Things To Do
in Neuquén
Neuquén is a city located in the Patagonia region of Argentina, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities. It is a hub for adventure tourism, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, skiing, and more in the surrounding mountains and lakes. The city itself has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and a bustling food and wine culture.
Neuquén is also an important center for oil production, contributing to the region's economy.
- "¿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: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Parque Norte, perfect for a morning walk. Grab some coffee at a local café nearby.
Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes to appreciate Argentine art. Stroll through the city center to explore shops and local cuisine.
Dine at a traditional parrilla for a taste of local flavors. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Limay River as the sun sets.
Travel to Copahue and soak in the natural hot springs, a perfect start to your day. Enjoy the serene environment and beautiful landscapes.
Hike through the stunning surroundings, exploring the lush forests and trails. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos!
Relax at a local lodge with a hearty meal. Spend your evening stargazing amidst the tranquil atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lakes.
- Rich in natural resources, particularly oil and gas, contributing to its economy.
- Growing tourism sector, attracting visitors for outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
- Cultural diversity, influenced by Indigenous communities and European immigrants.
- Wine production in regions like the Neuquén Valley, known for quality wines.
- Limited infrastructure in some rural areas, affecting accessibility.
- Economic dependence on the oil and gas industry, which can lead to volatility.
- Environmental concerns related to resource extraction and its impact on local ecosystems.
- Seasonal climate extremes, which can affect agricultural productivity.
- Social issues, including disparities between urban and rural populations.
Best Activities in Neuquén
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Andes mountains with a hike through the picturesque landscapes of Neuquén.
Visit the vineyards in the Patagonian region of Neuquén for a delightful wine tasting experience in a stunning natural setting.
Enjoy an exhilarating rafting adventure on the Neuquén River, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and thrilling rapids.
Tours
Uncover the best of Neuquén with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Neuquén
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides stunning panoramic views of Neuquén and the Limay River valley.
Offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscapes, especially during sunset.
Provides a picturesque view of Neuquén and the nearby mountains.
Food in Neuquén
Neuquén Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of beef, lamb, and pork, often seasoned with chimichurri sauce. Savored at local parrillas (steakhouses) like La Estancia in Neuquén City.
Must-Try!
Breaded and fried beef or chicken cutlets topped with ham, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Try this classic dish at El Patacón in Neuquén.
Delicate pastries filled with quince paste, sweet potato, or dulce de leche. Find these delightful treats at traditional bakeries such as La Ricura del Sur in Neuquén.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Neuquén better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Neuquén showcases a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food stalls offering empanadas, choripán (sausage sandwiches), and regional specialties like locro (a hearty stew).
Along the picturesque riverfront in Neuquén, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while sampling street food from vendors selling grilled meats, crepes, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Neuquén, it is customary to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting someone for the first time. This shows warmth and friendliness.
It's important to be mindful of personal space in Neuquén. People generally stand closer to each other during conversations compared to some other cultures, so it's important to be respectful of this proximity.
When dining in Neuquén, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal. Additionally, it's courteous to try a bit of every dish that's served to show appreciation for the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Neuquén with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Neuquén
Ensure a smooth experience
In Neuquén, Argentina, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, it is common to leave a 10% tip if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted in Neuquén, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash. It's important to always carry Argentine pesos as foreign currency is not widely accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Neuquén.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Neuquén, Argentina is during spring when the weather is mild, nature is in full bloom, and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching are popular.
Summer is another great time to visit Neuquén with warm temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures like kayaking, swimming, and visiting the beautiful lakes in the region.
Autumn in Neuquén is a beautiful time with colorful foliage, cooler temperatures, and outdoor events such as harvest festivals and wine tasting tours.
Winter in Neuquén brings colder temperatures and snow-covered landscapes, making it an ideal time for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Andes mountains.
Neuquén at Night
Hiking in Neuquén
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain for hiking and skiing, offering trails with stunning views of the Lanín National Park and nearby lakes.
A beautiful hike that leads to a stunning green lagoon surrounded by mountains, perfect for a day trip.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this area offers multiple trails with varying difficulty levels and breathtaking landscapes.
A scenic hike that offers access to a lovely lake, ideal for nature walks and picnics with family.
A local park with several trails, great for casual hikes and enjoying the natural surroundings close to the city.
A vast national park with numerous hiking trails that explore the region’s stunning landscapes, lakes, and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Neuquén through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Neuquén by plane.
Located in Neuquén, this is the main airport serving the city and the surrounding region.
Located in Mendoza, approximately 300 km west of Neuquén, this airport serves as a major hub for international travel.
Located in Bariloche, around 400 km south of Neuquén, this airport connects the southern region of Argentina with international flights.
In Comodoro Rivadavia, approximately 500 km southeast of Neuquén, this airport serves international routes primarily to Chile.
Located in Córdoba, roughly 600 km northeast, providing international connectivity to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Neuquén, primarily of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Includes various groups such as the Mapuche, who have historical roots in the region.
Primarily composed of descendants from Italian and Spanish immigrants who settled in the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A smaller, diverse group including those from neighboring countries and other regions seeking opportunities.
The Soul of Neuquén
Discover the essence of Neuquén through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Neuquén, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.
Rugby has a growing popularity in Neuquén, with various clubs and competitions catering to different age groups and skill levels.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Neuquén, with several clubs and community leagues participating at various competitive levels.
Field hockey is practiced widely, with regional competitions contributing to its popularity and development.
Volleyball is popular in both recreational and competitive formats, with schools and clubs participating in local championships.
Running events and marathons are frequently organized, attracting many participants and promoting physical fitness in the region.
Cycling is popular for both recreation and sport, with many events taking place in the beautiful landscapes of Neuquén.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Argentine cuisine leans heavily on meats, many restaurants in Neuquén now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like grilled vegetable platters, quinoa salads, and plant-based empanadas.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can still delight in local cuisine by seeking out eateries that source naturally gluten-free ingredients, and by sampling dishes like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and corn-based empanadas.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Neuquén with these cultural adventures.
