Things To Do
in Mendoza
Mendoza is a city located in the western region of Argentina, known for its impressive mountain scenery and vineyards. The city is famous for its production of Malbec wine, with numerous wineries offering tours and tastings. Mendoza is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, rafting, and skiing.
The city also features a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants serving traditional Argentine cuisine.
- "¿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): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to a local vineyard where you can learn about the winemaking process. Enjoy a guided tour followed by a tasting of some of Mendoza's finest wines.
After lunch at a nearby rustic restaurant, head to another vineyard to experience a different winemaking style. Engage in a delightful wine-pairing session.
Spend your evening at a traditional Argentinian steakhouse. Savor delicious local cuisine paired with a glass of Malbec.
Rise early and embark on a hike in the Andes mountains. The breathtaking views will surely set a magical tone for your day.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the tranquility of the mountains. After lunch, consider a guided expedition to explore hidden trails.
Return to Mendoza and enjoy a relaxed evening at a cozy bar. Unwind with a craft beer or a glass of local wine while mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Renowned for its vineyards and wine production, especially Malbec.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Andes mountains and beautiful desert scenery.
- Rich cultural heritage with a vibrant arts scene and numerous festivals.
- Pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters, suitable for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other major cities in Argentina and around the world.
- Air quality can be poor, especially during the dry season due to dust and pollution.
- Limited public transportation options; a car is often necessary to get around.
- Occasional water scarcity issues, particularly in the summer months.
- Less diverse job opportunities compared to larger cities like Buenos Aires.
- Tourist infrastructure may not be as developed as in more popular destinations.
Best Activities in Mendoza
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Andes Mountains while enjoying various hiking trails in Mendoza.
Visit the renowned wineries and vineyards of Mendoza for wine tasting and tours that offer a delightful blend of nature and culture.
Experience thrilling rafting adventures on the Mendoza River, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Engage in rock climbing activities in the scenic town of Potrerillos, offering exciting challenges for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mendoza with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mendoza
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Mendoza city and the Andes mountains.
Beautiful park with scenic spots and viewpoints for capturing the city and surrounding landscapes.
Natural stone bridge and thermal springs in the Andes mountains, offering unique photo opportunities.
Food in Mendoza
Mendoza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try traditional Argentine barbecue, consisting of various cuts of meat, including chorizo, morcilla, and ribs, grilled to perfection over an open flame. Best enjoyed at local parrillas like Azafrán or Don Mario.
Must-Try!
These savory turnovers are filled with a variety of ingredients such as spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables, and are a staple in Argentine cuisine. Try some of the best empanadas at El Otro Mundo or La Marchigiana.
A hearty stew made with corn, beans, meat, and chorizo, Locro is a comforting dish often enjoyed during national holidays. Head to Azafran or Anna Bistro for a delightful taste of this traditional dish.
Argentina's version of gelato, this creamy and luscious ice cream comes in a multitude of flavors. Indulge in some of the finest helado at Ferruccio Soppelsa or Vía Veneto.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mendoza better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market selling a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and wines. Visitors can also sample an array of street foods like choripán, a chorizo sandwich, and grilled provoleta cheese.
This vibrant public square hosts numerous food vendors offering Argentine street food classics such as alfajores, churros, and grilled meats, providing a perfect opportunity to experience authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mendoza, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having conversations.
Mendoza is known for its wine culture, so showing an interest and appreciation for local wines and winemaking can be a sign of respectful behavior.
When dining in Mendoza, it's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting the meal. Additionally, showing appreciation for the food and wine is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mendoza with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mendoza
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mendoza, Argentina, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% at restaurants if the service charge is not included. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers is also common, with 10% being a standard amount.
Cash is widely used for small transactions in Mendoza, but credit and debit cards are also accepted at most shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and to inquire about card acceptance before making a payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mendoza.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mendoza as the weather is mild, the vineyards are blooming, and there are plenty of wine festivals and outdoor activities.
Expect warm and dry weather with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F). It's the peak tourist season with outdoor events and activities.
The grape harvest season, and the landscape transforms into vibrant colors. The weather is still pleasant, and it's a great time for wine tasting and outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall in the Andes. It's a quieter time in Mendoza, but there are still opportunities for winter sports and indoor wine tastings.
Mendoza at Night
Hiking in Mendoza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to the highest peak in the Americas, this park offers breathtaking views and challenging hikes, including the trail to Aconcagua Base Camp.
A popular hiking destination close to Mendoza, featuring a moderate trail with scenic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
A beautiful natural reserve with well-marked hiking trails that showcase the unique flora and fauna of the region, as well as stunning views of the Andes.
A relatively easy hike that leads to a monument commemorating the Army of the Andes, with panoramic views of Mendoza.
Though a bit farther from Mendoza, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers numerous hiking opportunities among stunning glaciers and mountain landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mendoza through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mendoza by plane.
The main airport serving Mendoza, Argentina, with domestic and some international flights.
Also known as El Plumerillo, it serves as the gateway for international travelers to Mendoza.
Located in Córdoba, about 150 km from Mendoza, it is one of the larger airports in the region with more flight options.
Located approximately 170 km from Mendoza, it serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Peru, this airport is further afield but offers connections to international flights, being about 800 km from Mendoza.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, consisting of a mix of European and Indigenous ancestry.
Primarily of European descent, particularly Italians and Spaniards, who settled in the region.
Includes groups such as the Huarpes, Cuyanos, and others who have historical ties to the region.
A smaller demographic group in Mendoza, with historical roots tracing back to African slaves brought to Argentina.
Includes a variety of groups such as Chinese and Japanese immigrants, though they represent a very small percentage.
The Soul of Mendoza
Discover the essence of Mendoza through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Mendoza, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
Rugby has a strong following in Mendoza, with several clubs and regional competitions. The sport is known for its teamwork and physicality.
Basketball is also quite popular in Mendoza, with professional and amateur leagues attracting many players and fans.
Field hockey has gained popularity, particularly among women, leading to a competitive local scene.
Volleyball is played widely in schools and clubs, with both indoor and beach variants being popular.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity and competitive sport in the region, thanks to its varied landscapes and scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mendoza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Argentina is known for its meat-centric cuisine, vegetarian options are available at many restaurants and cafes. Look for dishes like provoleta, empanadas with cheese and onion, or vegetable-based locro.
Vegan options might be more limited, but some eateries offer dishes like humita (a corn-based dish), grilled vegetables, and empanadas filled with spinach or lentils. Communication with restaurant staff about dietary needs is key.
Many restaurants and cafes are becoming increasingly aware and accommodating of gluten-free requirements. Look for dishes such as grilled meats, salads, and rice-based dishes, and always communicate any dietary restrictions to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mendoza with these cultural adventures.
