Argentina is large, and its best-known places are far apart. Buenos Aires sits on the Atlantic side, Iguazú is in the subtropical northeast, the glaciers are in the far south, and the wine country and Andean north lie to the west. This guide picks ten places that together give a balanced picture of the country, and explains how they fit together.
Quick picks
- First trip, short on time: Buenos Aires plus either Iguazú Falls or El Calafate.
- Nature and hiking: El Chaltén, El Calafate and Bariloche.
- Food and wine: Buenos Aires and Mendoza.
- Landscapes and culture: Salta and Jujuy.
- Wildlife: Península Valdés.
The 10 places
1. Buenos Aires
Most trips start here. The city is a collection of distinct barrios: Recoleta for its cemetery and grand architecture, San Telmo for old streets and Sunday markets, Palermo for cafés, restaurants and parks, and La Boca for its colorful streets. Plan on at least three days. Evening culture, including late dinners and tango shows, is a big part of the experience.
2. Iguazú Falls
A vast network of waterfalls on the border with Brazil, commonly described as roughly 275 separate falls. The most famous section is the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo). The Argentine side offers the most trails and walkways. See our Iguazu Falls trip planning guide for comparing the Argentine and Brazilian sides.
3. El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier
El Calafate is the base for visiting Perito Moreno, a large glacier in Los Glaciares National Park that is reachable by road and has viewing walkways. Boat trips and guided ice walks are also offered. Check current options and book ahead in summer.
4. El Chaltén
Known as Argentina’s hiking capital, this small village sits below Mount Fitz Roy. Many of the best day hikes start from the village itself, so you do not need to be an expert to enjoy it. Our guide to the best travel destinations for hiking compares it with other trekking regions. Weather changes quickly, and wind can be strong. For route and booking advice across the region, see our Patagonia travel tips.
5. Ushuaia
Often called the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is set between the Beagle Channel and mountains in Tierra del Fuego. Visitors use it for Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel boat trips and as a departure point for Antarctic cruises.
6. Bariloche and the Lake District
Bariloche sits on Lake Nahuel Huapi, with mountain scenery, lake viewpoints, hiking in summer and skiing in winter. It is also known for its chocolate shops. Scenic drives such as the Circuito Chico are popular.
7. Mendoza
Argentina’s best-known wine region, famous for Malbec, with the Andes in the background. Visitors tour wineries in areas such as Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, and some come for outdoor activities. Wine tastings usually need advance reservation.
8. Salta and Jujuy
In the northwest, colonial architecture meets colorful desert canyons, such as the Quebrada de Humahuaca in Jujuy. A rental car or a tour is the usual way to see the landscapes. Altitude can be a factor in parts of the region.
9. Península Valdés
A coastal nature reserve in Patagonia known for marine wildlife, including southern right whales that visit during part of the year. Season dates for whales and other animals vary, so check the current timing before you plan around it.
10. Córdoba
Argentina’s second major city has a well-preserved colonial center, a large student population and easy access to hills and small towns nearby. It is a good option if you want a less touristy city stop.
How to combine them
Domestic flights are the most practical way to link distant regions. Typical combinations:
- 7 to 10 days: Buenos Aires, Iguazú and El Calafate.
- 2 weeks: Add El Chaltén or Bariloche, or Mendoza.
- 3 weeks or more: Add Salta and Jujuy, or Ushuaia and Península Valdés.
Distances in Patagonia are long even by road, so avoid trying to see too many places in a short trip.
Safety by city
There is no single “safest city” that can be named with confidence, and conditions change. Petty theft, such as phone snatching and pickpocketing, is a common concern in Buenos Aires and other large cities. Smaller towns in Patagonia, such as El Chaltén and El Calafate, are generally described as more relaxed, though normal precautions still apply. Check your government’s current travel advice before booking.
Where wealthier Argentines live
In Buenos Aires, neighborhoods such as Recoleta, Palermo and Puerto Madero are generally considered upscale, and many wealthier households also live in the northern suburbs of the city. These are general impressions, and conditions within each area vary.
Best time to go
Seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere. Patagonia is most accessible in the southern summer, roughly from late spring to early autumn. Buenos Aires and Mendoza are pleasant in spring and autumn. Iguazú can be hot and humid in summer. If you want to combine regions, shoulder seasons are often a compromise. Our Brazil travel itinerary shows how some travelers pair Argentina with Brazil.
FAQ
What is the best place to visit in Argentina for a first trip? Many travelers start with Buenos Aires and add Iguazú Falls or El Calafate.
How many days do you need? About ten days covers three or four places without rushing.
Is Argentina good for independent travel? Yes, though distances are long. Booking popular tours and Patagonia accommodation ahead is advisable in peak season.