Best Places to Go in Argentina (Popular 12 Destinations)

Always wanted to visit a place where lively cities meet stunning natural wonders? Argentina has got you covered! From the energetic streets of Buenos Aires to the frozen beauty of Patagonia, this South American gem offers adventures for everyone. Grab your passport, and let's explore the must-visit spots on your trip to Argentina.

Buenos Aires – The Heartbeat of Argentina

Feel tango in the air as you wander Buenos Aires' lively neighborhoods. This cosmopolitan capital mixes European elegance and Latin flair, offering everything from historic sites to exciting nightlife.

Start in La Boca, a colorful district known for bright buildings and street performers. On Caminito Street, artists showcase their work, and you might catch an impromptu tango.

Explore San Telmo, the city's oldest area, filled with antique shops and the lively San Telmo Market. On Sundays, the streets come alive with the Feria de San Telmo, where you can find vintage treasures and live music.

Don't miss elegant Recoleta, home to the Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón and other famous figures are buried. The area has upscale cafes, parks, and the impressive National Museum of Fine Arts.

For a taste of modern Buenos Aires, go to Palermo. This trendy neighborhood is full of chic boutiques, art galleries, and countless restaurants and bars. It's the perfect spot to enjoy Argentine food and nightlife.

Experience Tango

Your trip isn't complete without experiencing tango. Attend a show at places like Café Tortoni or El Querandí, or take a tango lesson yourself. The dance is more than entertainment—it's a key part of Argentine culture, telling stories of love, passion, and history.

Iguazú Falls – A Natural Wonder

Get ready to be amazed by the mighty Iguazú Falls. On the border of Argentina and Brazil, these falls include over 250 waterfalls stretching nearly two miles.

Explore Iguazú National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along trails that bring you close to the roaring water. The famous Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo) is the most impressive spot, dropping over 260 feet into a swirling chasm.

The surrounding rainforest is full of wildlife. Watch for toucans, monkeys, and colorful butterflies. For a different view, take a boat tour that gets you close to the falls—expect to get wet!

Learn About Guaraní Culture

While you're here, visit a Guaraní village. Meet the indigenous people who've lived here for centuries. You'll learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life, adding a meaningful cultural experience to your trip.

Mendoza – Sip and Savor in Wine Country

Raise a glass in Mendoza, Argentina's famous wine region. With the Andes mountains as a backdrop, it's the place to enjoy top-notch Malbec wines and a relaxed vibe.

Visit vineyards like Bodega Catena Zapata or Bodega Salentein. You can tour the wineries and taste their wines. Many offer gourmet lunches paired with their best wines, making for a memorable meal.

Mendoza isn't just about wine. You can go white-water rafting on the Mendoza River, mountain bike on scenic trails, or even climb Aconcagua, the highest peak outside of Asia.

Unwind in Hot Springs

After a day out, relax in the hot springs of Cacheuta nearby. Soak in thermal waters and enjoy spa treatments, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

Patagonia – At the End of the World

Set off on an adventure in Patagonia, a land of glaciers, mountains, and endless horizons. Trek through Torres del Paine or see the amazing Perito Moreno Glacier—the southern tip of Argentina is an outdoor paradise.

In El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, you can see the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. Watch as huge ice chunks break off and crash into the lake below—a sight known as 'calving'.

Go to El Chaltén, Argentina's trekking capital. Trails here lead to breathtaking views of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. There are hikes for all levels, from challenging to easy walks.

Patagonia has unique wildlife like guanacos, condors, and penguins. You can visit Punta Tombo to walk among one of South America's largest penguin colonies.

Visit Welsh Villages

Discover Welsh heritage in towns like Gaiman and Trevelin. Settled by Welsh immigrants in the 1800s, these villages offer traditional Welsh tea houses and a look into their preserved customs and language.

Bariloche – Alpine Charm and Adventure

Discover the alpine town of San Carlos de Bariloche in the heart of the Lake District. With chocolate shops, scenic lakes, and ski resorts, it's a place for both relaxation and adventure.

In winter, you can ski at Cerro Catedral, one of South America's top ski spots. In summer, enjoy hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the beautiful Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Take the Circuito Chico, a scenic drive or bike ride with panoramic views of lakes and mountains. Stop at Hotel Llao Llao for luxury and perhaps a traditional afternoon tea.

Enjoy Chocolate

Bariloche is famous for chocolate. Walk along Mitre Street and sample handmade chocolates, from truffles to bars filled with local ingredients like Patagonian berries.

Salta and Jujuy – Explore the Northwest

Discover the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Argentina's northwest. From the historic city of Salta to the rainbow-colored hills of Purmamarca, this area blends history and nature.

In Salta, admire colonial architecture like the pink Cathedral of Salta and San Francisco Church. The city is known for its lively folklore music and tasty empanadas.

Take a road trip through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic rock formations and indigenous villages. The Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca is a must-see at sunrise or sunset.

Visit the high-altitude wineries of Cafayate to taste the unique Torrontés grape. The nearby Calchaquí Valleys have ancient ruins and beautiful scenery.

Ride the Train to the Clouds

Take a trip on the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds), one of the world's highest railways. This scenic journey goes through amazing landscapes and over tall bridges, reaching heights over 13,000 feet.

Ushuaia – The End of the World

Head to Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city. Known as the "End of the World," it's a base for exploring Tierra del Fuego and even catching a cruise to Antarctica.

Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, where hiking trails go through forests, mountains, and along the Beagle Channel. Take a boat tour to Martillo Island to see Magellanic and Gentoo penguin colonies.

In winter, Ushuaia is a hub for snow sports like skiing and dog sledding. Don't miss the End of the World Train, a historic railway that goes through scenic landscapes once used by prisoners.

Check Out the Maritime Museum

Learn about the region's history at the Maritime Museum, housed in a former prison. Exhibits cover shipwrecks, exploration, and the prison's past.

Valdés Peninsula – A Wildlife Haven

If you love wildlife, the Valdés Peninsula is a place you shouldn't miss. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to amazing marine life like whales, sea lions, and elephant seals.

From Puerto Madryn, you can take whale-watching tours to see southern right whales (July to December). The peninsula is also one of the few places where orcas hunt close to shore.

On land, you might see guanacos, rheas, and the Patagonian mara. It's a unique ecosystem with some of the best wildlife viewing in South America.

Go Underwater

If you scuba dive, the waters around Puerto Madryn offer excellent cold-water diving. Explore shipwrecks and swim among sea lions for an unforgettable experience.

Córdoba – Argentina's Cultural Hub

Discover Argentina's rich history in Córdoba, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and lively arts scene.

Visit the Manzana Jesuítica (Jesuit Block), a UNESCO World Heritage site with 17th-century buildings like the Montserrat School and the Domestic Chapel.

Córdoba is a university city, giving it a youthful energy with many cafes, bars, and cultural events. The nearby Sierras de Córdoba offer hiking, paragliding, and exploring charming mountain villages like Villa General Belgrano.

Enjoy the Festivities

If you're there in October, check out Oktoberfest Argentina in Villa General Belgrano. Celebrating the town's German heritage, it's one of the largest festivals of its kind in South America, featuring beer, traditional food, and live music.

The Pampas – Land of the Gaucho

Discover traditional rural life in The Pampas, the vast fertile plains at the heart of Argentina's agriculture.

Estancias (ranches) let you live like a gaucho, the Argentine cowboy. Ride horses across open fields, learn about cattle ranching, and enjoy hearty asados (barbecues) under the open sky.

Visit towns like San Antonio de Areco, known for gaucho culture, artisan silversmiths, and the Gaucho Museum. In November, the Día de la Tradición festival celebrates gaucho customs with parades, music, and dancing.

Rosario – Where the Flag Was Born

Visit Rosario, Argentina's third-largest city, on the Paraná River. Known as the birthplace of the Argentine flag, Rosario offers rich history, culture, and a thriving arts scene.

See the National Flag Memorial, a monument dedicated to Manuel Belgrano, who created the flag. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and river.

Stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy the parks, and explore Boulevard Oroño, lined with beautiful mansions, cafes, and shops.

Enjoy the Arts

Rosario has a lively cultural scene, with many theaters, art galleries, and live music venues. The city is also known for street art—walk around to discover colorful murals and graffiti.

Mar del Plata – Argentina's Beach Getaway

For sun and sand, go to Mar del Plata, Argentina's most popular beach resort.

Relax on golden beaches, swim in the Atlantic, and enjoy seaside activities like surfing and sailing. In summer, the city is full of events, nightlife, and a festive atmosphere.

Visit the Mar del Plata Aquarium and the Sea Museum to learn about marine life. The city also hosts the annual Mar del Plata Film Festival, attracting movie lovers from around the world.

Argentine Cuisine – A Food Lover's Delight

Argentina is a paradise for food lovers. Enjoy juicy steaks, tasty empanadas, and sweet treats like alfajores (cookies filled with dulce de leche).

Don't miss choripán, a popular street food of chorizo sausage in crusty bread, often topped with chimichurri sauce.

For a special dining experience, try a puertas cerradas (closed-door restaurant), where chefs open their homes to serve gourmet meals in an intimate setting.

Wash it all down with mate, the traditional Argentine herbal tea sipped through a metal straw called a bombilla. Sharing mate is a social ritual and a great way to connect with locals.

Cultural Festivals – Celebrations Across Argentina

Argentina has many festivals celebrating music, dance, and traditions.

In February, enjoy Carnaval in cities like Gualeguaychú, known for colorful parades and samba dancers.

Music fans should check out the Cosquín Folk Festival in Córdoba, showcasing traditional Argentine music and dance over nine nights.

In Buenos Aires, the International Tango Festival and World Cup in August brings together top tango dancers for performances and competitions.

Conclusion

Argentina isn't just a place to visit—it's an experience that will stay with you. Sipping wine under the Andes, dancing tango in Buenos Aires, or stargazing in Patagonia—these are memories you'll cherish. So why wait? Start planning your Argentina adventure today!

FAQ

What is the best time of year to visit Argentina?

Argentina's climate varies by region. Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) offer pleasant weather in most areas. For Patagonia, the best time is summer (December to February).

Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries can enter Argentina visa-free for short stays. Check with your local Argentine consulate for the most current information.

Is Argentina safe for travelers?

Argentina is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular places. Like anywhere, stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions against petty crime.

What currency is used in Argentina, and can I use credit cards?

The Argentine Peso (ARS) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller businesses or remote areas.

How can I get around within Argentina?

Argentina has a well-developed transportation network. You can travel between cities by domestic flights, long-distance buses, or rent a car for more flexibility.

Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in Argentina?

While many people in tourist areas speak some English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience. Locals appreciate the effort, and it can help with navigating transportation, ordering food, and interacting off the beaten path.

What are some traditional Argentine dishes to try?

Don't miss out on asado, Argentina's famous barbecue featuring various cuts of beef. Other must-tries include empanadas, locro (a hearty stew), milanesas (breaded meat cutlets), and sweet treats like dulce de leche desserts. Pair your meals with local wines for a true culinary delight.