drops, dense green foliage, tall palm trees, and a rainbow arching across the mist. Iguazu Falls is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places in Argentina - the waterfalls are the largest waterfall system in the world.

Imagine three kilometres of waterfalls, some up to 80 metres high, some you can get right underneath, another one a wild, gushing spiral that’s so powerful you can’t see the bottom. That’s Iguazú Falls – the largest waterfall system in the world and one of the most beautiful places to see in Argentina.

Straddling the Argentina and Brazil borders, it’s possible to visit the waterfalls on both sides.

On the Argentina side, there’s a series of well-maintained catwalks that get you up close to the thunderous waterfalls. You can do it yourself or book a guided tour that includes a boat ride that zips right under the waterfalls – it’s wild fun and you will get drenched!

The biggest and most spectacular sight of the falls is the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). Standing over this gaping hole, listening to the roar of the water, you will appreciate the power of Mother Nature. You can take the train to Garganta del Diablo or walk 2.5 kilometres along a flat dirt road.

Where to stay in Puerto Iguazú

If you want to be located only a stone’s throw from the falls, then choose  Gran Melia Iguazú . This is where my husband and I stayed when we visited Iguazú Falls. |  Book a stay online at Booking.com  or  Expedia

14. Córdoba

A bronze statue of a smiling Che Guevara sitting on a bench, which is part of the "Museo Casa del Che" in Alta Gracia, Córdoba, Argentina, as indicated by a sign above. In Cordoba in Argentina you can visit Che Guevara's childhood home, which is now a museum.

Córdoba is just a short flight from Buenos Aires, and is famous for its Spanish colonial architecture.

Explore the beautiful cabildo and cathedral in the city centre, or have a picnic in Sarmiento Park and watch local families spending time together on the weekend. One of the best things to do in Argentina is to spend an afternoon in a park people watching! Argentines love spending time with friends and family.

In the nearby village of Alta Gracia is the Che Guevara Museum , housed in his childhood home.

If you visit Córdoba around Oktoberfest , join in the celebrations in nearby Villa General Belgrano . It’s a really fun day out with plenty of beer (we still have our huge wooden stein) and entertainment.

Where to stay in Córdoba

The very hip Azur Real Hotel Boutique has a rooftop splash pool and deck and some seriously stylish interiors. It’s located right in the heart of the city. | Check prices and book a room on Booking.com or Expedia

15. San Antonio de Areco

A street corner in San Antonio de Areco with an old-fashioned building featuring a sign that reads

One of the best day trips from Buenos Aires is a visit to the sleepy town of San Antonio de Areco .

Escape the city to gaucho territory, and you can learn more about these Argentine cowboys, go horse riding or shop for handcrafted leather goods. Chow down on an asado and then digest by wandering around the peaceful village square. This tour is a good day trip option .

Where to stay in San Antonio de Areco

Stay at one of the area’s beautiful  estancias  and experience the charms of rural life in Argentina. Estancia El Ombu  is a historic estancia  in Argentina. The huge property has plenty of outdoor activities, including horse riding, a swimming pool and asados (barbecues). | Check out the latest rates at Estancia El Ombu online

Final thoughts: Places of interest in Argentina

Argentina’s diversity is well-known, which is why this country is so exciting to visit. With so many different landscapes, cities and natural wonders, it’s a country that appeals to everyone. While Buenos Aires is a must-visit, get outside the city to explore more of Argentina’s incredible destinations. This guide has given you plenty of ideas for discovering why this country is so amazing!

Argentina destinations: FAQs

What are the most beautiful places to visit in argentina.

The beauty of Argentina is hard to contain in a few sentences! The most beautiful places in Argentina have to be Perito Moreno Glacier, Iguazu Falls and the north of the country – places like Salta and Purmamarca. For architecture lovers, Buenos Aires and Córdoba are must-visits. No matter where you go in Argentina, you’ll find something beautiful.

What are 5 things Argentina is known for?

Argentina is known for its delicious food , world-renowned wine, passionate tango dances, fanatic football fans and its stunning natural wonders like the Andes Mountains and Iguazu Falls. Each region of Argentina offers something different, from Buenos Aires’ historic architecture to the colourful hills of northern Argentina and the icy glaciers in Patagonia.

When is the best time to visit Argentina?

Argentina can be a year-round destination, depending on what you want to the do. The best time to visit Argentina is the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months for milder temperatures and fewer visitors.

Is Argentina expensive to visit?

Argentina can be both expensive and affordable, depending on the type of experience you’re looking for. Accommodation is quite affordable in smaller towns and cities, while food at local restaurants often costs around half of what you’d pay in other large Latin American countries. Budget travellers can expect to pay around $50-$75 per day, while those seeking something more luxurious should expect to pay around $150-$200.

  • Is Argentina safe to visit?

Yes, Argentina is a safe and enjoyable destination to visit . Like any large country, travellers should exercise the typical precautions, however, most tourist destinations are considered safe, and you can explore the country’s beautiful natural landscapes or vibrant cities without worry.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

How many of these amazing places to visit in Argentina have you been or want to go to?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these other Argentina travel blogs:

  • How to plan the perfect 2 weeks in Argentina
  • 50 best things to do in Argentina

ARGENTINA TRIP ESSENTIALS

  • Book your flight to Argentina online with Skyscanner . I like how this site allows you to find the cheapest days.
  • Find a great hotel in Argentina. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
  • Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Argentina on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
  • Keep those bottles of wine you’ll be buying safe in these wine bags .
  • A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Argentina will be handy. Also pick up a Spanish language guidebook to help you navigate your visit.
  • One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

PIN IT FOR LATER:

If you’ve ever wondered what to do in Argentina, then save this guide to the best places to visit in Argentina to Pinterest so you can plan your trip later!

3 famous places to visit in argentina

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

2 thoughts on “Places to Visit in Argentina: 15 Can’t-Miss Destinations in 2024”

Hi! Great post! Couldn’t agree more with the places you have chosen for this list! There are so many interesting places to visit in Argentina. Hugs, Becci

Hi Becci, thanks for stopping by! My heart is certainly in many of these places still!

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The 15 best places to visit in Argentina

Claire, Journalist and travel blogger

Living in Argentina for several months was one of the most significant experiences of my life. Everything appealed to me about this country. Its culture, its gastronomy, the diversity of its landscapes, and the blending of different cultures and heritages. What is particularly appreciable in Argentina is the diverseness of its regions, each one is so unique and full of surprises. I suggest you take a look at the list of must-see attractions in Argentina we have prepared for you. To begin with, why not take a visit to the main cities? Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza, Salta and San Carlos de Bariloche. The cultural richness and architectural diversity of these Argentinian cities will amaze you. Moreover, Argentina is full of wonders, it's not surprising that it has so many sites listed as UNESCO World heritages. To see the most beautiful sites, don't miss out on the Iguazupour Falls for its heavenly waterfalls, the Valdes Peninsula for its marine animals, the Perito Moreno for its incredible glacier, the Quebrada de Humahuaca for its rainbow mountains, the Jesuit missions of the Guaranis and its impressive ruins, and the Ischigualasto and Talampaya National parks to discover their unique Palaeontological discoveries. During your trip to Argentina, you will wander amongst plains, lakes and mountains. Explore iconic destinations by going to El Chalten, Ushuaïa, Aconcagua and La Pampa. Argentina is more than a country! It’s an exciting destination that will delight you.

Tourist attractions

Our selection of must-see places.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

The charming capital city of Argentina is both cosmopolitan and dynamic. Each district is in itself worth-seeing. San Telmo for its bohemian side, Palermo for its nightlife and trendy atmosphere, Puerto Madero for a stroll along the docks, the Micro Centro to see the main monuments such as Plaza de Mayo or the Obelisk, Recoleta for its cultural activities and its famous cemetery, and finally La Boca and its Caminito, a multicoloured and authentic district, which is without any doubt the most emblematic of Buenos Aires. The city bears witness to this cultural blending shared by its Italian and Spanish heritage. It can be found in the architecture, in the cuisine but also in the Argentinians very expressive way of speaking. Finally, it is here that you will have the most beautiful demonstrations of the Tango, this passionate dance typical of Argentina.

Chutes d’Iguazu

Chutes d’Iguazu

Hidden in the middle of the tropical forest, on the Argentine and Brazilian border, Iguazu Falls are a natural wonder. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these gigantic waterfalls are one of the largest and most impressive in the world. Thanks to its easy access, you can get as close as possible to the falls and enjoy the show: the water flowing with a deafening noise, the mists that make us come out all wet in less than a minute, all the rainbows forming in the falls, the palm trees, the luxuriant fauna and flora that make the setting even more magical. The site leaves us speechless for its splendour and beauty. It is a real wonder that reminds us of how exceptional nature can be.

Péninsule Valdés

Péninsule Valdés

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valdes Peninsula is located off the coast of the city of Puerto Madryn. Bordered by cliffs, the peninsula is the ideal place to meet all kinds of marine animals. Penguins, elephant seals, guanacos, and birds all gather around the shores. But it is off the peninsula that you can watch the most impressive spectacle. Take the opportunity to observe killer whales and Astral right whales that are now considered an endangered species. Whales often approach the seaside and love to come and play with boats. It is quite easy to observe them in these conditions. To have even more emotion and thrills during this experience, you can also organize a dive or kayak trip to get as close as possible to these enormous and mighty animals.

Perito Moreno

Perito Moreno

From the city of El Calafate, you can discover a natural wonder made entirely of ice. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Perito Moreno is one of the most spectacular glaciers in the world. Located on the Lago Argentino, this 60m high ice wall, glacial blue colours and imposing size will amaze you. The most impressive thing is undoubtedly the fact that it is alive. The glacier is constantly in motion, advancing a little more every day. We can also see pieces of ice breaking off and falling into the water with a huge thumping noise Footbridges are installed all around the site and allow the observation of the Perito Moreno from different points of view, each one just as fabulous as the other.

El Chalten

El Chalten is a lovely little village lost among the mountains. The wooden houses, the flowered balconies, the warm welcoming inhabitants, the cafés which serve delicious hot chocolates, here you'll find both a peaceful and timeless atmosphere. In addition to inviting visitors to relax, El Chalten is the starting point for the Fitz Roy hike. The summit of this mountain offers treks of different levels and durations. You can enjoy a superb walk whatever your inclination for sports. The ideal programme: hike in the morning, picnic in front of the Fitz Roy, and enjoy a good hot chocolate on the way back to the village.

San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche

Argentina looks like Europe sometimes. San Carlos de Bariloche is a perfect example. The mountainous landscapes and the finely crafted wooden houses remind us of the Swiss Alps. Take your time and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city with a nice walk in the streets and admire its fine architecture. Bariloche offers superb walks. Surrounded by forests and lakes, it is very pleasant to leave the city for a bit and discover its nature on foot, by bike or by car. It is even said that these landscapes inspired Saint Exupéry to write "The Little Prince". Many excursions are available from the city, especially boat trips to discover the lakes, islands and waterfalls. Don't miss out on the Camino de Los Siete Lagos, a road that will take you to incredible landscapes and viewpoints.

Mendoza

Mendoza is known as Argentines wine capital. It is true that when it comes to wine, the Argentinians have nothing left to prove! We can taste some exquisite grape varieties. But in Mendoza, wine is not only served in restaurants, but the tradition is also to go directly to the cellars. Tours are organized all over the city. You can explore vineyards of all sizes, visit their cellars, discover how they produce their wine, and of course taste their best wine varieties. Vineyards and mountains offer breathtaking views. Enjoying a glass of wine in such grandiose settings is simply delicious.

Cordoba

The second largest city in Argentina, Cordoba is the home for 7 leading universities. The student population contributes to the freshness and energy of the city that is quite exceptional. As for cultural heritage, the city also has a lot to offer: don't miss out on the famous Jesuit quarter, Manzana Jesuita, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also the cathedral, Cabildo, Paseo del Buen Pastor, the Caraffa Museum, and Barrio Gûemes. The best way to get to know each of these places is to stroll around at your own pace. You will be able to immerse yourself in this incredible atmosphere and you may even want to extend the duration of your stay! Around the city, you can also discover the adorable villages of la Cumbrecita or Alta Gracia, the hometown of Che Guevara.

Salta

A typical colonial city, both vibrant and surprising! The beauty of its squares, its churches and colours will astound you at every street corner. Look up to observe the emblematic balconies of Colonial architecture, and explore the city's nooks and crannies to discover the old houses once inhabited by the noble. A mixture of Spanish and Andean culture, there are museums dedicated to the history of the Incas such as the MAAM museum. Salta is also well known for being lively both by day and night. The inhabitants love to walk down the main street, stroll around the squares, and at night, music and life flow everywhere from the bars and clubs.

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Northern Argentina is one of the most beautiful regions of the country. It's desert landscapes and Quechua culture are extremely charming. Change of scenery assured with its ochre-coloured earth, cactus forests, coloured fabrics, llamas, prepare yourself for a real change of scenery. Among all the adorable small villages, don't miss out on the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a natural wonder listed as a UNESCO World Heritage. Overlooking the Humahuaca Valley, this mountain is a real rainbow formed of multi-coloured rocks. An incredible sight to see as you walk between both the hills and the vast extents of cactus'. The village is also worth seeing: the cobblestoned streets, the square and the handicraft stands make it a choice destination for strolling around.

Ushuaïa

Ushuaia is the most southern city of the world, it’s the gateway to Antarctica, which makes it pretty unique. Located in the province of Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaïa is essentially a port city, but it has developed several tourist attractions over the past years. Sports enthusiasts will have the chance to ski, trek or dive. For more relaxing activities, you can go horse riding or take a flight over the area by plane. Don't hesitate to take a boat trip to visit the surrounding islands and see the famous lighthouse at the end of the world. You can also observe several marine animals such as cormorants, penguins and sea lions. Finally, if you are interested in local heritage and history, visit the end of the world museum.

L’Aconcagua

L’Aconcagua

Aconcagua is the highest peak on the American continent. Located in the middle of the Andes Cordillera, between Argentina and Chile, it reaches an altitude of nearly 6962m. The most experienced climbers in the world try to conquer it each year. A thrilling adventure but accessible only to experienced hikers. Even if you don't make it to the top, it’s also beautiful from below! Various hikes are organized and adapted to all levels. Put on your best walking shoes and discover these postcard-like landscapes. The mountains of exceptional beauty are home to a rich fauna and flora. Take your time to observe them, and admire the "Roof of the Americas" wherever you are.

Les parcs nationaux Ischigualasto et Talampaya

Les parcs nationaux Ischigualasto et Talampaya

Welcome to the paradise of Palaeontologists. Without mentioning the beauty of its desert landscapes, Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks which are particularly famous for sheltering Scientific treasures. Here, you can admire particularly rich collections of animal and plant fossils dating back more than 200 million years. These unique sites have helped us to understand both the Environmental and Animals evolution over that time, as well as the end of the "Age of the Dinosaurs" or Mesozoic era. These findings are therefore of inestimable value to Science. As a traveller, you can visit these parks either by car or bicycle. With an area of 63ha, the best thing to do is to be guided by a local expert who will show you the most interesting places, from ancient rock formations to discovery areas.

La Pampa

The Argentine countryside occupies a large part of the southern area. The Pampa is specific to Argentina for several reasons. First of all for its extraordinary landscapes and its wild and indomitable nature. But it is also the ideal place to discover the "Gaucho" culture, the famous Argentine cowboys. Immerse yourself in this region to discover how these communities live and all the folklore around it. Ride to explore the wildest hills and share the love of the inhabitants for their region. Discover their customs, their dances, their gastronomy, far away from the big cities and their European influences, this other perspective of Argentine culture will both surprise and delight you.

Les missions jésuites des Guaranis

Les missions jésuites des Guaranis

Located in the rainforests of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, you can see the most beautiful Jesuit missions in the Argentine towns of San Ignacio, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreta and Santa Maria la Mayor. These towns built between the 17th and 18th centuries are both architectural and cultural wonders. Originally, this region was inhabited by Guaraní indigenous communities villages. The Jesuits then built towns in the area to help these communities. You can still see through these ruins how the village was organized: church, priests' residence, schools, handicraft workshops, prisons, cemeteries and dwellings. Today, these missions are the testimony of an important era in the history of Argentina.

Travel tips

Claire's review

The main advantage of Argentina as a destination is the variety and diversity of activities thanks to its vastness. Whether you are more interested in culture, sports or relaxation, the ideal is to remain open to discover the typical activities of each city. Let yourself be guided and play the game, wonderful surprises are waiting ahead for you. For instance, even if you’re not particularly sporty, you could opt for an easier hike which does not require much hiking skills, it would be a shame to miss out on such wonderful landscapes! Don't hesitate to try all the dishes offered to you, the Argentine gastronomy is particularly tasty. Finally, take advantage of your trip to discover Argentine's culture: dance, language, the diversity of their heritage, there is much to learn, and the local guides of each region will be more than happy to share their knowledge with you.

25 Best Places to Visit in Argentina (Chosen By Experts!)

Snowcapped mountains of Patagonia, one of the top places to visit in Argentina

Argentina: the land of wine, art and magnificent landscapes. From Patagonia to Buenos Aires, this beautiful country reaching to the tip of South America is one of the most inspiring in the world. Whether you’re looking for nature, culture, gastronomy or a crazy good vino (wine in Spanish), here are the top 25 places to visit in Argentina.

  • Buenos Aires
  • Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
  • El Calafate
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park 
  • Nahuel Huapi   Lake
  • Puerto Madryn
  • Beagle Channel
  • Iguazu National Park 
  • San Antonio de Areco 
  • Mar del Plata
  • Antofagasta de la   Sierra
  • Torres del Paine National Park 
  • Valle de la Luna 
  • Talampaya National Park
  • Valdes Peninsula 
  • Punta Tombo National Reserve

1. Buenos Aires

A festive tango scene in Buenos Aires, with red and yellow signs on the shops and entryways.

The Buenos Aires tango scene. Photo by ArtTower on Pixabay

Ah, Buenos Aires. Sometimes referred to as “Paris of the South,” this is the capital of Argentina and an absolute cultural epicenter. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Argentina. Between the world-renowned European architecture, famous cuisine, fascinating museums , romantic boulevards, vibrant entertainment, historical sites, trendy shopping and overall “chill vibe,” this is a stop you don’t want to miss on your trip to Argentina. City lovers can easily spend a week here, but in three days you can get a nice overview of the city.

Insider tips :

Palermo neighborhood:  Monique Loayza, Director of Peru for Less, recommends this neighborhood. “Palermo is in my opinion the best for tourists who are most interested in small shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and more boutique-style hotels,” she shares. “It’s also very pedestrian-friendly. Many restaurants and cafes also have charming outdoor sidewalk/patio seating.”

San Telmo Market:  Travel Advisor Michelle Talsma shares, “The San Telmo Market on Sundays in the Recoleta neighborhood will have you wide-eyed all day with its interesting things for sale. Recoleta also has an interesting cemetery, great restaurants and the downtown area has architecture that transports you to Europe“

Argentina Tours:

A person stretches their arms to the side while overlooking massive waterfalls at Iguazu Falls

Teatro Colon : Travel Advisor Jackie Becker loved her tour of the theater. “I highly recommend doing  the tour of Teatro Colon ,” she says. “I literally gasped when I walked into the auditorium because it was so beautiful! The tour also takes you through the underneath of the theater where costumes were/are made, explains the history of the theater, etc.”

Food : Since Argentina is famed for its beef, Loayaza highly recommends a visit to the traditional steakhouse Don Julio – a must-try for steak lovers. For a scenic meal, Becker recommends Puerto Madero, with river views and typical Argentinian dishes.

Day trip : Senior Travel Advisor Rylee Mcgowan suggests, “a day trip to Uruguay (Colonia or Montevideo), the La Tigre/Delta area and/or Estancia are great day trips from the city.”

2. Bariloche

The stunning glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains of Bariloche on a partly cloudy day.

The stunning views of Bariloche.

San Carlos de Bariloche, more commonly referred to simply as Bariloche, is a picturesque mountain town in Patagonia. The town borders the icy blue glacial lake Nahuel Huapi. Loayza shares, “This was a totally gorgeous region with lots of beautiful lakes, forests and mountains. Although I haven’t been to the mountains in Switzerland I definitely think it has that feel to it. There are many parks and spots for hiking so spending a few days here if you really enjoy the outdoors is highly recommended. The town itself is very small and walkable and right on the lakeside.”

Insider Tips:

Day hike and chill . Loayza shares, “It was super easy to do day hikes, even self-guided ones, in Llao Llao Park and Cerro Otto. The trails are pretty easy and you can spend up to a few hours on them or as long as you wish. After several hours of hiking we would head over to some of the local breweries, which are spread out on the road back to the center of town – they have pretty simple, hearty food that seems German-inspired as well as good beer of course, but I think it’s just perfect for the setting and a great way to wrap up a long day outdoors.”

3. Perito Moreno Glacier

The glacial waters and snowcapped mountains surrounding the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina.

Perito Merino Glacier. Photo by Acuatro.

Located in Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most important attractions in all of Argentina’s Patagonia. The impressive glacier spans 97 square miles and is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s third largest reserve of freshwater. Located about 50 miles from the city of El Calafate, tourists enjoy walking circuits and boat rides to get different perspectives of this humongous natural structure. Despite glaciers worldwide losing mass due to climate change, Perito Moreno maintains its equilibrium because it accumulates mass at the same rate it loses it. Truly ones of the most jaw-dropping places to visit in Argentina.

Big Ice . Alexandra Aguinaga, Product and Accounts Manager for Peru for Less, suggests doing the Big Ice tour. “If you don’t just want to see the glaciers from far away and want to have a unique experience, I highly recommend doing Big Ice, which is a hiking experience around the glaciers, of Perito Moreno,” she says. “The bright blue and white ice colors will just pop in your lens view, and it’ll make a long lasting memory to say you have climbed a glacier.  At the end you have chocolate and whisky ice with glacier ice to give that last goodbye to Perito Moreno.”

Red sand desert and red-colored mountains under a cloudy sky in Salta, Argentina.

The desert landscape of Salta la Linda .

Nicknamed  Salta la Linda,  or Salta the beautiful, this city at the foothills of the Andes is the most popular tourist destination in Northwest Argentina. Salta is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, mountainous surroundings and…. wait for it…. empanadas! This is an excellent place to get a glimpse into Andean and Quechuan culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, foodie, history lover or bar hopper you will find something to do.

Nature spots : Take a day trip to Las Salinas Grandes, where you can see amazing salt flats plus the Cerro de los Siete Colores, or Hill of Seven Colors. Also just 30 minutes away is  La Quebrada de San Lorenzo , a nature reserve bursting with greenery where you can hike, horseback ride, bike ride and birdwatch.

Great views . Get an amazing birds eye view of the city at  Cerro San Bernardo.  This hill provides awe-inspiring vistas of the city. Here you can sample some local bites from the vendors or take a ride on the cable car that goes up and down the hill.

Sailboats in the waters near Ushuaia in Patagonia with snowcapped mountains overhead.

The southern Patagonian town of Ushuaia.

This icy port town is the capital of the Tierra del Fuego province of Argentina. Known as “the gateway to Antarctica,” Ushuaia is actually the southernmost town in Argentina. It is situated on the Beagle Channel, 680 miles from Antarctica. The tourist town is replete with hotels, restaurants, bars and museums. Also, since it’s at the foothills of the Andes, there are many nice opportunities to hike and partake in winter sports.

Insider Tips: 

Main attractions:  The main attractions of Ushuaia are Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel, Laguna Esmeralda and Martial Glacier.

Fresh catch : Mcgowan says she recommends indulging in some super fresh king crab at a local restaurant.

Hop aboard a train .  El Tren Del Fin Del Mundo , or End of the World Train, is the southernmost train in the world. It was a train for prisoners in the early twentieth century, so this is an eerily fascinating (and beautifully scenic) historic experience to round off your visit to Ushuaia.

The vineyards of Mendoza with mountains and clouds, one of the top places to visit in Argentina.

Mendoza is a wine-lover’s paradise.

Known as “Napa of Argentina,” Mendoza is a wine-lovers paradise, with a backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Set beside two main wine valleys, Valle de Uco and Lujan de Cuyo, this is the ultimate access point to Argentina’s famous wineries and vineyards. The city itself has a colonial feel and there are five unique plazas to relax in. According to Talsma, “Mendoza for me was my favorite place to visit in Argentina during my trip! The weather was perfect and there were so many adorable cafes serving fantastic cups of coffee — perfect for travel journaling.”

Bike the Vineyards.  A unique way to experience the area is by bike. You can do a half or full day tour of biking and sampling delicious wines and cuisine. It’s an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of the area while savoring the local products. Loayza says, “The landscape in the region is super pretty and there was nothing nicer than taking the time to sip good wine with great views.”

Dining . Loayza also shares that a must-try in Mendoza is  Azafran restaurant , which is located on a main strip in the center of the city. “Sidewalk dining is available and I thought the food here was sophisticated and modern without being pretentious,” she says. “Since it’s Mendoza they had a very comprehensive wine list and have their own wine room where you can go to select a bottle to accompany your meal.” Also, if it’s in your budget, check out the restaurant  1884  of famous Argentine chef Francis Mallman, who was featured on  Chef’s Table .

7. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

Rocky coast, glaciers, mountains and blue partly cloudy skies at Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.

Hike the glaciers and mountains of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.

For nature lovers, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is a must-see. This national park is home to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most important sites in Argentinian Patagonia. Here you can also find Fitz Roy Peak, with trails that take you across the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields. As a plus, within the park is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, Lago Argentino. The nearest towns to lodge in are the city of El Calafate and the small whimsical mountain village of El Chaltén.

Hike a glacier . While it’s amazing to see a gigantic glacier from the ground or a boat, there is nothing quite like hiking right on top of one! For the adventurous, there are tours that allow you to take a mini trek on Perito Moreno Glacier — so strap on your crampons and hit the ice.

8. El Calafate

Icy blue waters surrounding white and blue glaciers under a blue sky at El Calafate.

“Gateway to the Glaciers” is a nickname for El Calafate.

El Calafate is a city in Argentinian Patagonia, with easy access to the famous Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. It borders the crystal blue Lago Argentino and is known as Argentina’s “gateway to the glaciers.” Visitors come far and wide to see the 48 glaciers of the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields, particularly the Perito Moreno Glacier. This tourist hub has ample lodging and dining options, making it an excellent resting point during your Patagonian experience. McGowan says, “I found the town very charming and would have loved an extra day to see one of the nearby Estancias (ranches).”

Souvenirs . Alexandra Aguinaga, Product and Accounts Manager for Peru for Less, says “I recommend getting some jam from the Calafate berry and some black tea as a nice souvenir.”

Visit the museum.  If you want to learn more about glaciers, ice and the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields, visit the Glaciarium. This gorgeous museum and interpretation center has informative exhibitions about how glaciers are formed and move, plus there is an ice bar constructed entirely of glacial ice where you can have a drink.

9. Tierra del Fuego National Park

Penguins of Tierra del Fuego National Park on dry rocky soil in Argentina with blue skies.

Penguins can be spotted at Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Tierra del Fuego National Park is located in southern Argentina, where the Andes Mountains plummet into the icy waters leading to Antarctica. The land beholds Patagonic forests, snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, rivers and waterfalls. The mystical beech tree forests are home to foxes, beavers, guanacos and more. Travelers can take to one of the many hiking trails and explore this area in all its natural wonder. The nearest town to lodge and dine is Ushuaia, one of the southernmost settlements in the world. Actually, many of the natural features of the park cross into Chile, such as Fagnano Lake. For hikers, this is one of the best places to visit in Argentina.

Full day tours . Mcgowan recommends delving into a full-day nature adventure. “I’ve had lots of travelers that loved a full day in Tierra del Fuego to do canoeing/kayaking, 4×4 or hiking,” she says.

10. El Chalten

Rushing river with treed coasts and soaring peaks of El Chalten in Argentina's Patagonia region.

El Chalten’s Rio de los Vueltas.

El Chalten is a tiny, remote mountain village regarded as the hiking capital of Argentina. Nearby the popular Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, this town is ideal for those hikers and climbers who prefer a rustic lodging experience while exploring the marvels of Argentinian Patagonia. This little spot is home to the famous Fitz Roy Mountain, and is set at the banks of the Rio de las Vueltas. There are a handful of restaurants, bars and supermarkets in town along with some basic backpacker hostels and campsites.

Company logo . The outdoor clothing company  Patagonia  got inspiration for its logo from the rocky slopes of the Fitz Roy Mountain located right by the little town of El Chalten.

11. Nahuel Huapi Lake

The beautiful Nahuel Huapi Lake in Argentina, one of the best places to visit in Argentina.

Nahuel Huapi Lake. Photo by Bruno Camargo on Unsplash.

Located in northern Patagonia, Nahuel Huapi Lake looks like it’s from a fairytale. With greenery and rugged mountain expanses surrounding, it’s located in Nahuel Huapi National Park — the oldest national park in Argentina. Edging against the mountain town of Bariloche, visitors can sail across the glacial lake or hike one of the many surrounding trails. Alternatively, they can sit back relax and marvel at it from one of Bariloche’s many lakeview cafes or lodges.

Cerro Llao Llao . This 3.8 mile out-and-back trail provides amazing views of Nahuel Huapi Lake. It is less commercialized than Cerro Campanario, yet can provide incredible views after just an hour of hiking to the summit.  Pro tip : This is one of the best spots in the Bariloche area to catch the sunset.

12. Puerto Madryn

A southern right whale leaping out of the ocean off the coast of Puerto Madryn in Argentina.

Whale breaching off the coast of Puerto Madryn.

Though you wouldn’t guess by the looks of it, Puerto Madryn is still technically in Argentina’s Patagonia. Located on the east coast of the country on the Golfo Nuevo (New Gulf), this city is known for its sand beaches and amazing wildlife viewing opportunities. It is situated near the Valdes Peninsula, known for its abundance of penguins, elephant seals and even whales breaching right off the shoreline. In fact, whale watching is the main attraction in this city and really the only notable place to spot whales in the country. The town has plenty of lodging, shopping and dining for visitors.

Optimal whale watching . Visit during Argentina’s winter, between the months of June and December, for a chance to see whales — even from the shoreline! The main whale you’ll spot in this vicinity is the Southern Right Whale, which grows to be up to 65 feet (20 m) long.

13. Cordoba

The sun shining on a colonial church in Córdoba, Argentina as a pigeon flies past.

Colonial cathedral in Cordoba. Photo by Vitoolariaga on Pixabay.

We had to include Cordoba in our top 25 places to visit in Argentina. This hip metropolis with gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture throughout is too often overlooked. Cordoba is a must-visit destination for fun nightlife and artistic daylife. There are lots of bars and clubs in the Nueva Cordoba area where you can party all night. By day, check out the impressive museums, galleries, theaters and parks (like Parque Sarmiento). Or, you can hippie out in the mountains, especially the mystical Cerro Uritorco. Here there are many ritualistic ceremonies, energy vortexes and apparently even some UFO sightings. Be sure to hop over to Cordoba to creatively complete your Argentinian adventure.

Visit a museum : Talsma says, “I really enjoyed visiting the  Evita Fine Arts Museum  — the collection is housed in a huge mansion so the architecture and detailing of the house was just as much a work of art as the paintings hung on the walls! I also enjoyed  Museo Emilio Caraffa . This had a lot more modern pieces than Evita. It’s a huge collection of varied works.”

14. Beagle Channel

A lighthouse on a rock formation in the Beagle Channel, with mountains visible in the distance.

The Beagle Channel is off the southern tip of Argentina. Photo by Pedro Ramos-Gonzalez on Unsplash.

Beagle Channel is a narrow, navigable waterway all the way at the southernmost tip of South America. It is located between Chile and Argentina, right off the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago. It’s about 150 miles long and three to eight miles wide. It separates the mainland from smaller islands at the end of the continent, and leads into the South Atlantic Ocean. Short boat tours provide the opportunity to see wildlife and the mountainous shorelines of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego National Park. Longer boat rides can take you through the icy blue Glacier Alley and mystical forested landscapes. You’ll have a chance to spot dolphins, sea lions and many sea birds on either of these tours.

Darwin . The Beagle Channel is named as such because of Charles Darwin’s journey down the strait in the 1830s aboard the HMS Beagle. He was spellbound by the magnificent scenery, and it was the first time he had seen a glacier.

15. Iguazu National Park

A rainbow forming amidst the numerous waterfalls and jungle landscapes of Iguazu Falls.

The stunning Iguazu Falls crosses from Argentina into Brazil.

Iguazu National Park is famous for its long expanse of huge waterfalls bursting from the subtropical rainforest between Argentina and Brazil. As Becker vividly describes, “ Iguazu Falls is literally one of my favorite places on earth. I cried at the falls a few times because they were so beautiful! It felt like a literal paradise watching these enormous falls and the tropical birds flying in and out of the water spray while you’re walking through these luscious green trees.” If you’re looking for lush natural beauty, this is definitely one of the top places to visit in Argentina.

Helicopter tour : Talsma recommends taking your Iguazu experience to the next level. “I really recommend splurging on some adventure activities here like a helicopter ride over the falls. Iguazu is a wonder of the world and most people only see it once in their lives so I think this kind of experience levels up a trip from awesome to incredibly awesome!”

Boat tour.  Becker recommends taking a boat tour, “I really enjoyed the boat tour that takes you right up next to the falls. You just appreciate how powerful they are in a whole new way! However, you will get 100 percent soaked. Bring a change of clothes and maybe even a plastic bag to put your phone in, if you want to bring it to take pictures.”

16. San Antonio de Areco

Four men in traditional gaucho attire ride horses across a field in San Antonio de Areco.

San Antonio de Areco has a strong gaucho (cowboy) culture. Photo by Nicolas Taylor on Unsplash.

Located in the Pampas region just an hour and a half north of Buenos Aires you find the small colonial town of San Antonio de Areco. It’s a great place for tourists and Argentinians alike to relax and stroll the peaceful streets. Here there is a strong gaucho (cowboy) influence, with many estancias (ranches) surrounding the town. You can find a lot of beautiful handmade silver products and saddlery to take home as a souvenir. Try an organized day tour to the town from Buenos Aires, or spend a night at one of the estancias for a unique experience.

Fiesta de la Tradición . For the full experience of San Antonio de Areco, align your trip with Fiesta de la Tradicion. This cowboy-inspired holiday takes place in early to mid-November. It features an amazing display of horseback riding, folk dancing, artisan markets and regional foods.

17. Mar del Plata

The sandy coast and sea of Mar del Plata on a partly cloudy day, a popular beach town in Argentina.

The popular beach town of Mar del Plata. Image: Mar del Plata ” by Juan Enrique Gilardi , used under CC BY0SA 2.0 / Compressed from original.

Mar del Plata is the most popular beach destination in all of Argentina. This seaside resort town has tons of hotels, restaurants, clubs, museums and other attractions to accommodate the influx of tourists that come through every summer. The beach can get very crowded during peak season (December-February), so it is recommended to reserve your spot or even rent a private tent. The city is also one of the major fishing ports of the country and has a thriving fishing industry, which can be glimpsed with a visit to Puerto Mar del Plata.

Insider Tips :

Pick your beach . For popular beaches with dining and shopping nearby, hit Playa Varese or Playa Iglesia. If you’re interested in surf lessons, visit Playa Grande. Quieter beaches with less nearby tourist attractions can be found further south at Punta Mogotes or Playa Serena.

18. Antofagasta de la Sierra

Desert landscape with solitary alpaca roaming at Antofagasta de la Sierra in Argentina.

Alpaca at Antofagasta de la Sierra. Photo by javier dolfi on Unsplash.

Located in the Catamarca Province of northern Argentina you’ll find the volcanic field known as Antofagasta de la Sierra. The town is set in the Andes mountains 11,100 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. The main feature of the area is the Antofagasta Volcano, a cinder cone volcano soaring to 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level. You can make the most of your visit by touring the volcano, along with the Coyparcito archaeological site and Lake Colorada, a red lake where you can spot groups of Andean flamingos.

Best view . For the best view, you can actually climb the Antofogasta Volcano. The 2.6 mile out and back trail is rated as moderate.

19. Trevelin

Ted, orange and yellow flowers growing in a giant field with mountains surrounding in Trevelin.

The town of Trevelin has a large Welsh population. Photo by Marcela Rogante on Unsplash.

Trevelin is a super unique town located in western Argentine Patagonia. The town has a heavy Welsh influence because it has been inhabited by Welsh people and their descendants since the mid-1800s. In fact,  trevelin  actually means mill town in Welsh, and the village is home to the first flour mill in the region. A fascinating blend of Welsh and native Mapuche cultures, you’ll notice the distinct blend of celtic and native names in the surrounding hills and streams. There are many peaceful lodges in the area that allow you to relax and take in the picturesque scenery on the banks of the Percy River (Rio Percy).

Visit the museum.  You can visit the Regional Historical Museum, located where the first flour mill of the area once was. Here you’ll learn about the arrival, history and culture of the Welsh in Trevelin and see various artifacts.

20. Humahuaca

Two hikers traverse a barren landscape and trail with colorful mountains in Humahuaca, Argentina.

Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo by Jonas Wurster on Unsplash.

This small village in northwest Argentina was founded in the late 1500s and is a resting point for exploring the surrounding area. Bursting with things to do, the colonial town is most commonly known for the fascinating Quebrada de Humahuaca. Located in a narrow mountain valley along the Rio Grande, Quebrada de Humahuaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful natural rock formations. Notable points of interest along the 100 mile valley include Serrania de Hornocal and  Cerro de los Siete Colores,  or hill of seven colors. When you’re not hiking the surrounding natural wonders, you can enjoy walking the cobblestone streets, viewing the church and clock tower, browsing artisan markets or sampling local cuisine in town.

DIY . This can be a really great spot to rent a car and explore the region just you and your group. While there are excellent organized tours available, the roads here are good and there are car rentals in the area. Cruise along and stop at any of the colonial cities and natural attractions that you want.

21. Torres del Paine National Park

The pointed peaks of the mountains of Torres del Paine National Park on a clear day.

Torres del Paine National Park is in Chile, but so close to Argentina that it’s a popular stop on any Argentina itinerary.

Technically located in Chile, this National Park is so close to the border that many people visiting southern Argentina will hop the country line just to see this magnificent place. Located in Chilean Patagonia, the national park comprises winding rivers, lakes, glaciers and mountains. Here the Magellanic subpolar forests meet the Patagonian Steppes to create a natural landscape like nowhere else. There is so much hiking to do around the park that you may find your favorite trail ever here. Actually, National Geographic named this park the fifth most beautiful place in the world. And the best part is you don’t have to leave — you can stay at a hotel, lodge or refugio right within Torres del Paine National Park.

Extra days . Loayza points out, “Spend several days here if possible. Sometimes it’s added as a one or two day visit but that just seems way too short to fully appreciate this expansive park. It’s truly a great destination if you enjoy hiking — just such a wide variety of scenery and landscapes to take in.”

All-inclusive.  Loayza also suggests, “I do believe it’s totally worth splurging on an all-inclusive lodge so you can make the most of this destination via well organized tours and hikes, excellent guides, and luxury amenities (if that’s your thing).”

22. Valle de la Luna

Valle de la Luna, with its moon-like appearance, is one of the most unique places in Argentina.

Valle de la Luna. Image: PB141166 ” by t_y_l , used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Adjusted brightness and compressed from original.

Yes, the moon is on our list of top places to visit in Argentina. Well, not technically the moon but the landscape sure will make you feel like you’ve landed there. Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), also known as Provincial Ischigualasto Park, is located in northwest Argentina. The dry, grey desert landscape is accented by fascinating rock formations created by millenia of wind and rain. This otherworldly place was named a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2000. Here travelers come to be awe-struck by the sensation of walking the moon or some other distant planet. The nearest village, Valle Fertil, is 55 miles (90 km) away, but there are hotels and hostels just outside this lunar oasis where you can spend the night.

Dinosaurs ! This valley contains some of the earliest known dinosaur remains, from the late triassic period (approx. 230 million years ago). Fossils of rhynchosaurs and cynodonts are most prevalent.

23. Talampaya National Park

The red rocks and barren landscape of Talampaya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Talampaya National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Image: Talampaya National Park ” by NH53 , used under CC BY 2.0 / Compressed from original.

This national park located in Argentina’s La Rioja district was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 (along with Valle de la Luna). Actually the two parks border each other, though Talampaya is more known for its stunning red rock canyons and formations. This is quite an archaeological and paleontological wonderland. It beholds fossils from millions of years ago (though not as many as neighboring Ischigualasto) plus petroglyphs of ancient indigenous settlements. In the present day, you won’t find dinosaurs or settlements, but you can spot guanacos, hares, maras, foxes and condors wandering about.

Name meaning . The most accepted meaning of the word  Talampaya  is “the dry river of Tala, which comes from the native and extinct Diaguita language. Tala is a local plant that exists to this day ( Celtis spinosissima ).

24. Valdes Peninsula

The Valdes Peninsula is one of the most popular places to visit in Argentina for wildlife lovers.

Valdes Peninsula wildlife viewing area. Image: Península Valdés ” by Qu1m , used under CC BY 2.0 / Compressed from original.

Jetting out into the Atlantic, the Valdes Peninsula is located at the northern edge of Argentina’s Patagonia region, in the Chubut Province. A crucial nature reserve, the peninsula is known for its abundance of wildlife — particularly sea lions, Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, southern right whales, orcas, dolphins and 181 bird species (66 migratory). It is one of the most spectacular places to see wildlife in all of Patagonia and it is one of the most revered animal conservation sites in the world. Some popular activities in the area include whale watching, shore cruise, nature walks to Valdes cove and more. You can truly spend a whole day exploring the peninsula, hitting destinations like Puerto Piramides, Caleta Valdes, Punta Delgada and more.

Insider Tip: 

Orcas . If you are very lucky, you may have a chance to see orcas do their intentional stranding at Caleta Valdes during the months of October and November. The Valdes Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Argentina for wildlife viewing.

25. Punta Tombo National Reserve

A Magellanic penguin roaming the rocky landscape of Punta Tombo National Reserve in Argentina.

Punta Tombo National Reserve is a great place to see penguins. Photo by Sergio Martínez on Unsplash.

Another epicenter for wildlife, the Punta Tombo National Reserve is also located in the Chubut province. The wildlife sanctuary is known for its Magellanic penguin colony and has been protected since 1979. The peninsula itself is about 1.3 miles long and is a part of a marine national park at Golfo San Jorge. Seeing these penguins is a highlight during many animal lovers visit to Patagonia. In fact, you can even do a “walk with the penguins.” During this experience you hike by these waddling little cuties in their natural habitat. You would want to avoid visiting between May to August as this is when the penguins are out to sea.

Avoid crowds . To avoid crowds, you will want to visit Punta Tombo National Reserve on a day when there is not a cruise ship in Puerto Madryn. Most of those passengers make their way to the reserve to see the penguins so opt for a cruise-ship free day for a more peaceful visit.

Ready to visit Argentina? Jot down your dream destinations in this amazing country and our expert travel advisors can help plan your ultimate Argentina vacation.

Blogger Gina Cronin

Gina loves the hidden turquoise rivers of the Andes, the magical pink dolphins of the Amazon, and the lush ocean-view parks of Lima. She finds Peru to be the most inspiring country in the world, and has been exploring and writing about this sacred place since 2014.

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Argentina Highlights 27 Fun Things To Do in Argentina

27 Fun Things To Do in Argentina: Explore Culture, Must-Dos

Wondering how to make the most of your Argentinian vacation? While that won’t be difficult to do in this vibrant, multifaceted country, you might find it harder to narrow down your myriad of wonderful options for things to do in Argentina. 

The decision to visit Argentina can be the best you make in your life, for not only is the country the safest in South America, but it is also one the most culturally rich and naturally diverse countries in the region. 

Argentina has much to offer to travelers – marvelous views, abundant wildlife, unique culture, and mouthwatering food and wine. 

So, if you’re looking forward to adventure while reconciling nature and tradition, a trip to Argentina is right for you! Here are our top choices for the best places and most excellent activities for you in Argentina.

Table of Contents

27 Best Things to Do in Argentina

From the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia , there are many things to do and see in this South American nation . However, it’s important to note that prices for activities and services are subject to change due to ongoing hyperinflation. 

Despite the potential financial challenges, Argentina remains a top destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

1. Drive the Seven Lakes Route

Rock Formation Near Road of The Seven Lakes Argentina

If you’re willing to embark on one of Argentina’s most scenic road trips, then the drive through the Seven Lakes Route (La Ruta de los Siete Lagos) is a must. As part of the famous Argentinian Route 40, the road runs alongside some of the region’s most beautiful lakes, including Lago Lacar, Lago Machonico, and Lago Espejo. 

Over 112 miles (180 kilometers), the road will give you the best experience if you opt for a private car ride, allowing you to make as many stops as possible in the neighboring villages and natural scenery alongside the road. It will take about 6 days if you start from Bariloche to reach San Martin de Los Andes. 

No particular time of the year would be best for the road trip, but October to March is the gentler period for traveling. 

2. Attend Fuerza Bruta Show

Fuerza Bruta show is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 70-minute show is the perfect combination of music and movement that will leave you thrilled by the end of the performance. 

The ticket price ranges from 2,897 to 6,759 Argentine pesos/ARS (15 to 35 US dollars), depending on the dance performances you’re signing up to watch. 

You will also have to wait in a long queue to get the tickets because of the show’s rising popularity. But the wait is worth it! Even if you’re not a dance fan, the show will give you the perfect Argentinian experience you’ll remember for life.

3. Watch the Sunset in Bariloche

Llao Llao Hotel View From The Lake In Bariloche Argentina Stock

Bariloche , also called the Switzerland of Argentina, is popular for good reading, including hiking, skiing, watching beautiful lakes and sunsets, and tasting delicious chocolate. The town is surrounded by the Andes Mountains and can be accessed by a 2 -hour flight from Buenos Aires . 

When you reach Bariloche, in between relishing the beauty of the town, the most enjoyable thing you can do is enjoy the gorgeous sunsets. The best spot for the sunset is at the Playa Centro next to the Bariloche sign (Mirador Lago Nahuel Huapi), where you can listen to the calm waves of the lake while the sun puts on a show.

4. Hike Cerro Campanario, Bariloche

Popular for its gorgeous panoramic views, Cerro Campanario is a go-to place for people who love natural views and scenery. Located 3,281 ft (1,000 m) above sea level in Bariloche, at the northern end of Argentinian Patagonia, Cerro Campanario overlooks Patagonia’s lake districts and provides lovely views of grand mountains, pure lakes, and lush green forests. 

The hike takes about 30 to 40 minutes and is relatively easy, even if you are not an experienced hiker. I do have to say the hike is extremely steep and uphill, so while it’s short, take it easy to avoid getting short on your breath.

5. Hike Cerro Tronador, Bariloche

Located in Nahuel Huapi National Park, Cerro Tronador is the tallest mountain in Bariloche. Towering over 11,453 ft (3,491 m), the mountain is loved by hikers for its height and many glaciers. Sadly, some of the beautiful glaciers are melting due to global warming. 

The hike begins from Pampa Linda, which can be accessed by car or shuttle bus at around 8,711 ARS ($44) for a round trip. You can also stay at Pampa Linda before hiking the next day. 

6. Visit Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Waterfalls Argentina Side Jungle

Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1984 , the Iguazu Falls are one of the best tourist spots shared by Argentina and Brazil. 

It would be a good decision to take a guided tour (which will cost you about 47,500 ARS ($98) to fully explore the falls’ magnificence and beauty. Aside from the tour fee, you will have to pay the entrance fee for the park. 

Remember that if you’re a U.S. citizen, you must get a visa to explore the Brazilian side of the waterfalls. 

7. Visit Magellanic Penguins in Punta Tombo

Punta Tombo Argentina Landscape View

Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the National Reserve of Punta Tombo hosts the largest colony of Magellanic Penguins worldwide. About 1 million penguins roam around the area, mating, feeding, and living on the red, stony beach. You will surely have lots of fun just watching them for hours.

You can access Punta Tombo from Puerto Madryn by car, and the journey is about 75 mi (120 km). The entrance fee is about 3,090 ARS ($16) for foreigners. 

8. Visit Mar del Plata

Located 249 mi (400 km) from Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is one of the most tourist cities in Argentina. The city hosts lovely beaches to swim in, many cliffs to roam about, several unique restaurants to try some of the best Argentinian foods , and some great theater performances at night.

Mar del Plata is a beautiful summer city. You can paraglide and parachute alongside your summer walks by the beach. It’s especially popular with Argentinians, so if you want to see how they vacation and have a lovely time at the beach, it may be the perfect place to visit.

9. Visit the Pampas

The pampas or grasslands of Argentina, located west of Buenos Aires, host vast fertile plains where cattle rearing is practiced. The lowlands are occupied by locals who exhibit the gaucho culture, practicing age-old traditions and past times. 

The peak time to visit the pampas would be from December to February because the weather is nice and warm. Be sure to taste the traditional Asado meat, get in touch with the native wildlife, and get some horse-riding experience with the gauchos when you visit the place. 

Suppose you want to visit a place that’s filled with gaucho culture. In that case, San Antonio de Areco is close to Buenos Aires and allows people to explore working on estancias or experiencing Dia de la Tradicion (10th of November).

10. Hike Cerro Aconcagua

Aconcagua National Park Landscape Between Chile And Argentina

Located inside the province of Mendoza, Cerro Aconcagua stands at a towering height of 22,838 ft (6,961 m), making it the highest mountain outside the Asian continent. 

The mountain is inside the Aconcagua Provincial Park and has 2 peaks of roughly the same height. Here, you can find rocks of different colors, mainly green and red, which are minerals of iron and copper. Since the mountain’s weather is usually harsh, the recommended months of hiking are between December and January. 

From Mendoza, you can join a day tour in Aconcagua Park and view the wild landscapes of the Andes for about 67, 835 ARS ($140), which includes lunch in Uspallata.

11. Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier

Trekking To The Top Of Perito Moreno Glaciers Patagonia Stock

The Perito Moreno Glacier , hosted in Los Glaciares National Park, is the largest glacier you can access via land. The best time to go here would be between October and April but expect to see crowds because the weather is warmer. 

You can stay at El Calafate , the glacier is about 50 mi (80 km) from the town, while you plan and prepare for your hike . For 189,000 ARS ($390), you can join a group of 20 people in a mini-trekking to Perito Moreno glacier.

12. Hike the Laguna De Los Tres Trail

If you’re in El Chalten, visiting Los Glaciares National Park and its famous Laguna De Los Tres hike is a must. The hike is about 15 mi (24 km) 2-way and can be broken down into milestones so that you have ample time to rest, take pictures, and admire the views. 

If you plan a 2-day hike, you can camp on the trail at Poincenot Campground, about 5 mi (8 km). 

13. Cerro Torre Hike 

Cerro Torre is one of the most beautiful hiking trails you will set foot on. The trail starts at the southwest of El Chalten (you can stay in the town for a few days to experience the culture) and ascends from there. 

Just follow the trail marks, which will guide you to Laguna, where you’ll enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains as a backdrop with the lake at the forefront. 

14. Visit Ushuaia

Train of the End of the World In Ushuaia Patagonia

Also known as the ‘End of the World’ for being the southernmost city before Antarctica, Ushuaia hosts many tourist attractions. With mountain ranges at the northern end and the Beagle Channel towards the Southern end, Ushuaia must be accessed by a Santiago or Buenos Aires flight or bus from Puerto Natales (gateway to Torres del Paine in Chile) or Punta Arenas (Chile) by bus. 

  • Walking around in Ushuaia , you should capture a photo with the huge Ushuaia sign, walk along the coast, look for the shipwreck, and see the huge cruise ships departing for Antarctica.

15. Sail the Beagle Channel

Beagle Channel Near Ushuaia Argentina Lighthouse Cruise Ship

One of the coolest things you can do around Ushuaia is to sail the Beagle Channel at the city’s southern end. 

The cruise will take you to several islands and a popular lighthouse, allowing you to see famous landmarks alongside the Beagle Channel. The trip costs about 30,475 ARS (62.90 USD) and is surely worth it. 

16. Visit the Natural Reserve of Iberá

Located in Corrientes Province, Ibera Natural Reserve gives you a unique experience of the wilderness and grasslands. As the world’s second-largest wetland, Ibera is home to a diverse network of wildlife, including species like the howler monkey, caiman, water boar, and capybara. 

If you’re a naturalist and a fan of bird watching, then the Iberian wetlands should be on your list when considering things to do in Argentina.

17. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park 

Located on the island of Tierra del Fuego in southern Argentina and accessible through Ushuaia, this park is renowned for its beautiful scenery, forests, mountains, lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls. You can explore and capture a diversity of flora and fauna in the park. 

The entrance fee is 1,500 ARS ($7) which you can utilize to hike the different trails in the park or admire the breathtaking scenery. 

18. Eat Your Way Through Buenos Aires

If you’re staying in Buenos Aires, don’t seize to delve into the delicious Argentinian cuisine that the wide array of restaurants in the city offers. 

Try fresh empanadas, binge on ice cream and chocolates, try Argentinian coffee (preferably at Aleph café), have a go at mate, try lots of steak and meat, munch on crepes, and try all the different flavors of wine. 

You can never have enough food, and Argentinians have the best to offer. 

19. Visit Recoleta Cemetery

Recoleta Cementery Buenos Aires Argentina

The Recoleta cemetery in Buenos Aires is anything but dark and dreary; in fact, it is one of the most attractive graveyards worldwide. This place would be a great fit for you if you’re into history and architecture, but even if you’re not, the majestic pillars and engraved work is sure enough to baffle you. 

Visiting hours are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. 

20. Drink Wine in Mendoza

Argentinian wine is some of the best in the world, and the one produced in Mendoza has something special about it. The wine made in Mendoza is supplied worldwide, and the variety includes red and white wines from Malbec grapes washed with clean, fresh water in the vineyards. 

To make fond memories, visit some wineries and enjoy delicious wine. If you’re in Mendoza, we can highly recommend Bodega Tempus Alba, Bodega Viña el Cerno, and Bodega MEVI. They’re all super close to each other and reachable by bus from the Mendoza city center.

21. Try Craft Beer

If there’s anything you’ll find as much in abundance in Argentina, it would be beer. 

So, be it the bars, the breweries, or even random streets, you’ll find an opportunity to buy a pint of craft beer whenever you like it. 

22. Watch a Football Match in Bueno Aires 

Almost everyone in South America loves football. Many football matches take place every year at Buenos Aires stadiums. 

The best atmospheres can be seen in the Boca Juniors and River Plate games. Thousands of supporters come out on the streets singing and shouting their team’s name. 

Tickets to these games are difficult to get, so ensure that you book your seats in advance. 

23. Whale Watching at Peninsula Valdes 

In Northeast Patagonia, Reserva Faunistica Peninsula Valdes is where whales come for breeding. Thousands of whales migrate yearly, allowing you to spot them in the middle of the ocean. The best months to experience whale watching are from August to October. 

Also, you can spot elephant seals and sea lions on Peninsula beaches while watching whales. 

24. Windy Waterways of Parana Delta

A short scenic ride from Buenos Aires to Tigre Island would be an experience of a lifetime. The town of Tigre is the gateway to Parana Delta, the third-largest river delta in the world.

You can hop on a boat, kayak, or canoe to experience the coffee-colored waterways and islands covered with rainforests.

25. Skiing in Nahuel Huapi 

Nahuel Huapi National Park Patagonia Stock

Nahuel Huapi is the largest national park in Argentina. The snow makes it ideal for winter sports. The slopes overlooking Bariloche attract skiers from all over the world. 

Skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels can experience lots of fun. You can rent all equipment on-site.

26. Cordoba Cathedral 

Cordoba Cathedral is a 5-hour drive from Buenos Aires. The city of Cordoba is the second largest in Argentina. The colonial architecture is the main highlight of this place, and Cordoba Cathedral is among the top-visited ones. 

The church dates back to 1580 when the first Roman Catholic church was built here. The church’s mesmerizing exterior and interior are worth experiencing at least once on your visit to Argentina. 

27. The Town of Cafayate

3 famous places to visit in argentina

Cafayate , a small town located in the province of Salta, only has 12,000 residents, but its attractions are worth any tourist’s attention. 

The place is quite popular for its reddish rock formations and an archeological museum with objects from local indigenous people. Arriving here through Route 68 is also filled with amazing views, so don’t forget to miss it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things To Do in Argentina

What are some highlights of argentina.

Argentina is famous for its landscapes and cultural and historic sites, which have become an attraction for tourists from all across the globe. 

Some highlights include Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Iguazu Falls, and Tierra del Fuego National Park. 

What Is Beautiful About Argentina?

Undoubtedly, Argentina is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Home to a wide range of gorgeous landscapes, Argentina hosts the most alluring tourist spots, not excluding the wonderful city of Buenos Aires, the majestic mountains, and wetlands filled with diverse wildlife. 

Is Argentina Good for Holiday?

While Argentina might be rumored to be unsafe, it is, in fact, one of the safest and most culturally diverse countries you can plan to visit in South America. Not only is Argentina rich with natural beauty, but it is also home to dynamic cities and marvelous architecture. 

What Is the Best Month to Visit Argentina?

The best time to travel to Argentina largely depends on the specific region you want to visit. 

However, we generally recommend visiting during the country’s springtime (October to mid-December) or autumn (April to mid-June). These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to avoid peak season prices.

Conclusion – Things To Do in Argentina

The places and activities mentioned in this article are just the tip of the iceberg since Argentina has countless interesting options for travelers of every stripe. 

From its tango, soccer, and fine wines to its awe-inspiring Patagonian landscapes, this South American country deserves a top spot in your must-visit destination.

Related reads:

  • 12 Best Places To See Chile and Argentina Penguins
  • Patagonia Itinerary: 3 Best Travel Guides From Chile To Argentina

Marjolein Dilven

Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter

  • Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
  • Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
  • Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.

Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.

Mount Fitz Roy viewed from the trail to Laguna de los Tres in El Chaltén - my favorite part of this 3 week Argentina itinerary.

The Best Places to Visit in Argentina: A 3-Week Itinerary for Your First Trip

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This three-week Argentina itinerary takes in all of the country’s highlights, from the incredible Iguazú Falls to the mountains of Patagonia.

Argentina is one of those countries that has it all. A world class city, jungle waterfalls, desert landscapes, wine country, mountain lakes, and snow-capped peaks… and that’s really just the beginning. 

This itinerary will introduce you to the best of Argentina, but keep in mind that it’s a large country. Hitting every stop on this list in three weeks will require a relatively quick tempo. It will be a fantastic first visit, but the only way to do it is with a bunch of overnight buses or internal flights. The distances are just too great to see all of Argentina’s highlights without them. 

Handicrafts and clothing for sale in Purmamarca, located in the country's northwest and the third stop on this 3-week Argentina itinerary.

Some of the bus journeys required take a full 24 hours or more. If you plan to travel by bus (or rent a car), you’ll need to do some combination of skipping some places on this list or shortening your time in each one.

If you have more time, I definitely encourage you to take it! In the north of Argentina, you can break up the long journeys with stops in some of Argentina’s smaller cities. In Patagonia, you might want to weave in and out of Chile as you make your way south. 

With that said, let’s jump right into the best places to visit in Argentina for first timers! 

Buenos Aires: Argentina’s city that never sleeps (3-4 days)

Of course, no visit to Argentina would be complete without a visit to its largest metropolis. Buenos Aires has beautiful architecture, fantastic nightlife, amazing street art, and so many diverse neighborhoods to explore. 

Three days is really the absolute minimum amount of time I would recommend for your first trip to Buenos Aires. The classic must-see sights will take you at least two days, and that’s at a run. 

Window bars with decorative iron work and a tango sign in the San Telmo neighborhood of Buenos Aires.

These include the colorful Caminito in La Boca, the cobblestone streets of San Telmo (try to visit for the Sunday fair if you can), Plaza de Mayo (site of some of Argentina’s most important historical events), and the famous Recoleta Cemetery. You’ll probably also want to spend some time exploring the leafy, trendy barrio of Palermo. There are museums, markets, and parks – not to mention the fantastic food scene. 

For suggestions on what to do and see, I’ve written a suggested 4-day itinerary that includes the main highlights plus a few extras. Have a read and choose the sights that interest you most for your time in the city. 

Iguazú Falls: One of the world’s natural wonders (1-2 days)

These waterfalls, situated on the border between Brazil and Argentina, are one of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see, especially if you time your visit for the rainy season. (Yes, it’s uncomfortably hot and sticky, but you came for the waterfalls, right? Well the rainy season is, unsurprisingly, when they’re at their most impressive! Rainy season at Iguazú also coincides with the best season for hiking in Patagonia, so that’s convenient for trip planning.)

Iguazu Falls viewed through the trees: the second stop on this 3-week Argentina itinerary.

The area surrounding the waterfalls is a national park, and it has extensive walking paths with dozens of excellent lookout points over the falls. Some give you a panoramic perspective, while others lead you close enough to the rushing water to get completely drenched by its spray. (Bring a dry bag!) 

There is also a train to take you a bit further afield to arguably the most impressive viewpoint of all – the Devil’s Throat. From the train station, a 1-kilometer long platform over the river ends with an up-close view of a legitimately awe-inspiring (and deafening) torrent of water, as well as the numerous rainbows that form in the surrounding spray. 

You can also take short boat tours on the Iguazú River for a different perspective on the base of the falls. The speedboats don’t take you right under the water, but you still get much closer than you can by walking. It’s a bumpy, wet, fun ride and worth the money. (Again, you came all the way here!)

Iguazú Falls view from speedboat trip on the river below.

One full day is enough to see the Argentinian side of the falls pretty thoroughly. I know it can feel like a waste not to stay longer, seeing as you came all the way here to the middle of the jungle. If you want to explore the Brazilian side of the falls as well, I recommend spending another day here.

How to get to Iguazú Falls

To visit Iguazú Falls on the Argentinian side, most people stay in the little town of Puerto Iguazú. The town is about 20 kilometers away from the falls, and buses run there several times per hour. 

By far, the easiest way to reach Puerto Iguazú is to fly from Buenos Aires. There are many nonstop flights each day from both Jorge Newbery Airport (locally referred to as simply “Aeroparque”) and Ezeiza. The trip takes just under 2 hours and usually costs less than $100 USD if you purchase tickets a month or so in advance.

Unfortunately, the alternative is… not great. If you want to travel by bus, it will take 17-20 hours and might cost just as much as the flight. 

Northwest Argentina: Colorful mountains, salt flats, and wine tasting (3 days)

The northwest is probably not what most people picture when they think of Argentina. The desert landscape is completely different from the rest of the country. Here you can visit dramatic salt flats, go wine tasting, and explore the UNESCO-recognized Quebrada de Humahuaca. 

Hiking near the Cerro de los Siete Colores in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, which you can visit on a day trip from Salta or Jujuy.

North of Jujuy: Quebrada de Humahuaca and the Salinas Grandes

If you’re coming all the way up here, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a valley characterized by colorful rock formations, adobe houses, and Quechuan villages. In the small town of Purmamarca, you can do an easy one-hour walk to take in the red, orange, and purple hues of the Cerro de los Siete Colores. Half an hour away, the small town of Tilcara – set in the same beautiful valley – has a reconstructed 12 th  century settlement overlooking the mountains. 

There are also salt flats – perhaps not quite as impressive as those a bit further north in Bolivia, but still an interesting place to see and take some fun photos. 

You can visit these as part of a day trip from either Salta or San Salvador de Jujuy (usually referred to as simply Jujuy). You’ll cut down on your driving time to the Quebrada de Humahuaca and the salt flats considerably if you base yourself in the latter, but I’d argue Salta has a bit more to see and do. It also has more frequent direct flights to other parts of the country. If you don’t mind moving around, you could stay in both, or you could spend a night in one of the small towns. (This would require renting a car, as most tours will just take you out for the day.) 

The pink and yellow facade of Basílica Menor y Convento San Francisco church in Salta, Argentina.

Jujuy is about two hours north of Salta. From there, it’s about an hour north to Purmamarca, and another half an hour to Tilcara. The Salinas Grandes are about an hour west of Purmamarca. Many companies combine the salt flats and Purmamarca into one (long) day, which I think is a good option if you also want to visit Cafayate and/or Cachi. (See next section.) 

South of Salta: Cafayate and Cachi

Three hours in the other direction from Salta is Cafayate, a popular wine tasting destination. Since Mendoza, Argentina’s most famous wine region, is the next stop on this itinerary, I think you can sleep soundly saving Cafayate for another trip. If you’re up for it, though, Cafayate is set in a beautiful valley, and many winery tours will include opportunities to explore the stunning rocky gorges and canyons as well. (You’ll do the outdoor activities first, don’t worry!) 

If you’re renting a car, you could do a loop including Cachi, a small colonial town that is also about 3 hours from Salta. (Unfortunately, it’s not really on the way to Cafayate, but the drive itself is beautiful and part of the appeal.) 

And if you prefer being driven, you can also book a separate day tour to Cachi and Los Cardones National Park. 

(One last option is to stop in Cafayate on your way to Mendoza if you plan to travel by bus. You’d have an additional 20 hours or so with a transfer in San Miguel de Tucumán.)

How to get to Argentina’s northwest

Aerolíneas Argentinas usually has four direct flights per week from Puerto Iguazú to Salta and two per week from Puerto Iguazú to Jujuy. The flight takes two hours. 

Traveling by bus will take at least 24 hours, and there is no direct bus at the time of writing. You’ll likely need to transfer in Posadas, Corrientes, or Resistencia. 

Mendoza: Wine tasting at the foot of the Andes (2-3 days)

Mendoza is best known for its wineries and the ever-popular bicycle tours of its vineyards. 

Many people don’t realize that Mendoza is also a major hub for adventure sports. Looking at a map, it makes perfect sense – it’s right next to the Andes. However, with so many popular hiking and outdoor activities available further south, Mendoza’s can often get overshadowed. 

Rows of grape vines in a vineyard at Trapiche winery in Mendoza.

It’s true that a lot of the hikes aren’t quite as accessible as those in Patagonia. (You’re not going to walk out the door and up a mountain.) Still, there are a lot of great day tours that will get you out into nature – an especially nice counterbalance if you’ve spent the previous day drinking malbec from noon until night!

The most popular activities are riding horses , whitewater rafting , ziplining, paragliding , and of course, trekking . 

How to get to Mendoza

Once again, you’re faced with the choice between a few hours in the air and 20 hours on a bus. 

There are direct flights from Salta to Mendoza four days per week and from Jujuy to Mendoza twice per week. The other days, you’ll need to connect in Córdoba or Buenos Aires. 

Or grab some headphones and/or a good book, and settle in for that long overnight trip! 

Bariloche: Argentina’s capital of outdoor adventure, extreme sports… and chocolate (2-3 days)

The next stop on your itinerary is Argentina’s unbelievably, jaw-droppingly gorgeous lake district. There are a number of beautiful small towns in the region where you can base yourself to explore its genuinely magnificent mountains, rivers, and lakes. 

Incredible views from Refugio López while hiking in Bariloche - a highlight of my Argentina itinerary.

The best and easiest place, though, especially if this is your first visit to Argentina, is San Carlos de Bariloche. Sitting on the southern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake, it is a major tourist center and transportation hub. Accommodation is plentiful, there are frequent connections to other parts of the country, and public transit is available to take you to trailheads, beaches, and other places of interest. 

The great outdoors in Bariloche

If you’re a hiker, I recommend tackling one or two of the phenomenal day hikes in the Bariloche area. (Since we’re trying to fit a lot into three weeks in Argentina, we’ll save the multi-day treks for your next trip.) If you have to pick just one, I highly recommend the ridgeline hike to Refugio Frey . 

And even if you’re not much of hiker, you can still reach some really lovely viewpoints by cable car. These include Cerro Campanario, Cerro Otto, and Cerro Viejo. 

Adventure sports enthusiasts can go river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, kitesurfing, or paragliding. Fly fishing and horseback riding are great options for people looking to enjoy nature without the adrenaline rush.

View of Nahuel Huapi Lake from my accommodation window in Bariloche.

Other popular activities in Bariloche

Even if you’re more about the indoor life (or if you’re just unlucky with the weather), there is a lot to love about Bariloche. In addition to the excellent wine you’ve probably come to expect in Argentina, Bariloche has a flourishing craft beer industry. It is something of a foodie destination, with a lot of renowned restaurants serving traditional Patagonian cuisine. 

If you’re a history buff, check out one of the excellent historical walking tours in Bariloche. One highly rated tour introduces visitors to the indigenous history of the region. Another focuses on the legacy of immigration from Germany to Argentina, and specifically the Lake District, after World War II.

Finally, don’t miss the dozens of excellent chocolate shops dotting the downtown streets. Bariloche’s long history of chocolate production (dating to the post-World War II era) has earned it a reputation as Argentina’s “capital of chocolate.” Save some room!

How to get to Bariloche

If you’re coming here by bus, be prepared – this is another long one. (Are you noticing a theme here?) Most buses leave Mendoza in the evening (around 6:30 p.m.) and arrive in Bariloche around lunchtime the following day. (The trip takes about 18-19 hours.) 

There are nonstop flights from Mendoza to Bariloche a few times per week. The flights take a little under 2 hours and, once again, are frequently cheaper than the bus. (I’ve often seen tickets for $60 USD.) 

El Chaltén: The highlight of any hiker’s Argentina itinerary (3 days)

Let’s start by establishing that El Chaltén is for hikers. It’s a hiker’s paradise. A mecca! The “Argentine capital of trekking” !

If you’re not a hiker? I’d probably skip it and add some extra days somewhere else in your itinerary. There isn’t all that much else to do!

Trekking through the forest to Laguna Torre in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, with a view of Cerro Torre and the peak of Fitz Roy above the trees.

Ok, so hikers: There are two very famous treks here, and for good reason. And then there is another one that doesn’t seem to be all that famous but is, in my opinion, even better. There are also shorter hikes to waterfalls and viewpoints as well as multi-day treks if you’re so inclined.

The number one trek on virtually everyone’s list is the hike to Laguna de los Tres. A close second is Laguna Torre. Of the two, Laguna de los Tres is longer, harder, and more impressive (that’s a close one though), so that is probably the one to prioritize. 

That said, if it were  me , and if it were a clear day, I would prioritize a completely different hike. It’s called the Loma del Pliegue Tumbado , and I am baffled by how completely and utterly underrated it is. In fact, I’m a little worried I’m breaking some kind of unspoken rule about this hike – are we keeping it a secret, or something? I hardly see it mentioned, and it’s alllll the way down at #7 on AllTrails, and… yeah, that just makes no sense to me.

Zoomed in view of Cerro Torre from Loma del Pliegue Tumbado hike in El Chaltén.

Unfortunately, there is a decent chance the weather won’t cooperate with you for three full days. This is just the nature of Patagonia. If that’s the case, there are some easier hikes closer to town that only require a few hours. (Consider the Chorillo del Salto, for example.)

How to get to El Chaltén

Bariloche to El Chaltén takes a good 24 hours by bus – at best. You’ll travel along the famous Ruta 40, which runs the length of Argentina parallel to the Andes. (Unfortunately this stretch of it is not particularly interesting.) 

I’ve done it myself (and I should note that it took 33 hours), but this is another one of those times when I certainly understand the choice to fly. Aerolíneas Argentinas runs nonstop flights from Bariloche to El Calafate (see the next section) once a day in the summer months and a few times per week in the shoulder season. 

If that’s what you choose to do, you’ll just have to travel the roughly three hours from El Calafate to El Chaltén by bus. (And that route is, luckily, pretty spectacular!)

El Calafate: Gateway to the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier (2 days)

Next up on the itinerary is El Calafate. This little town is the gateway to one of the most magnificent sights on this big blue Earth: the Perito Moreno glacier. This is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and it is genuinely a sight to behold. Pictures often don’t do it justice, failing to effectively convey just how enormous it is, or how beautiful it is in the changing light.  

A rainbow over the Perito Moreno Glacier - a highlight of any Argentina itinerary.

There are a number of ways to experience the Perito Moreno, from kayaking through its floating icebergs to ice trekking over the glacier itself . The most budget-friendly option is to just admire the glacier from the walkways and various viewing platforms on the other side of the lake. (I spent hours doing this when I visited the glacier, and it never once got old. I truly felt like I needed that time to fully appreciate it.) 

As you stand gaping in awe, there is a good chance a chunk of ice the size of 5-storey building will break off of and crash into the lake below. You’ll usually hear a loud crack before it does – a second or two of a heads up to see how fast you can get your camera out.  

A boat next to icebergs in Lago Argentino, viewed from the elevated walkways next to the Perito Moreno Glacier.

El Calafate itself is a small town in a beautiful setting on the southern shore of Lago Argentino. You can go horseback riding, visit another glacier a bit further afield, or just take a stroll near Laguna Nimez to check out the resident flamingos.  

How to get to El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier

As mentioned above, there are daily flights to El Calafate from Bariloche in the summer. If you’re just coming from El Chaltén, it’s a very manageable 3-hour trip by bus along a beautiful stretch of highway. 

Buses head to the Perito Moreno from El Calafate every morning. The trip takes about an hour and a half.

Ushuaia: Hiking and wildlife at the end of the world (2-3 days)

Our final stop on this three-week Argentina itinerary is Ushuaia, generally considered the southernmost city in the world. I’m including it on the list for anyone who has an extra couple of days (or who cut out some of the long, 24-hour bus trips with domestic flights). It’s a scenic place with some great treks and nice opportunities to spot wildlife, and it’s cool to stand at the so-called ends of the Earth.

A mother and child look at an Antarctica cruise ship next to the "Ushuaia fin del mundo" sign next to the Beagle Channel.

Wandering around the harbor, you’ll see ships bound for Antarctica. With a bit of lucky timing, you might even spot one on its way there from one of the nearby hiking trails. 

That said, don’t lose sleep if you took some night buses to save the planet and have run out of time to visit Ushuaia. Bariloche, El Chaltén, and El Calafate are the real Patagonian must-sees on your first trip to Argentina. Ushuaia is a nice bonus. (If your heart is set on Antarctica someday, you’ll probably be back anyway.)

Ushuaia is a great place to hike, as you’ll find the trails much less crowded than the ones in El Chaltén or nearby Torres del Paine in Chile. The most recommended treks are Laguna Esmerelda, Cerro Guanaco in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego , the Vinciguerra Glacier, and the Martial Glacier. 

The Beagle Channel viewed from the Martial Glacier hike above Ushuaia, the last stop on this 3-week Argentina itinerary.

For a chance to spot some incredible wildlife (potentially including whales, dolphins, and sea lions!), check out boat tours through the Beagle Channel. If you, like me, can’t get enough of adorable Patagonian penguins, look for tours that include Isla Martillo . (Note that Piratour is the only company currently authorized to let visitors disembark and walk around the island.) 

How to get to Ushuaia

If you’re combining your Argentina itinerary with some time in Chile, it makes the most sense to visit Torres del Paine National Park in between El Calafate and Ushuaia. 

*Note that if you want to hike the famous W trek (or the longer O that includes it), you have to either plan wellll in advance or get very lucky in order to secure accommodation along the route. 

Getting to Ushuaia from Puerto Natales in Chile

Buses between El Calafate and Puerto Natales typically take between five and six hours, including the border crossing. (Once in Puerto Natales, you can rent any gear you need and book transportation to Torres del Paine.)

After your trek, you can take a bus from Puerto Natales to Ushuaia, which takes about 13 hours. (You might think heading to Punta Arenas will shorten the trip, but in reality the trip from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia takes almost as long because of the way the Strait of Magellan is shaped. I loved my trip to Isla Magdalena from Punta Arenas, but you can see penguins in Ushuaia, too. My humble opinion is that it’s not worth going out of your way to Punta Arenas unless it’s time to go home and you need to fly to Santiago.) 

Getting to Ushuaia from El Calafate

If you’re not visiting Torres del Paine on this trip, you can fly directly from El Calafate to Ushuaia in about 75 minutes. Aerolíneas Argentinas has several direct flights per day, but they can be pretty pricey if you don’t grab them early. (Again, a lot of people are coming here to go to Antarctica, so they book many months in advance – and the price is kind of a drop in the bucket in comparison.) 

There is no direct bus, so you’ll have to transfer in Río Gallegos if you go that route. Again, I’ve done it, and honestly I just slept a lot and did a lot of processing of all of the amazing things I’d seen on my adventure. But I was time rich and money poor, and it did take a solid 18 hours. 

Getting back to Buenos Aires

As you’ve probably guessed by now, taking the bus back to Buenos Aires will take over 48 hours. If you’re going to do that, at least give yourself a break in the middle in Puerto Madryn. This small city on the east coast is best known for whale watching from June to December, but it has some nice rocky beaches and is a great place to see other wildlife throughout the year. 

Heading into Chile

As mentioned above, if you have more than three weeks for your trip, you might have already decided to zigzag between Argentinean and Chilean Patagonia. Chile is an absolutely amazing country , and I highly recommend spending some time there if you have it.

From Puerto Natales, consider taking the Navimag ferry (if it’s within your budget) through the Chilean fjords and up to Puerto Montt. From there, you can easily travel to beautiful Chiloé Island or the lovely lakeside town of Puerto Varas (kind of like Chile’s answer to Bariloche).

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12 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Buenos Aires

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Elegant yet always bustling, Buenos Aires encapsulates the very essence of Argentina. South America's second-largest city, Buenos Aires is the political, economic, and cultural capital of Argentina , as well as the gateway to the rest of this large nation.

The Obelisk in Buenos Aires

Its compact tree-lined center is reminiscent of Paris, with many charming corners where tidy high-rise apartments are interspersed with attractive 19th-century buildings. Most first-time visitors are surprised to find that this big city has managed to preserve its old traditions. Each of its 47 "barrios" boasts its own distinct character, and you'll never tire of exploring these delightful neighborhoods.

Among the most popular are Palermo, La Recoleta, and Belgrano, with their wide boulevards lined with palatial mansions, luxury high-rises, and large parks. Also fun to explore are San Telmo and La Boca with their distinctively colorful artistic flair, as well as trendy Puerto Madero and Calle Defensa.

In the downtown core, the Plaza de Mayo is the traditional focus of the city's entertainment and cultural activities and the best place to begin your exploration. Interested in shopping? Then make your way to Avenida Santa Fe, the city's most fashionable shopping area.

To learn more about these and other great places to visit in the Argentinian capital, be sure to read through this list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Buenos Aires.

See also: Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

1. Explore Plaza de Mayo

2. tour the president's pink house: casa rosada, 3. a city of theaters: the colón theater, 4. visit the recoleta cemetery and museums, 5. explore la boca and the caminito street museum, 6. buenos aires cabildo, 7. san telmo and the national historical museum, 8. the metropolitan cathedral, 9. art galleries old and new, 10. palermo and jardín botánico, 11. the national museum of decorative art, 12. it doesn't take two to tango, where to stay in buenos aires for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in buenos aires.

Plaza de Mayo

Buenos Aire's Belle Époque is evident in the splendid old colonial buildings found in Plaza de Mayo. Established in the 16th century and the country's oldest public square, this delightful two-block-long plaza has been the stage for many important events in the city's history.

Most notable among these were the uprising against Spain in 1810 and the continuing vigils held by the Madres de la Plaza de Mayo, or the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, whose children "disappeared" during the military junta's reign from 1976 to 1983.

Much of the area is now entirely pedestrianized, including popular Florida and Lavalle Streets, and numerous attractions and things to do can easily be included in a fun walking tour of the area. As a result, Plaza de Mayo is the perfect place to begin your Buenos Aires sightseeing adventure, getting your bearings as you take in such important landmarks as Casa Rosada . This famous pale pink Presidential Palace was the place from which Eva Perón would address the enormous crowds eager to see her.

Also worth exploring is the splendid Avenida de Mayo . This splendid wide avenue is famous for its fine buildings with their attractive façades and domes, along with such landmarks as the famous Cafe Tortoni . Established in 1880, it's the city's oldest cafe and is considered the heart of tango. Also of note is the National Tango Academy (Academia Nacional del Tango de la República Argentina) located next door, which continues to welcome visitors.

Casa Rosada

The most famous of Plaza de Mayo's many fine buildings, Casa Rosada was built in the mid-1800s and stands on a site known to have been occupied by an old customs house and fort dating back to the 16th century. Literally translated as the "Pink House," Casa Rosada — officially referred to as Casa de Gobierno or the government house — is the official residence of the President of Argentina.

Built in Italianate style, this fine mansion dominates the eastern end of the historic square, and makes for a splendid selfie backdrop. In addition to housing the President and state offices, this immense building is also home to the Casa Rosada Museum. Established in the 1950s, the museum's impressive collections include exhibits and artifacts dating back as far as colonial times when Spain ruled much of the continent.

Other notable highlights include murals by famed Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros, painted in 1933 with assistance from some of Argentina's most prominent artists from that period. The museum is open Wednesdays to Sundays. Free English-language tours are available.

Address: Balcarce 50, Buenos Aires

The Colón Theater

No lover of great theater or, for that matter, great theaters , should pass up the chance to visit Buenos Aires' many fine performance halls. Perhaps the best known is the stunning Colón Theater (Teatro Colón), a world-class opera, ballet, and classical music facility opened in 1908 that has hosted the likes of Callas, Toscanini, Stravinsky, Caruso, and Pavarotti.

Guided tours of the theater, considered to boast some of the world's best acoustics, provide a fascinating glimpse into the building's inner workings, from set-building to costume and wig-making. It's an experience that can only be topped by enjoying a performance in its sumptuous auditorium.

Other places of entertainment to visit include Teatro Gran Rex , a lovely Art Deco cinema opened in 1937, and Teatro Cervantes , home to the Buenos Aires National Theatre Museum with its displays relating to theater, film, and musical productions.

Address: Cerrito 628, Buenos Aires

The Recoleta Cemetery and Museums

Fashionable Recoleta takes its name from the Franciscan convent that was built here around 1716, but is perhaps best known for its astonishing burial ground.

The Recoleta Cemetery (Cementerio de la Recoleta) has long been popular among locals and tourists alike, drawn here for the many elaborate mausoleums that serve as final resting places for a veritable Who's Who of famous Argentines, including such illustrious souls as Eva Perón, now embalmed in the Duarte family tomb.

Although somewhat ostentatious, these beautiful crypts are a testament to the national interest in death, something so important that Argentinians continue to honor their family members' birthdays and death-days alike.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the rest of Recoleta with its many public gardens, cafés, and craft shops, as well as other attractions, including the Museo de Arte Hispanoamericano Isaac Fernández Blanco with its extensive collection of colonial silver, wood carvings, paintings, and costumes, and the National Library where literary great Jorge Luis Borges served as director in the 1950s.

Address: Junín 1760, 1113 Buenos Aires

La Boca and the Caminito Street Museum

Undoubtedly Buenos Aires' most colorful neighborhood, and certainly one of the best places to visit if you want to grab some great photographs of authentic Argentina , La Boca is a favorite haunt for artistic and creative types. In fact, many of these same folk will take their art outside and onto the streets, decorating balconies and patios with amusing sculptures of tango dancers and other characters.

Much of the fun here for visitors is exploring the Caminito Street Museum , a colorful pedestrian-friendly zone that has functioned as an open-air museum and art market since 1959. Painted a patchwork of colors, this string of bright and extremely photogenic buildings offer quality crafts and souvenirs, sculptures, and, for the footloose, free open-air tango demonstrations (the area is in fact named after a tango).

A little more formal is the Quinquela Martín Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Benito Quinquela Martín) with its excellent collection of works by notable 20th-century Argentinian artists.

Buenos Aires Cabildo

Located in Plaza de Mayo , the beautiful Cabildo served as the seat of the colonial government and was at the epicenter of the May 1810 revolution against Spanish rule. It dates back to 1610 and was later expanded throughout the 18th century.

These days this splendid building houses the National Museum of the Cabildo with its numerous exhibits relating to the city during the 18th century, including a replica of the city's first printing press, an exhibit of Jesuit and colonial art, and numerous old maps and photos of the city.

Another museum of interest in Plaza de Mayo is the Museo de la Casa de Gobierno. Located inside the Casa Rosada, the Presidential Palace, it provides a chronology of Argentinian presidents up to 1966 along with related artifacts and memorabilia.

Address: Bolívar 65, 1066 Buenos Aires

San Telmo and the National Historical Museum

San Telmo is well known as one of Buenos Aires' more colorful districts, its narrow cobblestone streets and old colonial-style buildings home to numerous art studios and interesting galleries.

The area is also popular for its cafés, tango parlors, and boutique shops and is a delight to explore, particularly during the San Telmo Sunday Fair (Feria de San Telmo), an antiques fair that draws crowds of eager shoppers and sightseers alike.

The biggest attraction in San Telmo, though, is the excellent National Historical Museum (Museo Histórico Nacional) with its displays relating to the history of Argentina. All told, the museum houses more than 50,000 artifacts, the most important being its collection of paintings by Cándido López, a forerunner of contemporary primitive painting.

Another museum of interest is the Bernardino Rivadavia Natural Sciences Museum , opened in 1826 and now boasting 13 exhibition halls bursting with displays of Argentinian flora and fauna, along with an on-site aquarium.

Address: Defensa 1600, 1143 Buenos Aires

The Metropolitan Cathedral

While construction of its Neoclassical façade wasn't initiated until 1822, Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) overlooks Plaza de Mayo and can trace its roots back to the early 16th century when the Spanish established one of the country's first churches here.

Despite its rather plain exterior, this catholic church boasts a lovely Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque interior along with numerous important artworks, including 18th-century altarpieces and statues. There's also a Walcker organ dating from 1871 that includes an impressive 3,500 pipes and is regarded as one of the finest of its kind. Also of interest here is the tomb of one of Argentina's most revered revolutionary heroes, General José de San Martín.

Another religious site worth seeing is the Block of Enlightenment (Manzana de las Luces). This city block is traditionally regarded as the historical center of learning and high culture in Buenos Aires. It includes the Colegio Nacional de Buenos Aires and San Ignacio Church , the city's oldest surviving church, famous for its tunnels and artwork.

Address: San Martín 27, Buenos Aires

Floralis Genérica sculpture in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has long had a reputation as one of South America's most significant centers for art. One of the newest and most impressive galleries is the Latin American Art Museum of Buenos Aires (MALBA) .

Housed in a superb modern building resembling a number of interlocking cubes, this world-class museum has numerous works by modern artists from across Latin America. It also serves as a cultural center showcasing the country's film and visual arts.

Also of importance to the art world is the splendid Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art ( Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires ). Housed in a former tobacco warehouse, it's home to a collection of exhibits by local painters and sculptors along with permanent exhibits of local and international artists including Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso.

Other galleries of note include the Museum of the Spanish Art of Enrique Larreta , with its impressive collection gathered by the famous writer, and the Fortabat Art Collection , a fine art gallery opened in 2008.

Be sure to also find time to visit the city's most interesting outdoor sculpture, Floralis Genérica. This massive steel and aluminum flower stands in the midst of Plaza de las Naciones Unidas, and even closes at night and emanates a pleasing red glow.

Address: Avenida Pres Figueroa Alcorta 3415, Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens

Palermo, the major recreational spot for Porteños, as residents of Buenos Aires are known, is where many of the city's largest and most popular parks lie. Once part of the estate of dictator Juan Manuel de Rosas, these days the area is home to a plethora of fine ethnic restaurants and Avant-garde fashion establishments.

It's here, too, that you'll find Jardín Botánico, the city's excellent botanic gardens with its numerous lakes, bridges, and sculptures spread across 20 acres of paradise. Established in 1898, the gardens boast some 5,000 flower species from around the world, including many from Argentina.

Highlights include such exquisite areas as the French and Italian Gardens, along with a herb museum and horticultural school. Also worth a visit are the Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens , the largest such garden in South America and popular for its bonsai collection, displays of traditional arts and crafts, and cultural center.

Address: 1425 Buenos Aires

The National Museum of Decorative Art

Opened in 1911 in the stunning Palacio Errázuriz , a landmark Classical French-style building in the heart of the Recoleta district , the excellent National Museum of Decorative Art (Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo) is a must for art enthusiasts as well as those who enjoy great architecture. Highlights of the museum's collection include paintings by Spanish mannerists and French Impressionists plus Renaissance and Baroque furniture, tapestries, porcelain, and silver.

Also of interest and sharing the same building is the Oriental Art Museum (Museo de Arte Oriental) with its many fine displays of artwork from across Asia. Finally, art lovers should also check out the National Museum of Fine Arts with works by such European masters as Rodin, Renoir, Monet, and van Gogh, along with many important Argentinian artists.

Address: Avenida del Libertador 1902, 1425 Buenos Aires

Tango dancers in Buenos Aires

Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family or group, you should definitely make time for a little tango in your Buenos Aires itinerary. Whether you're wanting to participate or merely observe, a variety of fun experiences are available that provide great introductions to this traditional Argentinian dance and art form.

One of the best is the La Ventana Tango Show with Optional Dinner . One of the city's most popular tango performances, the La Ventana tango show in the city's San Telmo neighborhood features live dancing and traditional Argentinian music with the option to add on a delicious three-course meal. Transportation from city hotels is included.

Another good option takes in the famous Teatro Astor Piazzolla . Your skip-the-line ticket includes a guaranteed spot for a performance at this gorgeous historic theater to witness traditional live music and dancing, with the option to add on a tasty Argentinian dinner.

We recommend these charming Buenos Aires hotels, with easy access to top sights like Plaza de Mayo, and chic neighborhoods like Palermo:

  • Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires : This 5-star luxury, Belle Epoque mansion features marble bathrooms, a luxe spa, a heated pool, and sauna.
  • Fierro Hotel Buenos Aires : This popular mid-range hotel features moderate pricing, a rooftop pool, rain showers, and an excellent restaurant.
  • Mine Hotel Boutique : An affordable boutique hotel, Mine Hotel comes with a homey feel, outdoor pool, family rooms, and a fun tango show.
  • Abode Buenos Aires : This budget-friendly B&B is located near excellent restaurants and boasts a sunny rooftop terrace.

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Exploring the Wonders of Argentina: 9 Must-See Places

Argentina travel destinations.

A rgentina is a country of breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes. From the stunning mountains of the Andes to the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, there is something for everyone to explore in this South American gem. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who simply enjoys immersing themselves in different cultures, Argentina has it all. In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the wonders of Argentina and highlight nine must-see places that should be on your travel bucket list.

Best places to visit in Argentina

1. Buenos Aires

The capital city of Argentina, Buenos Aires, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. Known as the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is home to stunning architecture, bustling markets, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Plaza de Mayo, where you can witness the political history of Argentina unfold, or explore the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, famous for its tango performances and street art.

2. Iguazu Falls

Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu Falls are a spectacular natural wonder that should not be missed. Consisting of 275 individual waterfalls spread over nearly two miles, the falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer power and beauty of this breathtaking natural phenomenon as you walk along the network of trails that offer different viewpoints of the falls.

3. Perito Moreno Glacier

If you're a nature lover, a visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier is a must. Located in Los Glaciares National Park in the southern region of Patagonia, this awe-inspiring glacier is one of the few in the world that is still advancing. Witness massive chunks of ice calving off the glacier and plummeting into Lake Argentino, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Take a boat tour or hike on the glacier to get up close and personal with this majestic natural marvel.

Known as the “End of the World,” Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and a gateway to Antarctica. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia offers a range of outdoor activities for adventurous travelers. Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, go hiking or skiing in the nearby mountains, or embark on a boat tour to navigate the pristine waters of the Beagle Channel and spot penguins and sea lions.

5. El Calafate

Another gem in the Patagonia region, El Calafate is a small town that serves as a base for visiting the nearby glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise ice formations and take a boat ride to explore the Upsala Glacier and the Spegazzini Glacier, both of which are part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Located in the northwest of Argentina, Salta is a city known for its colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. Take a stroll through the charming colonial center, visit the historic Cabildo and Salta Cathedral, or explore the nearby Humahuaca Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful rock formations and indigenous culture.

If you are a wine lover, Mendoza should be on your itinerary. Located in the foothills of the Andes, this region is Argentina's premier wine-producing area and home to some of the world's best Malbec wines. Take a wine tour, visit the vineyards, and indulge in a tasting session while enjoying the beautiful mountain views.

8. Bariloche

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Bariloche is a picturesque town famous for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Surrounded by lakes, forests, and mountains, it is a paradise for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. Visit the Nahuel Huapi National Park, take a scenic drive along the famous Seven Lakes Route, or sample delicious Swiss chocolate in the town's charming alpine-style chalets.

9. El Chalten

If trekking and hiking are your passions, El Chalten is the place to be. Located at the base of Mount Fitz Roy in Los Glaciares National Park, this small mountain village offers access to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Argentina. Embark on the challenging trek to Laguna de los Tres for the iconic view of Mount Fitz Roy or explore the stunning landscapes of Cerro Torre and Glacier Piedras Blancas.

Popular tourist attractions in Argentina

Argentina is a country with countless tourist attractions that cater to all interests and preferences. Whether you are interested in history and culture, outdoor adventures, or simply exploring picturesque landscapes, Argentina has something to offer for everyone. Here are some more popular tourist attractions worth visiting:

– The Andes Mountains: Argentina is home to a significant portion of the Andes, one of the world's longest mountain ranges. Explore the stunning landscapes, go skiing in the winter, or hike the famous Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.

– Peninsula Valdes: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It is renowned for its diverse marine life, including whales, seals, sea lions, and penguins. Take a boat tour or go whale watching to witness these majestic creatures up close.

– Quebrada de Humahuaca: Located in the Jujuy province, this stunning gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Argentina's indigenous heritage. Explore the colorful rock formations, visit traditional villages, and learn about the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region.

– Talampaya National Park: Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Talampaya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the towering red cliffs, explore the ancient rock formations, and spot fossils of dinosaurs that once roamed this area.

– Tigre Delta: Just a short distance from Buenos Aires, the Tigre Delta is a unique ecosystem formed by the convergence of the Paraná River. Explore the waterways by boat, visit the charming islands, and experience a different side of Argentina's natural beauty.

Argentina is a country that never fails to captivate travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you are exploring the bustling streets of Buenos Aires or venturing into the wilderness of Patagonia, each destination promises a unique and unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey to explore the wonders of Argentina!

Remember, the key to a successful trip is thorough planning and immersing yourself in the local culture. Do your research, learn about the customs and traditions, and be respectful of the places you visit. Argentina has a lot to offer, and by being a responsible traveler, you can ensure that these wonders will be preserved for generations to come.

The post Exploring the Wonders of Argentina: 9 Must-See Places appeared first on Things That Make People Go Aww .

Argentina travel destinations Argentina is a country of breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes. From the stunning mountains of the Andes to the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, there is something for everyone to explore in this South American gem. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who simply enjoys immersing themselves...

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  1. 12 of the best places to visit in Argentina

    1. Buenos Aires. Best for eating out. Sultry tango clubs and cacophonous football matches, beautiful barrios (neighborhoods) and historic cemeteries, world-class museums and raucous nightlife - Buenos Aires has everything you need for an immersive, big city experience. Above all, the Argentine capital is a fantastic place to eat out.Its parrillas (steakhouses) - such as Don Julio, named ...

  2. 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Argentina

    3. Recoleta, La Boca, and Tango in Buenos Aires. Bright colors of Caminito in La Boca, Buenos Aires. One of South America's most attractive cities (also one of the largest), Buenos Aires is often the first glimpse of Argentina most visitors will have before heading off to popular tourist destinations such as Patagonia.

  3. 23 Top Tourist Attractions in Argentina (+Map)

    Volcan Lanin. 22. Quebrada de Cafayate. Map of Tourist Attractions in Argentina. 23. Volcan Lanin. On the border region between Argentina and Chile is Volcan Lanin, a volcano that is wildly popular with hikers and rock climbers.

  4. 15 Absolute BEST Places to Visit in Argentina

    3. Puerto Iguazu (Iguazu Falls) Just one of the hundreds of waterfalls at Iguazu Falls! A boat tour heads to the bottom of Iguazu Falls! The world-famous Iguazu Falls are located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. In fact, 80% of the falls are on the Argentinian side, and 20% are on the Brazilian side.

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    After a day on the trails, the village's La Cerveceria local brewery is the go-to hotspot in town for a post-hike thirst-quencher. 3. Los Glaciares. The gorgeous Los Glaciares or Glaciers National Park is Argentina's second-largest park, and one of the largest and most easy-to-get-to ice fields on the planet.

  6. The Top 15 Places to Visit in Argentina

    Villa La Angostura. In the picturesque Lakes Region, this is a main town along the Siete Lagos drive. Most activities revolve around the lake, as Lago Nahuel Huapi is a center point here. There's sunset sailing, fly fishing in Correntoso (the world's shortest river), and gorgeous hiking in myrtle (arrayan) forests.

  7. The 25 Best Places to Visit in Argentina [2024 Guide]

    Over 320 bird species are resident here, making it a top destination for birders, while capybara, maned wolves, giant anteaters and even a thriving population of jaguar - reintroduced in 2021 by conservationists - make the Esteros del Iberá one of the best places in Argentina to spot wildlife. Situated a three-hour journey from the nearest airport, getting here is part of the adventure ...

  8. 15 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

    2. Cordoba. Source: flickr. Cordoba, Argentina. Cordoba's UNESCO-attested center is a gorgeous patchwork of 17th-century Spanish churches and convents, Jesuit sites and cobblestone alleys, all nestled between the rolling plains of the Argentine Pampas and the half-baked ridges of the Sierras Chicas.

  9. 26 Best Places to Visit in Argentina

    What Is the Best Month To Visit Argentina? The best time to visit Argentina is from November to February, coinciding with the Northern Hemisphere's winter months. Experience warm and sunny weather in the country during summer, with temperatures ranging from 72 to 75°F (22 to 24°C). Conclusion - Best Places To Visit in Argentina

  10. 12 Best and Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Argentina

    5. Bariloche. Take a step into Argentinian Patagonia by travelling to the beautiful lakeside town of Bariloche. Running along the lake with views of the national park and the snow-capped mountains, plus tons of things to do in the area, Bariloche is the kind of place where you could end up staying for a while.

  11. Argentina Destinations: 22 Incredible Places to Visit in Argentina (You

    San Antonio de Los Cobres - Tren a Las Nubes. The Tren a Las Nubes is definitely one of the most unique things to do/ places to visit in Argentina. It's one of the highest altitude train rides in the world at over 4200m elevation, and goes through some watercolored highlands and a magical viaduct.

  12. 22 Famous Places in Argentina You Should Visit Once In Your Lifetime

    Salinas Grandes is a top-notch tourist attraction, showcasing the best of Argentina's natural beauty, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Latin America. With its unforgettable vistas and unique flora, this destination offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. 8. Ushuaia: The End of the World.

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    9. Salta. Known as Salta La Linda (the pretty one), Salta is a great city to visit in Argentina both for its own beauty and as a base for exploring Argentina's vast northern region. The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña offers a fascinating insight into Incan culture.

  14. The 15 best places to visit in Argentina

    Located in the rainforests of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, you can see the most beautiful Jesuit missions in the Argentine towns of San Ignacio, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreta and Santa Maria la Mayor. These towns built between the 17th and 18th centuries are both architectural and cultural wonders.

  15. 12 Most Beautiful Places in Argentina to Visit

    11. El Calafate: The Doorway to Glaciers. Nestled on the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, El Calafate is a town that promises awe-inspiring natural wonders. As one of the most scenic places in Argentina, it serves as the primary gateway to the famous Los Glaciares National Park.

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    Valdes Peninsula. Punta Tombo National Reserve. 1. Buenos Aires. The Buenos Aires tango scene. Ah, Buenos Aires. Sometimes referred to as "Paris of the South," this is the capital of Argentina and an absolute cultural epicenter. It's no wonder that it's one of the most popular places to visit in Argentina.

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    From its tango, soccer, and fine wines to its awe-inspiring Patagonian landscapes, this South American country deserves a top spot in your must-visit destination. Related reads: 12 Best Places To See Chile and Argentina Penguins; Patagonia Itinerary: 3 Best Travel Guides From Chile To Argentina

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    This three-week Argentina itinerary takes in all of the country's highlights, from the incredible Iguazú Falls to the mountains of Patagonia. Argentina is one of those countries that has it all. A world class city, jungle waterfalls, desert landscapes, wine country, mountain lakes, and snow-capped peaks… and that's really just the beginning.

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    This is undoubtedly the region of Argentina that best preserves the country's gaucho traditions, with many festivals, gaucho parades, colonial towns, rural estancias, and those moving sunsets over the endless pampas. And of course, the best beef and asados (barbecue) anywhere in South America! Best places in Central Argentina 17.

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    5. Explore La Boca and the Caminito Street Museum La Boca and the Caminito Street Museum . Undoubtedly Buenos Aires' most colorful neighborhood, and certainly one of the best places to visit if you want to grab some great photographs of authentic Argentina, La Boca is a favorite haunt for artistic and creative types.In fact, many of these same folk will take their art outside and onto the ...

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    Besides the waterfall, there are also many interesting animals to see in the park, such as monkeys, anteaters, jaguars, and more than 2,000 types of plants. 3. Mar del Plata. Mar del Plata used to be a place where wealthy people from Argentina went to relax, but now it is a popular beach resort city.

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    Discover the must-see destinations in Argentina, including Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, Mendoza, Salta, and more. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive travel guide. Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity.