Argentina Holidays

How to reach Argentina

• Flight time: Flights to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, take roughly 13 to 14 hours from London. Major airlines such as British Airways and Aerolíneas Argentinas provide direct services.

• Transfer time: Upon arrival at Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza) in Buenos Aires, a taxi or private transfer will take around 40 minutes to reach the city centre, depending on traffic. Minicab radio taxis (remíses) are usually the safest option and can be booked at one of the stands within the airport. There are also airport shuttles available, which take around 50 minutes to an hour.

• Price: The fare from Ezeiza to the city centre costs 38,000–50,000 Argentine pesos (ARS), while the airport shuttle costs around 10,000 ARS. Alternatively, a private transfer will cost around 60,000 ARS.

Best time to visit Argentina

Argentina’s vast size and range of climates mean the best time to visit depends on which part you want to see the most. Buenos Aires, Patagonia and Mendoza all offer distinct seasons, so it’s wise to tailor your trip according to your interests.

• December to February (summer) is peak season, especially for Patagonia and the Lake District. Average temperatures in Buenos Aires during summer hover around 25°C to 30°C. Meanwhile, Patagonia enjoys more manageable temperatures of around 12°C to 18°C.

• March to May (autumn) is a great time for visiting the wine regions, such as Mendoza, as temperatures cool to between 15°C and 25°C. It’s also less crowded – perfect for exploring the cities.

• June to August (winter) is the low season in Buenos Aires, with temperatures falling to 8°C to 14°C. This is also the ski season in Patagonia and the Andes, where snow-lovers can hit the slopes in Bariloche.

• September to November (spring) is the shoulder season, ideal for all-round travel. Buenos Aires bursts into bloom, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, while Patagonia starts to open up again.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but in major tourist areas, English is commonly understood. A few Spanish phrases will go a long way in connecting with locals.

• Local habits and customs: Argentines are known for their late dining hours – don’t be surprised if dinner starts after 9pm. Socialising over a long meal is common and tipping in restaurants is around 10 percent. In Buenos Aires, you’ll also see the cultural love for tango, with regular impromptu street performances.

• Health and safety: Argentinian cities like Buenos Aires are generally safe, but like most places, it’s wise to watch out for pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas. Tap water is safe to drink in the majority of urban areas.

• Currency: Argentina uses the Argentine peso (ARS). While cards are widely accepted, cash is handy for small purchases. ATMs are available in cities, but the fees for withdrawals can be high, so check with your bank.

• Getting around: Buenos Aires has a well-organised public transport system, with buses and a metro (Subte). A Subte ride costs around 500 ARS, while a bus ride is around 200 ARS. Taxis are affordable and Uber is available in the bigger cities.

• Electricity and plug types: Argentina uses type C and I plugs. UK visitors will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Argentina is GMT minus 3 – a three-hour difference from the UK.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. You will, however, need a passport that’s valid for at least six months after entry.

Local dishes in Argentina

One of the true joys of your holidays to Argentina will be savouring the country’s fantastic culinary offerings. From the juicy steaks of Buenos Aires to the fresh seafood of Patagonia, Argentina’s food and drink scene won’t disappoint.

Meat dishes

• Asado: The star of Argentine cuisine, this traditional barbecue features various cuts of meat cooked over an open flame. Expect rib-eye, sirloin and sausages like chorizo or morcilla.

• Empanadas: These delicious pastry pockets are filled with a mix of beef, chicken or cheese. Each region of Argentina puts its own spin on these handheld treats.

• Milanesa: A breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to a schnitzel, often served with mashed potatoes or salad.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Merluza a la Romana: This is a popular fish dish of lightly battered and fried hake, found on many coastal menus.

• Centolla: King crab, particularly popular in Ushuaia, served fresh and often grilled or baked into casseroles.

Sweets and desserts

• Dulce de Leche: This thick, caramel-like spread is made from sweetened milk and is used in a variety of desserts. It’s also good when simply spread on some toast.

• Alfajores: Soft, crumbly biscuits filled with Dulce de Leche, often coated in chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar.

• Helado: Argentine ice cream is a must-try, especially flavours like Dulce de Leche or fruity sorbets – made from Patagonia’s berries.

Local drinks

• Malbec: Argentina’s most famous wine (particularly from the Mendoza region) is known for its deep flavours of plum and blackberry.

• Mate: This traditional herbal tea is made from yerba mate leaves. It’s typically shared with friends from a communal gourd and is sipped through a metal straw.

• Fernet con Coca: A uniquely Argentine cocktail, made from the bitter spirit Fernet and mixed with Coca-Cola.

Best things to do in Argentina

From the energetic buzz of Buenos Aires to the windswept wilderness of Patagonia, Argentina is a land of contrasts. Whether you’re after tango and steak in the city or dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures, Argentina holidays have it all. Here’s a rundown of some of the best things to do across the country.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cerro de la Gloria, Mendoza: A panoramic viewpoint in Mendoza’s San Martín Park, offering stunning views of the city with the backdrop of the towering Andes.

• Salinas Grandes, Jujuy: These expansive salt flats are best explored during sunrise or sunset for a dramatic view across the shimmering white landscape.

• Cerro Campanario, Bariloche: Easily accessible by chairlift, this spot offers 360-degree views of the lakes and mountains of Patagonia, making it a must for any visitor to Bariloche.

• Aconcagua Provincial Park, Mendoza: For the adventurous, hiking here offers views of the highest peak in the southern hemisphere.

The best districts

• San Telmo, Buenos Aires: This bohemian neighbourhood is perfect for exploring cobblestone streets, vibrant markets and historic tango bars. Sundays are especially lively with the weekly Feria de San Telmo market.

• Palermo, Buenos Aires: The popular Palermo district is where you’ll find nightlife, high-end boutiques and cafés aplenty. Divided into smaller sub-districts like Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, this area is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

• Recoleta, Buenos Aires: Known for its grand Parisian-style architecture, this upscale district is home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where you can visit the tomb of Eva Perón.

Parks and gardens

• Bosques de Palermo, Buenos Aires: This large green space in the heart of Buenos Aires is perfect for picnicking, paddle-boating on the lakes or simply taking a stroll through its rose garden.

• Iguazú National Park: Home to the world-famous Iguazú Falls, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Argentina’s most impressive natural wonders.

• Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia: Located at the southern tip of Argentina, this national park is known for its rugged beauty, with hiking trails, lakes and abundant wildlife.

Historic monuments

• Casa Rosada, Buenos Aires: The iconic presidential palace, painted in its signature pink, is where Eva Perón once addressed crowds from its famous balcony. Free guided tours are available on weekends, offering insights into the country’s political history.

• Córdoba Cathedral, Córdoba: One of the oldest churches in Argentina, this stunning cathedral boasts a mix of colonial and Baroque architecture.

• Jesuit Block and Estancias, Córdoba: This UNESCO-listed site offers a glimpse into Argentina’s colonial past, with beautifully preserved Jesuit missions and estancias scattered throughout the Córdoba region.

Activities for families in Argentina

Argentina is a fantastic destination for families, with activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re exploring the cities or heading out into nature, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained.

• Parks and gardens: The parks of Buenos Aires, like the Bosques de Palermo and the Japanese Gardens, offer playgrounds, paddle boats and plenty of space for kids to burn off some energy.

• Zoos and aquariums: Temaikèn Biopark in Buenos Aires is a must-visit, with its interactive exhibits and diverse animal species. In Mendoza, the Serpentario showcases exotic reptiles, sure to captivate younger visitors.

• Interactive museums: Children will enjoy the Museo de los Niños in Buenos Aires, which is designed as a miniature city where they can role-play as chefs, firefighters and more.

• Nature and outdoor adventures: Families can enjoy gentle hiking in Argentina’s national parks like Iguazú or Tierra del Fuego, while Bariloche offers boat rides and chocolate shops.

Free things to do in Argentina

Argentina offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, perfect for travellers looking to experience the country on a shoestring.

• Free events: Buenos Aires is home to an array of free cultural events year-round. From outdoor tango performances to open-air concerts, there’s always something happening. During Argentina’s Independence Day in July, the city comes alive with parades and public celebrations.

• Free museums: Many museums in Argentina’s larger cities offer free entry on certain days. For example, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Buenos Aires is free on weekdays, offering access to its impressive collection of Argentine and international art.

• Free guided tours: Buenos Aires offers free (albeit tip-based) walking tours that explore the city’s key neighbourhoods like San Telmo and Recoleta.

• Explore by public transport: Most large urban centres in Argentina afford visitors access to affordable public transport networks. In Buenos Aires, the buses and Subte (metro) system are cheap and convenient ways to explore. For just a few pesos, you can take the D line of the Subte to Palermo to visit its many parks and museums.