Argentina Travel Guide: Top Things to Do, Cultural Highlights, and Travel Protection

Summary:
Discover Argentina’s vibrant cities, stunning natural wonders, and rich cultural experiences, from tango in Buenos Aires to glacier hikes in Patagonia and gaucho traditions in the Pampas.

Argentina is a land of contrasts and wonder. From the sultry tango halls of Buenos Aires to the icy peaks of Patagonia, this South American gem offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you're drawn to world-class wine, dramatic landscapes, or vibrant culture, Argentina delivers in full.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do across Argentina’s diverse regions, from urban adventures to natural marvels, and show how Generali Global Assistance can help protect your trip every step of the way.

Top Things to Do in Argentina

1. Explore Buenos Aires: The Paris of South America

Buenos Aires is Argentina’s beating heart—a city where European elegance meets Latin passion. Known for its grand boulevards, historic architecture, and electric nightlife, it’s a must-visit for any traveler.

Highlights:

Plaza de Mayo & Casa Rosada: The political center of Argentina, rich with history and iconic architecture.
Recoleta Cemetery: A labyrinth of ornate mausoleums, including the tomb of Eva Perón.
San Telmo & La Boca: Cobblestone streets, antique markets, and colorful buildings where tango dancers perform in the open air.
Teatro Colón: One of the world’s finest opera houses, offering guided tours and performances.
Palermo Soho: A trendy district filled with boutiques, street art, and cafés.

Spend your evenings at a milonga, where locals gather to dance the tango, or enjoy a dinner show at venues like Café de los Angelitos or Esquina Carlos Gardel.

2. Marvel at Iguazú Falls

Located on the border with Brazil, Iguazú Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfall systems in the world. With over 275 individual cascades, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a bucket-list destination.

Must-do experiences:

Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat): The most powerful section of the falls, accessible via walkways and viewing platforms.
Boat tours: Get soaked as you cruise beneath the roaring waterfalls.
Jungle treks: Explore the surrounding rainforest, home to toucans, monkeys, and butterflies.

Visit both the Argentine and Brazilian sides for different perspectives. The Argentine side offers more immersive trails and closer views.

3. Hike the Glaciers of Patagonia

Patagonia (not to be confused with the outdoor clothing brand) is a land of extremes—towering peaks, vast steppes, and shimmering glaciers. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

Top destinations:

El Calafate: Gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier.
El Chaltén: Argentina’s trekking capital, with trails to Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna Torre.
Bariloche: A picturesque town in the Lake District, known for its alpine scenery, chocolate shops, and outdoor activities.

Patagonia’s beauty is raw and untamed. Plan to spend at least a week exploring its wonders.

Also Read: 9 of the Best Hiking Trips in the U.S. and How to Find Trails Near You

4. Experience Gaucho Culture in the Pampas

The Pampas are Argentina’s rural heartland, where gauchos (traditional Argentine horsemen) still ride horses and host traditional asado feasts.

Activities:

Stay at an estancia: Ranches like Estancia El Ombú or Estancia La Bamba offer horseback riding, folk music, and home-cooked meals.
Watch rodeo demonstrations: Gauchos showcase their skills in cattle herding and lassoing.
Learn rural traditions: Participate in mate ceremonies and leatherworking workshops.

This is a chance to slow down and connect with Argentina’s pastoral roots.

5. Discover the Northwest: Salta and Jujuy

Northern Argentina is a land of dramatic deserts, colorful mountains, and Indigenous heritage.

Top experiences:

Quebrada de Humahuaca: A UNESCO World Heritage valley with rainbow-colored hills and ancient villages.
Salinas Grandes: Vast salt flats that shimmer under the sun.
Tren a las Nubes: One of the world’s highest railways, offering breathtaking views of the Andes.
Calchaquíes Valley: Known for its colonial towns, vineyards, and rugged beauty.

Salta and Jujuy offer a different side of Argentina—earthy, spiritual, and deeply connected to the land.

6. Cruise the Beagle Channel in Ushuaia

At the southern tip of Argentina lies Ushuaia, often called the world’s southernmost city. It’s the gateway to Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica.

Things to do:

Boat tours: Cruise the Beagle Channel, spotting sea lions, penguins, and cormorants.
Laguna Esmeralda hike: A scenic trail through forests and peat bogs to a glacial lake.
Tierra del Fuego National Park: Explore windswept trails, canoe rivers, and ride the End of the World Train.

Ushuaia is remote, wild, and unforgettable—perfect for adventurers and solitude seekers.

Cultural Experiences Across Argentina

Argentina’s culture is a vibrant blend of European elegance, Indigenous traditions, and Latin flair. Here are some immersive experiences to enrich your journey:

Buenos Aires

Tango classes and shows: Learn the steps yourself or watch professionals perform in historic venues.
Art and literature: Visit the Malba Museum and attend the Buenos Aires International Book Fair.

Salta & Jujuy

Folklore music festivals: Enjoy traditional dances and songs in mountain villages.
Indigenous markets: Shop for handwoven textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry.

Patagonia

Mapuche heritage: Visit communities preserving ancestral traditions.
Craft fairs: Find wool products, wood carvings, and regional delicacies.

Argentina’s cultural calendar is packed year-round, offering travelers countless ways to connect with its people and history.

Also Read: AI for Travel: How to Plan a Trip and Enhance Your Experience

Travel Protection for Your Trip to Argentina

Even the most carefully planned trip can face unexpected disruptions. That’s where travel insurance and assistance services from Generali Global Assistance come in.

Why Choose Generali Global Assistance Travel Protection?

Trip Cancellation coverage
If illness, severe weather, or other covered reasons force you to cancel your trip, a travel protection plan may help reimburse your non-refundable expenses.
Medical & Dental coverage
Whether you're hiking in El Chaltén or cruising the Beagle Channel, with Generali Global Assistance you’ll have access to emergency care abroad, with potential coverage for COVID-19 and certain pre-existing conditions (with Premium Plan ((Requirements apply and vary by state))).
24/7 Travel Assistance
From medical referrals to translation support and travel logistics, our multilingual assistance team is available around the clock.
Concierge Services
Need help with lost passports, Hotel accommodations, or even restaurant reservations in Palermo Soho? Our Concierge Services add convenience and peace of mind.

Generali Global Assistance also offers a free look period (Free look period varies by state), which allows you to cancel for a full refund of the plan cost if it doesn’t meet your needs, provided you haven’t departed or filed a claim.

Learn more and explore travel protection plan options at Generali Global Assistance.