Things To Do
in San Martín
San Martín is a scenic city in Mendoza Province, Argentina, renowned for its proximity to renowned wine valleys and olive groves. It serves as a gateway to Maipú and Luján de Cuyo, where Malbecs and Cabernet blends flourish. The city itself offers leafy parks, plazas, and a relaxed pace that suits wandering travelers.
In addition to food and wine, San Martín provides cultural experiences, markets, and easy access to the Andean foothills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the San Martín de los Andes airport and get settled into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring Argentine pastries and coffee. Spend the morning exploring the charming streets filled with wooden architecture and vibrant shops.
After lunch, head to Lake Lácar for a scenic walk along its shores. Rent a kayak for some peaceful paddling or simply relax by the water while soaking up the natural beauty. Visit local artisan shops for unique souvenirs before returning to your hotel.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, indulging in traditional Argentine cuisine such as asado or empanadas. Experience local culture through a live music performance or folk dance show, immersing yourself in the sounds of Patagonia. Wind down the evening with a night walk, appreciating the starlit sky over the mountains.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for the Arrayanes Forest located on Quetrihué Peninsula. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you hike through the unique arrayan trees that boast striking orange bark. Take your time to absorb the tranquility of the forest.
After your hike, take a picnic lunch enjoying the stunning views of the lake. Spend the afternoon swimming or sunbathing at Playa Bonita. Consider renting a bike to explore more of the area or simply relax on the beach.
Return to San Martín and explore a different dining option for dinner, perhaps trying a local craft beer with your meal. Engage with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and recommendations about your adventures. Savor a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated streets by the lake.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-8 |
| 🧀Groceries (weekly for a small household) | $60-120 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class wine country within easy reach
- Relaxed, walkable city center with parks and markets
- Warm hospitality and excellent cuisine with Spanish and Italian influences
- Access to Andean foothills and scenic vineyard landscapes
- Wine tourism can be crowded during peak harvest season
- Some services and amenities may feel more spread out if staying outside Mendoza city
- High season pricing for accommodations during holidays
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in San Martín
Visit one of these nice places.
An expansive, scenic park with lakes, fountains, and broad avenues—ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
A commemorative hill offering panoramic city views, sculptures, and panoramic vistas of vineyards and the Andes.
Colorful market interiors and bustling aisles with vibrant light and candid street photography opportunities.
Food in San Martín
San Martín Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastries filled with beef, onions, olives, and sometimes boiled egg; a staple at bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled beef, chorizo, and morcilla shared with friends at parrillas; best enjoyed with a glass of Malbec.
A hearty corn and bean stew often served with pork or sausage during cooler days.
Corn puree wrapped in corn husk and steamed; a sweet-savory regional favorite.
Potato casserole layered with seasoned meat and cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, cheeses, bakery goods, and street bites like empanadas.
Weekend stalls and food trucks offering choripán, humita, and other regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common in formal settings; close friends may greet with a light kiss on the cheek. Maintain polite and friendly conversation; avoid abrasive behavior in public.
Light topics are best; avoid provocative political debates in casual settings. Pace conversations and listen actively.
Respect meal times; tasting menus and winery dinners are common. Try to complement hosts with a gracious thanks and appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in San Martín
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service is commonly tipped around 10% if not included. Small tips for bar staff and taxis are appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) widely accepted; cash in local pesos is useful for markets and smaller shops. Some places may accept USD, but change will be in pesos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with wide diurnal temperature swings. Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Mild temperatures and harvest season; great for winery tours and outdoor exploring without peak heat.
Cool to mild days with cooler evenings; good time for cozy cafes and wine tastings in vineyards.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for photography walks and outdoor markets.
San Martín at Night
Hiking in San Martín
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, popular urban hike with city views and nearby vineyards; suitable for a half-day outing.
A range with multiple trails, alpine lakes, and varied terrain; offers day hikes and longer treks for experienced hikers.
Scenic hikes and high-altitude landscapes in the nearby Andean foothills; suitable for more ambitious day trips with proper acclimatization.
Airports
How to reach San Martín by plane.
Mendoza's main international airport, located about 15-25 km from central Mendoza city; taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services connect travelers to San Martín and surrounding towns.
Domestic flights in the San Rafael area; approximately 190 km south of San Martín, suitable for regional travel within Mendoza province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many in their 20s and 30s attracted to the wine industry, startups, and culinary scene.
Families visiting vineyards and parks; family-friendly restaurants and activities are common.
Travelers drawn to Malbecs, olive oils, and hillside scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and fan culture across Mendoza.
A growing following with local clubs and amateur leagues.
Ongoing polo events and many golf courses in the wine country region; popular among visitors and locals alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Martín.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find salads, grilled vegetables, empanadas, and pasta; many places can adapt dishes with olive oil, tomato, and local produce.