Mendoza: What, Where, and How

Mendoza offers a wealth of experiences, from world-famous vineyards and breathtaking landscapes to exciting outdoor activities and vibrant city life. In this section, we'll highlight must-see places, thrilling adventures, and helpful resources to ensure you make the most of your visit to this stunning province.

What to do

Mendoza is perfect for those who love adventure, relaxation, and great food. Spend your days touring world-famous wineries and tasting exceptional Malbec wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting in the nearby Andes Mountains. Mendoza also offers charming cafés, vibrant plazas, and relaxing spa experiences

Where to go

In Mendoza, visit the stunning Parque General San Martín with its gardens, lake, and viewpoints. Explore San Rafael, known for its wineries and the breathtaking Atuel Canyon. Don’t miss Aconcagua Provincial Park, home to the highest peak in the Americas, and enjoy the charming streets and vibrant plazas of Mendoza’s historic city center..

Make the most of your time in Mendoza with these essential resources. From government offices and tourist services to trusted hotels, tour operators, local dining spots, and cultural centers, find everything you need for an enjoyable and truly memorable stay in one of Argentina’s most vibrant and welcoming provinces.

Resources

Places to Visit in Mendoza

To begin with, it is worth mentioning that Mendoza is a large province that offers a wide range of ecosystems and activities for visitors. That is why we have subdivided the offers for visitors according to five distinctive regions.

Mendoza City and Outkirts

Pre-cordillera and High Mountains

Uco Valley

East Region

South Region

Mendoza City and Outkirts

Greater Mendoza is a vibrant and dynamic urban agglomeration that spans across several departments, including Mendoza City, Godoy Cruz, Las Heras, Guaymallén, Maipú, Luján de Cuyo, and Lavalle. As the fourth most populous metropolitan area in Argentina, Greater Mendoza is not only a bustling hub but also the political, economic, and cultural heart of the province. Its metropolitan status enables it to host a variety of services and infrastructure designed to cater to locals and visitors alike, offering everything from modern public transport systems to well-maintained roads that make it easy to explore.

With its central location, the region has developed a wide array of accommodations, ranging from luxurious five-star hotels in the heart of the city to more budget-friendly hostels and boutique guesthouses in quieter neighborhoods.

Tourist Attractions of Mendoza Metropolitan Area

Visitors can enjoy high-end amenities, spa treatments, gourmet dining, and rooftop views of the Andes or choose a more rustic, intimate experience with local hosts. This flexibility in accommodations ensures that anyone—from luxury seekers to backpackers—can find a comfortable place to stay.

Mendoza's rich cultural diversity also shines through in its thriving culinary scene. Food enthusiasts can indulge in local Argentine specialties like empanadas, asados (barbecues), and malbec-infused dishes, all expertly crafted with regional ingredients. In addition, there is a growing influence of international cuisine, with options ranging from Italian pasta dishes to Asian fusion and French patisseries. This blend of flavors and styles makes Mendoza a culinary destination in its own right, catering to all palates and preferences.

The region's wine tourism is, of course, world-renowned. Several travel agencies operate here, offering specialized tours of the lush vineyards and wineries that dot the area.

In Greater Mendoza, the opportunities for exploration are endless. Whether you’re savoring a glass of malbec in the shade of a vineyard, enjoying a casual stroll through the city’s bustling streets, or immersing yourself in the region’s adventurous side, Mendoza invites visitors to experience its welcoming spirit and rich diversity. The metropolitan area’s unique blend of modern urban living and connection to nature, culture, and history makes it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Mendoza offers a perfect balance of excitement, relaxation, and discovery.

Pre-cordillera and High Mountains

The Precordillera and High Mountains near Luján de Cuyo showcase some of Mendoza’s most impressive natural beauty. The rugged landscape, framed by the towering Andes, invites travelers to explore mountain trails, winding scenic roads, and dramatic valleys. This region offers an unforgettable introduction to the wild spirit of Mendoza’s mountainous side.

Adventure seekers will find plenty to enjoy in this area, from rafting the fast waters of the Mendoza River to trekking through high-altitude trails and climbing rugged peaks. Picturesque villages like Potrerillos and Uspallata offer cozy places to relax, with traditional food, welcoming locals, and breathtaking mountain views at every turn.

Luján de Cuyo acts as the perfect base for exploring both mountains and vineyards. Known as the birthplace of Malbec, its historic wineries combine world-class wines with stunning views of the Andes. Touring the vineyards while surrounded by mountain landscapes creates an experience that perfectly blends adventure, culture, and fine living.

East Region

The departments of San Martín, Junín, Rivadavia, Santa Rosa, and La Paz form a vast and fertile region in eastern Mendoza, characterized by the striking geometric patterns of its estates, farms, and vineyards. This distinctive landscape is not only visually impressive but also represents the largest concentration of vineyards in the entire province. Known as the Eastern Oasis, this area stretches from the Mendoza River to the Desaguadero River, reaching the border with the neighboring province of San Luis. Thanks to its extensive irrigation systems and rich agricultural heritage, the region plays a vital role in Mendoza's wine production and export economy. Beyond vineyards, the area is dotted with fruit orchards, olive groves, and rural communities that preserve traditional farming practices while welcoming wine tourism and agro-tourism with increasing warmth and professionalism.

Uco Valley

The Uco Valley, located just an hour south of Mendoza City, is one of Argentina’s most celebrated wine regions. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains, this valley offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, fine wines, and rural charm.

The region’s high-altitude vineyards produce some of the world's best Malbecs, along with excellent Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Uco Valley is perfect for wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking breathtaking scenery and tranquility.

Beyond wine tasting, Uco Valley is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The dramatic landscapes invite activities such as horseback riding through vineyards, hiking in the foothills, and cycling along quiet country roads.

Many wineries offer gourmet restaurants where visitors can enjoy a farm-to-table experience with spectacular mountain views. In the evenings, the clear skies create perfect conditions for stargazing. Whether you seek relaxation or outdoor fun, Uco Valley delivers unforgettable experiences for all tastes.

Some of the most prestigious wineries in Uco Valley, such as Salentein, Domaine Bousquet, and Andeluna, combine wine tours with impressive architecture and art exhibitions. Boutique hotels and eco-lodges scattered across the valley offer luxurious and peaceful accommodations. The charming towns of Tunuyán, Tupungato, and San Carlos provide an authentic glimpse into rural Argentine life. With its blend of world-class wine, spectacular landscapes, and warm hospitality, Uco Valley is a must-visit destination when exploring Mendoza Province.

South Region

Southern Mendoza enchants visitors year-round with its diverse attractions, offering unique experiences in both summer and winter. The region’s vast landscapes, striking natural contrasts, and rich colors invite travelers to step away from urban life and immerse themselves in the serenity of the Andean valleys. Among its crown jewels is Las Leñas, one of the most renowned ski resorts in South America, nestled in the southwest of the province. This high-altitude destination draws adventurous spirits from around the world for its excellent snow conditions and challenging slopes.

The departments of San Rafael, General Alvear, and Malargüe embody the multifaceted soul of this region. Here, nature’s wild beauty meets deep-rooted cultural heritage and productive activity. The land tells stories of Pehuenche warriors, ancient legends passed down through generations, and the enduring legacy of crianceros (nomadic herders), miners, and hardworking vintners who shaped the local identity. Today, this historical and cultural richness is complemented by a growing presence of scientific research and technological innovation, particularly in fields like geology, paleontology, and astronomy. This unique blend of tradition and progress makes southern Mendoza a captivating and ever-evolving destination.

Things to do in Mendoza

🎨 Cultural & Sightseeing

🏛️ Walk through Plaza Independencia: Mendoza’s main square, full of trees, fountains, performers, and local life.

🌿 Stroll the Parque General San Martín: A massive and beautiful urban park — think lakes, mountains in the background, and the iconic Cerro de la Gloria monument.

🍇 Visit a wine museum: Learn the story of Argentine wine at places like Museo del Vino at Bodega La Rural.

⛪ Tour the Basilica de San Francisco: One of Mendoza’s oldest buildings, with stunning architecture and peaceful vibes.

🖼️ Check out Espacio Contemporáneo de Arte (ECA): A modern art hub right in the city center, often featuring local artists.

🍴 Food & Drink

🍷 Wine tasting in Luján de Cuyo or Valle de Uco: Sip world-class Malbec surrounded by vineyards and mountains.

🥩 Asado at a winery: Many bodegas offer open-flame barbecues paired with their best wines — a must-do experience.

🥟 Try Mendocinian empanadas: Usually baked, with beef, onion, and a touch of cumin — simple and delicious.

🍨 Cool off with helado de vino (wine ice cream): Yes, it's a thing — and it's amazing.

🍽️ Dine at a "puerta cerrada" restaurant: Enjoy a private, home-style gourmet dinner in the chef’s own space.

☕ Coffee or cocktails on Arístides Villanueva: Mendoza’s social hub — lined with bars, cafés, and nightlife.

🚤 Day Trips

🍷 Wine & Gastronomy in Valle de Uco: Many bodegas offer degustación (tasting menus) paired with wine. Andeluna and Casa de Uco are standouts.

🏞️ Potrerillos & Cacheuta Adventure Loop: Natural hot springs in the mountains — choose between public pools or the luxurious spa.

🧭 Adventure & Outdoors

🧗‍♀️ Climb or hike near Aconcagua: Trek the base of the highest mountain in the Americas — epic views, fresh air, and a bucket-list experience.

🚴 Bike through the vineyards: Explore wine country on two wheels in Maipú or Luján de Cuyo — tastings + scenic rides = perfect day.

🏞️ Whitewater rafting on the Mendoza River: Class III+ rapids and glacier-fed waters — thrilling and refreshingly cold.

🐎 Go horseback riding in the Andes: Ride with local gauchos and enjoy a traditional asado after.

🪂 Paragliding over the mountains: For unbeatable aerial views of Mendoza’s vineyards and valleys.

⛷️ Winter skiing in Las Leñas or Penitentes: Hit the slopes just a few hours from the city (seasonal, of course).

🛶 Kayak or paddleboard at Potrerillos Lake: A serene setting with stunning mountain reflections.

Calendar of Events and Activities

Alojamientos

Alpasión Lodge

Decidimos llamar a nuestro lodge “Alpasión”, una combinación de las palabras “alma” y “pasión” . La etiqueta de Alpasión cuenta con las huellas dactilares y…

• Tunuyán

Avalenn Casa de Campo

Avalenn Casa de Campo combina tradición y comodidad en una antigua casa de adobe que conserva su esencia original mientras se adapta a las necesidades…

• Tunuyán

Ayres de Uco Lodge & Wine Lovers

En el corazón del Valle de Uco, nuestro complejo de lodges te ofrece una ubicación ideal para disfrutar la tranquilidad y hermoso paisaje de la…

• Tunuyán

Casa de Campo La Superiora / Chalet Gongora

La casa tiene una historia rica y significativa que se remonta al siglo XIX. Originalmente, a finales de la década de 1890, perteneció a la…

• San Carlos

Complejo Turístico Rocas Vivas

Nos ubicamos en Elina Pacheco 63, Pareditas, San Carlos, Mendoza. Nuestro complejo a ido creciendo paulatinamente y sigue creciendo. Somos un lugar donde las personas,…

• San Carlos

El Jarillal

El Jarillal es una casa de campo rodeada de frutales y viñedos en el Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco, famoso por sus bodegas y Malbec…

• San Carlos

Lodge Atamisque

El Lodge Atamisque ha sido creado para disfrutar de los placeres de la vida rural mendocina: sol, paz, buen clima, paisajes de viñedos y frutales…

• Atamisque

Posada La Celia

La casona tiene 5 habitaciones, ofrecemos desayuno completo, visita guiada a viñedos y bodega, degustación, paseo por viñedos en bici, cenas a la carta.

• San Carlos

Posada Salentein

En Valle de Uco, al pie de la Cordillera de Los Andes y a 100 Km de la ciudad de Mendoza capital se encuentra Posada…

• Espacio Salentein

Wine Resort – Casa de Uco

• Casa de Uco Vineyard & Wine Resort

Tour Operators - Excursions

Visit the Official Tourism Website of Mendoza

Resources