Mendoza
Mendoza means wine, sun, beautiful natural landscapes and even some top skiing in the winter. A definite one to have on your destination list when in Argentina.
Mendoza travel guide
The heart of Argentina’s wine-making industry, Mendoza is a beautiful, unique South American city full of picturesque parks and tree-lined avenues. Mendoza province boasts more than 1,500 Malbec wineries, from small boutique craft wine estates to large-scale importers, all accessible on the various Rutas de Vino (Wine Routes).
But that’s not all. The city boasts beautiful Art Deco buildings, excellent world class restaurants, bars and entertainment and nearby visitors can enjoy numerous exciting adventure activities in the Andes mountains, including horse riding, white water rafting, climbing and hiking in the summer months, and skiing and other winter sports in the cold months.
Come year-round, in winter or summer, to enjoy a variety of exciting activities in and around this charming town at the foothills of the Andes. You won’t be disappointed.
The city has a wonderful historical centre which provides a glimpse into local artists or the past such as Fernando Fadar, or the heritage of the region's wine culture at Museo Nacional del Vino. There is a great chance to see the development of the city over many years and to see the remnants of the original city displayed to represent what it was like prior to the earthquake in the mid-19th century. This area is a brilliant contrast, alternative and balance to the trekking, wining and outdoor activities that the area is famous for. One to visit today without delay!
As you are close to the Chilean border it is also a great opportunity to jump over the border as part of a wider trip.
The trails to trek and hike in Aconcagua Park are an amazing location for an outdoor adventure.
In Mendoza, siestas (afternoon naps) are still popular, owing to the summer heat. The majority of companies shut around 1 p.m., with several grocery outlets staying open until 2 p.m. The businesses reopen about 17 hs and remain open until 20 hs. Supermarkets are typically open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., including Sundays. Banks are only open from 8:00 a.m. to 13:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Money exchange houses (casas de cambio) close at 20:00.
Central Mendoza is small with most things being very accessible; for instance, typically takes 20-30 around half an hour to cross between Plaza Independencia to Parque San Martín; however, going to the bodegas (vineyards) to the south is not suggested because they are at least 10 kilometres distant.
A ticket purchased on public buses is transferable to other modes of public transportation.
Many firms provide desert and mountain hiking, adventures, equestrian riding, and whitewater rafting. In addition, practically all lodging establishments offer various events; simply inquire. Mountain cottages (bungalows) in scenic regions are readily available for rent in the city. Remember that tango, like soccer, the wine business, the gaucho lifestyle, and the food, is an integral part of Argentinian culture.
Best time to visit: Come in the spring (October and November) or fall (March and April) when Mendoza is a little quieter and less expensive. Ski season is May and June as well as August and September.
Best Area for Sightseeing: There’s more to do outside of the city, from wine tasting to a variety of sports activities. See Things to do in Mendoza below for some inspiration.
Shopping in Mendoza: Visit the city’s open-air crafts market on Plaza Independencia on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The 4 smaller squares surrounding this main plaza also host weekend street markets, so make sure to check those out. You can also head for the antique markets held in Plaza Pellegrini, and numerous popular Argentinian stores in the city itself.
Food & Restaurants in Mendoza: Sample traditional delicacies from the food stalls at the markets (see Shopping, above) and enjoy authentic Argentinian cuisine including superb steaks at a variety of eateries around the city.
Nightlife: The nightlife is vibrant in Mendoza, with plenty of al fresco cafes along Avenida Arístides Villanueva. Visit one of the clubs further out of the city center, in lively districts such as Godoy Cruz, where the tango reigns supreme.
Things to do in Mendoza:
- Enjoy trout fishing, white water rafting or mountain climbing in the summer months.
- Sample some superb Malbec wine in the Uco Valley.
- Visit the Museo Nacionale del Vino to learn more about the region’s wine-making history.
- Visit the Museo del Area Fundacional to learn about Mendoza’s origins and fascinating past.
- Visit the Cacheuta Thermal Baths for the day for some rejuvenative R&R.
- Hike to Cerro de la Gloria in the General San Martin Park.
- Embark on an Olive Oil Tour in Maipu, part of the Olive Oil Trail.
Best way to get around: The city’s public buses are excellent and there’s a light rail system that runs from the center of Mendoza to Maipu, 45 minutes away. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the town, or take a taxi.
Best Area for Families: Chacras de Coria This residential neighborhood south of the center of Mendoza offers great accommodation, restaurants and family-friendly entertainment.