The 5 Most Beautiful Towns in Argentina
1. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Born and raised in Buenos Aires, I must admit that I am a bit biased to say that Argentina’s capital is the most beautiful, fun, and culturally rich city in the whole continent. The city of “good airs” is mostly known for its European style architecture and Tango. However, there is much more to discover here than sexy dances and beautiful buildings. Buenos Aires is not a small town in Argentina. In fact, a tour of Buenos Aires has something for everyone. If you like street art, trendy bars, and restaurants, head to Palermo, the hip up and coming neighborhood located close to the most beautiful parks in the city. If you prefer to stay in the most elegant and sophisticated area, Recoleta is the place for you. Visiting the colorful and charming La Boca and San Telmo, the two neighborhoods most influenced by Tango, are a must. For a good overview of the country’s history and politics, head to Plaza de Mayo and the Congreso area, and if you are into off the beaten path places, make sure to visit the lesser-known neighborhoods of Barracas, Belgrano, and Abasto. The best time to visit Buenos Aires is in November when the jacaranda trees are in full bloom. This is also when temperatures are perfect for sightseeing. Though the truth is you can visit year-round, and each season has its own charm.
Insider Tip: for a proper taste of local street food, head to Costanera (the boardwalk by Rio de la Plata) and make sure to try a bondiola or chorizo sandwich, just like “portenos” -or Buenos Aires citizens- do.
2. Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche is the German town in Argentina that you must visit. In the 1840s, German and Swiss immigrants settled in this region of northern Patagonia, also known as the Lake Region. The small town is beautifully nestled in the gorgeous land of crystal clear lakes and the snow-capped Andes mountain range. Bariloche was also one of the first tourism destinations in the country, thanks to its pioneer ski resort and the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
If you are visiting Bariloche for a few days, I recommend staying one of the charming lakeside hotels located on Bustillo Avenue. If you’re lucky, you’ll stay at the Llao Llao Hotel. This hotel is known as one of the most beautiful hotels in South America. My favorite Bariloche day tours include visiting the nearby lakeside towns of Villa la Angostura and San Martin de los Andes (reachable by the famous seven lakes road). You may also consider a day boat tour towards the Chilean border, and the Puerto Blest mountain hamlet. Finally the must-do Bariloche tour: Small Circuit, a half-day excursion bordering the gorgeous Nahuel Huapi Lake.
Insider Tip: to witness one of the best sunset views, head to Cerveceria Patagonia, in Av Bustillo Km 24.7, one of Bariloche’s most important beer breweries, located in a breathtaking corner of the Small Circuit.
3. Salta, Argentina
Salta is known as the most beautiful town in the Northwest of Argentina. It is an area rich in culture, traditions, and biodiverse scenery. Surrounding the city are gorgeous valleys “Valles Calchaquies”- with its own wine region, the rainforest or “Yungas”, and the arid high plateau of “La Puna”, home to some of the most astonishing views of deserts, mountains, and salt flats. On a Salta tour, visit the charming old town center, filled with well preserved colonial architecture, museums. One of them holds an impressive mummy section from the old native people that populated the area before the Spanish colonization. Then try some of the best cuisine in the country. Salta is perhaps the city where one would find the best empanadas, one of Argentina’s most famous food.
Insider Tip: for a fun night in town, make sure to visit one of the town’s many “peñas”: dinner and show venues where you will be able to enjoy great local folklore music and try some of the province’s best wines.
4. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is the town in Argentina where everyone comes for wine. It is the capital of wine in Argentina, similar to what you might experience in the Napa Valley. Mendoza city is an elegant middle-sized city, with beautiful old buildings and leafy streets. Nearby is the magnificent Andes mountain range. In fact, the Aconcagua (America’s biggest summit) Mountain is located only minutes away from the town center. For anyone on a Mendoza wine tour, I recommend staying in the quiet neighborhood of Chacras de Coria and visit the city center with a half-day excursion. Other sightseeing tours include some fun activities! You can visit the wineries by horseback or consider renting bikes. The “Alta Montana” excursion which takes you to the border of Chile and through the Andes mountains is very popular. Also for Argentina adventure seekers, Mendoza offers outdoor activities. Have fun white water rafting, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, horseback riding, amongst many others.
Insider Tip: for a great evening dining experience, make sure to check out Francis Mallman’s 1884 Restaurant, one of the best in the whole country.
5. Cordoba, Argentina
Cordoba is one of Argentina’s oldest and most beautiful towns. It’s location, in the geographical center of the country, prompted its nickname as the “Mediterranean” province. While visiting Cordoba, you’ll notice its combination of colonial buildings and modern architecture, and surrounding lush valleys and mountains. Cordoba’s cultural vibrance is also another reason to visit. The city holds one of the largest universities in South America and a large number of museums and art galleries. There are plenty of things to do in Cordoba. Anyone lucky enough to tour Cordoba should make sure to check the nearby Jesuit haciendas or “estancias”. Also, consider a wine tour to Colonia Caroya. Or, follow Che Guevara’s footsteps in Alta Gracia, and visit at least one of the valleys, such as Calamuchita or Traslasierra.
Insider Tip: Spend the afternoon walking around the local “Feria de Artesanos” or handicrafts fair, and once the sun sets, head to Barrio Guemes, the hippest neighborhood in town and home to the best cafes, bars, and restaurants.
About the Author
