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About this guide
Settled at the foot of the Andes Mountains, Mendoza, Argentina, is known as a wine country haven for culinary connoisseurs. Famous for world-class Malbecs, rolling landscapes, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, this sun-drenched region offers different adventures for every traveler. Visitors are drawn to Mendoza for its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks—especially Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas. With every step in the rugged mountain trails and stroll through the picturesque vineyards, Mendoza invites travelers to sip, savor, and slow down to enjoy Argentine life.
- Best time to travel: March to May (peak season), June to August (off-season), September to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Argentina Time (ART)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
- Language(s): Spanish, Italian, English
- Noteworthy: Aconcagua Ultra Trail (February), Grape Harvest Festival (March), International Andinean Theatre Festival (biennial every April), Mendoza Wine Fair (September), Mendoza Jazz Festival (November)
- Best for: Argentinian Food and Wine Lovers, Outdoor Adventures, Romantic Getaways, Family-Friendly Vacations, Nature Enthusiasts
Get Away: Getting To And Around Mendoza, Argentina
By Air
El Plumerillo International Airport is just 15 minutes from downtown Mendoza and receives domestic flights and some international connections. It’s the most convenient entry point when traveling from Buenos Aires, Santiago (Chile), or other major cities. Taxis and rideshare services are available at the airport for easy transport into the city.
By Car
Car rentals are also available on-site if planning to explore neighboring regions. Renting a car in Mendoza is ideal for travelers who want to explore the Uco Valley, visit multiple wineries, or take scenic drives through the Andes Mountains. Roads are generally well-maintained and signage is clear, though some rural areas may require a GPS. Be sure to drive cautiously on mountain routes, especially in winter. Fortunately, parking is available throughout the city and at most vineyards.
By Public Transit
Mendoza has a reliable public bus system, including the Metrotranvía light rail, which connects key points of the city and suburbs. Buses require a prepaid Red Bus card, which travelers can purchase and reload at kiosks throughout the city. While buses may not reach all the vineyards, they’re great for budget travelers staying within city limits. For longer trips, intercity buses from Terminal de Ómnibus Mendoza connect to other parts of Argentina as well.
Explore Mendoza, Argentina On Foot
Central Mendoza is walkable and pedestrian-friendly, especially around Plaza Independencia and nearby districts with cafés, museums, and restaurants. Walking highlights the full experience in the city’s leafy boulevards with a relaxed atmosphere up close. Many boutique hotels and hostels are located within walking distance of main attractions, though visits to vineyards or mountain excursions may need transportation.
Quick facts
Argentina Time (ART)
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Spanish, Italian, English
Good For
Argentinian Food and Wine Lovers
Outdoor Adventures and Nature Enthusiasts
Family-Friendly Vacations
Romantic Getaways
Keep in mind
- Aconcagua Ultra Trail (February)
- Grape Harvest Festival (March)
- International Andinean Theatre Festival (biennial every April)
- Mendoza Wine Fair (September)
- Mendoza Jazz Festival (November)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Mendoza, Argentina
Dine at Zonda Cocina De Paisaje for an elevated farm-to-table experience with ingredients sourced from Lagarde winery’s organic gardens. Recognized by the Michelin Guide, this vineyard-view restaurant offers refined tasting menus that blend local flavors with haute cuisine artistry.
Dux Fuegos Mendoza offers a standout brunch menu in Mercado Moreno, featuring sweet and savory dishes crafted with artisanal flair. From toasted breads and house-made jams to hearty grilled sandwiches, it's the perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere.
Anna Bistró offers a MICHELIN Guide experience in a charming space with open-brick walls, industrial-style windows, and a lush terrace. Chef Alejandro Galliski crafts artisan dishes like goat cheese puff pastries, steak empanadas, fresh-caught seafood, salads, pasta, and Argentine meats.
Renowned for its exquisite selection of desserts, Brillat Savarin offers delicate macarons, rich chocolate truffles, and elegant lemon pies. Each treat captures the essence of authentic French confections, crafted with meticulous detail and served in a charming ambiance
The beloved Italian-Argentine bakery La Veneciana serves house-made pastas like sorrentinos and lasagna, as well as flaky medialunas and empanadas. Guests can enjoy a hearty lunch or a sweet treat in the warm atmosphere that make this café a local favorite.
Fran Coffee Makers Belgrano serves specialty coffee with beans sourced from Guatemala and Nicaragua, roasted in-house for optimal flavor. The sweet and savory menu features ristrettos, espressos, cinnamon lattes, Nutella or dulce de leche waffles, croissants, and ciabattas.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Mendoza, Argentina
Book a Premium Spa Day at Cacheuta Hot Springs with thermal pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and Argentina’s only grotto sauna. Top off the rejuvenating experience with a massage and nourishing buffet lunch before heading back to Mendoza refreshed and recharged.
Go Horseback Riding And Roast In The Mountains on a gorgeous horse with experienced locals through Mendoza’s breathtaking mountain scenery, perfect for all skill levels. After the ride, guests savor a traditional Argentine roast with beef, pork, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and free-flowing wine.
Learn How To Make Authentic Empanadas With A Local in this cozy two-hour cooking class learning cherished Argentine recipes. Guests sip mate, make authentic corn and meat empanadas, and bake chocotorta.
Sailing Between The Mountains while learning to captain a sailboat makes for an unforgettable three-hour adventure. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters and toast the experience with a glass of Malbec.
Bake Argentina's Iconic Alfajores to taste the sweet side of the culture with the country’s most delicious treat. In this hands-on experience, guests can sample different varieties and make dulce de leche-filled cookies coated in rich chocolate.
Take the Andes Day Hiking Tour Experience on the summit of Lomas Blancas among breathtaking snow-capped peaks and valleys. With an expert guide, round-trip transport, and equipment included, guests take a six-hour trek to learn about the local environment.
The Half-Day Rafting Adventure on the Mendoza River makes a great whitewater rush for beginners and thrill-seekers alike. Visitors paddle through rapids surrounded by mountains, then enjoy free time at the base with zip lining or trekking.
Make Argentine Asado On A Rooftop with wood embers, paired with local Malbec wines in this four-hour experience. Preparing empanadas, toasting with fernet, and indulging in dulce de leche dessert highlight the flavorful celebration in Argentine culinary traditions.
