Introducing Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza takes it's wine very seriously! There is a wine fountain in the middle of the main pedestrian mall, vineyards and bodegas scattered all around the region, and wine conversations going on all over town. With the wine and the steak (done fuego of course), this town makes a great place for a visit during the cold northern winters.

Mendoza City is the capital of Mendoza province in western Argentina, and it is situated at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, wide tree-lined streets, and plazas, which make it a pleasant place to visit.

One of the most notable features of Mendoza City is its extensive system of irrigation channels, called acequias which dates back to the 16th century and which were developed by the indigenous people and later improved by the Spanish colonizers. The acequias, which bring water from the Mendoza River to the city, have become an important cultural and historical symbol of the city.

Mendoza City is also known for its wine culture and is a popular destination for wine tourism. Visitors can take tours of the many wineries and vineyards in the area and sample some of the world-renowned Malbec wines produced there. Additionally, the city hosts an annual wine festival called the "National Grape Harvest Festival," which celebrates the region's wine industry with parades, music, and wine tastings.

Other popular tourist attractions in Mendoza City include the General San Martin Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in Argentina and includes a zoo, a lake, and beautiful gardens. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year.

Some History

Mendoza's history dates back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Huarpes. The Huarpes developed an extensive system of irrigation canals to cultivate crops, a technique that was later improved and expanded upon by the Spanish colonizers. This allowed for an increase in population that might not have otherwise occurred. The system is still evident today in the wide trenches (acequias), which run along all city streets, watering the approximately 100,000 trees that line every street in Mendoza.

In 1561, Spanish explorer Pedro del Castillo founded the city of Mendoza, which became an important stop on the route between Buenos Aires and Chile. The city was destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1861, which killed thousands of people and destroyed much of the city's infrastructure.

After the earthquake, the city was rebuilt with wider streets and a more modern design. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mendoza became a hub for Argentine wine production, thanks to its ideal climate and fertile soil. This wine industry brought wealth and prosperity to the region, and it remains an important part of Mendoza's economy today.

During the 20th century, Mendoza experienced significant growth and modernization, with the construction of new infrastructure, such as airports, highways, and universities. In recent years, the city has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to its wine country, outdoor activities, and cultural offerings.

About the Area

Argentina is a large country with a diverse climate, and weather conditions can vary widely depending on the region and time of year. However, in general, Argentina has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Mendoza, located in western Argentina, has a semi-arid climate, which means it is dry and sunny for much of the year, with very little rainfall. Summers (December to February) are hot, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). Winters (June to August) are mild, with daytime temperatures averaging around 60-70 Fahrenheit (15-20 Celsius), and cold nights, often dropping below freezing. Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) are pleasant, with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling to Argentina, as conditions can vary widely depending on the region and time of year.

Mendoza Province, Argentina

When To Go

The best time to visit Mendoza City is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and fall (March to May). During these months, temperatures are mild, and the weather is pleasant, with fewer crowds than during the peak summer season (December to February). Of course, if you love the heat as we do, then the southern hemisphere summer season is a great time to visit.

If you're interested in wine tourism and want to participate in the grape harvest, the best time to visit Mendoza is during the fall (March to May). This is when the grape harvest takes place, and many wineries offer special tours and tastings during this time.

However, keep in mind that Mendoza has a semi-arid climate, which means it can be dry and sunny for much of the year, with very little rainfall. Summers (December to February) can be hot, with temperatures often reaching into the 90℃s Fahrenheit (30℃s Celsius), while winters (June to August) are mild but can be cold at night, often dropping below freezing. If you're planning outdoor activities, such as hiking or mountain biking, it's best to avoid the peak summer months, as temperatures can be too hot for some people.

Overall, the best time to visit Mendoza City in Argentina depends on your interests and what you want to see and do. The best time to visit Argentina is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, the specific timing of your trip will depend on your interests and itinerary.

The People

The people of Argentina are diverse and welcoming, with a strong cultural identity and a love for their country and traditions.

They have a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by a variety of factors, including indigenous traditions, Spanish colonialism, and immigration from other countries, and like many countries settled by immigrants (e.g. Australia and the United States), they are mostly proud of that varied heritage and how it has shaped their modern culture.

The majority of the population of Argentina is of European descent, primarily of Spanish and Italian ancestry, with significant contributions from other European countries such as Germany, France, and Britain. There are also significant indigenous communities, particularly in the northwestern provinces of Argentina, as well as people of African, Middle Eastern, and Asian descent.

The people of Argentina are predominantly Roman Catholic, although there are also significant Protestant and Jewish communities. Education is highly valued in Argentina, and the country has a high literacy rate, with many universities and other educational institutions.

The people of Mendoza are primarily a mix of Spanish and indigenous ancestry, with a strong cultural identity and a passion for wine, food, and the outdoors.

Mendozans are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, with a love of sharing their city's culture and traditions with visitors. They are proud of their wine-making heritage and the many vineyards and wineries that surround the city. In addition to wine, Mendozans are also known for their love of food, with many restaurants serving traditional Argentine dishes such as grilled meats (asado) and empanadas. But its mostly about the wine.

Mendoza is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, and many Mendozans enjoy spending time in the mountains and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The city sits on the Eastern flanks of the Andes, and is a hub for outdoor sports such as rock and mountain climbing, and white–water rafting

The city is also known for its annual grape harvest festival, which takes place in March and celebrates the region's wine-making heritage.

Overall, the people of Mendoza are warm, welcoming, and passionate about their city and its culture, making it a great destination for visitors looking to experience the best of Argentine hospitality. We enjoyed our time here and highly recommend it.

The Cuisine

The cuisine of Mendoza, Argentina, is known for its delicious meats, flavorful empanadas, and of course, its wine.

One of the most popular dishes in Mendoza is asado, a traditional Argentine barbecue that features various cuts of beef, pork, and other meats grilled over an open flame. Other popular meats include chivito (baby goat), cordero (lamb), and chorizo (sausage). Mendoza is also known for its empanadas, which are stuffed pastry turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and baked or fried until crispy. Delicious!

In addition to meat, Mendoza is known for its fresh produce, particularly its tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, which are used in many dishes. One popular dish is ensalada de tomate y albahaca, a simple salad of sliced tomatoes and fresh basil dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

Of course, no discussion of Mendoza's cuisine would be complete without mentioning its wine (which I've done several times already, I know). Mendoza is one of the most important wine regions in Argentina, and its Malbec wines are renowned around the world. I know Malbec is my favorite red wine. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample some of the region's best wines. You can check out our Bodega tour video on YouTube for a closer look.

Overall, the cuisine of Mendoza is flavorful, hearty, and reflects the region's love of good food and wine.

Things To Do

Sights

Mendoza, Argentina is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the top sights and attractions to see in and around the city:

• Aconcagua Provincial Park: Home to the highest peak in the Americas, Aconcagua Provincial Park is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can hike, climb, or simply admire the stunning scenery.
• Plaza Independencia: The main square in Mendoza, Plaza Independencia is a beautiful public space that is home to many historic buildings, including the Governor's Palace and the Municipal Museum.
• General San Martin Park: One of the largest urban parks in Argentina, General San Martin Park is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. It also features a beautiful lake, a rose garden, and a zoo.
• Bodegas (wineries): As mentioned earlier, Mendoza is renowned for its wineries, and visiting one or more is a must-do activity for wine lovers. Some of the top bodegas in the region include Bodega Catena Zapata, Bodega Ruca Malen, and Bodega Salentein.
• Museo del Area Fundacional: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Mendoza, with exhibits on everything from pre-Columbian times to the present day.
• Cerro de la Gloria: A monument located in the General San Martin Park, Cerro de la Gloria offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
• Thermal baths: The region around Mendoza is known for its thermal baths and hot springs, which are a great way to relax and unwind after a day of hiking or wine tasting.

These are just a few of the many top sights to see in and around Mendoza, Argentina.

Tours

Places to Eat

Mendoza is known for its rich culinary scene, and there are many areas in the city where visitors can find delicious food and drink. Here are some of the most popular areas for eating in Mendoza:

• Aristides Villanueva Street: This pedestrian street is known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of bars and restaurants. It's a great place to go for a night out, with a wide range of cuisines on offer, from Argentine steak to sushi.
• Chacras de Coria: Located just outside the city, Chacras de Coria is a charming town that is home to some of the region's best restaurants and wineries. It's a great place to go for a day trip, with plenty of opportunities for wine tasting and gourmet dining.
• Maipu: Another town located just outside the city, Maipu is home to a number of bodegas (wineries) that offer wine tastings and gourmet food. It's a great place to go for a day trip, with beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to indulge in delicious food and drink.
• Plaza Italia: This square in the heart of the city is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, and is a popular spot for outdoor dining and people-watching.
• Mercado Central: Located in the center of the city, Mercado Central is a bustling market that is home to a variety of food stalls and restaurants. It's a great place to go for a quick bite or to sample a variety of local specialties.

These are just a few of the most popular areas for eating in Mendoza, and there are many more to choose from.

Bardot Restaurant, Av. Belgrano 1191, M5500 Mendoza, Argentina

Bodegas

Bars and Clubs

Mendoza has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are some of the most popular bars and clubs in the city:

• Belasco Club: This is one of the most popular nightclubs in Mendoza, featuring a spacious dance floor, live music, and a variety of DJs playing a range of music genres.
• Palenque Bar: A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, Palenque Bar features a cozy atmosphere, a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, and live music.
• La Reserva Pub: This is a classic British-style pub that features a cozy atmosphere, a wide selection of beers, and live music on the weekends.
• Antares: This is a popular craft beer bar that features a wide selection of locally brewed beers and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Casa de Fuego: This is a popular cocktail bar that features a variety of creative drinks, as well as a cozy atmosphere and live music on the weekends.
• Escalante Bar: This is a popular wine bar that features a wide selection of local wines, as well as tapas and live music.

These are just a few of the most popular bars and clubs in Mendoza, and there are many more to choose from depending on your tastes and preferences.

Places to Stay

Top End hotels

Mendoza offers a range of luxurious 5-star hotels for travelers seeking comfort and upscale amenities. Here are some of the top 5-star hotels in Mendoza:

• Park Hyatt Mendoza: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Mendoza's wine country and offers an elegant blend of traditional and modern decor. The hotel features a casino, spa, dining terrace (see pic), fitness center, outdoor pool, and several dining options. book here. Also check out our video review
• Sheraton Mendoza Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Mendoza, just a few blocks from the city center. The hotel features modern amenities and stylish decor, as well as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa. book here
• Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort: This luxurious resort is located in the heart of Mendoza's wine country and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains. The resort features a spa, outdoor pool, and gourmet restaurant.
• Entre Cielos: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Mendoza's wine country and offers a range of unique accommodations, including private villas with outdoor hot tubs. The hotel also features a spa, outdoor pool, and gourmet restaurant.
• Diplomatic Hotel: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Mendoza and offers luxurious accommodations and a range of upscale amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and rooftop pool. book here
• The Vines Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort is located in the heart of Mendoza's wine country and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains. The resort features a spa, outdoor pool, and several dining options, as well as access to a private vineyard.

These are just a few of the top 5-star hotels in Mendoza, and there are many more to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.

The Terrace at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Mendoza

Value Hotels

Mendoza offers a range of affordable accommodation options for budget-conscious travelers. Here are some of the best low-cost hotels in Mendoza:

• Hotel Cordon del Plata: This hotel is located in the city center of Mendoza and offers affordable accommodations with a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. book here
• Hostel Lao: This hostel is located in the heart of Mendoza, just a few blocks from the city center. The hostel offers dormitory-style and private rooms, as well as a range of communal amenities, including a shared kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor terrace.
• Alamo Hostel: This hostel is located in the heart of Mendoza and offers affordable dormitory-style and private rooms, as well as a range of communal amenities, including a shared kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor terrace.
• Hotel Nutibara: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the city center of Mendoza and offers comfortable accommodations with a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. book here
• Hostel Wineries: This hostel is located in the heart of Mendoza's wine country and offers affordable dormitory-style and private rooms, as well as a range of communal amenities, including a shared kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor terrace.

These are just a few of the best low-cost hotels in Mendoza, and there are many more to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. Of course, there are many more options on AirBNB and similar aggregator sites. You can use our booking widget to find other hotels as well.

Getting There & Getting Away

Air

Several airlines operate flights to Mendoza, Argentina. Some of the major airlines that fly to Mendoza include:

• Aerolíneas Argentinas: This is the flag carrier airline of Argentina, and it operates regular flights to Mendoza from Buenos Aires and other cities in Argentina.
• LATAM Airlines: This is the largest airline in Latin America, and it operates flights to Mendoza from various cities in Argentina, as well as from other countries in the region.
• Andes Líneas Aéreas: This is an Argentinean airline that operates flights to Mendoza from Buenos Aires and other cities in Argentina.
• Gol Airlines: This is a Brazilian airline that operates flights to Mendoza from Sao Paulo and other cities in Brazil.

Other airlines that operate flights to Mendoza include Copa Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART. The availability of flights and airlines may vary depending on your location and the time of year.

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Land Transportation

Unfortunately, there are no passenger trains that currently operate to Mendoza, Argentina. The city does not have a train station, and the nearest train station is located in the city of San Juan, which is about 160 km away from Mendoza.

However, there are several bus companies that operate regular services to and from Mendoza, connecting the city with other major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Rosario. Bus travel in Argentina is generally comfortable, safe, and affordable, and it's a popular way to travel around the country. Mendoza also has an airport, and several airlines operate flights to the city from various destinations in Argentina and other countries in the region.

There are several bus companies that operate services to Mendoza, Argentina. Some of the major bus companies that operate to and from Mendoza include:

• Andesmar: This is one of the largest bus companies in Argentina, and it operates regular services to Mendoza from various cities, including Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Rosario.
• Cata Internacional: This bus company operates services to Mendoza from several cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires, San Juan, and Cordoba.
• El Internacional: This is another bus company that operates services to Mendoza from various cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires, Rosario, and San Luis.
• Flecha Bus: This is one of the largest bus companies in Argentina, and it operates services to Mendoza from several cities, including Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Rosario.

These are just a few of the bus companies that operate services to Mendoza. There are many more to choose from, and the availability of services and schedules may vary depending on the time of year.

Within Mendoza there are various forms of local transport including a public bus system, and a single line light rail system. Uber and taxis are readily available. The light rail system has been acquired from San Diego in the United States

Summary