15 Unmissable Things to Do in Argentina on Your Trip

If it’s your first time visiting this incredible South American country, you’re probably wondering what the best things to do in Argentina are.

This isn’t about the best places to visit in Argentina – it’s about the experiences that make this destination unique.

Not matter which areas of the country you’re looking to visit, these activities are an absolute must for experiencing the heart of Argentina. From diving into the local cuisine to experiencing traditional festivals, this is the ultimate bucket list to get you enjoying all of the best things that Argentina has to offer.

The Top Things to Do in Argentina

There are an endless amount of things to do in Argentina, but here are the absolute musts!

⚽️ Attend a Football Match

Football (soccer) is more than just a sport in Argentina – it’s a freakin’ religion. Some of the best players in the world come from this country, and Argentinians have endless devotion and pride to their players and team. I mean, Messi and Maradona are practically Gods in this country and everywhere you go you’ll find murals, decor, and souvenirs of them.

Attending a football match is essential to understanding the true passion that goes into the sport. Fans are next-level, and you’ll find everyone standing the entire game, screaming, chanting, and pouring their heart and soul into every single world blasting out of their mouths.

Going to a football match is absolutely one of the top things to do in Argentina. The energy is unmatched, and it’s a true bucket-list activity no matter what team you support (just make sure you’re not on the opposing team though!).

💃🏻 Watch Tango

Tango is a special dance form, and it’s originally from Argentina. Watching a tango show is one of the top things to do in Argentina for tourists, and there are a variety of ways to enjoy this precious form of art.

You can enjoy traditional shows in grand theaters accompanied by a delicious dinner in cities like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, or even Puerto Iguazu.

Don’t have the budget for one of the more expensive shows? Alternatively, you can enjoy complimentary shows in the restaurants in places like Caminito, Buenos Aires. The restaurants usually aren’t the most authentic, but you can grab a beer or glass of wine and enjoy a free show!

🍴 Eat at a Local Steakhouse

Sorry vegetarians – but Argentina is known for their meat, and it’s a total sin not to try it. This country has entire regions for free-roaming cows who live their best life, and it results in the most tender, juicy beef you’ll ever try.

Argentina is also home to some of the most famous steakhouses in the world. Whether you’re looking to splurge and enjoy the iconic Don Julio, or visit a more low-key option, one thing is for sure – you’re bound to have one of the best steaks of your life.

🥩 Enjoy a Traditional Asado

If you want the most authentic culinary experience, then you won’t want to miss out on Argentinian asado.

One of the best things to do in Argentina as a local is to get together with family and friends and grill on a traditional “parilla”. A variety of meats cook slowly for hours on end, with drinks flowing, and the food never ending (at least that’s what it feels like).

If you make Argentinian friends, don’t pass up the opportunity to attend an asado, and if you’re only visiting very short-term, then you can sign up for an asado experience, which brings tourists together to enjoy Argentina’s most beloved meal.

🍗 Hang Out at a Traditional Bodegon

Bodegons are almost a local secret at this point. These traditional eateries feature simple dishes, generous portions, and quirky decor, like walls filled with signed sports jerseys.

They’re fun, budget-friendly, and an excellent way to enjoy eating like a true Argentinian.

🥟 Learn How to Make Empanadas

Empanadas are an absolute love-language in South America, and one of the most beloved foods to try in Argentina.

There’s more to empanada-making then you may think though! From regional recipes to special folds for different fillings, learning how to make empanadas is one of the most fun and tasty things to do in Argentina, no matter what part of the country you are visiting.

🧉 Sip Mate

The moment you land in Argentina you’ll see people drinking out of a weird shaped cup and sipping out of a metal straw. Actually, this is one of the most traditional drinks in Argentina, and a beverage to be shared.

Yerba Mate is drank with hot water and a special straw to filter out the herbs, similar to drinking a tea. But there’s an entire science behind packing it, pouring it, and drinking it.

Sharing mate with an Argentinian is a form of trust, and something all tourists need to try at least once. Surprisingly, you can ask a stranger to drink their mate and they’ll happily share. But we personally recommend a mate-masterclass, where you get to learn from a local, and share this beverage with a group of new friends.

🍷 Drink Lots of Malbec

Malbec is Argentina’s claim to fame when it comes to wine. It’s the country’s most popular variety, and can be found in pretty much every market, restaurant, and household across the country.

If you get to visit Mendoza, then don’t miss out on visiting a winery – one of the coolest things to do in Argentina.

Not planning on visiting Mendoza? No worries – there are plenty of wine bars and wine experiences in Buenos Aires and other cities around the country as well.

🐳 Go Whale Watching

If you’re visiting Argentina in the Springtime, then don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness whales in their natural habitat!

Every September and October Argentinians flock to Puerto Madyrn, where they can see whales on boat trips or even from the shore!

This is hands-down one of the most bucket-list worthy experiences in Argentina, and certainly one to book in advance if you’re planning your trip to Argentina at this time of year.

⛰ Get Lost in Nature

Argentina is such a stunning country – and a place you can experience a variety of incredible nature! Whether you’re looking to visit the powerful Iguazu Falls, the colorful landscapes of Northern Argentina, or the mountains of Patagonia, getting out in nature is the key to falling in love with this fascinating country.

We love Buenos Aires – it’s one of the best cities in the world! But if you’re short on time, then make sure to visit at least one other destination to enjoy the amazing nature that Argentina has to offer.

🧊 Visit the Glaciers

Argentina has some of the most impressive glaciers in the world, and it’s one of the few places across the globe where you can get up close and personal with them.

Perito Moreno is the most famous one, and you can sail on a gourmet cruise up to it, go kayaking next to the glacier, or even trek along the top of Perito Moreno!

🥾 Go Trekking

Apart from simply enjoying being out in nature, Argentina is home to some of the most epic hikes in the world.

Heading to Bariloche? Enjoy the beginner-friendly hikes of Circuito Chico. For something more challenging and breathtaking, you can do one of the various trails around El Chalten. Looking for something even more challenging? You can hike Aconcagua, South America’s tallest peak!

Not matter where you choose though, trekking is one of the best things to do in Argentina if you want to enjoy exciting trails and breathtaking landscapes.

🍪 Sample Alfajores

Dulce de Leche is crack to Argentinians, and Alfajores are their beloved cookies -sandwiched with dulce de leche and covered in chocolate.

You can find them everywhere – from small convenience stores to shops completely dedicated to them.

Alfajores are perfect to pair with your coffee, or to take home as souvenirs for your family and friends.

🛍 Browse the Craft Markets

Argentina is home to some impressive artisans, and there is no shortage of “ferias” aka craft markets.

Typically on weekends, you can find craft markets pop up all over the place. They’re the perfect place to get unique gifts to take home and to support the locals that make each city so special.

🍸 Enjoy the Nightlife

If you’re a party animal, then you’re in luck, because Argentinians sure know how to party the night away.

“Boliches” fill up around 2 or 3 AM, and they stay open til the sun comes up.

You can find nightclubs and buzzing bars any night of the week in Buenos Aires, and destinations like Mendoza or Bariloche have their own nightlife to enjoy on the weekends. Regardless, spending at least one big night out is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Argentina.

🧀 Attend a Cultural Event

There is ALWAYS something happening in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires. I swear, every weekend there is something – whether it’s a massive music festival or local concert that’s free in the park.

Argentina is a country where you can constantly find cultural events, and oftentimes free of charge. It’s one of the best parts of living here, and something few tourists realize.

So go ahead and enjoy one of the best things to do in Argentina – attending one of the incredible events that make this country so vibrant and diverse.

🎉 Experience the Festivals

Apart from the many cultural activities you can experience each weekend in Argentina, don’t miss out on some of the bigger events that the country has to offer!

Whether it’s witnessing the country’s longest salami or experiencing Oktoberfest in Cordoba, enjoying the holidays and festivals is one of the absolute best things to do in Argentina.

There are so many incredible things to do in Argentina, but we hope this guide has helped you build your Argentinian bucket list!

Whether you’re into food, wine, shopping, nature, or sports, Argentina is a country that a variety of travelers can enjoy. It’s beautiful, diverse, and full of flavor.

Want to book your activities in Argentina? Don’t miss out on the experiences we host in Buenos Aires!