Things To Do
in Mar del Plata
Mar del Plata is a vibrant coastal city located in southeastern Argentina, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. The city offers a variety of cultural attractions, ranging from art galleries and museums to theaters and music festivals. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as surfing, fishing, and golfing, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
With its bustling nightlife, delicious seafood restaurants, and stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean, Mar del Plata is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $35 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Playa Varese where you can enjoy some sunbathing or a swim. Don't forget to grab breakfast at a nearby café for a taste of local pastries.
Head to the lively La Perla beach for water sports and more beach time. Enjoy a beachfront lunch at one of the seafood restaurants offering fresh catches of the day.
Wind down with a stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the sunset. Dine at a coastal restaurant, savoring Argentine grill and wine.
Visit the Reserva Natural Otamendi where you can observe local wildlife and enjoy nature on a guided tour. Bring your binoculars for bird watching and appreciate the serene environment.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the reserve before heading back to the city. Spend your afternoon at the Aquarium, marveling at the marine life and enjoying interactive exhibits.
Return to the city for dinner at a local parrilla to try traditional Argentine barbecue. End your day with a walk around Plaza Colon, soaking in the evening atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and seaside attractions.
- Vibrant cultural scene with theaters, museums, and art galleries.
- A variety of outdoor activities, including water sports and hiking.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
- Mild climate, making it a pleasant destination year-round.
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer.
- Some areas may experience high levels of pollution.
- Limited public transportation options in certain regions.
- Higher living costs compared to other parts of Argentina.
- Safety concerns in some neighborhoods due to petty crime.
Best Activities in Mar del Plata
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball with friends and family on the beautiful beaches of Mar del Plata.
Experience the thrill of surfing on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean at popular surf spots in Mar del Plata.
Relax and rejuvenate with beach yoga sessions, taking in the fresh ocean air and scenic views.
Explore the coastal paths and scenic routes on a leisurely bike ride around Mar del Plata.
Places to Visit in Mar del Plata
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning coastal view and photo opportunities with the iconic La Perla sculpture and the coastline.
Provides panoramic views of the city and the coastline from its observation deck, ideal for photography.
Offers impressive aerial views of the city and the coast, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
A picturesque location offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, ideal for nature photography.
Food in Mar del Plata
Mar del Plata Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring seafood such as shrimp and calamari served on a bed of fresh pasta. Don't miss trying this dish at Lo de Charly, a popular restaurant known for its seafood pasta.
Must-Try!
A classic Argentine dish with a local twist, featuring a breaded and fried meat cutlet topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. Enjoy this dish at Manolo, a renowned spot for fantastic milanesas.
A seafood dish cooked in a traditional Argentine 'disco' pan, often including mussels, clams, and fish, seasoned with fragrant herbs. La Flor de Valencia is a popular restaurant offering excellent mariscos al disco.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to sample empanadas, choripan (sausage sandwiches), and other street food delights while browsing local handicrafts and artisanal products.
This market offers a wide variety of fresh local produce, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as stalls selling freshly prepared Argentine street food like locro (a hearty stew) and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mar del Plata, it is a common cultural norm to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, even in formal settings. It signifies warmth and friendliness.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Mar del Plata. People generally appreciate a respectful distance when engaging in conversations or interactions.
Showing interest and respect for traditional customs, such as mate-drinking rituals or folkloric music and dances, is a way to demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect for the local heritage.
Safety
Tipping in Mar del Plata
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Mar del Plata, Argentina, particularly in restaurants and for services such as taxis and hotel staff. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants, although some may include a service charge. For other services, a small tip is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.
In Mar del Plata, Argentina, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments. It's important to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and businesses that may not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash in the local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mar del Plata is during the summer season when the weather is warm and perfect for beach activities. Expect crowded beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a bustling atmosphere.
Autumn brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It's also the time for cultural events and festivals.
Winter in Mar del Plata is cool and quiet, with fewer tourists. It's a great time for enjoying indoor activities, exploring the city's cultural attractions, and relaxing in thermal spas.
Spring is a lovely time to visit Mar del Plata as nature comes alive with blooming flowers. The weather is pleasant, and it's a good time for outdoor adventures and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Mar del Plata at Night
Hiking in Mar del Plata
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A breathtaking national park known for its stunning landscapes and the impressive Quebrada del Condorito, a deep canyon with diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
A large green area in Mar del Plata, offering walking and biking paths with scenic views, ideal for a casual hike amidst nature.
Located a short drive from Mar del Plata, this area features various trails with beautiful views of the hills and valleys, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
This natural reserve offers several trails around the lagoon, where you can enjoy the local flora and fauna while hiking.
Although a bit further away, this protected area is great for hiking and experiencing the rich biodiversity of the region's wetlands.
Aiports
How to reach Mar del Plata by plane.
The primary airport serving Mar del Plata, also known as Astor Piazzolla International Airport, offers domestic flights and some international connections.
Located in Buenos Aires, approximately 400 kilometers from Mar del Plata, this is the largest and busiest international airport in Argentina, handling flights from around the world.
Also located in Buenos Aires, this airport serves domestic flights and some regional international flights, roughly 400 kilometers from Mar del Plata.
A smaller regional airport located about 60 kilometers from Mar del Plata, operates domestic flights mainly during the tourist season.
Located near La Plata, approximately 400 kilometers from Mar del Plata, this airport serves limited domestic routes and some general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Mar del Plata, comprising people of various ethnic backgrounds, primarily of European descent.
A significant demographic group due to the proximity to Uruguay, with many individuals having cultural and familial ties to the country.
A smaller but notable group, including people who have moved to Mar del Plata for work and education.
An increasing community, mainly involved in various sectors of the local economy.
A growing demographic in recent years, many of whom are engaged in labor-intensive jobs.
Includes small groups of people from various countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Mar del Plata.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Mar del Plata, with numerous local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with various clubs and a strong community of players and fans.
Given its coastal location, volleyball is a popular beach sport, played both casually and competitively.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Mar del Plata, with several clubs that participate in regional competitions.
The city's beaches and pools make swimming a favored activity for both recreation and competition.
With its coastal waves, surfing attracts both locals and tourists, making it a vital part of the local sports culture.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Argentine cuisine traditionally leans towards meat-heavy dishes, many restaurants in Mar del Plata now offer vegetarian and vegan choices. Look for options like empanadas filled with vegetables, caprese salads, and grilled vegetable platters.
Travellers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at various establishments around Mar del Plata. Some cafes and restaurants offer gluten-free pasta, and it's also possible to enjoy dishes like grilled fish with gluten-free marinades and sauces.