Things To Do
in Martínez

Martínez is a leafy riverfront town in the San Isidro Partido of Buenos Aires Province, just north of Buenos Aires city. It blends a quiet residential vibe with charming early- to mid-20th-century architecture and a relaxed café culture. The waterfront promenade along the Río de la Plata provides easy al fresco strolls, while the town center offers boutique shops and inviting eateries.

An accessible base for exploring the Greater Buenos Aires area, Martínez combines a calm pace with convenient rail, road, and river links to the capital.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Riverside Arrival and Scenic Stroll
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely walk along the Paraná River promenade, breathing in the fresh morning air. Capture photos of the sunrise reflecting off the water and watch local anglers cast their lines. Enjoy a café con leche at a riverside kiosk while planning the rest of the itinerary.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Plaza Quevedo, where tree-lined paths and benches invite moments of relaxation. Discover community murals that celebrate Martínez’s heritage and chat with friendly residents. Pop into a nearby panadería for a fresh medialuna to keep your energy up.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional parrilla overlooking the riverbank, savoring tender chorizo and a glass of Malbec. Listen to the gentle lapping of river waves as the lights of nearby homes begin to twinkle. End the night with a riverside stroll, savoring the cool breeze and tranquil ambiance.

day 2
Historic Center and Architectural Gems
morning
:

Join a guided walking tour through Martínez’s historic district, learning about its colonial roots and urban evolution. Admire the elegant façades of early 20th-century homes and ornate lamp posts lining the streets. Capture the essence of the neighborhood with photos of charming doorways and cobblestone alleys.

afternoon
:

Visit Iglesia Santa Rosa de Lima, noting its stained-glass windows and peaceful courtyard. Explore the adjoining civic center, where local artisans showcase handcrafted goods. Stop by a bookstore specializing in regional history for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Relax at a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the river and cityscape. Sample artisanal cocktails infused with native herbs and fruits. Chat with fellow travelers and locals, immersing yourself in Martinez’s vibrant social scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
Coffee or tea$2-4
🚗Local transit or taxi$1-3 (short ride) / 5-15 (mid-range taxi)
🎬Movie ticket$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Buenos Aires with easy day trips
  • Pleasant riverside scenery and relaxed pace
  • Good value for food and accommodation
  • Friendly locals and strong café culture
  • Limited nightlife within Martínez itself
  • Occasional tourist crowds in peak season near the riverfront
  • Some services and amenities are more abundant in nearby Buenos Aires or San Isidro
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish

Places to Visit in Martínez

Visit one of these nice places.

Río de la Plata waterfront

Long, expansive river views with golden-hour light and marina activity; offers wide horizons for landscapes and atmospheric street photography.

Plaza Mitre (historic center)

A charming square framed by classic façades and leafy trees, ideal for capturing local life and architecture.

Paseo de la Costa (Vicente López)

Riverside promenade with bike paths, sculptures, and views of the river and distant city lights; great for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Martínez

The Martínez area shares in the broader Buenos Aires cuisine, with a strong emphasis on meat-forward dishes, fresh bakery items, and café culture. Expect a mix of traditional parrillas, casual bistros, and riverfront cafés offering a range of light meals, coffees, and pastries.

Martínez Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Empanadas

Baked or fried pastries filled with beef, chicken, or vegetables; widely available in bakeries and markets.

Must-Try!

Asado

Traditional Argentine barbecue featuring beef and other grilled cuts, typically served with chimichurri and sides at parrillas.

Milanesa

Breaded and fried cutlet of beef or chicken, usually served with lemon, fries, or mashed potatoes.

Choripán

A simple chorizo sandwich often enjoyed at street stalls or casual eateries; perfect for a quick riverfront snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado nearby (San Isidro area)

A traditional market in the neighboring San Isidro area offering fresh produce, cheese, meats, and baked goods; great for sampling regional staples.

Paseo de la Costa kiosks

Seasonal riverfront stalls along the Vicente López promenade with snacks, drinks, and light meals during warmer months.

Neighborhood mercados

Local markets and street stalls around Martínez selling seasonal fruit, bread, pastries, and small bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate climate with four seasons. Summers are warm to hot with humidity; winters are mild and occasionally cool. Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures and pleasant outdoor conditions, with occasional rainfall year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm greeting is appreciated; handshakes are common in formal settings, while friends may exchange a kiss on the cheek. Use polite phrases such as gracias and por favor.

Punctuality and conversation

Be punctual for appointments; conversations tend to be direct but friendly. Keep conversations respectful and avoid sensitive political topics in casual settings.

Dining manners

Dress casually but neatly for most venues; wait to be seated at larger places and expect a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise typical travel caution: watch belongings in crowded places and on public transport, especially around tourist hubs. Use reputable transportation options and avoid poorly lit areas at night. In case of emergency, dial local emergency numbers (911 in Argentina).

Tipping in Martínez

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included; you may round up the bill. Tipping taxi drivers is not obligatory but appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and many places take credit/debit cards. Small shops and markets may prefer cash; some vendors may add a small 'servicio' charge on the bill.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with high humidity; enjoy waterfront strolls, outdoor cafés, and late-summer markets. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen during peak hours.

Autumn

Milder temperatures with pleasant days and cooler evenings; ideal for walking tours and photography along the river.

Winter

Cool to mild temperatures; days can be breezy by the water. Indoor dining and café hours are reliable, with fewer crowds.

Spring

Refreshing and often sunny, with blooming trees and parks enhancing outdoor activities and walks.

Nightlife Guide

Martínez at Night

Martínez offers a modest nightlife with riverfront bars, cafés, and casual restaurants. For a broader scene, residents often head to nearby San Isidro or Buenos Aires city for live music, wine bars, or late-night dining. Expect a relaxed pace with socializing that extends into early evening rather than late-night clubbing.

Hiking in Martínez

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Paseo de la Costa trails (Vicente López)

Scenic riverfront walking and cycling paths with easy hiking options and sunset viewpoints.

San Isidro historic center walks

Paved and shaded streets with green spaces and architectural landmarks suitable for relaxed hikes.

Airports

How to reach Martínez by plane.

Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)

Located in Ezeiza, about 25–60 km from Martínez; serves international and domestic flights. Accessible by highway or rail links via the capital.

Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP)

Situated in Buenos Aires city center, closer to Martínez than EZE; handles most domestic and some regional flights. Good for shorter trips and easy rail connections to the suburbs.

Getting Around

Walkability

Martínez is walkable in its town center, with most shops, cafés, and the riverfront within comfortable reach on foot. Surrounding residential areas are more spread out, so a light vehicle or bike is handy for longer outings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Martínez and nearby suburbs, contributing to a safe, community-focused atmosphere.

Commuters

A significant portion of residents commute to Buenos Aires for work, using rail and road links nearby.

Retirees

Retirees are attracted by the quiet vibe, river life, and access to urban amenities in nearby cities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

Argentina’s national pastime; you’ll find local leagues and casual games throughout the area and at nearby stadiums.

Rugby and polo

Rugby clubs and polo fields exist in the broader Buenos Aires region, reflecting local sporting culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during weekday peak hours toward and away from Buenos Aires. Public transit and trains are reliable alternatives for commuting; driving in the city center is manageable but can be slow at rush times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Martínez.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers will find salads, grilled vegetables, pasta, and cheese-based dishes. Many places can adjust dishes to be meat-free; ask about vegetarian empanadas or dairy-free options when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local clinics and private practices in Martínez and nearby San Isidro. For more extensive care, private hospitals and larger medical centers in Buenos Aires city are accessible by rail or road, with international-standard facilities available in the metropolitan area.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide