Things To Do
in Maipú
Maipú is a wine-rich agricultural department just west of Mendoza city, renowned for its extensive vineyards, olive groves, and family-run bodegas. The landscape blends rolling hills with sun-drenched estates, offering a quintessential Mendoza countryside experience. Visitors come for accessible winery tastings, rural markets, and easy access to outdoor pursuits in the surrounding foothills.
Its relaxed, friendly atmosphere provides an authentic slice of rural Mendoza, with scenic backroads and welcoming locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Maipú with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying delicious Argentine pastries and coffee. Afterward, embark on a vineyard tour to discover the history of winemaking in the region, learning about the intricate processes that create some of the world's finest Malbecs. Visit a few vineyards, such as Trapiche and Lopez, where you will have an opportunity to taste exquisite wines right from the source.
In the afternoon, indulge in a wine pairing lunch at a renowned winery restaurant, where each course is specially crafted to enhance the flavors of the wine. Stroll through the picturesque vineyard grounds, taking in the stunning views of the Andes as you explore. As the sun begins to set, consider participating in an olive oil tasting experience at a nearby farm to understand the region's agricultural diversity.
For dinner, head to a traditional parrilla (steakhouse) where you can taste Argentina's famous grilled meats, paired with great local wines. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, filled with locals and travelers, sharing stories over their meals. As the night progresses, perhaps find a quaint bar to sip on a glass of Malbec and reflect on your day under the starry sky.
Start the day with breakfast at your accommodation before visiting the Museo del Vino to delve into the rich history of winemaking in Maipú. The museum showcases centuries of artifacts, photos, and interactive exhibits that narrate the evolution of the wine industry in Argentina. Take note of the charming architecture of the building as you explore the exhibits.
After your cultural morning, spend the afternoon at the local market, engaging with vendors while sampling various regional specialties and handmade crafts. This provides a perfect opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and gourmet food items to take home. Don’t miss tasting local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal chocolates made in the area.
As the evening settles in, relax with a casual dinner at a local eatery renowned for its traditional Argentine cuisine. Enjoy dishes like empanadas and locro, while mingling with locals who can share insights about the culture and history of Maipú. Conclude your day with a stroll around the town square, where you can soak in the vibrant community feel.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transportation (one-way) | $1-2 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to authentic Mendoza wine country experiences
- Friendly locals and rural charm
- Variety of vineyard-focused activities and easy day trips
- Delicious, hearty Argentine cuisine with affordable options
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with larger cities
- Some rural venues prefer cash or have limited card acceptance
- Travel between Maipú and more distant destinations may require a car or organized tours
- "¿Qué recomienda probar?" - What do you recommend trying?
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?" - Can I pay with a card?
Places to Visit in Maipú
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide rows of vines with the Andes on the horizon, especially beautiful at golden hour.
Historic streets and rustic bodegas—great for architecture and street photography.
Serene lanes between olive trees with a rural backdrop—ideal for tranquil landscapes.
Classic Mendoza winery buildings with stone walls and wrought-iron details.
Food in Maipú
Maipú Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry filled with beef, olives, and a hard-boiled egg; widely available in markets and bodegas.
Must-Try!
Argentine barbecue with beef, sausages, and chorizo; best enjoyed with a robust Malbec.
Breaded beef cutlet topped with ham, tomato, and cheese.
Grilled chorizo sandwich with chimichurri or salsa criolla; a common street option.
Savory corn purée wrapped in corn husk, often with cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large city market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, wines, and prepared foods; great for sampling local ingredients and snacks.
Local market with seasonal produce, olive oils, bread, and ready-to-eat street foods; ideal for a casual lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; among friends, a light hug or kiss on the cheek may occur. Politeness, patience, and a friendly tone go a long way.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in smaller communities or private venues.
Wine is central to meals; wait for everyone to be served before toasting and saying Salud (to your health). Dress is casual to smart-casual in most venues.
Safety
Tipping in Maipú
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Argentina. In restaurants, 10% is typical if service is not included; round-ups for taxi rides and small tips for guides or staff are appreciated.
Cash (Argentine pesos) and cards are widely accepted in urban areas; some rural bodegas may prefer cash. ATMs are common; inform your bank about international use to avoid holds.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Harvest season brings vibrant vineyard colors and active winery activity; pleasant temperatures for outdoor touring.
Cool but usually mild days; many wineries offer indoor tastings and tours; occasional frost, especially at night.
Mild temperatures with blooming vineyards; windy days can occur; great time for photography and outdoor strolls.
Maipú at Night
Hiking in Maipú
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible alpine-type trails with scenic vistas and a range of difficulty options, suitable for day trips from Maipú.
Gentle to moderate trails weaving through vineyards and gentle hills, offering vineyard views and photo ops.
Protected natural areas with canyons and lookout points; offers shorter hikes and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Maipú by plane.
Main gateway to the region; about a 20–40 minute drive to Maipú depending on traffic; services domestic and some international flights.
Alternative regional airport about a two- to three-hour drive from Maipú; useful for connections to local destinations within Mendoza Province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong local community connected to vineyards, olive production, and farming.
Many residents enjoy a slower pace of life, with weekend markets and winery visits.
People commuting to Mendoza city for work or study, contributing to a youthful, energetic vibe on weekends.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and community games.
Active clubs and regional events; often played in universities and clubs around Mendoza.
Common in clubs and parks; good for visitors seeking a quick match.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maipú.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in markets and bodegas; look for empanadas de humita, pastas with vegetables, salads, grilled vegetables, and olive-oil–based dishes. When in doubt, ask for a veggie paella, ratatouille-style dishes, or a cheese-and-veg plate.