A local’s guide to travelling in Argentina

Planning a trip to Argentina but not sure where to start? In search of local insights, we asked Argentinian travellers to name their favourite places to visit in their home country.

Buenos Aires

For many international visitors, starting off in Buenos Aires is a way to ease into the Argentinian lifestyle before going on to explore the rest of this vast and varied country. For local travellers, however, Buenos Aires is all about the arts, whether that’s famous Argentine filmmakers, street art, unusual architecture or the general atmosphere of a city that never stops. One of the most popular neighbourhoods for Argentinians visiting the city is the Recoleta district, home to the stylish AQ Tailored Suites.

Mar del Plata

A coastal city on the eastern side of the country, Mar del Plata is home to some of Argentina’s best-known beaches. Punta Iglesia and Playa Grande attract thousands of visitors, although they’re big enough not to feel too crowded. Argentinians, however, prefer to visit the slightly more remote Waikiki beach for its relaxed atmosphere and surf breaks that are perfect for longboarding. If you’re looking for somewhere close to the beach and the Mar del Plata nightlife, check out the Ribera Sur Hotel Mar de Plata.

Córdoba

As the second largest city in Argentina, Córdoba often feels like a more laid-back version of Buenos Aires. For locals, however, it’s the rolling Pampas hills surrounding Córdoba that makes it a popular (and unique) destination. The centre of the city is filled with 17th- and 18th-century Jesuit architecture, much of which has been turned into self-catered apartments like the B131, and the rivers and miniature waterfalls of the nearby Agua de Oro river are perfect for hiking and wild swimming.

Mendoza

Mendoza is situated in the Cuyo desert region and the arid climate has seen this picturesque city emerge as the centre of Argentina’s wine industry. The city’s hot and humid summers offset the dryer months of the year, turning the local vineyards vibrant shades of green. Horse riding is especially popular here, providing riders set off in the cool heat of the early morning. To wake up with a view of the Tupungato Winelands and the Himalayan mountain range, book a stay at the Auberge du Vin.

Rosario

Less than 300km from Buenos Aires, the city of Rosario has a liberal atmosphere, a playful nightlife and the kind of galleries, museums, collectives and cultural centres that are well worth travelling for. As Rosarians tend to start their nights out at 2am, you’ve got plenty of time to explore the collections at the Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes, followed by a trip to the riverside beach La Florida. Travellers in search of cool interior design and a pool with a view can check into the Puerto Norte Design Hotel.