Things to Do in Mendoza
What to do in Mendoza from someone who lives here: wine region, the Andes and Aconcagua, the city, food, Potrerillos and Cacheuta.
Mendoza is a wine region with the Andes right next door — and I think the mountains are the part many visitors underestimate.
You can be drinking Malbec under the trees in the morning and standing surrounded by bare mountains a few hours later. That contrast is what makes Mendoza special.
I moved here from the Czech Republic, and these are the things I keep coming back to, the places I recommend to friends, and a few that are still on my own list.
If you only have one day
If it’s your first time in Mendoza and you only have one day, I’d spend it exploring the wine region.
Pick two bodegas, have a long lunch and let someone else do the driving. Don’t try to squeeze five wineries into one day just because Google says they’re nearby.
Book ahead. Many bodegas don’t accept walk-ins.
Have a second day? I’d head towards the Andes and Aconcagua.
A third day gives you time to slow down — explore Mendoza city, spend some time in Parque General San Martín, or simply eat and drink your way through the city.
Wine region
This is the obvious one — but for good reason.
You have Luján de Cuyo, Maipú and the Uco Valley, each with a slightly different feel. You can spend a morning tasting Malbec, have lunch among the vines and still be back in the city for dinner.
I’ve visited some bodegas and have plenty more on my list, so I’ll always tell you which is which.
→ Explore Mendoza’s wine region
The Andes & Aconcagua
One of my favourite things about Mendoza is how quickly the landscape changes.
Head west along Ruta 7 and the vineyards gradually disappear. Suddenly you’re surrounded by huge mountains, turquoise water and dry, dramatic landscapes.
Aconcagua, Potrerillos, Uspallata and Puente del Inca can all be part of this side of Mendoza.
It’s a long day — but a memorable one.
Mendoza city
Don’t skip the city just because you came for the wine.
Mendoza is leafy, relaxed and made for walking. The acequias, huge trees, plazas and Parque General San Martín give it a completely different feel from many Argentine cities.
This is also where you’ll find some of my favourite places to eat, have coffee and simply sit outside and watch Mendoza life happen.
Eat. Drink. Repeat.
Food is part of the experience here.
Asado, empanadas, wine, olive oil, ice cream, coffee… and yes, Mendoza takes dinner seriously.
You don’t need a complicated plan. Sometimes the best evening is just finding somewhere you like and staying longer than you intended.
Potrerillos & Cacheuta
If you want a break from wine, head towards Potrerillos.
You can spend the day around the reservoir, go rafting, horse riding or simply enjoy the mountains.
Further along is Cacheuta, famous for its thermal waters — a good choice when your body needs a day off from sightseeing.
My advice?
Don’t try to do everything.
Mendoza is much better when you leave some space between the plans.
One wine day.
One mountain day.
One slow day.
And then see what makes you want to stay a little longer.
That’s the Mendoza I want to show you.