Heading to Argentina to explore some of the country’s most beautiful towns? Here are five top picks that showcase diverse landscapes, rich history and memorable local experiences.
Framed by the Andes and surrounded by rolling vineyards, Mendoza is one of Argentina’s most attractive destinations. Renowned for its Malbecs and extensive wine routes, Mendoza also delights with excellent restaurants and an engaging culinary scene. Be sure to visit the General San Martín Historical Museum, the Basilica of San Francisco and Independence Park while you’re in town. If you travel between January and March, you can experience the annual Grape Harvest Festival—Argentina’s oldest grape celebration—which culminates in live music and festivities.
On the forested shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi in Río Negro Province, San Carlos de Bariloche offers rustic mountain scenery and abundant outdoor activities. The nearby Cerro Catedral ski resort draws winter sports enthusiasts, while hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and rafters return year after year for the varied terrain. Bariloche also has a lively nightlife, several craft breweries and numerous artisan chocolate shops. The city hosts a popular Chocolate Festival each Easter, making it a sweet stop on any itinerary.
With patterned brick streets and charming colonial architecture, Salta City in the north dates back to 1582. Start exploring at 9 de Julio Square and admire the historic buildings surrounding the plaza. Notable religious sites include the Cathedral and the Baroque/Italian Neoclassical Church of Saint Francis. The High Mountain Archaeological Museum houses an important Inca-era collection and is well worth a visit. For local crafts, the Handcrafts Market sits in an 18th-century house and offers paintings, ceramics, wood and leather goods, and clothing woven from alpaca wool.
The spectacular Iguazú Falls remain one of Argentina’s most unforgettable natural attractions. Composed of 275 separate falls that plunge from nearly 260 feet, the falls are the highlight of Iguazú National Park. Nearby Puerto Iguazú is an ideal base for nature lovers and offers additional points of interest, including the Mbororé battle site, the Natural Sciences Museum and the Tres Fronteras boundary marker, where Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay meet.
Set amid the Patagonian mountains, Villa La Angostura is a favorite for hiking, kayaking and outdoor adventures. Notable local attractions include the Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin and the Regional Historical Museum. After sailing across Lake Nahuel Huapi or hiking the Green Lagoon Interpretive Trail, enjoy regional cuisine at Bruce Grill Station or relax with tea and a pastry at Café Antibes or Margaritas Casa de Té.
These five towns represent just a selection of Argentina’s varied offerings: from high Andean vineyards and historic colonial squares to thunderous waterfalls and Patagonian lakes. Plan your route according to the activities and landscapes you most want to experience, and you’ll discover why these destinations are favorites for travelers exploring Argentina.