Things to Do in Mendoza City

Considered the most important city in Argentina’s Cuyo region, Mendoza is the capital of the province of the same name. Founded in 1561, this city is the proud hometown of the celebrated General Jose San Martin, who declared the independence of Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Museums and parks celebrate his name throughout the city. But among travellers, Mendoza is synonymous with wine. Hundreds of wineries in the area account for more than 60 percent of the country’s wine production, making Mendoza the largest producer of wine in South America! In addition to serving as the base for adventure travelers headed into the Andes, Mendoza is also paradise for the history buff. A tourist will never run out of things to do in Mendoza! [caption id="attachment_1329" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Plaza Italia in Mendoza City / Photo by Caroline Leland[/caption] Wandering through the wide, tree-lined streets of Mendoza is a pleasure for which a visitor should reserve at least a full morning. After the devastating earthquake of 1861, city planners built five central plazas intended to serve as safe open spaces in case of another earthquake. Today these plazas are as aesthetic as they are functional, each graced with a diversity of tall, leafy trees and elegant designs. From beautifully tiled Plaza España to the children’s playground in Plaza Chile to the grand fountains of Plaza de la Independencia, be sure to explore them all. An added bonus is that vendors of locally unique snacks and artisanal goods often line the plaza edges with their carts and booths. [caption id="attachment_1330" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Plaza Independencia in Mendoza City / Photo by Caroline Leland[/caption] Though temperatures are moderate, the Mendoza area is arid. Virtually a desert oasis, the city of Mendoza thrives from the same complex irrigation system that makes the region so successful in growing grapes. The top things to do in Mendoza is to book tours of local vineyards and wineries—as well as the lesser-known but still common olive oil factories. Wine tours ensure that you get to see large-scale industrial production systems as well as the small artisanal operations of winemaking. After the explanations of the process comes debatably the best part of every wine tour: the wine tasting. [caption id="attachment_1325" align="aligncenter" width="540"] A winery tour in Mendoza / Photo by Caroline Leland[/caption] Though Malbec is the most widely produced grape in the region, Mendoza boasts a wide range of wine varietals to satisfy every preference. Take note that the smaller bodegas (wineries) often sell only within the region — so you have to come here in order to taste and buy these exclusive, but still affordable, lines. Just one more reason to visit Mendoza! Positioned in the shadow of the Andes — the highest mountain range  in the Americas — Mendoza is a popular starting point for outdoor activities of many kinds. Every day, Alta Montaña tours leave Mendoza to take visitors into the Andes to see natural wonders and romp in the snow. The more adventurous opt for true mountaineering, climbing, or skiing. Other common outdoor activities and things to do  in Mendoza include rafting, hang gliding, and parachuting. [caption id="attachment_1331" align="aligncenter" width="540"] One of the scenic stops on the Alta Montaña tour from Mendoza / Photo by Caroline Leland[/caption] Whether you come for an adrenaline fix in the mountains, the aroma and taste of locally produced artisanal wine, or to explore the rich history of a bustling, well-planned city, Mendoza has something for everyone. With so many things to do in Mendoza, you won't want to miss this traveler’s hotspot! Happy Travels! By: Caroline Leland For: Argentina4u