The Most Beautiful Towns in Argentina
From the sophistication of Mendoza to the charm and history of small towns set in panoramic, rugged scenery, there are many captivating destinations to visit in Argentina. Here’s our pick of the most beautiful places in this diverse South American country you should put on your must-see list.
Villa La Angostura
Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark
Puerto Iguazú
Natural Feature
Puerto Iguazú is a short drive from one of the most incredible natural wonders in the world, Iguazú Falls. Located along the Iguazú River, the falls straddle both Brazil and Argentina. The city offers excellent hostels and spas, alongside the awe-inspiring might of the falls.
Mar del Plata
Architectural Landmark
Puerto Madryn
Natural Feature
Bariloche
Natural Feature, Ski Resort
Chalet-style architecture, bright-blue lakes and snow-capped mountains are just a few of the things that attract tourists to Bariloche. More akin to a Swiss village than what you might expect from the Río Negro province of Argentina, this spectacular town offers some of the most talked-about ski slopes around, as well as an abundance of other outdoor activities.
Ushuaia
Natural Feature
Mendoza
Natural Feature
As the largest wine-producing region in South America, Mendoza is often compared to Napa Valley in California. The area’s a popular tourist destination for wine connoisseurs and mountain climbers, as it’s close to the highest mountain in the Americas, Aconcagua. Mendoza is surrounded by beautiful scenery, lending itself to outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding and river rafting.
El Calafate
Natural Feature
El Calafate used to be a sleepy town in an isolated region of Patagonia, but its proximity to Los Glaciares National Park has made it a bustling tourist destination. In the province of Santa Cruz, this town is the starting point for tourist excursions to the popular Perito Moreno Glacier.
Salta
Natural Feature
In Lerma Valley in northwestern Argentina, Salta is surrounded by fertile land, canyons and the desolate plateau of La Puna. It’s also home to the best-preserved colonial architecture in the country.
Rosario
Architectural Landmark
Rosario is an up-and-coming city along the banks of the Río Paraná. Alongside the tea-colored river, there are boardwalks, bars and restaurants serving a plethora of seafood dishes. Rosario is famous for being the birthplace of both Che Guevara and Lionel Messi.
Kieran Morris contributed additional reporting to this article.