Argentina's destinations are as varied as its geography, from the European-flavoured capital to wine country, high desert, and the lakes of Patagonia. Because distances are huge, the best itineraries pick a handful of contrasting bases and connect them by air or comfortable overnight bus. Here are the cities worth building a trip around, ranked roughly by how essential they are for a first or second visit, with what each is best known for and how they fit together.
The Best Cities to Visit in Argentina
Argentina's cosmopolitan capital and main gateway: the tango and pastel houses of La Boca's Caminito, the grand boulevards and bookshops of the centre, the boutiques and nightlife of Palermo, and the ornate tombs of Recoleta Cemetery. A city of late dinners, steak, Malbec, and walkable barrios. Allow 3-4 days.
Argentina's wine capital at the foot of the Andes, surrounded by hundreds of Malbec bodegas in Lujan de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, with Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, as a backdrop. Pair long vineyard lunches with rafting, horse riding, and mountain drives. Best in autumn around the harvest; plan 2-3 days.
The elegant gateway to the Andean Northwest, with one of Argentina's prettiest colonial plazas and whitewashed churches. The base for day trips to the rainbow rock of Cafayate, the Tren a las Nubes, and high-altitude Torrontes wine, plus the country's famous empanadas saltenas. Best in the dry winter; allow 2-3 days.
The capital of Argentina's northernmost province and the doorway to the UNESCO-listed Quebrada de Humahuaca, the seven-colour hill at Purmamarca, and the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats. Pairs naturally with Salta for a combined Northwest loop through dramatic Andean desert. Best in the dry winter, May to September.
The alpine heart of the Lake District and northern gateway to Patagonia: Swiss-style chalets, artisan chocolate shops, deep glacial lakes, and forest trails like the Circuito Chico. A hub for hiking and lake drives in summer and one of South America's biggest ski resorts in winter. Plan 2-4 days.
FAQ
- What are the best places to visit in Argentina?
- Most trips start in Buenos Aires, then add a couple of contrasting regions: Mendoza for wine and mountains, Salta and Jujuy for desert canyons and Andean culture, and Bariloche for the Patagonian Lake District. Pick three or four along the way and connect them by short flights or comfortable overnight buses.
- What is a good two-week itinerary for Argentina?
- A classic two weeks pairs Buenos Aires (3-4 days) with two contrasting regions, for example Mendoza wine country plus either the Northwest (Salta and Jujuy) or Patagonian Bariloche. Because distances are large, build in domestic flights between regions and resist trying to see the whole country in one trip.
- Which part of Argentina is best for first-time visitors?
- Buenos Aires is the natural starting point for the culture, food, and energy of Argentina, and pairs well with one nearby region. Add Mendoza for wine and the Andes, the Salta and Jujuy Northwest for desert scenery, or Bariloche for Patagonian lakes and mountains, depending on your interests and the season.