Part of the Argentina Travel Guide
← Back to ArgentinaMendoza is Argentina's wine capital, and the altitude is what makes it so distinctive. The vineyards here sit between roughly 800 and 1,500 meters, with some in the Uco Valley higher still, and that elevation is what produces the intense Malbec the region is known for. The Andes stand behind all of it, which makes even an ordinary afternoon at a bodega feel like something more.
The wineries divide into three areas, and each makes for a different kind of day. Maipú is closest to the city and easy to reach by bike or taxi, which makes it the most relaxed option. Luján de Cuyo holds many of the older and larger estates. The Uco Valley is furthest out and highest, and it is where much of the most interesting recent winemaking is happening.
If you are trying to decide how much time to give Mendoza, we would suggest at least three days. This all depends on your interests but we would consider one or two days for wine tasting and one day to visit the unique high mountain landscapes and history around Mendoza.
Quick Resources to Plan Your Trip to Argentina
Mendoza articles
Best Things to Do in Mendoza (A 3 Day Itinerary)
The top things to do in Mendoza, including a 3 day itinerary. Here's how you can explore the vineyards and discover the high Andes Mountains around Mendoza, Argentina.
Your Guide to Visiting the Best Mendoza Wineries
A breakdown of how to visit the best Mendoza wineries including recommendations on where to visit for delicious food and drinks.
First-hand
How we've traveled Mendoza
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