Visit Bariloche, Argentina in the Summer Months

Bariloche, Argentina is where stunning alpine scenery meets rich Swiss influence, making it one of Argentina’s dreamiest destinations. Think chocolate shops, deep-blue lakes, jaw-dropping mountain views, and the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. If you have three or more days in this slice of Patagonia paradise, here’s how to make the most of it!

Day One: Arrive & Explore Downtown Bariloche

Welcome to Bariloche, Argentina! If you’re following my 2-week Argentina itinerary, you’ll most likely be flying directly from Buenos Aires. I highly recommend booking your flight with Aerolíneas Argentinas. While they may be a little pricier than budget airlines like FlyBondi or JetSmart, they typically provide a smoother and more on-time experience.

Once you arrive, it’s time to pick up your rental car. Having a car in Bariloche is a game-changer—it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace! The roads here are wide, well-marked, and easy to navigate. Make sure to obtain an International Driver’s License before arriving, which you can get from AAA. I recommend booking your rental through DiscoverCars for the best prices and a hassle-free experience.

After securing your rental car, head to your accommodation!

Where to Stay in Bariloche, Argentina:

Since we were only in town for a short stay, we opted for a downtown hotel to be within walking distance of restaurants and shops. This made exploring the city super convenient.

Mel’s Traveler Tip: If you choose to stay downtown, book an accommodation that offers parking! We stayed at the Hampton Inn Bariloche and it was perfect—great location, on-site parking, and breathtaking lake views from our room.

If you prefer a more tranquil stay away from the city buzz, here are some fantastic options for differing areas:

Downtown Bariloche:

• Hampton Inn Bariloche – Convenient location, great lake views, and on-site parking.

Near Playa Bonita:

• Hostería Antu Kuyen – Comfortable rooms and only 2.5 mi off downtown Bariloche. Private parking is free and there a daily breakfast with coffee, croissants and regional jams is offered.
• La Cascada Casa Patagónica by Don – A peaceful boutique hotel on the waterfront. Don properties are always a great choice!
• Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa – A stunning high-end stay offering breathtaking views and private spa facilities.

Circuito Chico Area:

• Llao Llao Resort, Golf-Spa – The most iconic hotel in Bariloche, perfect for those seeking luxury and breathtaking scenery.
• Peninsula Petit – Located in San Pedro’s Peninsula, Peninsula Petit Hotel offers luxurious rooms with views of Lake Nahuel Huapi.
• Eco Cabins Bales of the Forest – A charming cabin stay nestled in nature, great for those who want to immerse themselves in Bariloche’s peaceful surroundings.

Not a fan of any of these hotels? Check out all the hotels in Bariloche here: Top Hotels in Bariloche

Things to Do in Downtown Bariloche:

After settling in, it’s time to explore downtown Bariloche! Here are some top things to see and do:

• Civic Center & Town Hall – Stroll around this historic area, snap some photos, and soak up the European-inspired architecture.
• Mitre Street – The heart of the action! This is the best place to shop for artisanal souvenirs, grab a hot chocolate, and pop into Bariloche’s famous chocolate shops.
• Museo de la Patagonia – Learn about the region’s fascinating history, from indigenous cultures to early explorers.
• Take a Picture with a St. Bernard – You’ll find adorable St. Bernards posing with visitors around the Civic Center. It’s touristy, but it’s cute!
• Chocolate Shops – Bariloche is Argentina’s chocolate capital! Don’t miss Rapanui, Mamushka, and El Reino, where you can sample everything from handmade bonbons to decadent hot chocolate.

Dinner: Enjoy some cheese fondue at La Casita Restaurante Bariloche

Day Two: Exploring Bariloche by Lake

Today is all about lakes, forests, and fairytale scenery. Bariloche’s breathtaking landscapes are best explored by boat, and trust me—this is an experience you’ll never forget! While there are plenty of group tours available, I highly recommend splurging on a private boat tour. It’s a little pricier, but the exclusivity, flexibility, and immersive experience make it totally worth it.

There are a couple of epic options to choose from:

Option 1: Isla Victoria & Parque Nacional de los Arrayanes

This tour takes you to Isla Victoria, a lush island in the middle of Lake Nahuel Huapi. It’s famous for its incredible forests, dramatic cliffs, and ancient rock paintings. A boat will take you across the lake, where you’ll hike through trails lined with giant sequoia trees and native flora.

Next, you’ll visit Parque Nacional de los Arrayanes, home to a truly magical cinnamon-colored forest. Legend has it that Walt Disney visited this very place and was inspired to create Bambi’s enchanted forest—yes, that Bambi! The unique Arrayán trees (which take centuries to grow) make this area feel like something straight out of a fairytale. The boat ride itself is stunning, and you’ll get to soak in some of the most jaw-dropping views of Bariloche’s lake region.

Book Group Tour

Option 2: Puerto Blest (Highly Recommended!)

This is the option we chose, and WOW—what a day! We booked a private full-day experience with Lake Tours, and it was absolutely INCREDIBLE. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and jaw-dropping scenery, this is the way to do it.

Here’s what makes this tour so special:

• Valdivian Rainforest: This lush, evergreen forest is packed with unique fauna and flora that you won’t find anywhere else. The towering trees, vibrant green canopy, and misty atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a dream.
• Waterfalls & Mountains: The tour includes a scenic hike to Los Cántaros Waterfall, a gorgeous multi-tiered cascade that looks straight out of a postcard. The sound of rushing water and the crisp mountain air make this a must-visit stop.
• Private Beach Lunch: One of the biggest highlights of the tour was our private lunch setup on the beach. It was so serene to be by the water, surrounded by towering mountains while enjoying a gourmet meal with a glass of wine. It was unreal. If you book with Lake Tours, make sure to add on this experience!
• The Best Guide—Juan! If you go with Lake Tours, ask for Juan as your guide. His passion for Bariloche, deep knowledge of the area, and warm personality made the trip even more special. Thank you, Juan, for making our day unforgettable!

If you do not want to book a private tour, you can book a shared group tour here.

After Your Lake Adventure: Evening in Bariloche

After an incredible day on the water, it’s time to relax and soak in Bariloche’s cozy, alpine-town vibe.

• Post-tour drinks: Head to Wesley Downtown for a refreshing craft beer. The ambiance is fun and laid-back—perfect for winding down after a day of adventure.
• Dinner: Make your way to Alto El Fuego, the best place in Bariloche for traditional Patagonian barbecue. Order the steak, and prepare for a meal that will blow your mind.
• Dessert: No trip to Bariloche is complete without stopping at Rapa Nui for ice cream. Get the famous Franui—delicious raspberry chocolates that are an absolute must-try!

Day Three: Circuito Chico & Colonia Suiza

Your final full day is all about a scenic road trip and a taste of Bariloche’s unique Swiss heritage. You can use my Bariloche GoogleMap to see all the saved stopping points, but below are my top highlights.

Circuito Chico Highlights:

• Campanario Hill – Ride the chair lift or hike up for one of the best views in Patagonia.
• Llao Llao Hotel – A perfect stop for a mid-morning coffee, afternoon high tea, or simply to admire the legendary hotel. Make reservations in advance.
• Hike Around Escondido Lake – A short scenic walk leading to Los Troncos Bay.
• Viewpoint Over Lake Moreno – One of the most picture-worthy stops along Circuito Chico.
• Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi – If you’re up for a bit more adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails in this national park. Check them all out on AllTrails.

Visit Colonia Suiza (Go on a Wednesday or Sunday!)

Colonia Suiza is a small village that comes alive on market days (Wednesday & Sunday). If you go on any other day, it’s quiet—great if you’re looking for peaceful vibes, but not much will be open.

• Try the Curanto! This traditional dish is made by cooking meat and vegetables underground over hot stones. A bit unusual, but absolutely delicious. Head to Los Curantos de Víctor Goye, where you can enjoy a folkloric show with your meal.
• Browse the Artisan Market – Pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs, from leather goods to homemade jams.

More Things to Do in Bariloche (If Time Permits!)

If you have an extra day in Bariloche, there are even more breathtaking adventures to check out! One of the most scenic drives in Argentina, the Seven Lakes Route (Ruta de los Siete Lagos) is a must for road trip lovers. If you’re up for a hike, head to Ventisquero Negro, a striking black glacier at the base of Cerro Tronador. This unique sight is easily accessible and offers an up-close look at glacial formations surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Bariloche, Argentina is a dream destination that blends jaw-dropping landscapes with incredible food and fun cultural experiences. Three days will fly by, but with this itinerary, you’ll get a fantastic mix of adventure, relaxation, and—of course—delicious treats.

So, are you ready to fall in love with Patagonia? Let me know if you try this itinerary or if you have any favorite Bariloche experiences to share!

Following my 2-week trip through Argentina? Next on the stop is Mendoza!