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. 

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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.

Most Popular Cities

Best National Parks

Top Things to Do

Best Places to Hike

Skiing in Argentina

Things to Do in Mendoza

Things to Do in Bariloche

Things to Do in Ushuaia

Guide to Iguazu

Argentina's Glaciers

Every Food to Try

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in Argentina

Driving Guide

One-Week Itinerary

Top Places to Visit

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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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!

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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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Jessie on a Journey | Solo Female Travel Blog

Argentina Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Argentina travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Start researching a trip to Argentina and you’ll quickly realize that this South American nation is one of the coolest destinations on the planet.

From its incredibly diverse environment to its vibrant cities to its delicious cuisine, there’s so much to explore in Argentina. So much, in fact, that you might not know where to start. Whether you want to tango the night away in a Buenos Aires nightclub or explore the glaciers of Patagonia, we’re here to help you plan the ultimate Argentinian adventure.

Outdoor adventurers from around the world flock to Argentina to revel in the country’s natural beauty. The country has a robust network of national parks, offering visitors the opportunity to explore Argentina’s deserts, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and more.

One of the most famous parks is Los Glaciares National Park, located southwest of Santa Cruz Provence. The park is home to many glaciers making up portions of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, including Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the largest in the world.

Can’t stand the cold? Head to the Argentine Lake District, a gorgeous area full of picturesque mountains, greenery and, of course, lakes. Whether you’re hiking the hills or exploring nearby towns like Bariloche , you’re bound to have a relaxing time.

And if you’re a night owl, head to San Juan in west-central Argentina for some exceptional stargazing. At El Leoncito National Park, you can marvel at the stars under a clear night sky or get a closer look at the park’s observatory, which hosts tons of stargazing events throughout the year.

Argentina is also home to one of the best wine regions in Latin America; in fact, the country is actually the fifth biggest producer of wine in the world behind Italy.

Mendoza is widely considered Argentina’s “wine country” and has plenty to entertain any kind of wine enthusiast. The area is home to tons of wineries offering tastings, tours, and more to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the country’s wine industry.

Beyond the vineyards, the area is absolutely beautiful. It’s worth renting a bike for a self-guided tour of the region’s lush hills and farms.

And of course, you’ll find great wine wherever you go in Argentina, as well as delicious traditional dishes like empanadas , asado, provoleta, and more.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Argentina in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Argentina travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Argentina travel guide

Argentina Map

Use this Argentina travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Argentina map

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Argentina Travel Tips

This advice can help you with planning a trip to Argentina !

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10 Ways Argentina Surprised Me

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Making Connections Through Mate Drinking In Argentina

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Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Use the following posts as a Buenos Aires visitor’s guide !

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How To Explore Beautiful Buenos Aires Beyond The Guidebook

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24 Hours In Buenos Aires, Argentina

Drinking coffee in Buenos Aires' oldest cafe while traveling Argentina

Ordering Coffee Like A Local At Buenos Aires’ Oldest Cafe

Art Factory Hostel in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Review Of Art Factory Hostel In Buenos Aires, Argentina

Mendoza Travel Guide

These Mendoza guides will help you have a memorable Argentina vacation!

Staying at Hostel Mora in Mendoza during a trip to Argentina

Review of Hostel Mora In Mendoza, Argentina

Hiking in the Andes Mountains during Argentina travel

An Epic Mendoza Day Trip Exploring The Andes Mountains

Visiting Potrerillos near Mendoza during a trip to Argentina

Visiting Potrerillos: An Adventurous Day Trip From Mendoza, Argentina

Patagonia Travel Guide

Plan an epic trip to Patagonia, one of the best Argentina travel destinations !

Visiting Bariloche in Patagonia while traveling around Argentina

24 Hours In Bariloche, Argentina

Trekking Martial Glacier In Ushuaia in Argentina's Patagonia region

Free Adventures In Patagonia: Trekking Martial Glacier In Ushuaia

Hiking in Valle de Lobos during a trip to Argentina

Valle de Lobos: A Budget-Friendly Hiking Alternative To Tierra del Fuego In Ushuaia, Argentina

Seeing the landscapes of Ushuaia during a trip to Argentina

Review Of Cruz del Sur Independent Hostel In Ushuaia, Argentina

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Review Of Hospedaje Lautaro Hostel In El Calafate, Argentina

Periko's Youth Hostel In Bariloche, Argentina

Review Of Periko’s Youth Hostel In Bariloche, Argentina

Other Argentina Travel Guide Destinations

These Argentina tourism guide posts will help you plan an incredible trip!

Staying at Hostel Prisamata In Salta, while backpacking Argentina

Review Of Hostel Prisamata In Salta, Argentina

Best Argentina Tours

Explore local culture with an Argentina tour guide through these unique excursions:

  • Buenos Aires Graffiti & Street Art Tour
  • Helicopter Ride: Overflight & Landing in the Andes Mountains A30 from Ushuaia
  • Full-Day Tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier including Boat Safari from El Calafate
  • Guided Hike at the Penguin Colony in Ushuaia
  • Full Day Tour to Torres del Paine from El Calafate

Argentina Hotels

Click here to browse the best Argentina travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In Argentina

Many visitors to Argentina choose to rent a car to really explore all that the country has to offer. If you’re doing the same, I highly recommend using Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

argentina travel locations

Argentina Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Argentina tour. When visiting Argentina — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Argentina travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Argentina Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Argentina .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Argentina?

Argentina’s natural wonders are some of its biggest attractions. The country is home to 33 national parks that show off the nation’s diverse landscape and ecology.

Iguazu Falls , located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, draws in thousands of travelers every year, all coming to marvel at the sheer power of the fourth widest waterfall in the world. Walkways and viewing platforms make it easy to get up close to the falls for a truly spectacular view.

In Patagonia , you’ll find L os Glaciares National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring giant ice formations you’ll have to see to believe. You can explore the Perito Moreno Glacier, the third-largest freshwater reserve in the world, on an ice-trekking tour, or just enjoy the view from the visitor center.

Just off the Chilean border in Southern Argentina, you’ll find Tierra del Fuego National Park featuring 156,000 acres of stunning landscapes and bucket list-worthy hiking trails .

Not much of an outdoor adventurer? Enjoy the park from the comfort of an antique steam train on the Southern Fuegian Railway.

Argentina’s cities are also huge draws for travelers looking to engage with the country’s history, culture, and modern lifestyle.

The capital city of Buenos Aires is home to gorgeous European architecture and one of the most vibrant cultural scenes in South America.

The Museo Nacional de Belles Artes houses over 500 years of international art, including works from Picasso, Goya, and Manet.

Take a deep dive into Argentinian history at El Zajon de Granados , a maze-like complex featuring 500 years of ancient architecture.

And of course you can’t miss Buenos Aires’ nightlife; this is the birthplace of the tango, after all!

In central Argentina, Cordoba features a mix of old colonial architecture and modern buildings, as well as a lively culture thanks to the city’s many colleges and universities.

The Jesuit Block is one of the city’s biggest draws and features one of the best-preserved European settlements in the area as well as the University of Cordoba, the fourth-oldest university in the Americas.

Museo de la Memoria also shows a darker side of the country’s history, preserving the memories of those lost in the “Dirty Wars” of the 1970s and 80s.

Argentina is also an amazing destination for foodies and wine enthusiasts.

Travelers flock to Argentina’s main wine-producing region, Mendoza , every year to tour the local vineyards and wineries, particularly during the harvesting season in March and April. You can easily tour the vineyards by bike and find tasting events any time of year.

The country is also well-known for its beef production, so carnivores will definitely find something they like here. You’ll find choripan (chorizo sausage in chimichurri sauce) on every corner in Buenos Aires and plenty of steakhouses throughout the country to satisfy your cravings.

Whether you’re chowing down at a family bodegon or a five-star restaurant, you’re bound to find something good.

Q: Is Argentina expensive for tourists?

Argentina is considered a pretty expensive destination . Years of high inflation and high prices can make it kind of difficult to find deals here.

The average traveler spends about $100 USD per day in Argentina on food, accommodations, transportation, and other travel expenses.

Still, there are plenty of ways to save money. Street vendors and smaller cafes often sell empanadas for less than $2 USD each and you can find some good lunch specials with a little research.

You can also save money by traveling in the off seasons (March through June and September through November), particularly when it comes to accommodations.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Argentina?

Buses are probably the most economical way to travel around Argentina. The country’s bus system is extensive and you can easily find routes running between major cities.

The coaches can also be quite luxurious , featuring air-conditioning, toilets, comfy seats, and sometimes even refreshments! If you’re taking an overnight trip, you can pay a little extra for a sleeper class ticket for an extra comfy ride.

Air travel is probably the quickest way to get from Point A to Point B in Argentina, considering the country’s size. Aerolíneas Argentinas offers tons of domestic flights, though there are several airlines operating in the country, including a few low-cost carriers.

You’ll want to book in advance, as flights can fill up quickly here. And be flexible with your plans if you’re flying — domestic flights in Argentina are subject to frequent delays and cancelations.

Q: Is Argentina safe for travel?

Argentina is considered a pretty safe destination . Violent crime is rare here, though muggings can happen in some cities.

Petty crime rates are higher, particularly when it comes to pickpocketing and purse snatching. You’ll want to keep any valuables out of view and stay aware of your surroundings to avoid pickpockets , particularly in major tourist areas.

You’ll also want to watch out for scams here. Never get into an unlicensed taxi and always double-check your change when paying in cash. And, as always, beware of any deals that seem too good to be true.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Argentina?

One major thing to know before going to Argentina is that the country is huge. This is not a destination you can completely cover in a short amount of time, so you’ll want to pick a few major places to visit if you’re on a tight schedule.

It’s also important to keep this in mind as you plan your travel between destinations. You may need to build in a day or two just to get from one place to another, so be sure to plan ahead.

Argentinians are also major night owls. Most businesses aren’t even open until 9 AM and everyone will know you’re a tourist if you show up for dinner at 6 PM.

If you’re into nightlife, you may find yourself out at the clubs until the wee hours of the morning. It’s best to try and take a break from your usual schedule and get on Argentinian time here. After all, you are on vacation!

It’s also important to note that the weather varies pretty widely here. You’ll find mild temperatures throughout the year in Buenos Aires, but winter temperatures drop to extreme lows in Patagonia.

The weather can also change quickly in the Andes region, so layer up and pack some rain gear if you’re exploring the mountains.

And don’t forget the SPF! The sun is strong throughout the country and protection is essential all year round.

Q: How many days should you spend in Argentina?

Most experts suggest spending 10-14 days in Argentina to visit different regions and get a good sense of the country. This will give you enough time to spend a few days in major destinations like Buenos Aires and travel between places without stress.

You may be able to fit one or two destinations in over a week’s time, but you’ll definitely need to plan a few more days for a more comprehensive trip.

Q: What is the best month to visit Argentina?

April through June are generally considered the best months to visit Argentina. These months make up the country’s autumn season where you’ll generally find mild temperatures and fewer crowds. You’ll also find great deals on accommodations during this time as most of the crowds have subsided.

Summer (December through March) is widely considered Argentina’s high season for tourism, so you’ll run into bigger crowds at popular attractions. The summer weather can also be quite warm and humid in certain parts of the country, making it a less comfortable time to visit.

Q: Do I need an Argentina travel visa?

Visitors from the United States , Canada , United Kingdom, Australia , Europe (European Union), and several other countries do not need a visa to enter Argentina. A valid passport will allow you to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Argentina International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Argentina Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Argentina.

Q: Where is Argentina?

Argentina is located in South America. It shares borders with Chile (south and west); Bolivia and Paraguay (north); and Brazil, Uruguay, and the Atlantic Ocean (east).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Argentina?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Argentina at larger establishments, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Argentina?

The tap water is generally safe to drink in Argentina, though it is always best to double-check with your hotel to be safe.

Q: What is the local currency in Argentina?

The local currency in Argentina is the Argentine peso ($).

What would you add to this Argentina travel guide?

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Best Places to Visit in Argentina - Your Ultimate Argentina Travel Guide

26 Best Places to Visit in Argentina – Your Ultimate Argentina Travel Guide

Is Argentina on your bucket list? Plan your ideal itinerary with our selection of the best places to visit in Argentina. 

Argentina is a country rich in culture and diverse landscapes. There is plenty to enjoy for tourists from different parts of the world. Vibrant cities like Buenos Aires offer casual travelers great nightlife and local food experiences. At the same time, mountains and waterfalls in regions like Patagonia keep the adventurers and explorers satisfied. 

As the second-largest country in South America, Argentina can leave you hard-pressed to choose which areas to cover. This article will give an overview of the most desirable cities, regions, and landmarks that should be on your list.

Table of Contents

26 Best Places To Visit in Argentina 

1. iguazu falls .

Helicopter View of Iguazu Falls Argentina Brazil

Iguazu waterfalls are located in the Iguazu National Park in northern Argentina on the border with Brazil and Paraguay. It is a combination of 275 different waterfalls joining together to form an amazing sight. These are also one of the tallest waterfalls in South America. 

The overall height of the highest fall is around 262 feet (80 meters). The best way to experience these waterfalls is by hiking to the top of the falls. The viewpoint will allow you to see 200 falls at once, a bucket list item in and of itself. 

2. Buenos Aires

The city of Buenos Aires has historical landmarks, amazing restaurants, and electric nightlife. One thing that we would highly recommend is the steaks. Argentineans love BBQ, which is widely seen in most cuisines. 

Besides food, there are plenty of places to enjoy. Some popular spots include Plaza de Mayo , El Ateneo Bookstore, Parque Lezama, Museum of fine arts, Casa Rosada, and Boca Juniors football stadium. 

3. Perito Moreno Glacier 

You can find the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier in Santa Cruz province’s Los Glaciares National Park just outside El Calafate, in the southern Patagonia region of Argentina. 

Cruise Boat Near Perito Morena Glacier in Patagonia Argentina Stock

When you visit the glacier , you can expect to see huge pieces of ice falling into Argentino Lake. You can have a great view from the boardwalk. 

4. Misiones 

Misiones is a province packed with amazing sites with numerous activities. Most people only visit this province for the Iguazu Falls, but there is much more for tourists to experience. You can visit tea and yerba mate plantations, the Mocona Falls , and Jesuit missions. 

5. Bariloche 

Bariloche is a city with a European vibe called the Switzerland of Argentina. The landscapes and wooden houses resemble the Swiss Alps. The atmosphere is quite peaceful. A nice walk through the streets to appreciate the stunning architecture and nearby mountains would be an ideal way of exploring the city. 

Tourists Skiing in Cerro Catedral Bariloche Argentina Stock

You can also enjoy skiing, hiking, rafting, mountain climbing, sailing, fishing, and much more. 

6. Rainbow Mountains and the Jujuy Villages 

San Salvador de Jujuy’s villages are located on the northern side of Salta. The area shares a border with Bolivia. You can land at Salta and take a scenic road trip to Jujuy. 

Once you arrive there, you will instantly get attracted to the stunning views of the Rainbow Mountains , also known as the Fourteen Colored Mountain or “’Hornacal.” The spectacular combination of colors attracts tourists worldwide, making the area crowded. The nearby villages of Purmamarca, Tilcara, Humahuaca, and Uquia also deserve a visit. 

7. Península Valdes 

Valdes Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage site located off the coast of Puerto Madryn. Most people stay in Puerto Madryn to experience this place , but we recommend staying in Puerto Piramides. Puerto Piramides is located within Peninsula Valdes, a dreamland for people who love marine life. 

Gentoo Penguins

You can spot many marine animals like penguins , whales, guanacos, and elephant seals.

8. El Chalten 

El Chalten is famous for its hiking activities . The trails are for beginners and experts. We recommend the Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres hike. 

9. Salta 

Salta is a vibrant colonial city with amazing churches and museums. The colonial architecture is an add-on to this city’s amazing activities. 

The Museo de Arqueologia de Alta Montana (MAAM) museum, Historical Center, and Plaza 9 de Julio are some of the most popular areas in the city. It is an ideal place for tourists who want to get closer to Argentine culture and traditions. 

10. Patagonia 

Patagonia is a must-visit if you want to experience the true beauty of nature. Patagonia has something for everyone–from deep blue lakes, glaciers, snow-covered mountains, and amazing wildlife. 

The best views in northern Patagonia are the Route of the Seven Lakes which starts from San Martin de los Andes and ends at Villa la Angostura. 

11. El Calafate 

El Calafate is often used as a base to visit the Perito Moreno glacier, but the city has many activities. We recommend Calafate berries and Patagonian lamb. You can taste berries in both ice cream and Alfajores form. 

12. Ibera Wetlands 

The Ibera wetlands are on a 5,019 square mile area (13,000 square kilometers). Many animals, such as capybaras, jaguars, armadillos, and monkeys, stroll around here. You can also spot various birds, such as Ibises, herons, parrots, flamingos, and hawks. 

The best way to explore the area is by taking a jeep tour or riding horseback. 

13. Cordoba 

Cordoba is the best place to experience central Argentina. The presence of the hills provides many hiking challenges. Cordoba is a real student city. It has a vibrant nightlife and wonderful architecture.

You can visit the nearby national park of El Morro to enjoy the views of incredible rivers, stunning waterfalls, and mesmerizing lakes. The park also offers kayaking and rappelling up and down the Sierras de Córdoba.

14. Ushuaia 

Train of the End of the World In Ushuaia Patagonia

Ushuaia is located in the Southern region of Argentina on the archipelago called Tierra del Fuego . It is a great attraction for people who love snow-covered mountains and wildlife. You can spot a lot of sea lions and penguins near the coast. 

On top of that, there are some great activities you can do in Ushuaia, such as kayaking and trekking. 

15. Mar de la Plata Beach 

Mar de la Plata is famous for its beach called Punta Mogotes. It is located around 248 mi (400 km) from Buenos Aires, making it a popular summer vacation spot for people from the city. 

Stunning Atlantic Ocean views and water sports will keep you busy at the beach for quite a while. Once you finish all the activities, you can try nearby restaurants with delicious local dishes such as choripan. 

16. Valle de la Luna

Valle de la Luna , also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a great place for people who want to experience the moon on Earth. The area is naturally formed so that it seems as if you are walking on a moon. 

17. Mendoza 

The capital of the Homonymous province, Mendoza, is a city with a laid-back vibe. The city is located in the foothills of the Andes, so that you will be welcomed by some of the most impressive landscapes in Argentina. 

Another thing that makes this place unique is its delicious cuisine and famous wine regions just a bus ride from the city. Escorihuela Gascon Winery, Parque San Martin, and Plaza Independencia are some of the city’s main highlights.

18. Quebrada de Humahuaca 

Quebrada de Humahuaca is an amazing place to visit. It combines Patagonia’s best views and Argentina’s fascinating cultural history, offering one of the most unique experiences. You can start from the village of Tilcara, where you can do rock climbing, hiking, and many other activities.

19. Aconcagua

Aconcagua Mountain is in the main mountain range in the Andean Cordillera. At 22,838 ft (6,961 m), it is the highest peak in the Americas and the highest in the Southern Hemisphere, providing an excellent opportunity for professional climbers and hikers to show off their skills. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking.

20. Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks 

Ischigualasto and Talampaya National Parks are for adventurers who love deserted areas. Here, you can find a marvelous collection of plant and animal fossils, some more than 200 million years old. You can also learn how animals and plants evolved to reach their current form.

21. La Pampa

If you love cowboys, there is no better place to visit than La Pampa, where you can learn about the Gaucho culture. You can also head to the nearby hills to learn how local people live, dance and eat. La Pampa is an ideal place to try Argentinean barbeque.

22. Jesuit Missions in Argentina 

You can find the Jesuit Mission in Argentina in Santa Ana, Nuestra Senora de Loreta, San Ignacio, and Santa Maria La Mayor towns. Jesuits helped the Guarani communities build these towns, and now they have become a great place for tourists to learn about Argentina’s history.

23. El Bolson

You can reach the magnificent El Bolson town just a couple of hours from Bariloche. The town is quite popular among backpackers due to the hiking opportunities. Only 20 to 30 minutes from the town, you can also visit Lago Puelo Lake , which offers visitors rafting and fishing opportunities. 

24. Trevelin and Alerces National Park

If you move south from Bariloche, you will reach the national park of Alerces. The park was named after a rare tree called Alerce. The main highlight of the place is its tulips field. Visit here in October to see the beauty of the flowers with the Andes in the background. 

25. San Juan and La Rioja 

San Juan and La Rioja are perfect places to avoid large crowds. You can get memorable sightseeing and outdoor adventures at Valle de la Luna and Talampaya National Park in these adjoining provinces, but there is much more for explorers. Try the excellent local wines in both provinces’ numerous wine regions. 

26. Salinas Grandes Salt Flats

Salinas Grandes Salt Flats are between Jujuy and Salta. You can take a day trip from Salta to get here. While often overshadowed by the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia , the views of this place are ideal for capturing some great pictures. 

How To Get Around Argentina

Smiling Woman Leaning On Her Suitcase

  • Traveling by Plane 

Traveling by plane is the quickest way to move to Argentina, but it is expensive. There are a few airlines that dominate airplane service . Aerolineas Argentina, LAN, and LADE are the best services for traveling around Argentina. 

  • Traveling by Bus 

Most tourists prefer to travel by bus, which is why it is believed to be the most convenient mode of travel. Many great private companies, such as TAC and Cruz del Sur, provide amazing bus services throughout Argentina. 

  • Renting a Car

Renting a car isn’t necessary to explore many popular areas, but some, like Patagonia, Mendoza, and Tierra Del Fuego, will ask you to rent one. Renting a manual transmission sedan would cost 7,989 Argentine pesos (35 US dollars) to 10,272 ARS ($45) daily. 

  • Traveling by Taxi

There are two types of taxis that you can book in Argentina: regular urban taxis and minicab radio taxis. Urban taxis can be found on the streets; however, minicab radio taxis must be booked through a central booking booth.

5 Expert Tips for Enjoying Your Trip to Argentina

Follow these five expert tips to get the most out of your Argentina visit. 

  • Avoid bad neighborhoods like La Boca, Villa 31, San Vicente, etc. 
  • Women should avoid walking on the streets alone at night. 
  • Argentines prefer late nights to early mornings, so don’t expect restaurants to open early. 
  • With the current dollar blue rate, wire yourself money through Western Union and avoid using ATMs at all. With the dollar blue rate, you’ll get almost double the regular exchange rate, making traveling in Argentina much cheaper.
  • The best time to visit Argentina is between November and February. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Places To Visit in Argentina

Is argentina a good tourist destination.

Argentina is a great place to enjoy your vacation. The country is equipped with amazing metropolitan cities like Buenos Aires and the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. Every other site offers a unique experience to its visitor.

What Is the Number One Tourist Attraction in Argentina?

Argentina has many tourist attractions, from natural wonders like Iguazu Falls and Perito Moreno Glacier to cultural landmarks like Buenos Aires’ Recoleta Cemetery and the historic town of Salta. However, according to many, Argentina’s number one tourist attraction is the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park.

What Is the Most Beautiful Part of Argentina?

The Patagonia region of Argentina is widely considered one of the country’s most beautiful parts, thanks to its breathtaking natural landscapes. Patagonia offers a diverse range of stunning scenery, from towering mountains to glacial lakes and windswept plains. Visitors to the region can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing, all while taking in the incredible beauty of this remote and rugged area.

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

While Buenos Aires may be Argentina’s most popular destination, there are many more areas and landmarks to explore, as you can see in this article.

Whether you’d head straight to Patagonia for some trekking adventure, go bar-hopping in Buenos Aires or sip Mate with fellow travelers, or bask in the sun on Mar de la Plata beach, Argentina, with its various tourist spots, will not disappoint.

May you have enjoyed considering this article to narrow your Argentinian travel choices. If you are up to an extended South American adventure, check out other articles:

  • The Guide To Ecuador’s Exciting Swing at the End of the World ,
  • The Best Travel Guide To The Amazing Rainbow Mountain Peru

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.

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23 Top Tourist Attractions in Argentina

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With glorious landscapes featuring mountain peaks, jungle forests, tropical beaches, thriving vineyards, and alpine lakes, Argentina is more widely known for its rich culture, history, competitive football, and as the birthplace of tango.

Argentina’s capital city, Buenos Aires, is a popping tourist destination brimming with social activities like nightclubs and restaurants. It’s also rich with important historical sites and museums, founded in 1536 by Pedro de Mendoza, a Spanish explorer. And that’s just Buenos Aires!

Argentina boasts centuries of impactful history and prevalent culture waiting to be seen in person, like the stunning Iglesia San Francisco in Salta. And that’s not including all the natural marvels that draw in millions of visitors to Argentina, like Iguazu Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

From trekking across glaciers to witnessing the sensuality and skill of tango dancing up close and personal, there are so much things to do to in Argentina! It’s not just the overall excellence. It’s the extreme variety of tourist attractions in Argentina that keeps visitors coming back for more.

23. Volcan Lanin

Volcan Lanin

On the border region between Argentina and Chile is Volcan Lanin, a volcano that is wildly popular with hikers and rock climbers.

The truly adventurous can seek permission at the Lanín national park office, show proof of supplies, and then trek to the summit on an often snow-capped route.

Alternatively, a short walk of under an hour can take visitors to the Volcán Lanín’s Cara Norte, or north face, which also offers views of the lake called Lago Tromen and the surrounding forest.

22. Quebrada de Cafayate

Quebrada de Cafayate

Quebrada de Cafayate is a spectacular canyon in the Valles Calchaquíes region. Sandstone, unusual rock formations and bold colors make this is a true bucket-list item for travelers.

Organized tours allow for hiking or driving along the Río de las Conchas, traveling into the gorge and the heart of the canyon. In the background, the Sierras de Carahuasi are a bold contrast, creating picture-perfect vistas.

Look for landmarks like the iconic monolith known as El Obelisco, the vivid rock formation castles known as Los Castillos and the chalk quarry, which is home to a unusual rock formation called El Fraile, or the monk.

21. Tigre Delta

Tigre Delta

Just north of Buenos Aires is the city of Tigre, a destination that serves as a hub for the surrounding delta. While the city offers an extensive museum, great shops and a bustling outdoor market, the real appeal is escaping Tigre and exploring the river delta by boat.

Book a spot on a guided tour, or just hop on one of the local water taxis, and see the local homes along the canals, the many floating means of transport used in the area and even purchase goods from the floating vendors who ply their trade right in the river.

20. Recoleta Cemetery

Recoleta Cemetery

One of the most popular attractions in Buenos Aires is Recoleta Cemetery. The cemetery dates back to the early 18th century, and it contains nearly 5,000 vaults.

Architectural features abound at the Recoleta Cemetery, including countless statues, Doric columns and mausoleums. What makes the cemetery so fascinating, however, is who is laid to rest there.

Some of the tombs in Recoleta belong to people like Eva Peron, Armando Bo, José Figueroa Alcorta and virtually every Argentinian of political or cultural note from the past two centuries.

19. Talampaya National Park

Talampaya National Park

In La Rioja Province is Talampaya National Park, a large preserve that protects some of the country’s most important archeological and paleontological sites

Approximately 250 years ago, dinosaurs roamed in this region, and fossil remains found in the park confirm that fact.

For those without an interest in archeology, the dry bed of the Talampaya River, the rich red of the gorge, the unusually shaped rocks and the magnificent scenery are enough reason to visit this amazing tourist attractions in Argentina.

18. Iglesia San Francisco, Salta

Iglesia San Francisco, Salta

The historically significant and architecturally exquisite Iglesia San Francisco is located in Salta, which borders Bolivia and Paraguay.

One of the biggest tourist attractions in Salta, the Iglesia San Francisco, is a Catholic temple and convent filled with breathtaking displays and designs, like the marble altar made in Cadiz in 1789.

It features the tallest bell tower in South America, a church library preserving more than 40,000 documents and editions of historical importance and value, and a church museum with paintings dating back to the 17th century.

A National Historic Monument, the Iglesia San Francisco dates back to 1625. It houses many valuable works to peer over, including the image of Our Lady of the Snows and a sculpture by Felipe de Rivera, San Francisco.

17. Cerro Catedral

Cerro Catedral

A mountain found in Nahuel Huapi National Park in Patagonia, Cerro Catedral is known for its world-class skiing opportunities and the breathtaking scenery of Nahuel Huapi Lake.

It is home to the largest ski center in South America, where people travel from all over to experience the winter wonderland of Cerro Catedral. The mountain is perfect for camping, rock climbing, and hiking during the summer, though more people visit Cerro Catedral during the winter, despite the chill.

The mountain achieved its namesake thanks to the granite spires that rest at its peaks, resembling a gothic church. A magical essence is exuded from Cerro Catedral, where snow covers its mystical forests and sprawling terrain, drawing in visitors who return year after year.

16. Mar del Plata Beaches

Mar del Plata Beaches

South of Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is famous as a premier beach resort destination. After Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is Argentina’s most visited city, thanks to its refreshing Atlantic coastline and favorable beaches.

La Perla beach is one of the best beaches in Mar del Plata. It caters to a lively crowd during peak months, with plenty of space to have fun. There are nearby rental options to snag an umbrella or beach chair, with easy access to restaurants and bars along the strip of beach.

To find the party, and the best waves, head to Playa Grande. This beach in Mar del Plata is excellent for beginners to learn how to surf and ride fast waves or watch local surfers ride the waves.

As a party beach, it does get crowded during the summer at Playa Grande, where locals and tourists join together to have a great time and hit up the many beach clubs nearby.

15. Cueva de las Manos

Cueva de las Manos

This archeological site is an essential destination for anyone who appreciates art or history. The Cueva de las Manos includes a magnificent collection of prehistoric cave paintings that were completed 9,000 years ago by ancestors of the Tehuelche people who inhabit Patagonia and the Pinturas River Canyon.

The cave is known for its iconic stenciled outlines of overlapping hands, but it also includes painted hunting scenes and symbolic pictographs.

14. Aconcagua

Aconcagua

The highest mountain in the Americas, Cerro Aconcagua, is situated in the Andes mountain range in Mendoza Province.

Aconcagua is the second highest mountain (after Everest) in the list of the Seven Summits; the highest peaks on the seven continents. It’s where people go to do the near-impossible made possible – climb the highest peak in South America.

There’s a very short climbing season for Aconcagua, and this challenging feat is not one to take lightly. Climbing Aconcagua is one of the most difficult things to do in Argentina. Yet, the adventure to the top of Aconcagua is one you’ll never forget, and the views are undeniably rewarding!

13. Quebrada de Humahuaca

Quebrada de Humahuaca

Found north of Buenos Aires in Jujuy, colorful Quebrada de Humahuaca is one of the must-visit places in Argentina that you shouldn’t miss!

Dug by the Rio Grande, the Quebrada de Humahuaca was a route for the Incas, a passage point for colonizers, and a commercial passageway during the viceroyalty period.

With more than 10,000 years of history paired with unique multicolored mountains, people come from around the world to hike Quebrada de Humahuaca’s trails and visit its colonial villages.

One of the most well-known of these is the colonial town of Humahuaca. Founded in the late 1500s, the town acted as a popular trading post. It features cobblestone streets, a striking clock tower, archaeological ruins, local craft stalls, and the Monumento de la Independencia, memorializing the heroes of the War of Independence.

12. Street Tango

Street Tango

The best place to experience street tango is in Buenos Aires!

Embodying the sensuality and vigor of Buenos Aires, tango is a unique dance style that requires years of practice, skill, physical prowess, and great improvisational talent to make it flow seamlessly. Having originated in Argentina in the 18th century, in the streets of Buenos Aires, tango has ties to African-Argentine heritage.

Milongas, places where Argentine tango is danced, decorate Buenos Aires, some of which go from night until dawn breaks the sky. A milonga can take place on the streets, in a bar, or at a neighborhood club, each offering its unique feel and experience.

For example, the neighborhood of La Boca is known to have street tango and Caiminito, a vibrant street museum, frequently hosts street performers, many of which encourage spectators to join.

11. Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park, found on the island of Tierra del Fuego, is famed for its stunning landscapes of mountains, glaciers, forests, coastline, and lakes.

Nearly 90 species of bird, including the Andean Condor and Patagonian woodpecker, call Tierra del Fuego National Park home, along with other eye-catching animal species, like the South American sea lions and albatrosses.

Various trails travel through the park, allowing for outstanding wildlife watching and scenic hiking opportunities of cascading waterfalls and glacial landscapes.

From Ushuaia , a resort town on the Tierra del Fuego archipelago nicknamed the “End of the World”, is prime access to day hikes and cruises to some of the best parts of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

For example, on a short boat trip from Ushuaia, you can get up close and personal with penguins and see the only colony of King Penguins found outside the Antarctic subcontinent.

10. Ibera Wetlands

Ibera Wetlands

The largest protected area of Argentina, the Ibera Wetlands, expanded southwest of Ituzaingo to Chavarria.

Home to an abundantly thriving ecosystem, the wetlands are prevalently full of marshes, swamps, lagoons, and streams to feed and provide for the many plants and animals that call it home.

In the Ibera Wetlands, visitors can look for boisterous howler monkeys, playful giant otters, and the largest living rodent, the capybara.

Exploring the Ibera Wetlands and Ibera National Park can be done in different ways, from horseback riding to kayaking. Or, for more thrilling adventures, reserve a flight over the wetlands or a nocturnal safari drive powered by 4WD vehicles to experience the Ibera Wetlands at night.

Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a blast traveling through the Ibera Wetlands, a paradise for over 4,000 species of plants and animals!

9. Mendoza Wine Regions

Mendoza Wine Regions

In the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, in the northern-central region of Argentina, the Mendoza Wine Regions boasts more than a thousand wineries waiting to be visited for a tasting or two!

Three main wine regions are located in Mendoza: Uco Valley, Maipu Valley, and Lujan de Cuyo. Accounting for nearly two-thirds of Argentina’s wine production, the Mendoza wine region is the heart of Argentina’s wine-making endeavors. The vineyards are planted at impressively high altitudes, with mountain rivers, and an intricate irrigation system dating back to the 16th century, acting as sources of irrigation.

The region’s boom in the 19th century transformed the Mendoza Wine Region into one of the largest wine-growing producers in the world.

If you’re in Mendoza, it would be remiss not to try the wine it’s known for! Experience the numerous family-owned wineries, tour the vineyards, and take your time traveling around the Mendoza Wine Regions for a wine-tasting time!

8. Monte Fitz Roy

Monte Fitz Roy

Located in southern Patagonia near the Chilean border, Monte Fitz Roy is one of the most iconic points in the Andes. This granite mountain is surrounded by glacial lakes and dramatic ice fields.

The rugged terrain and sheer rock faces are beloved by mountain climbers for the extreme challenge and by photographers for the extreme beauty.

Those who don’t know the name may recognize its sharp silhouette from the logo of the clothing brand Patagonia. It was first climbed in 1952 by French alpinists Lionel Terray and Guido Magnone.

7. Staying on an Estancia

Staying on an Estancia

Dozens of estancias, or rural estates that were once the private getaways of wealthy families have opened their doors to the public. Many of these country hotels offer a día de campo (country day) that’s ideal for day-trippers.

After breakfast visitors typically follow the estancia’s resident gaucho into the fields for a morning horse ride. Then it’s back to the farmhouse for a barbecue and a quick hammock siesta before hitting the trails again.

6. Beagle Channel

Beagle Channel

Located in the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago between Chile and Argentina, the Beagle Channel connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. It is one of the most important waterways and one of three navigable routes that link the two oceans. Other navigable routes are the Drake Passage to the south and the Straits of Magellan to the north.

The Beagle Channel was named after the ship HMS Beagle, which took its first hydrographic survey from 1826-1830 of the coasts of southern South America. The channel forms part of the border between Argentina and Chile, separating the large island of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego from other islands, like Hoste and Londonderry.

One of the most popular things to do in Beagle Channel is wildlife watching with opportunities for rare endemic dolphins and pygmy right whales. On a cruise on the Beagle Channel, visitors are taken around Glacier Alley, Cape Horn, by Isla de Pajaros and Isla de Lobos for sightings of sea lions, and past the Faro Les Eclaireurs, a landmark favorite red-and-white lighthouse that is still in operation.

5. Valdes Peninsula

Valdes Peninsula

This remote Patagonian peninsula is an excellent place to see a phenomenal variety of marine mammals. Depending on the time of year, the peninsula attracts a great number of penguins, sea lions, seals and orcas.

Whales can be found in the waters located between the Valdes Peninsula and the Patagonian mainland between May and December. Visitors may also spot foxes, guanacos, rheas, maras, shorebirds and other endemic species on the sparsely populated landmass.

The peninsula’s varied geography supports many colonies of protected animals. This diversity makes it one of the best destinations in South America for viewing endemic wildlife.

4. Caminito, Buenos Aires

Caminito, Buenos Aires

The Caminito, or little path, is a famous colorful street museum in Buenos Aires. It is known for its cultural significance and ties to the renowned tango composed by Juan de Dios Filiberto, “Caminito.”

The open-air street museum is found in La Boca, brimming with immigrant dwellings. In the 1950s, local artist Benito Quinquela Martin used abandoned homes as his canvas. This act rejuvenated the area, inspiring the tango of its namesake and attracting visitors from all over the world to stroll its streets, now filled with artists, performers, and tango dancers showing off their crafts.

Stroll through Caminito to see tango dancers show off their hard work and talent. Buy unique trinkets and souvenirs at bustling stalls. Then, sit back and people watch or observe the numerous performers of the culturally rich Caminito.

See also: Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

3. Route of the Seven Lakes

Route of the Seven Lakes

The name for the scenic section of national route 40 is the Route of the Seven Lakes. It lies between Villa La Angostura in the Neuquen Province and San Martin de Los Andes. This famously picturesque road winds through awe-inspiring landscapes of tranquil lakes, colorful forests, and imposing mountain peaks.

When vacation time is short, the Route of the Seven Lakes is the perfect opportunity to peek into the refreshing landscapes along this heavenly route. For a one-day road trip, head out from San Carlos de Bariloche . Take Ruta 40, one of the longest roads in the world that begins in the south of Argentina and travels up to the border of Bolivia to the north.

There are enough activities, including national parks and charming alpine villages, to spend weeks exploring the Route of the Seven Lakes. But for this route specifically, you’ll only need a day to see all seven of the lakes, paired with breathtaking mountain and forest backdrops, without hopping out of the car!

2. Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the most favored attractions of Argentina, the Perito Moreno Glacier is an ice glacier found in Los Glaciares National Park in Santa Cruz Province. It is the longest glacier in the continental movement of the world, the third largest in Argentina and it’s still growing!

Perito Moreno Glacier was named after a 19th-century explorer and pioneer. The glacier towers over blue glacial waters with accessible viewing platforms for visitors to overlook the glacier and Lake Argentino, fed by Perito Moreno Glacier, at a safe distance. However, wait long enough, and you’ll see a chunk of ice fracture and crash into the water below.

For an exciting and up-close thrill, boat tours take visitors up the Perito Moreno Glacier’s wall, while glacier hikes appeal for an experience many can’t say they’ve ever done. The crack of the ice as you trek along its sheer length, with crampons on to walk along the glacier for slip-free travel, makes for a bucket list check-off.

1. Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls

Producing the largest waterfall system and broken waterfall in the world, the Iguazu Falls are found on the border of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Parana.

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Iguazu Falls consists of a collection of waterfalls fed by the Iguazu River. Drawing in millions of visitors annually, the falls are a stunning natural attraction that inspires awe, whether seen in pictures, videos, or in person.

There are numerous boardwalks, bridges, and pathways presenting optimal scenic viewpoints of Iguazu Falls for visitors.

For an exhilarating adventure, book a jet boat tour over the rushing water of Iguazu Falls, into the Devil’s Throat, and through tiers of Iguazu Falls. Or, reserve a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view of Iguazu Falls and Iguazu National Park for captivating perspectives of the natural wonder.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Argentina

Map of Tourist Attractions in Argentina

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Reader interactions.

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September 18, 2018 at 11:30 am

A very good list of things to do in Argentina. It really gave me a sneak peak of what all to see.

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May 10, 2017 at 11:11 am

Such a wonderful country

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October 24, 2016 at 11:26 am

Visited Argentina for a month, seen these places but I wouldn’t go there a second time because of the difficulty and the harassment you face in getting an Argentinian Visa from India. Would go to Chile (for the second time) for my Antarctica Tour.

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August 4, 2014 at 5:18 pm

Oh dude, is really complex to decide which place is better than another.

There’s so many magical places i’ve known here traveling. Take a look for example at “La Cumbrecita” in Córdoba, it’s amazing.

Or “El cerro de 7 colores” in purmamarca, or the Salinas!

It’s hard, but i really love those places you said as well…

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July 22, 2014 at 3:04 am

It’s difficult to “resume” the tourist attractions in Argentina. Like Roger and Corina said, Argentina has beautiful landscapes and incredible cultural practices in the northern provinces: in Jujuy there are colorful mountains in many places like Humahuaca or Purmamarca. Also, Córdoba and San Luis provinces are perfect for travelers.

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March 4, 2014 at 8:07 pm

By joining the two previous comments, I would add a beautiful place in Argentina that was not named. I think it’s inevitable the valley of the moon.

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February 27, 2014 at 10:04 pm

What is missing in both your listings about Argentina, is the whole region around the city of Salta. Be it for the beautiful canyons such as Quebrada de Cafayate or (especially!) The altiplano (highlands) towards the border with Chile, it’s a most spectacular region (check out the Ojos del Mar for example).

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March 15, 2012 at 11:12 am

Very good list. I would personally add two places: The Pampa region in the province of Buenos Aires, a huge open country space where crop fields and cattle are the main but not sole landscape. Tourism here is best done by visiting and staying at the “estancias” -local countryhouses which can give a real taste of the country life there. And the Salta and Jujuy region in nothern Argentina. This is a place of colorful stone moutains and extremely picturesque little towns scattered over the landscape. A very beautiful region as well. Anyway, great selection of places!

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The Fairytale Traveler

Argentina Travel Guide, Getting There, Hotels, Best Places

Argentina Travel Guide

Welcome to the ultimate Argentina travel guide! If you’re planning a trip to South America and want to explore a country known for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, Argentina should be at the top of your list.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best places to visit in Argentina, provide tips on how to get there, suggest where to stay, and offer insights into creating an unforgettable Argentina itinerary.

So, let’s dive into this Argentina travel guide and discover the wonders that await you!

Argentina travel guide

Argentina Travel Guide – Exploring the Land of Wonders Argentina

Argentina is a land of diversity and natural wonders, offering something for every traveler. From the cosmopolitan capital of Buenos Aires to the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and the majestic Iguazu Falls, this country is a treasure trove of captivating experiences.

Best Places to Visit in Argentina

The options are abundant when it comes to the best places to visit in Argentina. One cannot miss the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, renowned for its tango culture, architectural marvels , and lively atmosphere.

Buenos Aires, Argentina Travel Guide

Spend your days exploring the colorful neighborhoods of La Boca and San Telmo, immersing yourself in the art scene of Palermo, or wandering through the historic Recoleta Cemetery. Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s vibrant nightlife and savor the delicious Argentine cuisine in local restaurants and cafes.

Another must-visit destination is the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe of its power and beauty. Be prepared to be amazed as you witness the mighty cascades plunging into a lush tropical setting.

El Chaltén, Argentina Travel Guide

Take a boat ride to get up close, feel the mist on your skin, or explore the surrounding trails for different vantage points. The Iguazu Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true highlight of any trip to Argentina.

For nature enthusiasts, the region of Patagonia is a dream come true. Explore the pristine beauty of Los Glaciares National Park, where you can witness the massive Perito Moreno Glacier, a majestic ice formation that seems to defy gravity.

Hike through the Fitz Roy mountain range in El Chaltén or embark on a wildlife-watching adventure in Peninsula Valdes, where you can spot whales, penguins, and sea lions. Patagonia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and offers breathtaking landscapes that will take your breath away.

Argentina travel guide

Argentina Vacation – How to Get There

Getting to Argentina is easier than ever, with numerous international flights connecting major cities worldwide. The primary gateway is Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires, which serves as the main entry point for most international travelers.

Many airlines offer direct flights to Buenos Aires from major cities in North America, Europe, and other parts of South America.

Once you arrive, you’ll find a well-developed transportation network consisting of domestic flights, buses, and trains that allow you to conveniently explore various regions of the country. Domestic flights are a popular option for quickly covering long distances, especially if you’re planning to visit Buenos Aires and Patagonia.

Companies like Aerolíneas Argentinas and LATAM offer regular flights to major cities within the country.

Buses are another reliable and cost-effective mode of transportation in Argentina. The extensive bus network connects cities and towns throughout the country, offering a comfortable and affordable way to travel.

If you have the time and want to enjoy scenic routes, taking a bus can be a great way to soak in the beautiful landscapes as you move from one destination to another.

Trains are also available, primarily connecting Buenos Aires with surrounding areas. The Train to the Clouds in northwest Argentina is a famously scenic journey that takes you through stunning landscapes and high-altitude regions.

Argentina Itinerary

Argentina Itinerary – Crafting Your Perfect Trip

Creating an Argentina itinerary is exciting, as the country presents endless possibilities. Whether you have a few days or weeks, you can design a trip that suits your preferences and time constraints.

Start by exploring the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, and indulging in its delectable cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to catch a tango show, a quintessential Argentine experience.

From Buenos Aires, venture into the picturesque landscapes of Patagonia, where you can hike among breathtaking mountains, visit glacier parks and witness wildlife in their natural habitats.

Argentina Travel Guide

El Calafate is an excellent base for exploring the Perito Moreno Glacier, while El Chaltén is the gateway to the famous Fitz Roy mountain range. Plan your hikes, pack your outdoor gear, and prepare for an adventure in this remarkable region.

No Argentina itinerary is complete without a visit to the mesmerizing Iguazu Falls. Located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, these waterfalls are a true natural wonder.

Spend a day exploring the national park, walking along the trails, and taking in the awe-inspiring views from various lookout points. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a boat tour that will bring you close to the falls, allowing you to feel their power firsthand.

If you’re a wine lover, include Mendoza’s wine regions in your itinerary. Known for its Malbec wines, Mendoza offers beautiful vineyards, wine tastings, and breathtaking mountain views.

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the vineyards, indulge in wine pairing experiences, and savor the flavors of Argentina’s renowned wines.

Best hotels in Argentina

Where to stay – Best Hotels in Argentina

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial to make the most of your Argentina travel experience. Fortunately, Argentina offers many options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

When it comes to the best hotels in Argentina, you will find many!

In Buenos Aires, you can find elegant hotels in the upscale neighborhoods of Recoleta and Palermo. These areas are known for their boutique hotels that offer a blend of luxury and charm.

Recoleta, in particular, is home to many iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, making it a desirable location for tourists.

Mendoza Argentina

Patagonia offers a unique range of accommodation options, from cozy lodges nestled amidst picturesque landscapes to eco-friendly ecolodges that provide an immersive experience in nature. El Calafate and El Chaltén are the main hubs for exploring the region, and you’ll find various lodging options in both places to suit different preferences.

In the wine regions of Mendoza, enchanting vineyard resorts and boutique hotels are the perfect choice for wine enthusiasts. Imagine waking up to stunning views of vineyards and mountains, enjoying wine tastings right on your doorstep, and indulging in gourmet dining experiences.

Argentina Travel Guide

Argentina Travel Budget – Making the Most of Your Trip

Traveling in Argentina can be affordable, provided you plan your budget wisely. Accommodation, transportation, and food costs vary significantly depending on the region and your preferred comfort level.

By following some money-saving tips, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends. These options offer cost-effective rates and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers and share experiences.

Sampling local street food is another way to save money while enjoying the flavors of Argentina. Empanadas, choripán (a delicious Argentine sausage sandwich), and medialunas (croissants) are popular street food choices that won’t dent your wallet.

Public transportation is generally affordable in Argentina, and utilizing buses or trains can help you save on transportation costs. However, domestic flights are worth considering if you’re short on time or want the convenience of getting around quickly.

Keep an eye out for discounted fares from sites like 12Go and airline promotions.

Researching and pre-booking tours and activities can help you secure the best deals and avoid unnecessary expenses. Many attractions offer online bookings with discounted rates, so take advantage of these options to save money and plan your itinerary efficiently.

Argentina Travel Guide

Argentina is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable travel experience. This comprehensive Argentina travel guide gives you all the information you need to plan your trip.

From the best places to visit in Argentina to tips on crafting your itinerary, managing your travel budget, and choosing suitable accommodation, you’re well-equipped to embark on your adventure.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, marvel at the natural wonders of Patagonia, witness the power of Iguazu Falls, and indulge in the flavors of Argentina’s renowned cuisine. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Argentina has something to offer everyone.

So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this mesmerizing South American gem.

Remember, an Argentina travel guide is just the beginning of your journey. The real magic happens when you step foot in this captivating country and experience its wonders firsthand. Safe travels, and may your Argentina adventure be filled with unforgettable moments!

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Christa Thompson is the Founder and Chief Editor of The Fairytale Traveler. She started traveling the world in 2003 when she attended a summer abroad study at the University of Cambridge in England. Since then, her wanderlust has been fierce. Her three passions in life are her son, traveling, and being creative. The Fairytale Traveler brand gives Christa the opportunity to do all of these things and to live intentionally every day. "It's never too late to believe in what you love and to pursue your dreams." -Christa Thompson

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Argentina

Heather Jasper

From exploring Patagonia and the Iguazú Falls to tasting Malbec and tango dancing, experience the best that Argentina has to offer.

Argentina’s landscapes cover just about everything South America has to offer, and its cultural heritage is just as diverse. Stretching from the Andean altiplano down to the icy lakes of Patagonia, with jungle, wetlands, Pampa, and cosmopolitan cities in-between, Argentina has something for everyone. Art and music lovers will delight in the museums, street art, and tango of Buenos Aires. The Andes Mountains provide everything an outdoor enthusiast could ask for, and the wildlife spans macaws and vicuña in the north to penguins and whales in the south. There’s no lack of places to visit in Argentina, natural wonders to visit, and cultural experiences to add to your bucket list. Here are the top 25 you just can’t miss while you are in Argentina.

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argentina travel locations

Listen to the Thunder of Glaciers Calving

The Perito Moreno glacier near the town of El Calafate advances over seven feet every day, making it one of the most exciting places to visit in Argentina. It’s also the most accessible glacier in the country, with viewing platforms that put you right next to the wall of ice as it groans and crackles, audibly and constantly moving forward. You’re almost guaranteed to see the glacier calving when large chunks of ice intermittently break off and plunge into the milky turquoise waters below. Watch the glacier closely because the thundering sound usually arrives after the new iceberg has already splashed down. For the ultimate up-close-and-personal experience, you can go trekking with crampons over the ice. Boat tours can also get you close to Perito Moreno, where you’ll float among the icebergs. Warm up after a day on the ice with a bowl of locro , a traditional Argentine stew that has meat, beans, corn, and pumpkin.

Get Soaked by Iguazú Falls

These tremendous waterfalls, which separate Argentina from Brazil and Paraguay, make the world’s most spectacular border crossing and a top Argentina landmark. You can view the largest waterfall system in the world from all three countries; however, the experience from Argentina’s turf is certainly the wildest and wettest. Here, you can walk over wooden platforms to the Garganta del Diablo, the “devil’s throat,” and peer into this enormous cascade, which effectively feels like an open-air shower. Not wet enough? Get on one of the speedboat rides, which take you on a tour from the much wetter perspective at the bottom of the falls.

Related:  Iguaçu Falls 101: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting the Most Beautiful Waterfall on Earth

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Join football fans at la bombonera.

Lionel Messi was already a hero, and fútbol (soccer) ruled Argentina long before they won the 2022 World Cup. Murals of Messi adorn every town, and the national team is spoken of with reverence and pride. Nationally, there is no greater football rivalry than between two teams in Buenos Aires: La Boca and River Plate. One of the most famous places in Argentina is La Bombonera stadium in the football-mad neighborhood of La Boca . Get a real taste of popular culture at a fútbol match, and if you manage to see La Boca and River Plate at La Bombonera, you can call yourself an honorary Porteño.

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Go Winery Hopping

Mendoza is the most popular place to sample Argentina’s exquisite wines and with 800 wineries in the region, you can easily spend weeks here. However, there are ten regions where Argentina produces wine, from Jujuy in the north to Rio Negro in the south. Pair your winery tours with salt flats, and Inca ruins in the north or whale watching and trekking in the south. You’ll still want to start in Mendoza, then visit other popular wine locations in Argentina like Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo, or the Uco Valley. Make sure to book yourself in for at least one vintners’ meal, where different courses are artfully paired with local wines, including plenty of Malbec. Great lunch spots include the trendy Casa El Enemigo in Maipu, the historic Lagarde in Lujan, and the futuristic Bodega Monteviejo in the Uco Valley.

Get Splashed by a Whale in Puerto Pirámides

Peninsula Valdés is famous for whale watching and is one of Argentina’s biggest tourist attractions. The best spot on the peninsula to see the whales that come to breed and raise their young in Puerto Pirámides. June through November, visitors venture into Golfo Nuevo (New Gulf), where whales frequently surface next to the boats or even breech nearby, splashing the boats as they land back in the water. While the Southern Right Whale is the biggest draw, you will probably also see orcas, penguins, seals, and sea lions. Come towards the end of whale season, and you’re more likely to see penguins who flock to Playa Unión on Peninsula Valdes from October through March.

Related:  The 10 Coolest Animals You’ll Encounter in Patagonia

Dance the Tango in San Telmo

San Telmo is one of the oldest and most charming parts of Buenos Aires, lined with cobbled streets, antique shops, and artistic cafes. But this bohemian barrio is also home to several tango parlors. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Argentina, you can’t go wrong with tango lessons! To watch Argentina’s infamously seductive dance , try El Viejo Almacén , Bar Sur , and the Centro Cultural Torquato Tasso . During the day, you’ll see outdoor tango performances in the main square, Plaza Dorrego, with the best shows on Sundays.

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Feast on a Traditional Argentine Asado

Argentina may be most famous for quality steak, but a true Argentine asado has three courses of meat, with steak as the third course. Asado restaurants usually have a grill near the door, so you can admire the variety of meat on offer. The first course of an asado is a variety of sausages, which are just as often pork as they are beef. The second course is sweetmeats, including liver and kidneys. Make it through all that, and you’ll be rewarded with a big juicy steak at the end. Don’t underestimate the size of each of these courses. This country has an average annual beef consumption of 260 pounds per capita .

Related:  The 10 Best Steakhouses in Buenos Aires

Ride With the Gauchos

The gaucho is the Argentine cowboy—a rider of horses, a worker of cattle, and a free spirit. You’ll find gauchos riding on horseback throughout Argentina through the estancias and farmland, from Patagonia and the flat Pampa to the high-elevation Andes Mountains and the rivers and plains between. Getting into the saddle with a few gauchos is one of the wildest activities to do in Argentina and the best way to experience the national obsession with horseback riding. Afterward, you’ll find it hard not to don a boina , a poncho, and a pair of alpargatas . Mendoza, Salta , Cordoba, Patagonia, and San Antonio de Areca are major equestrian regions.

Follow Darwin’s Voyage Through the Beagle Channel

The Beagle Channel is named for the ship that Charles Darwin sailed on during his famous expedition in the 1830s. From Ushuaia, several tour companies offer navigation in the Beagle Channel, where you will see penguins, sea lions, fur seals, and lots of marine birds. Tours visit one of the most literary locations in Argentina, the lighthouse from Jules Verne’s book The Lighthouse at the End of the World , which still goes by the French name Les Éclaireurs . The most popular island in the channel is Hammer Island, where you can see nesting pairs of Gentoo, King, and Magellanic Penguins. If you want even more excitement, sail around the infamous Cape Horn. Be sure to go when there’s a window of calm weather, as this is one of the most dangerous places in the world, with over 800 shipwrecks–so far.

Get Your Passport Stamped at the 'End of the World'

Tierra del Fuego National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in Patagonia, where you can walk through coastal forests and spot dolphins, flightless vapor ducks, and other marine wildlife. Sign up for a canoa tour, where you’ll paddle canoes or rafts from the Argentina side of Lago Roca through a maze of islands to Lapataia Bay and the Beagle Channel. Fondly called the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is one of the most famous places in Argentina. When you get there, don’t miss the opportunity to get your official “Fin del Mundo,” or End of the World, stamp on your passport from Ushuaia’s tourism office. If you’re just back from your bucket list Antarctic cruise , you can also get Antarctica stamps.

Marvel at the Mausoleums in Recoleta

Recoleta has been one of Buenos Aires’ most upmarket neighborhoods for centuries, full of important Argentina landmarks. There’s no better testimony to this barrio’s wealth than the 6,400 magnificent mausoleums in Recoleta cemetery. These graves are much more than just tombstones; several crypts feel larger than nearby city apartments, with multiple chambers, elaborate sculptures, and palatial copulas. By far, the most popular grave is that of Eva Perón, known as Evita, the First Lady who worked to get women the right to vote in 1947. There are Argentine presidents, Nobel Prize winners, and athletes like the Argentine boxer Luis Ángel Firpo with his life-size statue. Wander around on your own or take a walking tour, which is the best way to see all the most famous and elaborate tombs. Rest your feet after the walk at one of the new microbreweries that have sprung up on Calle Vicente Lopez on the south side of the cemetery.

Climb Aconcagua (or at Least Part of It)

Towering 22,837 feet above sea level, Aconcagua is the highest mountain outside of the Himalayas and one of the most famous places in Argentina. Over 2,000 climbers every year attempt to summit this Andean massif. The climb isn’t technical, making it one of the most accessible high peaks in the world. So far, the youngest climber to summit was just 9 years old, and the oldest was 87. However, this peak claims several lives each year, as the icy graves on the mountainside will testify. It all depends on the unpredictable weather and the route you take. Not interested in climbing? Aconcagua National Park has dozens of hiking trails and lakes. Los Horcones Lake is popular for fishing and at a much more reasonable 9,514 feet above sea level.

Read a Book in a Literary Cafe

Buenos Aires is a cultural capital of the world largely because it attracted the great literati in years past. In the 19th century, Buenos Aires bred influential Argentine authors, including Jorge Luis Borges, Julio Cortázar, and Adolfo Bioy Casares, who each spent considerable time in cafes and bars in the city. This literary history has made bookshops and cafés some of Argentina’s most important tourist attractions. Retrace the steps of the great writers of Argentina by visiting their favorite haunts and cafés. Unmissable stops include Café Tortoni , Florida Garden Café, and El Ateneo , which used to be a grand theater and is consistently rated as one of the best bookstores in the world. Order the traditional café con leche and two “media lunas,” Argentina’s soft doughy version of the croissant.

Bask in the Glow of Purmamarca’s Mountain of Seven Colors

A scenic one-hour drive north of the city of San Salvador de Jujuy, bright orange cliffs peek out between hillsides of cactus on either side of the road. The town of Purmamarca is built at the base of hills that glow fantastical shades of red, magenta, purple, and orange. Follow the trail that loops around behind those hills to walk among cliffs of even brighter hues. It’s a half-hour hike, and there is a road for those who don’t feel like walking. While you’re there, check out the Inca ruins at Tilcara, half an hour north of Purmamarca. Keep going another half hour past Tilcara, and you’ll find Humahuaca, another colorful mountain, UNESCO Heritage Site, and an important Argentina tourist attraction.

Look Up to the Biggest Dinosaurs in the World

Some of the world’s largest dinosaur fossils have been discovered in southern Argentina, in the dusty lowlands of the Neuquén region. Ginormous fossils of carnivores and herbivores continue breaking records in Patagonia, and the nuclei of these discoveries are in El Chocón, near the town of Neuquén. Paleontologists have made this flat region one of the best places to visit in Argentina for anybody who loves dinosaurs. Don’t miss Museo Ernest Bachmann where you can see the skeleton of a Giganotosaurus carolinii, which was even larger than a Tyrannosaur Rex. Only an hour away, at Museo Carmen Funes you’ll find one of the largest herbivore dinosaurs, the Argentinosaurus huinculensis.

Walk on the Lunar Landscape of Salinas Grandes

Salinas Grandes is a salt flat reminiscent of Bolivia’s famous Uyuni , where the expanse of salt sparkles like snow, and a sense of scale quickly vanishes. This is one of the best places to play with taking trompe l’oeil photos, like holding a friend in the palm of your hand or balancing a truck on your nose. At over 11,000 feet of elevation, with no cities in the area, it’s also a fabulous place to get photos of the Milky Way. Spend the night in the middle of the salt flats in a dome at Pristine Camps to get the best nighttime photos. Done with photography? Visit nearby Barrancas, where pictographs and petroglyphs document the llama caravans that traveled through the canyon for over 2,000 years. As recently as 2018, caravans of llamas brought goods from Bolivia to trade with the people of Salinas Grandes. This is also one of the best places to go in Argentina to spot the endangered vicuña, a shy, delicate cousin of the llama.

Wander Into the Wetlands

One of Argentina’s newest national parks is the Iberá National Park, a triumph for Argentine conservationists. It has some of the country’s most diverse flora and fauna alongside an exciting reintroduction program for jaguars, tapirs, anteaters, pampas deer, and red-and-green macaw. Explore this freshwater reserve by horseback, motorboat, or canoe. The most adventurous can try wading into the wetlands from the water’s edge, where caimans float, capybaras bathe, and over 360 species of birds chirping. It is one of the largest wetlands in the world and one of the best places to visit in Argentina for birders. There are four access points to enter the park, and you’ll want to make plans to visit from Portal San Nicolás or Portal Carambola if you’re traveling from the nearby city of Corrientes. There are no entrance fees, but visitors are required to register with the park service on arrival. Vehicles with high clearance and four-wheel drive are highly recommended.

Cheer on the Gauchos at a Pato Match

Argentines love equestrian sports and polo, but it’s pato that’s the national sport. Invented in the wilds of Argentina in the 1600s, pato is the gaucho version of polo, a rougher game that involves a lot more adrenaline. Every January, the biggest annual pato festival takes place an hour north of the city of Córdoba in the town of Jesús María. Watching a raucous game of pato is one of the best equestrian activities to do in Argentina. If you want to see a classic polo match, the best place is right in Buenos Aires, at the Campo de Polo in the well-heeled Palermo neighborhood . There are another twenty polo fields and fifteen pato fields in Buenos Aires alone, so it should be easy to watch a match near wherever you’re staying in the capital city.

Soak in the Hot Springs Next to Uruguay

The hot springs and spas along the border between Argentina and Uruguay are wildly popular with tourists from Buenos Aires and were only recently discovered by international travelers. Driving north from Buenos Aires, you’ll first come to Colón, which has 13 pools, each with different temperatures and clientele. Some of the pools are theme parks for kids, and others are adult-only. Another hour and a half north is Concordia, famous for five different hot spring resorts, three family-friendly and two for adults. (An added bonus in Concordia is the ruins of a castle where French author and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry found the inspiration for his book The Little Prince ). Keep going north another hour, and you’ll find Federación, where about 120 thousand gallons of 180.5 ° F water gushes up out of the earth every hour, right in the middle of town. The hot springs complex has several spas, adults-only areas, and of course, a water park for kids. This is one of the most relaxing things to do in Argentina and a great way to cap off any trip.

Tour the Sparkling Seven Lakes

Synonymous with Argentine Patagonia, the 70-mile Seven Lakes Route is the most popular road trip in the country. You’ll go by sparkling turquoise lakes, forests of old-growth trees, and snow-capped volcanoes. The best way to enjoy the scenery of this route through the Lanín and Nahuel Huapai National Parks is by bike. It’s a four-day trip for most cyclists, with plenty of camping opportunities in the national parks. Most start in San Martín de los Andes on the shores of Lácar Lake and finish at Villa La Angostura on the massive Nahuel Huapai Lake. If you’re coming from Bariloche, it may be easier to do the route in reverse. Short on time? You can drive the route in only four hours, visiting some of the best places in Argentina for spectacular lakes that don’t require long hikes. The road and campgrounds tend to be crowded in January and February, making March the best time of year to enjoy this scenic route.

Make Friends and Try Mate

The most social and unique thing to do in Argentina is try mate (pronounced mah-tay). If you’ve made friends with any Argentines, you’re sure to be offered a sip. Everywhere you go in Argentina, you’ll see people with a thermos tucked in their arm and a round cup with a metal straw sticking out. The cup is also called mate, and the metal straw is a bombilla (pronounced bom-bee-yah). Grown in the subtropical regions north of Buenos Aires, mate is a shrub with wide leaves that contains about as much caffeine as tea. Grocery stores tend to have a whole aisle of mate, which is sold in paper bags like flour. Join any circle of Argentines, and mate will be passed around. The host will pour some hot water in the mate and pass it on. You should drink all the mate before passing it back to whoever has the thermos. Traditionally, everybody shares the same bombilla, but since the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s much more acceptable to have your own bombilla.

Protect Penguins’ Happy Feet

These adorable, tuxedoed birds are one of the main reasons people choose to travel to the southernmost points on the planet and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Argentina. Sadly, a long list of environmental challenges is decreasing penguin populations in Argentina, and educating the public is one way conservationists combat the problem. Show your support for penguins by going to visit them with environmentally responsible tour operators like Say Hueque, so you can learn about protecting penguin habitat. Punta Tombo and Isla Martillo are the two most popular places to see penguins. If you want to spot fuzzy little penguin chicks, the best time to arrive is December to January.

Speak Lunfardo like a Porteño

People from Buenos Aires are called Porteños, a reference to the port city, and they don’t speak Spanish, they speak Lunfardo, also called Chamuyo. To really get a feel for the city, learning local slang is one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires. The roots of this particular version of Spanish are intertwined with Italian immigrants, but new terms are coined every year. Common words are “ pibe ” for a teenager and “ mina ” for a woman. Two words that you’ll hear most are “ guita ,” which means money, and “ che ” which means dude or friend. This last one is such common street slang that the famous Argentine revolutionary Ernesto Guevara has gone down in history as Che. Pick up a copy of the Lunfardía dictionary or take lessons at a language school.

Go Skiing or Dog Sledding in July

Head to Ushuaia for some winter fun if the northern hemisphere gets too hot for you between June and August. There are two ski resorts in Ushuaia, Martial Glacier is right in town, and Cerro Castor is only half an hour away. Cerro Castor has 8 chair lifts and 34 ski runs, making it one of the biggest ski resorts in South America. There are even more cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling places, including Tierra Mayor, Las Cotorras, Nunatak, Haruwen, and Llanos del Castor. Haruwen’s ice sculpture festival in mid-August makes it the top location in Argentina for winter art. Next to Cerro Castor is the dog sled park Siberanos de Fuego, which translates to “Siberians of Fire.” Even closer to town is Valle de Lobos, where you can take dog sled rides or just go meet the dogs. If you want something more adventurous, there are numerous areas where you can go backcountry skiing.

Hike the Argentine Glacier National Park

Montana does not have the only Glacier National Park in the Americas. Argentina’s Parque Nacional Los Glaciares encompasses 47 giant glaciers and more than 200 smaller glaciers. Even more famous than the glaciers are the spectacular mountain peaks. Mount Fitz Roy is the most iconic Argentine landmark, and any outdoor enthusiast hiking in the area will recognize the skyline from the outdoor company Patagonia’s logo. Plan several days in the nearby town of El Chaltén so you can visit turquoise lakes like Laguna de Los Tres and Lago Desierto. Chaltén means “smoking mountain” in the Indigenous Tehuelche language and was the original name of Mount Fitz Roy.

Do not get your official Passport stamped with the Ushuaia "End of the World" passport stamp.  There are countries that will invalidate your Passport over this. Your passport is an official government document, and when marked for any non-official purposes (like collecting a souvenir stamp), you are technically defacing or altering it.  Some countries (or just a border worker with a stick up their nether regions) could potentially not let you to enter the countries because your passport has been defaced or altered because it as unofficial stamps in it. ...

Travel Guide Argentina

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Travel to Argentina and you’ll be rewarded with natural wonders and one of the world’s most stylish capital cities, Buenos Aires . Stretching from the Tropic of Capricorn towards the tip of Antarctica, Argentina encompasses a staggering diversity of terrains. You’ll find everything from lush wetlands to the end-of-the-world archipelago of Tierra del Fuego. Its most emblematic landscapes are the flatlands of the Pampas and the dramatic steppe of Patagonia. Read our guide to Argentina for everything you need to know before you go.

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Best places to visit in argentina, argentina travel itineraries, argentine culture, activities in argentina.

Size: Argentina is the world’s eighth-largest country by area.

Population: With a population of around 45 million Argentina is one of the least densely populated countries on the planet.

Origins: Some 97 percent of Argentines are of European origin, largely of Spanish or Italian descent.

Exports: Best known for its beef, Argentina is also a leading producer of wine, wheat, fruits and vegetables.

Nobel Prizes: Argentines have twice been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Carlos de Saavedra Lamas, in 1936, for his peace efforts in South America, and Adolfo Pérez Esquivel, in 1980, for his defence of human rights.

Ancient history: The remains of the largest-known dinosaur – the Patagotitan mayorum , were discovered by chance by a farm worker in Patagonia in 2008.

Movies: Argentina has a vibrant film industry and has twice carried off an Oscar for best foreign language film. La historia oficial (The Official Story) won in 1985 and El secreto de sus ojos (The Secret in Their Eyes) in 2010.

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Typical colorful houses and facades in the famous La Boca district in Buenos Aires, Argentina © Peter Zaharov/Shutterstock

Argentina has many beautiful sights: the waterfalls of Iguazú; the spectacular Glaciar Perito Moreno; whale-watching off Península Valdés; the handsome lakes and mountains around Bariloche. If you’re planning to travel to Argentina, bear in mind the long distances between key destinations – it’s a huge country.

Patagonia

Many of Argentina’s most rewarding destinations are also its least well known. These include the Ibera Wetlands (Esteros del Iberá), a huge network of lagoons offering close-up encounters with cormorants and caymans. Likewise the Antofagasta de la Sierra, a remote village set amid frozen lakes mottled pink with flamingos; or Laguna Diamante, a high-altitude lake backed by a volcano. Climate and distance mean it’s more sensible and rewarding to concentrate on one or two sections of the country when planning your travel.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is likely to be your point of entry, as it has the country’s main international airport, Ezeiza. It is an exciting, vibrant city, with an intriguing blend of European architecture and a local flair. You can round off a day’s sightseeing with a tango show, dinner at one of the dozens of fabulous restaurants, or a hedonistic night out.

The Litoral

Due north lies the Litoral , bordering Uruguay, Brazil and Paraguay. Here you’ll find the Iguazú falls.

Quebrada de Humahuaca

A highlight in the country’s landlocked northwest is the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a fabulous gorge lined with rainbow-hued rocks. Nearby, in the Valles Calchaquíes, a chain of stunningly scenic valleys, high-altitude vineyards produce the delightfully flowery torrontés wine.

Sprawling across Argentina’s broad midriff are the Pampas, arguably the country’s most archetypal landscape. This subtly beautiful scenery is punctuated by small towns, the occasional ranch and countless clumps of pampas grass (cortaderas). The Pampas are grazed by millions of cattle and planted with huge soya and wheat fields.

They are also where you’ll glimpse traditional gaucho culture, most famously in the charming pueblo of San Antonio de Areco. Here, too, are some of the classiest estancias, offering a combination of hedonistic luxury and horseback adventures.

Central Sierras and Cordoba

As you head further west, the Central Sierras loom: the mild climate and beautiful scenery of these ancient highlands have attracted holiday-makers since the late nineteenth century. Within reach is Córdoba , the country’s colonial-era second city.

Keep going west and you’ll get to the Cuyo, with the highest Andean peaks as a snow-capped backdrop; here you can discover one of Argentina’s most enjoyable cities, the regional capital of Mendoza , also the country’s wine capital.

Argentina is home the lion’s share of the wild, sparsely populated expanses of Patagonia (the rest belongs to Chile). It also possesses y the most populous half of the remote archipelago of Tierra del Fuego . These are lands of arid steppe hemmed by the southern leg of the Andes – a row of majestic volcanoes and craggy peaks interspersed by deep glacial lakes . For many people, Patagonia is the first page they turn to in any guide to Argentina.

On the Atlantic side of Patagonia, Península Valdés is a must-see for its world-class marine fauna, including southern right whales, elephant seals and orcas. You may like to trace the region’s associations with Darwin and his captain Fitz Roy in the choppy Beagle Channel off Ushuaia. You could track down the legacy of Butch Cassidy, who lived near Cholila, or of the Welsh settlers whose influence can still be felt in communities like Gaiman, Trelew and – further inland – Trevelin.

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Ushuaia Harbor, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina © artincamera/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Argentina

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  • The Litoral and the Gran Chaco Travel Guide
  • Mendoza and El Cuyo Travel Guide
  • The Northwest Travel Guide
  • Patagonia Travel Guide
  • Tierra del Fuego Travel Guide

In this section of our Argentina travel guide we’ll look at the best times to visit.

Spring is perhaps the best time to go to Argentina. The weather in Argentina in spring (Sep-Nov) is perfect almost everywhere, although icy weather is still possible in the far south.

Summer (Dec–Feb) is the only time you can climb the highest Andean peaks, such as Aconcagua. It's also the most reliable time of year to head for Tierra del Fuego, though it can snow there at any time. Buenos Aires is usually hot and sticky in December and January. You should also avoid parts of the north, as temperatures can be scorching and roads flooded by heavy storms.

Autumn (March and April) is a great time to visit Argentina – particularly Mendoza and San Juan provinces for the wine harvests. Visit Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego to see the beech groves as their leaves change colour.

The winter months of June, July and August are obviously the time to head for the Andean ski resorts. Blizzards can cut off towns in Patagonia in winter, and many places in the region close from April to October. Temperatures in the north of the country should be pleasant at this time of year, though Buenos Aires can be bleak in July and August.

A final point to bear in mind when it comes to Argentina travel: many locals take their holidays in January, around Easter and in July. Transport and accommodation can get booked up fast and rates can double. Read more about the best time to visit Argentina .

Though some people travel to Argentina overland, the majority of people arrive via Buenos Aires’ international airport, Ezeiza.

In general, airfares to the country tend to be quite high, but they do vary depending on the route and the season. The highest fares for travel to Argentina are between December and February, around Easter and in July and August. You’ll get the best prices during low season: March to June and September to November. Note also that flying at weekends means higher prices.

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Several airlines travel to Argentina from the UK. British Airways and budget airline Norwegian are the only airlines that fly direct from London. Iberia via Madrid skimps on creature comforts but is often cheap.

There are no direct flights from Ireland to Argentina. If you’re trying to keep costs down, consider flying to London with an economy airline and making a connection. Or, you can fly direct to New York or Miami and catch an onward flight from there.

Some routes allow you to take stopovers on the way – sometimes for free. Potential stopovers include Bogotá, Rio and São Paulo in South America; Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Newark, Los Angeles and Washington DC in the US; and Frankfurt, Madrid, Milan, Paris and Rome in Europe.

Flights from the US and Canada

Several airlines, including American Airlines, United and Aerolíneas Argentina, offer daily non-stop flights from the US to Buenos Aires. Flying times to Buenos Aires are around 11 hours from New York and Chicago, and nine from Miami.

There’s less choice if you’re planning to travel to Argentina from Canada, with Air Canada offering the only flight into the country – from Toronto via Santiago de Chile. Consider looking for connecting flights with a US carrier.

Flights from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa

The best flight deal to Argentina from Australia and New Zealand is offered by Air New Zealand. In Australia, flights to Argentina leave from Sydney or occasionally Melbourne. There are no direct flights from New Zealand, so you will need to connect elsewhere.

Flights from South Africa to Argentina leave from Cape Town and Johannesburg and usually go via São Paulo; Airfares depend on both the season and duration of stay.

This section of our Argentina travel guide will help you plan your travel around the country.

Getting around Argentina takes longer than you might think; distances are huge, and you are likely to spend a considerable part of your budget on travel. Ground transport (mostly by bus) will give a true impression of the scale of the country and a chance to see the landscape. If you’re planning to cover big distances when you travel in Argentina – especially around Patagonia – domestic flights can save a day or more. The inter-city bus network is extensive but services in remote areas can be poor; in these places, it is worth considering car rental. Train services are run-down and limited and not generally a viable method of traveling in Argentina.

Seven Patagonian lakes – their sparkling waters emerald, ultramarine, cobalt, turquoise, cerulean, sapphire and indigo – linked by a rugged mountain road: a magical route best explored in a 4WD.

Known simply as the Cataratas, the world’s most awe-inspiring set of waterfalls is set among dense jungle, home to brightly coloured birds and butterflies.

The undisputed highlight of La Rioja Province is a World Heritage Site dominated by giant cliffs of deep pink sandstone. Once home to dinosaurs, it’s now the protected habitat of condors, guanacos and foxes.

A visit to one of the world’s few advancing glaciers is a treat for the eyes and the ears; count the impossibly varied shades of blue as you listen to a chorus of cracks, thuds and whines.

The shimmering lagoons of these vital wetlands attract myriad birds, from tiny hummingbirds to majestic herons.

A prehistoric mural, an early finger-printing exercise or ancient graffiti? Whatever it is, this delicate tableau of many hands is one of the continent’s most enchanting archaeological sites.

The prestigious resting place of Argentina’s great and good – even Evita sneaked in – this cemetery is one of the world’s most exclusive patches of real estate.

Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of this bohemian barrio full of tango bars and antique shops, talented street performers and decaying grandeur.

Despite frigid temperatures and extreme altitude – 6,959m – the highest peak outside the Himalayas can be climbed with the right preparation and a knowledgeable guide, making for a world-class mountaineering experience.

Rugged gauchos, nodding pampas grass and herds of cattle are the famous inhabitants of Argentina’s most archetypal landscape.

Whitewashed settlements nestled against polychrome mountains, dazzling salt flats, lush valleys and cactus forests, windswept steppe and deep gorges – some of the planet’s most incredible scenery.

Once Argentina’s most feared penal colony, now the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia sits proudly on the Beagle Channel, backed by serrated peaks and within striking distance of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Take a boat or paddle a kayak around the swampy islets and muddy creeks of Tigre. This subtropical town on the capital’s doorstep acts as a gateway to the continent’s second-largest river system.

The world’s biggest dinosaurs once roamed Neuquén Province. Nothing will convey their immensity more than standing underneath their skeletons or seeing their giant footprints in the rock.

Perhaps the most beautiful city in Argentina, Salta La Linda (Salta the Fair) boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, a backdrop of soaring peaks and some wonderful places to sleep and eat.

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Mountain Plateau La Puna, Northern Argentina © Galyna Andrushenko/Shutterstock

We’ve expanded our Argentina travel guide to include the following itineraries. They will take you to every corner of the country – and you’ll learn plenty about Argentina no matter which one you choose. You’re unlikely to complete the list, but it will give you a flavour of travel in Argentina and what we can plan and book for you with our Tailor-Made Trips service www.roughguides.com/trips .

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10 days  / from 2650 USD

The Great Lakes and Glaciers of Argentina

Experience the great outdoors, Argentina-style! Marvel at jaw-droppingly beautiful Patagonian landscapes, walk the shores of deep-blue lakes guarded by snow-capped mountains at Bariloche, explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

13 days  / from 3180 USD

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

Travel from Chile to Argentina across the stunning Andean Lakes, also known as the Lakes District. Beginning in Santiago, you will travel to Puerto Varas, in Chile, and then across the lakes to Bariloche, Argentina, taking in the stunning mountain scenery, before ending your trip in Buenos Aires.

An adventure across three countries: Brazil, Argentina & Uruguay

14 days  / from 1933 USD

An adventure across three countries: Brazil, Argentina & Uruguay

A trip filled with history, culture and nature spread out over three beautiful and unique countries, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. Visit some of the most stunning sites, like the Sugar Loaf Mountain, Iguazu Falls and UNESCO World Heritage site Colonia del Sacramento, during this 14-day trip.

Argentinean Patagonia: from the Coast to the Andes

13 days  / from 2581 USD

Argentinean Patagonia: from the Coast to the Andes

Explore the region's most fascinating corners: sea life in Puerto Madryn awaits before you head to the most southern city in the world: Ushuaia. Discover Tierra del Fuego before heading out to El Calafate and Bariloche, really soaking in the Argentinean vibes.

Unforgettable Argentina

16 days  / from 3585 USD

Unforgettable Argentina

Argentina has a lot to offer travellers, in this itinerary you will explore the highlights in just two weeks. From busy Buenos Aires you will fly to Iguazu to marvel at the majestic waterfalls before heading south to Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia and El Calafate. Unforgettable Argentina awaits!

Magical Patagonia and Cultural Buenos Aires

Magical Patagonia and Cultural Buenos Aires

Combine exploring the contemporary city of Buenos Aires, with all its luxuries and grand, historical buildings, together with the wild, rugged land of Patagonia. Take in the culture and observe the landscape and wildlife to gain a complete picture of the true Argentina.

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

16 days  / from 5050 USD

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

Start your South American adventure in Santiago de Chile before exploring the wonders of the Atacama desert. A short hop across the border and you'll find yourself in the middle of the Bolivian salt flat. Afterwards, you'll continue to Argentina with Salta and Buenos Aires.

Argentina: Tango and Glaciers

13 days  / from 2500 USD

Argentina: Tango and Glaciers

Visit the grand, edgy and famously seductive Argentine capital of Buenos Aires for tango and culture; then head northeast to see the thundering Iguazú Falls. Finally, it’s off to the end of the Americas to deepest Patagonia for adventure, glaciers and limitless horizons.

Wild Patagonia

13 days  / from 6800 USD

Wild Patagonia

Argentina has lots to offer its visitors: a glacier the size of a city, sizzling tango, fashionable barrios, artisan towns, ranches with horses and gauchos and wild untamed natural beauty. From Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll get to see it all in this adventure-laden vacation.

Tango & Wines in Argentina

7 days  / from 1400 USD

Tango & Wines in Argentina

Argentina is known for its dances and gastronomy scene, both to be discovered on this trip. Explore Buenos Aires on your own and with a guide, including its famous nightlife before heading to the vineyards of Mendoza, one of the most developed wine regions in the country.

Multi-country adventures from salt flats to the Andes

14 days  / from 2271 USD

Multi-country adventures from salt flats to the Andes

South America is full of wonders and this trip packs Argentina, Chile and Bolivia into 2 weeks. Bustling Buenos Aires, beautiful valleys around Salta, the surreal looking surroundings of San Pedro de Atacama, the salt flat of Uyuni as well as Lake Titicaca are all part of this itinerary.

South American Wines Trail

10 days  / from 2120 USD

South American Wines Trail

All wine lovers unite! Start your tour in Buenos Aires before heading to the wine region of Mendoza. Sample some of Argentina's finest wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, continue to Santiago de Chile with a day trip to Valparaiso.

Argentina and Chile: Dazzling Cities and Magical Landscapes

13 days  / from 2756 USD

Argentina and Chile: Dazzling Cities and Magical Landscapes

Santiago is an emerging city, whilst Buenos Aires has long been a busy metropolis. Both offer historical buildings to admire, a local gastronomy scene to savour and sensuous dances to learn. Not to mention the mountainous terrain and desert landscapes outside the cities waiting to be explored.

Southern Argentina & Antarctica

14 days  / from 7857 USD

Southern Argentina & Antarctica

Explore the Antarctica on an intimate cruise from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Start in Buenos Aires before spending a few nights in El Calafate and Ushuaia to then board your cruise. 4 nights in the Antarctic are the highlight of your trip before heading to Chile's capital Santiago.

A city escape to Buenos Aires

4 days  / from 420 USD

A city escape to Buenos Aires

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Buenos Aires on this 4-day tour premium tour. Stay at one of the most exclusive hotels and discover Argentina's capital on bike during the day and in style at a Tango show at night.

Argentina and Chile - Wine Country Explored

Argentina and Chile - Wine Country Explored

Get a taste of the wines of Argentina and Chile on this tour of the country's best bodegas. Sway to the rhythm of tango in Buenos Aires before you head to high altitude towns and absorb stunning mountain scenery. Then it's across the border into Chile to sample Santiago's historic delights.

Self Drive on the Atlantic Patagonia Blue Route

14 days  / from 3075 USD

Self Drive on the Atlantic Patagonia Blue Route

Travel across wild Patagonia in your own rental car. Full autonomy and freedom means being able to truly go off the beaten track. You'll come across plenty of wildlife like whales and penguins, as well as following Darwin's footsteps across the steppe.

Argentina's Northern Highlights

13 days  / from 2600 USD

Argentina's Northern Highlights

Your journey begins in Bueno’s Aires, the Argentine capital and the home of tango, colonial buildings and cobbled streets. Explore museums, churches, and stunning mountain valleys; be awestruck by the roar of the Iguazú Falls; then explore the wineries of the Central Valley.

From the city to the jungle

From the city to the jungle

Visit two of the most fascinating parts of Argentina: First, the electrifying capital of Buenos Aires in all of its glory before heading out to Puerto Iguazu to discover the majestic Iguazu waterfalls.

South Argentina and the Ends of the Earth

10 days  / from 2600 USD

South Argentina and the Ends of the Earth

This trip goes to the southernmost point of Argentina and to the ends of the earth. Begin in Buenos Aires, then travel south to El Calafate and explore the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, before continuing to the southernmost city on earth, Ushuaia, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Classic Antarctica from Chile

11 days  / from 15375 USD

Classic Antarctica from Chile

Start and end your trip in Chile and discover the Antarctica on an intimate, Boutique-style expedition boat. Cruise the Drake Passage, visit Cape Horn and fly back to Punta Arenas before returning to the capital Santiago.

Islands & Waterfalls: Ihla Grande and Iguazu

12 days  / from 2500 USD

Islands & Waterfalls: Ihla Grande and Iguazu

A mesmerizing journey through Brazil and Argentina, starting with the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro. Explore the pristine paradise of Ilha Grande, then step back in time in the colonial gem of Paraty. Finally, marvel at the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls.

Argentina Itinerary 1: Wonders of Nature

Much of Argentina’s nature highlights are in Patagonia, but there are unmissable sights further north, too, if you can spare a month or so.

Watch whales, seals and sea lions basking in the cool waters off this peninsula in northern Patagonia .

The biggest colony of Magellanic penguins in South America is a delightful sight, and the trip there will likely take you past guanacos, armadillos and more.

Situated on the Beagle Channel, teeming with birds, sea lions and king crabs, Ushuaia provides a base for exploring nearby Tierra del Fuego national park.

One of Argentina’s most visited sights. Watch enormous chunks of blue ice calve off the city-sized glacier or don crampons to walk on top of it.

The northern section of Los Glaciares national park provides some of the country’s best trekking, among jagged peaks and turquoise lakes.

Up in the dry northwest, the multicoloured hues of the Humahuaca make it the pick of the region’s sights.

The enormous Iguazú waterfalls on the Argentina-Brazil border, set in subtropical rainforest, make a steamy, stunning contrast to the icy southern sights.

An enchanting, little-visited ecosystem in Corrientes Province whose marshes are filled with an array of wildlife.

A surprisingly verdant river community, just outside Buenos Aires. It makes for a gentle but impressive end to a tour of Argentina’s natural highlights.

Argentina Itinerary 2: Ruta 40

Like Route 66 in the US, Argentina’s Ruta 40 has earned legendary status, inspiring songs, books and of course road trips. It’s the country’s longest highway, running from Patagonia to Bolivia. Count on six weeks if you want to take in all 5224km of “la Cuarenta”.

Ruta 40 starts here, by the Strait of Magellan. It’s a zigzagging route through windswept Patagonian steppe.

Just off the Ruta 40, in the Patagonia wilderness, this World Heritage Site is one of South America’s finest examples of ancient rock art.

This picturesque city is the gateway to the Nahuel Huapi park and Argentina’s Lake District, home to pristine alpine-like scenery, dramatic mountain lakes and ancient trees.

A remote land of rosy lava, ebony gorges, deep karstic caves and flamingo-flecked lagoons in Mendoza Province.

Often inaccessible, this lagoon rewards the adventurous. Enjoy a picnic on the banks of a crystalline brook as you admire the silhouette of Volcán Maipo.

The road in La Rioja Province winds through polychrome mountains that contrast with the verdant vegetation along the riverbanks below.

Stop off at this Catamarca highland village for a top-notch poncho – methods of weaving have been maintained since pre-Hispanic times.

Ringed by mountains, this area of snow-white salt flats is a good place to spot llamas and vicuñas.

Argentina Itinerary 3: Wine and Dine

Travel to Argentina, and you can find excellent-quality food and drink anywhere. Beef plays a part, of course, but there’s more to the country’s culinary offering. Allow two to three weeks for this foodie guide to Argentina.

The country’s capital has the most cosmopolitan selection of restaurants – including its famous puertas cerradas – with inventive cooking at reasonable prices.

Stay on an estancia to enjoy the best barbecued beef you’ll taste anywhere, right in the fertile heartland where it comes from.

  • Mendoza Spend your days – and nights if you wish – at a bodega, tasting fine malbec wines with the snow-streaked Andes as a backdrop.

A good place to try the distinctive northwestern cuisine, including the classic empanada, a pasty filled with meat or vegetables, or locro stew.

Vibrant and stylish Rosario overlooks the Río Paraná and is an excellent place to dine on the local river fish, such as dorado, boga and surubí .

The capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego is the best place to sample centolla (king crab), plucked fresh from the Beagle Channel.

Catedral-Cordoba-Argentina-shutterstock_109253744

Cathedral in Cordoba, Argentina © diegorayaces/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Argentina

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Argentina

  • Eating and drinking in Argentina
  • Getting around Argentina: Transportation Tips
  • Travel Tips Argentina for planning and on the go
  • Best time to visit Argentina

Our travel tips for Argentina will help you enjoy a stress-free trip to the country.

Accommodation in Argentina

Accommodation in Argentina runs the gamut from campsites and youth hostels to fabulously luxurious estancias (ranches) and opulent hotels offering every conceivable amenity. Between these two extremes you’ll find a whole variety of establishments, including charming old colonial houses with balconies and dark and seedy hotels that lack so much as a window. Informal room rental is also common in towns with seasonal influxes of tourists but too few hotels to cope.

In terms of newspaper circulation, Argentina is Latin America’s most literate nation, and it has a diverse and generally high-quality press. Its television programming is a rather chaotic amalgam of light-entertainment shows and sports, and its radio services tend to fall into one of two categories: urban mainstream commercial channels or amateur ones designed to serve the needs of local rural communities.

Economy and exchange rates

The economic situation in Argentina has been volatile in recent years, and it is advisable to check the latest before you travel. Note that hotels and other types of commerce, especially at the luxury end of the market, often quote prices in US dollars rather than Argentine pesos.

Costs and Money

Notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 denominations, while 1 and 2 peso coins and 50, 25, 10 and 5 (rare) centavo coins are in circulation. Ask for small denomination notes when exchanging if possible, break bigger ones up at places where they obviously have plenty of change (busy shops, supermarkets and post offices).

Travel to Argentina doesn’t raise any major health worries. Make sure you have the standard vaccinations or updates – tetanus, polio, typhoid and hepatitis A. There have been outbreaks of dengue fever in the far north; other mosquito-related illnesses to be aware of are yellow fever, malaria and (in the far north) zika.

The tap water in Argentina is generally safe to drink, if sometimes heavily chlorinated, but you may prefer to err on the side of caution in rural areas. Mineral water is good and widely available.

Altitude ( puna ) sickness is a condition encountered at anything over 2,000m, but most serious at altitudes of 4,000m and above. It’s a common ailment for travellers entering high altitude areas of the country. Mild symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness or insomnia. However, more severe symptoms can arise, in which case you should seek medical advice. Read more about altitude sickness in Argentina .

It is a good idea to take out an insurance policy before travelling. In Argentina, insurance is more important to cover theft or loss of belongings and repatriation than medical treatment – the country has a state medical system that is free for emergencies.

LGBTQ travellers in Argentina

Thanks to progress in recent years, including the equal marriage law passed in 2010, the attitude in Argentina towards LGBTQ people is quite open. Violent manifestations of homophobia are rare. However, rural areas of the country still do their best to act as if homosexuality doesn’t exist, so it’s best to act a little more discreetly there.

Travel visa requirements for Argentina

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and most European countries do not need a visa for trips to Argentina of up to ninety days. All visitors need a valid passport. At international airports you will have your thumbprint and photo digitally recorded on arrival.

If you are planning to travel to Argentina alone with a child you must obtain a notarized document certifying both parents’ permission for the child to travel (check with the embassy). When leaving the country, you must obtain an exit stamp.

Travel safety in Argentina

With the effects of economic crises in 2001 and 2009 still lingering and poverty at 25 percent, Argentina has lost its reputation as a totally safe destination. However, any concerns you have should be kept in perspective. For the majority of those who travel to Argentina, the chance of falling victim to crime remains small. Most of the more violent crime (concentrated in the big cities) tends to be directed at wealthy locals rather than foreign visitors.

In Buenos Aires, the vast majority of visitors have no problems. Follow the basic rules and only carry only what you need for that day, and conceal valuable items such as cameras and jewellery. Always be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs. Remember that pickpockets most commonly hang around subte (subway) stations and bus terminals (particularly Retiro in the capital), and on crowded trains and buses.

Car theft is a common occurrence; if you are renting a car, check the insurance will cover you, and always park in a car park or where someone will keep an eye on it. When driving in the city, keep windows closed and doors locked.

Drug use, particularly of marijuana and cocaine, is fairly common among the younger generation, but the penalties for using either are stiff. We strongly advise against buying or using them – quite apart from the risks inherent in the substances themselves, doing so may bring you into contact with some very dangerous people.

If you are unlucky enough to be the victim of a robbery ( asalto ) or lose anything of value, you will need to make a report at the nearest police station for insurance purposes. Check that the police add the date and an official stamp ( sello ).

Argentina’s mores reflect its European ancestry. Apart from getting used to the late dining hours, most travellers from the West will have little trouble fitting in.

One area of etiquette that will probably be new to you is the very Argentine custom of drinking mate. Mate comes with its own set of rules, but foreigners will be given lots of leeway here, as in other areas of social custom – a faux pas is more likely to cause amusement than offence.

Sexual harassment and discrimination

Women planning on travelling alone to the country can do so with confidence. Some machista attitudes do persist but few people will find it strange that you are travelling unaccompanied.

When greeting people or taking your leave, it is normal to kiss everyone present on the cheek (just once, always the right cheek). Shaking hands tends to be the preserve of very formal situations, though some Argentines may offer a hand rather than a cheek if they know you’re foreign.

Tipping is not widespread in Argentina, with a couple of exceptions. It’s normal to give hairdressers and beauticians a five to ten percent tip and you should add a gratuity of ten percent to restaurant bills if service is not included.

The bulk of Argentina’s festivals are found in the Northwest, owing to its attachment to tradition and high proportion of ethnic communities. Pre-Columbian revivals, Catholic and secular celebrations are observed. On the whole, holidays such as Christmas and Easter are more religious, family-focused occasions than they are in Europe and the US. Although some European traditions – such as eating chocolate eggs at Easter – are starting to take off, the festivals are generally a lot less commercial.

When shopping in Argentina there’s no real tradition of haggling, although you can always try it when buying pricey artwork or antiques. Expensive services such as excursions and car rental are also obvious candidates for bargaining, while hotel rates can be beaten down off-season, late at night or if you’re paying in cash ( en efectivo ).

Argentines suffer an incurable addiction to sport, and you’ll hear informed and spirited debate in bars on subjects as diverse as tennis, rugby, basketball and the uniquely Argentine equestrian sport of pato .

Outdoor activities

Argentina is a highly exciting destination for outdoors enthusiasts: world-class fly-fishing, horseriding, trekking and rock-climbing opportunities abound. In addition there’s white-water rafting, skiing, ice climbing and even expeditions onto the Southern Patagonian Ice Cap.

Top image: Fitz Roy, Argentina © Dmitry Pichugin/Shutterstock

Criollo culture

Most closely translated as “creole”, criollo refers to a way of life born in the Americas, but with Old World roots. In Argentina, it is a byword for that which is absolutely Argentine – the culture of the countryside and the gaucho. Key aspects of this include the food – asado barbecues, of course, but also maize-based stews like locro ; clothing – such as baggy riding trousers called bombachas and the espadrille-like alpargatas ; horses – be they for rounding up cattle or playing polo; and a decidedly anti-authoritarian streak in the national character. Even the wealthiest city-dweller is usually keen to prove that he or she is fundamentally a criollo , never happier than when sipping a mate by the fire.

Tango, Argentina’s blues

Tango is not only a dance, or even an art form, it is a powerful symbol, closely associated with Argentina around the world. Essentially and intrinsically linked to Buenos Aires and its multicultural history, it nonetheless has ardent fans all around the country. Rosario and, to a lesser extent, Córdoba, the country’s two biggest cities after the capital, have a strong tango culture, complete with milongas (tango dance halls) and shops to buy the right garb and footwear. And don’t be surprised to find villagers in some remote hamlet, hundreds of miles from Buenos Aires, listening to a scratchy recording of Carlos Gardel – the 1930s heart-throb still regarded as the best tango singer. Some experts argue that tango’s success can be put down to its perfect representation of the Argentine psyche: a unique blend of nostalgia, resignation and heartbroken passion.

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Andy Turner

written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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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 Travel Guide

Argentina is a diverse country, both naturally and culturally, with geography ranges from northern deserts to humid jungles and culture, art and architectural influences from around the world. Soccer is the national obsession but trekking, watersports and skiing also play an important role. Buenos Aires is the ninth largest city in the world and cultural capital of Argentina.

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Buenos Aires, Argentina - April 15, 2015: The main square on of the Camanito in the La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires features brightly colored buildings and cobblestone streets that are a popular tourist destination. Tourists can be seen surrounding the most recognizable building the the neighborhood at the center of the square. The area is a popular destination for watching tango dancers in the street, shopping for souvenirs handicrafts made by local artisans and restaurants. It is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires and is located at the mouth of the port, which gives it its namesake.

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Exploring the Wonders of Argentina: 9 Must-See Places

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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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15 reasons you must visit Moscow

Home / Russia Travel Experiences / 15 reasons you must visit Moscow

Home to almost over 12 million souls, Moscow is many things to many people, and everyone finds their own reasons to visit Moscow. There is an infinite number of reasons to visit Moscow and its attractions. To make it easier for travellers, we created a list of the crowd’s top fifteen reasons and attractions everyone should visit when in Moscow.

Table of Contents

1. Indulge in countless historical and modern artworks

Whether you are just dipping your toes into the art world or you know everything about arts, Moscow is a must-visit for every self-proclaimed or certified art connoisseur and historian. The city has numerous historical and contemporary museums and art galleries and they are essential in the list when you visit Moscow. Among the plethora of galleries and museums is The State Tretyakov Gallery  holding the world’s foremost collection of Russian fine art. Another is the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts which showcases artworks from the ancient times to this day such as the paintings of Rembrandt, Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The Moscow Museum of Modern Art , on the other hand, displays artworks created in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Moscow tours Russia

Moscow is not only home to famous historical paintings, the city also showcases modern, educational, and multimedia arts. The Moscow Planetarium is one of the biggest planetariums in the world. It is an interactive museum that educates everyone with their scientific resources. The openness of Russia to new forms of arts can be seen in the Multimedia Art Museum, Winzavod (Wine Factory), Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Lumiere Brothers Photography Center . These art galleries unite all forms of media, arts, and modern culture.

For the love of art, moreover, they have converted former industrial areas to unique art spaces. ARTPLAY Center of Design and Flacon Design Factory are two of the known art spaces for local organisations and artists to express their creativity, host their own workshops, lectures, design festivals, concerts, performances, and exhibits. 

TIP: Open Museum Day in Moscow offers free day-time admission in most city museums every third Sunday of the month. Forty museums and art galleries are participating including the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow Museum of Modern Art, Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics , and State Museum of Ceramics and Kuskovo Estate of the 18th Century.

If you’re craving for more museum adventures, we have created a list of the best museum to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

2. Step onto the mighty Red Square

Walk onto the uneven cobblestones alongside the throngs of bustling citizens and you’ll see centuries of Russian (and world) history reflected in the architecture of Red Square. It is the epicentre of Russia. The country’s major highways and Moscow’s main streets all originate from the Red Square. However, it is not only the heart of Russian streets but is also the heart of Russian history and culture where most of the biggest Russian events and changes unfolded such as high-profile executions and military parades. The city square also served as the main marketplace and site for national public ceremonies and festive processions. Being considered as a sacred place, it is absolutely a must-see when you visit Moscow.

Moscow tour Red Square Russia

Official commemorations and parades today are still mostly held in the square. The surrounding buildings of the Red Square also add great significance to why you should include the beautiful square on your bucket list when you visit Moscow. Some of these famous attractions are iconic:

  • St. Basil’s Cathedral
  • Lenin’s Mausoleum
  • The Kremlin
  • Kazan Cathedral
  • The historical GUM Department Store
  • State Historical Museum
  • The Iberian Gate (also known as the Resurrection Gate and Chapel

3. Visit the Moscow Kremlin

The Kremlin , together with Red Square was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. UNESCO included this architectural ensemble not just because of its outstanding design but also because of its rich historical and political linkage. That is why you should not miss this when you visit Moscow. It is located on Borovitsky Hill just above the Moskva River, on the west side of the magnificent Red Square. It serves as the Russian President’s residence and treasure houses such as the Armory Chamber Museum and the Russian Diamond Fund . Two Royal Cathedrals, the Secret Garden, and Ivan the Great Bell Tower are some of the attractions you can visit inside the Kremlin. Also, along the Kremlin wall is where you can see the gravestones of most Soviet leaders -including Stalin’s.

Moscow tour Russia

TIP: The Kremlin is open every day except on Thursdays and tickets for each establishment inside the Kremlin are sold separately. They also limit the number of daily visitors. May to September of every year is considered as the peak season.

4. Awaken your senses in the Bolshoi theatre

The Bolshoi Ballet Company is one of the most enduring symbols of Russia’s esteemed cultural traditions, and Moscow’s Bolshoi (Big) Theatre is the association’s fittingly elegant headquarters. Moscow’s oldest theatre has been painstakingly restored and renovated in recent years. It is a must-see day or night with their world-famous opera and ballet performances when you visit Moscow. Taking in an evening performance of a classic Russian ballet like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker is one of the city’s most captivating cultural experiences.

Moscow tour Russia

Aside from the Bolshoi Theatre, there are around 170 theatres in the city; each of which features unique performances. It is the sole reason why Moscow is coined as the “City of Theatres”.  No matter what genre, as long as it is in Moscow it will be surreal.  No wonder the city attracts all theatregoers around the globe. To name a few, here are the must-visit theatres around the city: (1) Maly Theatre which showcases classic traditions of Russian Theatre, (2) Moscow Art Theatre combines classical and modern drama traditions, and (4) Theatre of Nations and (5) Gogol Centre further popularized modern arts such as post-drama and comedy production.

Russian ballet

TIP: Most people have been planning to witness a performance (especially in Bolshoi Theatre) for years. Remember to check and purchase tickets ahead of time before getting excited to watch the spectacular performance. Also, wearing your best evening dress won’t hurt.

5. Enjoy the ambiance of Moscow parks

While Moscow’s attractions are usually known as a mixture of extravagant Tsarist architecture and stern Soviet buildings, much of Moscow is actually surprisingly green and the city’s parks have grown into its pride and joy over the years. Take a break from walking around historical establishments and rest in these well-groomed green areas. These parks provide some of Moscow’s best people-watching spots and offer various activities you can do with your group or with the locals from playing sports and board games on the pavement to simply enjoying the outdoor cafes.

St Petersburg tour Russia

Slow down from the hectic pace of the city life by having a stop-over in the most popular green spaces when you visit Moscow. Gorky Park has its own telegraph and clinic, Park of Arts Museum often hosts music festivals, art fairs and exhibits, and lastly, Sokolniki Park and Izmailovsky Park have bike rentals and small amusement parks that are perfect for family day-outs.

6. Experience the magnificent Moscow Metro

Apart from being an extremely handy way to get around the city,  Moscow’s metro system  is a striking feat of engineering. Opened in 1935, it is one of the largest and oldest underground railway systems in the world. Its grand stations are remarkably beautiful. With their grandiose architecture, intricate mosaics, and dramatic sculptures, it has turned many metro stations into picturesque tourist attractions. There are 12 lines and a total of 200 stations. Elektrozavodskaya, Arbatskaya, Kievskaya, Komsomolskaya, and Mayakovskaya are just a few of the magical stations that seems to be like an underground palace.

Moscow tour Russia

Visit Moscow grand stations during “dead hours” —11 am to 2 pm or after 10 pm in order get the most out of the spectacular metro stations. And for the sake of courtesy and respect, always give your seat to Babushkas or the beautiful Russian grannies on the train. Train tickets can be shared and you can buy them for 1, 2, 20, 40, and 60 trips. Unlimited Metro travel for 1, 3, and 7 full days are also available from 210 to 800 rubles. Alternatively, you can purchase a Troika Card which costs 50 rubles and allows you to travel on all public transportation in Moscow.

7. Be amazed by the beauty & grace of Moscow’s churches

In Moscow, the majority of religion belongs to the Russian Orthodox Church which has 320 of total parishes in Moscow alone. Thus, it is not surprising that Orthodox churches and its unique architecture are one of the must-sees when you visit Moscow. Onion domes had long been known as the classic design of Orthodox churches in Russia. Below, we will mention some of the iconic churches you shouldn’t miss seeing in the city.

Moscow tour Russia

The Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed or St. Basil Cathedral is perhaps the most popular and most unusual church in the country. It is located at the Southern end of the Red Square. Built in 1555, it is originally called the Intercession Cathedral  to commemorate Ivan the Terrible’s victory over the Tatars. The bonfire-flame-shaped-cathedral has nine towers full of colours, shapes, and patterns. It was designed like a maze as a whole while each way leads to nine chapels with creatively decorated interiors. The magnificent cathedral is open every day except for the first Wednesday of every month.

With its golden onion domes, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour  is the largest cathedral of all Russian Orthodox Church and has the capacity of over a thousand devotees. However, there is another known cathedral with golden domes —the Cathedral of the Assumption. What makes this cathedral different is that its domes are not just gold, but  they  are also light-reflecting sitting inside the Kremlin. Lastly, we would like to feature a church with neo-gothic architecture –the Moscow Immaculate Conception Catholic Cathedral.  It  is the largest Catholic building in the country. To this day, masses and Catholic religious services are still being conducted in different languages in the cathedral.

8. Visit Moscow streets and the monumental architecture

The beautiful architecture of museums and churches, makes each city street a sight to behold. For sure you’ll have a jaw-dropping moment at least once when you visit Moscow. The streets around the Red Square are a good start for you to stroll and have them as background for your OOTD photos. 

Russia tours Moscow

Tverskaya Stree t is known as Moscow’s fashion street and main street. This street is also one of the most expensive streets in the world, basing from the commercial rental fees. Another fashion district, Kuznetsky Most (literally translates to Blacksmith’s bridge)is where popular shops such as “Kuznetsky Most 20” – a famous concept store and “House of Foreign Books” (which is the best foreign-language bookshop) are located. Ulitsa Varvaka claims to be the oldest street and has the most churches in the city; it also shows the more medieval side of Moscow. If you are looking for high-end souvenirs, take a look at the shops on Arbat Street . Just do not forget to negotiate with the vendors and ask for discounts! Also, you get a chance to taste local vodkas as they offer free samples on the street.

9. Enjoy Moscow street food and fine dining restaurants

Moscow can surprise even the most demanding gourmands with the variety of foods , flavours and dining scenes the city has to offer. Russian cuisine is famous for exotic soups and rustic, hearty dishes like pelmeni (meat dumplings), pancakes with different fillings, and last but not the least, caviar. Sweets are also a big thing in the Russian kitchen and they are incomparable with other confectioneries that can be bought outside the country. “RotFront” soya bars , Chak-Chak Sticks and Kozinaki are just a few of the most popular sweet snacks in Moscow.

Russian food

Great food is everywhere, 24 hours a day in the city. Yar , one of the oldest restaurants in Russia has been serving local Russian cuisines for nearly a century now in Moscow. Another restaurant, Praga , which opened 150 years ago is known for its European and Russian dishes in addition to their pastry shop on the ground floor. Cafe Pushkin , a three-storey restaurant is open 24 hours a day. Each floor has its own menu and theme: the Pharmacy, Library, and the Fireplace Room. The Library floor is said to have the best view of the Tverskoy Boulevard during breakfast. However, if you want to time travel, find the secret door of Mari Vanna and experience what it is like to live in a Soviet home 50 years ago. Watch old Soviet channels and look through old bookcases and photos while having traditional Russian stews and pies. And oh, do not forget to book for tables!

Russian Food Guide Moscow Restaurants

But there’s so much more to Moscow’s modern gastronomic landscape. From sophisticated new takes on old-school cooking to cosmopolitan eateries offering refined cuisine from around the world, Moscow is also boasting with street foods. Chebureki or cheburechnaya, as what some cafes call them, are fried triangle-shaped thin dough stuffed with minced meat and spices. On the other hand, Blini is a better option for those who have a sweet tooth. They are crepes that can be filled with, cheese, jam, honey, ham, condensed milk, or red caviar. Today, Blini are famously made and sold in Teremok — a popular fast-food chain. Another fast-food chain has popularised a Russian local snack: Kroshka-Kartoshka . Although the name translates to “tiny potato”, they serve enormous baked potatoes with cheese, pickled mushrooms, butter, and other fillings. And lastly, pirozhki, which means pie seems to be the symbol of Russian street foods. Just look around the streets and try the four local snacks that we’ve mentioned and you’ll realise that every food is stuffed and/or filled with something. Now it is your turn to stuff your belly with Moscow street food!

10. Shop till you drop in Moscow boutiques

Muscovites are mad-shoppers and once you see the brands and collectives in each shopping centre, you might become one of them. From the most glamorous high-end fashion brands, art and design pieces, to antiques and traditional handicrafts, the opportunities for a hardcore spree are endless. Make sure to drop by the two most famous shopping centres, GUM and TSUM when you visit Moscow. They are must-visits even if you are only there to admire (or baulk at) their stupendous swankiness.

Moscow tour

GUM is on the east side of Red Square. It is a former State Department Store. The building’s architecture will instantly give you an extravagant feeling. However, along with its luxurious interior, comes the most luxurious brands and prices. It is open for twelve hours each day from 10 am to 10 pm. On the other hand, TSUM , a six-story historical gothic building is the largest high-end department store in Eastern Europe. There is a luxury supermarket which is open for twenty-four hours on the ground floor.

More affordable options are in the city’s many bustling flea markets, or in beautiful old boutique stores. Tsvetnoy Central Market and Kuznetsky Most 20 are just two of the known markets in the city where both hot and hippy street brands can be found. Local creative contemporary designers and high-end creatives are also housed in both markets.

11. Earn bragging rights with the perfect Instagram snap

Up your Instagram and Facebook feed with these views and different angles of the city. Shamelessly share your food and shoes with the streets and floors you’re walking into with your virtual friends. Or take a snap of the random streets of Moscow depicting their rich cultures. Also, do not forget the big picture! Which literally means photos of the whole city.

Moscow tour

Did you really visit Moscow if you don’t have any photo of the Red Square and Moscow Kremlin? Stand at the centre of Red Square and Kremlin, take the most iconic shot and show the world that you were actually in Moscow. We’ve listed three buildings that have the best top views of the city. The (1) Federation Tower which also has the highest restaurant in Moscow, (2) The Moscow State University has a panoramic view of the city inside The Museum of Geography on its top floor and (3) Cathedral of Christ ’s observation deck have the most breathtaking top views of the city.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Garage Museum of Contemporary Art , GUM, ARTPlay , and Moscow Metro stations are just some of Moscow infrastructures perfect for your channel your inner artsy persona.  While walking around the Moscow CBD, do not forget to look up and take photos of the skyscrapers as far as your eyes and camera can reach. However, if you want to take a break from all the spectacular man-made architecture, take a stroll in Patriarch’s Pond , where you can feel like a real Muscovite and nature-lover.

12. Moscow never sleeps

>Let it be known: Russians love to party! And Moscow is undoubtedly the party capital of Russia. The capital city has an incredible array of nightlife options and a scene for everyone. Whether you’re keen to catch a live Russian rock band or slink into a smoky jazz club, Moscow is there for you. Go clubbing till the break of dawn or just lounge around with a beer and an endless array of fine local vodka. We have listed our top five bars and clubs to help you decide which one to go to. Go ahead and get your body moving along the music while drinking with Muscovites. In that way, you can actually experience Moscow.

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Propaganda , or Probka as what regulars call it, is opened in 1997 and has about the same age as the Moscow club culture. Aside from local drinks and world-class DJs, the club is also boasting with cheap sandwiches and steaks. On Thursdays, they hold dance parties and gay parties on Sundays. Nauka i Iskusstvo (Science and Art) is for you if music is the sole reason for your night out. The club is said to host the best electronic and hip parties. Noor Bar, nonetheless, is known for their classic cocktails which can be best enjoyed on Fridays and Saturdays while listening to their DJ sets. Just make sure to go there early to secure a spot. Another two famous nightclubs are located in Artplay: Pluton and Rodnya . Pluton promotes all kinds of music and art-performances while Rodnya is a rooftop club where you can enjoy dancing while waiting for the sun to rise in Summer.  Squad 3/4  is one of the most bizarre nightclubs in Moscow. It is located at the basement of the former Central Baths building and often hosts bohemian raves.

13. Take a Moscow River Cruise

Cruising along the Moskva River is one of the best ways to see and visit Moscow. Ticket pricing of the cruise depends on the size of the boat; the bigger the boat, the more expensive and smoother its sailing will be. For 800 rubles, you can board the most famous tour boat in Moscow: the yellow Lay’s boat. It plays loud Russian pop music as you sail the river. Bigger boats cost 1,100 to 2,000 rubles per person. These cruises on bigger boats often offer cozy lunch and dinner on top of the cruise itself.

Moscow River Cruise

TIP : There are two main boarding piers: Hotel Ukraine and Park Kultury. If you want to save money, buy your tickets online and make sure to arrive earlier as it is hard to find the pier where your boat is at. However, if you do not mind spending more for tickets, you can purchase from street hawkers. They will personally guide you on where to find your boat and where to get off. Also, make sure to bring extra clothes even in the summer season.

14. White Christmas in Moscow

Visit Moscow and bring all your thick but light-weight clothes and experience Moscow’s white winter. The average weather in December is around -10 to 0 degrees Celsius with an average of 17-30 days of snowfall. Witness snowfall on the Red Square which transforms into a Christmas market and the biggest ice skating rink in December. Celebrate with Muscovites during the Russian Winter Festival and watch live performances, eat street foods, and play games from mid-December to mid-January in Manezh Square.

Moscow winter tour Russia

15. Explore the Medieval towns of Golden Ring

There is always more to see beyond the capital city of a country. And in Russia’s case, outside Moscow is the ancient region called the Golden Ring . The region’s name is derived from the golden onion-shaped domes of the churches around the towns and from the ring-like route in which 1967 art historian and journalist Yuri Bychkov travelled.

Golden Ring tour Russia

The Golden Ring is comprised of eight main cities:

  • Yaroslavl is where the Transfiguration Monastery (now a museum) and Ioann Vasiliyevich — a Soviet-themed hotel and restaurant.
  • Vladimir boasts its Golden Gate and the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God.
  • Suzdal is a thirty-minute drive from Vladimir, it has five monasteries, thirty churches, and a market square (Torgovaya Ploshchad) where you can local berries and honey.
  • Sergiev Posad is known to be the location of the Trinity Lavra of St Sergius — one of the largest monasteries in the world.
  • Pereselavl-Zalessky is where you can enjoy windsurfing and ride hot air balloons.
  • Rostov Velikiy or Rostov the Great is boasting its colourful churches and unchanged kremlin architecture.
  • Ivanovo is known for its huge textile industry, it is also known as the city of brides since there more women than men in the area.
  • Kostroma is where the town of Bui — a town of cultural heritage, and Trinity-Ipatiev Monastery can be explored.

Visit Moscow and experience and see in the Golden Ring afterwards. We have carefully crafted  tours  for every traveller like you.

Just as a cherry on top, here is an awesome video clip of this magnificent city, Moscow:

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

7-day Moscow itinerary

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

things to do in Moscow in one week

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

travel itinerary for one week in Moscow

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

exploring Moscow

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

top things to do in Moscow

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

one week Moscow itinerary

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

Moscow itinerary

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

things to do in Moscow in seven days

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

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Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

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MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

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Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

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I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

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Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

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Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

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Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

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Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

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Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

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DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

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Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

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The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

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Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

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Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

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Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

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Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

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With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

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Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

  • Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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    Argentina Travel Guide. Argentina is a diverse country, both naturally and culturally, with geography ranges from northern deserts to humid jungles and culture, art and architectural influences from around the world. Soccer is the national obsession but trekking, watersports and skiing also play an important role.

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