If you’re following my 2-week Argentina itinerary, you’ll be arriving to Mendoza from Bariloche. Get ready to swap stunning lakes for world-class Malbec. Mendoza is Argentina’s most famous wine region, and trust me, you’re in for an unforgettable experience! Let’s dive into where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your time in Mendoza, Argentina with this itinerary!
How to Get to & Around Mendoza, Argentina
If you’re planning a trip to Mendoza, you’ll be happy to know that getting there is straightforward, and getting around once you arrive is even easier.
Flying to Mendoza
The most efficient way to reach Mendoza is by air. You’ll want to fly into Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (MDZ), commonly referred to as El Plumerillo Airport. There are frequent direct flights from Buenos Aires, which take about 1.5 hours, as well as from other major cities like Bariloche and Salta.
If you’re coming from outside Argentina, you’ll most likely connect through Buenos Aires—either from Ezeiza (EZE) or Aeroparque (AEP)—before continuing on to Mendoza.
Do You Need a Rental Car?
In most cases, no. Mendoza is easy to navigate without one. Uber is widely available and very affordable, making it a great option for getting around the city and even for short trips to nearby towns.
Getting to the Vineyards
If you’re planning to visit multiple wineries—and you should—it’s best to book a guided wine tour or hire a private driver (more options are listed below!). It’s the most stress-free way to explore the wine regions, especially if you want to enjoy tastings without worrying about driving. Whether you choose a small group bike tour in Luján de Cuyo or a full-day driver in the Uco Valley, having transportation arranged makes the experience much more enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Mendoza
Mendoza has several different areas to stay in, each offering a unique experience. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Mendoza City
Staying in Mendoza City is great if you want easy access to restaurants, bars, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the best spot for those who enjoy urban conveniences and nightlife. The city is also the starting point for many wine tours, making transportation simple.
Maipú
Maipú is one of Mendoza’s most traditional wine regions. It’s perfect for budget-friendly travelers, as you can find smaller boutique wineries and even rent bikes to explore the area. It’s a more rustic and relaxed alternative to the city.
Luján de Cuyo (Where We Stayed!)
We stayed in Luján de Cuyo and absolutely loved it! This charming town is walkable, safe, many farm-to-table restaurants, and low key bars. It also has a fantastic wine scene with many fun sunset winery options. It’s also the best place to do a bike wine tour, which was one of our favorite experiences in Mendoza!
Must Stay Hotels in Lujan de Cuyo
Uco Valley
If you want to be fully immersed in vineyard life, Uco Valley is the place to stay. This region is known for high-end wineries, breathtaking views, and luxury accommodations. It’s perfect if you want a peaceful escape surrounded by the Andes Mountains and endless vineyards.
Important Tip: If visiting in the summer, ensure your accommodation offers A/C—Mendoza gets HOT!
Day One: Settle In & Explore
Arrive and check into your hotel. We stayed at Posada Boutique El Encuentro Chacras de Coria, and I can’t recommend it enough! The hosts were incredibly gracious and welcoming. If you prefer more space and a luxury feel, opt for a larger room with a patio.
Relax & explore: Walk around Luján de Cuyo (or the other city you choose to stay in!), check out local cafes and shops, or simply unwind by the pool at your hotel.
Enjoy a Sunset Winery:
When visiting Mendoza, Argentina, watching the sun set over the Andes from a winery is a must-do experience. If there’s a winery near where you’re staying that offers sunset tastings or dinners, make sure to book in advance—they fill up quickly!
Mel’s Travel Tip: To find the best options, message your hotel a few weeks before your trip and ask which wineries are open for sunset tastings. Watching the sun sink behind the towering Andes while sipping on local wine is an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that many wineries only offer this on select days or months, so plan accordingly!
Some Wineries with Sunset Experiences near Lujan de Cuyo:
- Bodega A16: Offers sunset menus with electronic music, wine tastings, craft cocktails, and food.
- Viamonte Winery: Gorgeous setting to sip wine while the sun sets over the mountains.
- LUI Wines: This winery sometimes hosts a sunset with BBQ, wines & spirits, and dancing in a chill outdoor setting.
Again, there are SO many wineries that offer a sunset experience. Don’t forget to message your hotel for the most up-to-date events going on.
If you are looking for another immersive experince book dinner at Kaiken Ramos Generales or if you’re looking for something more low key visit Zappa Restuarante.
Day 2 in Mendoza: Biking Through the Vineyards of Luján de Cuyo
After a fantastic first day of relaxing, it’s time to take things up a notch—on two wheels! Luján de Cuyo, known as the birthplace of Malbec, is the perfect place for a bike wine tour. Picture yourself pedaling through picturesque vineyards, stopping at world-class wineries, and indulging in delicious wines and gourmet meals. This is the ultimate way to experience Mendoza in an active yet laid-back style.
Why Choose a Bike Wine Tour?
Luján de Cuyo is a fantastic place for a bike wine tour because the wineries are relatively close together, and the routes are scenic yet manageable. Plus, many tours offer a support vehicle, just in case you overestimate your cycling abilities after a few tastings!
Best Bike Wine Tours in Luján de Cuyo
Vistalba Wine Tour (Highly Recommended!)
- What’s Included: Private guided bike tour, winery visits, wine tastings, and a delicious lunch (yes, with wine!).
- Why We Loved It: This is the tour we did, and it was absolutely worth it. The route was beautiful, the wineries were top-notch, and each stop was so different! Not to mention the lunch was DELICIOUS! If you’re looking for a fun, well-organized tour, this is the one to book.
- Book it here!
Martín’s Bikes
- Tour Options:
- Full-Day: Includes visits to 3 wineries, wine tastings, a 4-course lunch, and a guided bike ride.
- Shorter Tour: Includes a half day tour of 2 wineries.
- Winery Options: The wineries they visit vary according to the tour and the day, but they work with wineries that are all located in the Vistalba and Chacras de Coria regions.
- More info can be found on their website.
Mendoza Wine Bike Tour with Sergio
- Why Choose this Tour: Private pick up from your hotel, great option if you are not stayin in Lujan de Cuyo.
- Lunch: A 6-course meal at a winery with wine pairings
- Includes: 2 wineries, lunch, bike rental, guide, and hotel pick-up.
- Book here!
Baccus Biking
- DIY Bike Rental Option (No guided tours)
- Best For: Those who want to create their own itinerary and book winery visits independently
- Pricing: Message them on Instagram for pricing and availability —no website, very old-school (but hey, that adds to the charm!)
Tips for the Best Bike Wine Tour Experience
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: You’ll be biking under the sun, so dress accordingly.
- Drink Water & Electrolytes Between Tastings: Stay hydrated—wine doesn’t count!
- Pace Yourself: You don’t want to be the one who overdoes it at the first stop.
- Bring Sunscreen: The Mendoza sun is no joke.
- Book in Advance: Popular tours fill up quickly, so reserve your spot early.
Day Three: Wine Tasting in Uco Valley
Today you will go wine tasting in Uco Valley! Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Uco Valley is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Known for its high-altitude vineyards, stunning landscapes, and world-class Malbec, this region offers some of the best wine experiences in Argentina.
However, with so many tour companies and wineries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Should you book a private experience or join a group tour? What should you look for in a wine tour company? Let’s dive into the details and explore some of the top wine tour options available.
Private vs. Group Wine Tours: Which One is Right for You?
Before choosing a tour company, consider what kind of experience you want.
- Private Wine Tours: Ideal if you prefer a more intimate, customizable experience. You get a dedicated guide, a flexible itinerary, and access to exclusive wineries that may not accommodate large groups.
- Group Wine Tours: A great option if you’re looking for a more social experience and a budget-friendly way to explore the region. You’ll visit a selection of top wineries with other wine enthusiasts and enjoy a pre-set itinerary.
What to Look for in a Wine Tour Company
When choosing a wine tour operator in Uco Valley, here are a few key factors to consider:
- Winery Selection: Does the company offer a mix of boutique, family-run, and larger, well-known wineries?
- Transportation & Comfort: Does the company provide comfortable transport, and is the pick-up location convenient?
- Inclusions: Does the tour include lunch, tastings, and additional perks like vineyard walks or barrel tastings?
- Customer Reviews: Check online reviews to see if past guests had a great experience.
Top Wine Tour Companies in Uco Valley
During my research, I came across several highly-rated wine tour companies offering exceptional experiences in Uco Valley:
- Private Wine Tours: If you are looking to plan your own experience and have specific wineries in mind, then go this route with a private driver!
- Borravino Wine Tours – Specializes in tailor-made, private wine experiences, perfect for those looking for a more curated visit to the valley.
- Mendoza Wine Tours – This company came highly recommended for its well-organized tours, expert guides, and selection of top wineries.
- Be Wine Tours – Offers a variety of group and private wine tours with excellent customer feedback.
- Andes Wine & Travel – Recommended by a tour guide in Salta, this company is known for its deep knowledge of Argentina’s wine regions and well-planned itineraries.
- Trout and Wine – With consistently good reviews, this company is a solid choice for both group and private wine tours in Uco Valley or surrounding areas.
Whether you opt for a private, high-end experience or a lively group tour, visiting Uco Valley’s wineries is a major highlight of any trip to Argentina! So try not to stress too much when choosing.
Day Four: Depart or Explore More
If you have extra time, consider adding one of these adventures before heading to your next destination:
More Things to Do Near Mendoza:
- Cacheuta Hot Springs – A relaxing natural hot spring experience.
- High Andes Mountain Tour – Drive or take a tour to see breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- Aconcagua Provincial Park – Home to the highest peak in the Americas, perfect for hiking.
- Horseback Riding with Gauchos – Experience authentic Argentine cowboy culture.
Tips for Wine Tasting in Mendoza
To help you make the most of your wine adventure, here are some essential tips:
Book Your Tastings in Advance
Mendoza’s best wineries require reservations, and many book up quickly—especially during peak seasons. To ensure you get to visit your top choices, plan ahead and book your tastings in advance. This is especially important for wineries that offer lunch pairings or specialized tours.
Stay Hydrated with Electrolytes
Wine tasting in Mendoza can be an all-day affair, and the combination of high-altitude, warm weather, and multiple tastings can sneak up on you. To keep yourself feeling great, drink plenty of water and electrolytes throughout the day. Bringing along electrolyte packets, I swear by these!
Understand Wine Export Options
One unique thing about Mendoza is that most wineries do not export their wines to the USA. If you fall in love with a particular bottle, here’s how you can bring it home:
- Ask the winery if they offer shipping options to your country.
- Pack bottles in your checked luggage, keeping airline alcohol limits and customs regulations in mind. I recommend bringing a few wine bags to keep your wine secure!
- Hire a local wine shipping company that specializes in international deliveries. (Ask your hotel PRIOR to your tastings about a shipping company in the area you are staying before you go to the wineries.)
Eat Before and During Your Tastings
Many wineries offer delicious food pairings, but not all provide full meals. Since you’ll be sipping on wine throughout the day, it’s smart to eat a hearty breakfast and take advantage of winery restaurants that offer multi-course wine-pairing lunches.
Plan Your Transportation
While biking between wineries can be a fun experience in Luján de Cuyo or Maipú, some wineries are quite spread out—especially in Uco Valley. Consider hiring a driver or joining a guided tour for a more relaxed and safe experience.
Dress Comfortably and for the Weather
Mendoza’s climate can be hot in the summer and cooler in the evenings, so dress in light, breathable clothing, bring a hat and sunglasses, and wear comfortable shoes—some wineries have gravel paths and vineyard tours on uneven terrain. Also, pack sunscreen; this is a great travel sunscreen stick that is super easy to apply throughout the day and doesn’t leave a sticky feeling on your skin.
Don’t Rush the Experience
Wine tasting in Mendoza is not about checking off as many wineries as possible. Instead, focus on quality over quantity. Visiting two to three wineries per day allows you to truly enjoy each tasting, appreciate the scenery, and engage with the passionate winemakers.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Mendoza, Argentina
I hope this Mendoza, Argentina Itinerary helps you plan your perfect trip! Mendoza is a dream destination for wine lovers and offers breathtaking scenery, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences. If you use this Itinerary, tag me on Instagram @Mels_Scene and I will happily share your trip on my stories!
If you need any help planning or have any questions, please comment below or message me on my contact page! I would love to hear about how your trip went as well. Drop your favorite wineries and experiences in the comments below!
Need more Argentina travel tips? Check out my full 2-week itinerary for the best way to explore this incredible country!
