3 towns for a getaway near Buenos Aires

A getaway by car: discover San Antonio de Areco, Uribelarrea and Mercedes, three must-sees very close to Buenos Aires

San Antonio de Areco, Uribelarrea and Mercedes invite you to spend a perfect weekend. Gastronomy, history and nature await you in these destinations in the Province of Buenos Aires.

The weekend is approaching and you want a break from the daily grind. Plus, you’re looking for places near Buenos Aires that are affordable, offer activities and are less than 120 kilometers away. We have an answer for you: a getaway to the towns in the province of Buenos Aires.

San Antonio de Areco, Uribelarrea and Mercedes are three excellent options. A few days of pure sun, rest and the possibility of tasting the best dishes await you. The ideal way to get there is by car, either your own or rented.

At Rentennials we give you all the information so that you can organize your getaway for the next weekend.

San Antonio de Areco

A field day in San Antonio de Areco / Photo by @visitargentina


What to do in San Antonio de Areco: History, countryside and gastronomy

Founded in 1730, San Antonio de Areco is synonymous with tradition, gaucho culture and excellent food. Its cobblestone streets, colonial-style buildings and its people make it a unique corner.

It is 113 kilometers from the city of Buenos Aires, an ideal distance to get there by car. And if you dare, you can visit rural towns that are very close to San Antonio de Areco.

Where to eat in San Antonio de Areco

Surely, the first thing you do when you arrive is go to lunch and enjoy its gastronomy. There are restaurants for all tastes and budgets. Just make sure to reserve your spot a few days in advance.

Here are some recommendations:

  • Almacén de Ramos Generales. An old grocery store that offers roast beef, stews, and pasta. Send a message to (2326) 414786 to make a reservation. Every day, from 12 to 4 pm and from 8 to 12 am. Address: Zapiola 143.
  • El Boliche de Bessonart. An old house that was restored to enjoy traditional salads, snacks, and empanadas. Open Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, starting at 11 am. Whatsapp: (2325) 655600. Address: Zapiola 151.
  • La Olla de Cobre. If you are looking for one of the best alfajores in the country, then this is your place. You will have to wait in line, but every minute is worth it. Address: Matheu 433.
San Antonio de Areco

Gastronomy in San Antonio de Areco / Photo by @visitargentina

Tradition and nature

After lunch, it’s time to walk through the historic cobblestone streets of the old town. You can get lost at your leisure and always return to the main square, Ruiz de Arellano. In its surroundings you will see the Municipal building, the San Antonio de Padua church and some historic bars, such as Mitre, Tokio and Balthazar Areco.

Considered the “National Capital of Tradition”, San Antonio de Areco invites you to learn about the history and culture of the Humid Pampas. A good option is to take guided tours. For days and times, go to the Tourism Office or call (02326) 453165.

In the afternoon, rest on the Costanera on the edge of the Areco River. Sit down and relax after a day of walking. In addition, the Puente Viejo is the emblem that everyone looks for to take one of the classic photos of Areco.


Museum circuit

San Antonio de Areco has numerous museums to help you understand the area’s past. Here are some recommendations:

  • Ricardo Güiraldes Museum and Pulpería La Blanqueada. Located within Parque Criollo. Open from Wednesday to Monday from 11:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • City Museum and Usina Vieja Cultural Center. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Address: Blvd. Alsina 66 and Matheu.
Ricardo Güiraldes Museum and Pulpería La Blanqueada

Ricardo Güiraldes Museum and Pulpería La Blanqueada / Photo by @visitargentina

Visit the towns near San Antonio de Areco

If you travel by car to San Antonio de Areco, don’t miss a short tour of the nearby rural towns such as Duggan, Vagues and Villa Lía. Buildings from the beginning of the 20th century, country warehouses and old parishes await you in the peace of the plain.

If it rained a few days before, it is good to check the access to the towns.


How to get to San Antonio de Areco by car

From the City of Buenos Aires you have to take the Panamericana Pilar branch. It is 120 kilometers of highway. Leaving early allows you to avoid traffic.

We’ll leave you the map in case you have any questions!


Uribelarrea, a rural town for a gastronomic getaway

This small town was founded in 1889 as an agricultural colony. Its train station gave life to the town for a long time, until it closed in the 1990s.

Today it has become an important gastronomic center in the province of Buenos Aires. If we decide to go, we already know that we are going to enjoy a good lunch and an afternoon snack.


Where to eat in Uribelarrea

The options are varied, but all focus on a gastronomic experience that combines tradition and modernity.

We suggest some options. Don’t forget to book!

  • El Palenque de Uribelarrea. In a mansion from 1890, this a la carte restaurant offers meats, pastas, snacks and many more dishes. Whatsapp: (2326) 414786. Address: Zapiola 143
  • Sixto Cantina. It used to be a hotel, and today it has become a must-see in Uribelarrea. The ossobuco empanadas, lamb raviolones and sorrentinos are some of the recommendations. And of course a flan for dessert. Whatsapp: (2226) 537223. Address: Rosenbusch 68.
  • El Retoño. An excellent option for afternoon tea. We recommend that you arrive around 4 pm to enjoy a snack surrounded by a garden with a vegetable garden, pastries, and churros. In the afternoon it is on a first-come, first-served basis. Telephone: (11) 3889-9039. Address: María Auxiliadora 595

 

What to visit in Uribelarrea

You can start at its old train station. Then, walk to the old pelota court and arrive at the Don Miguel Nemesio Uribelarrea square. It is only a few blocks away, but you will see mansions from the beginning of the 20th century that make everything look like a place from a movie.

We leave you a tip. Before returning, stop by the Don Bosco Salesian Agricultural School. The local products made by the students, such as cheeses and dulce de leche, stand out. It closes at 6 pm.


How to get to Uribelarrea by car

From the City of Buenos Aires it is 88 kilometers. You have to take the Ricchieri highway and then the access to Cañuelas. Up to this point it’s all highway. Once you’ve passed Cañuelas, drive another 25 kilometers to the entrance of the town, which is on the left.


Mercedes, a destination with a country aroma

It is one of the oldest cities in the province of Buenos Aires. Founded in 1745, its streets are filled with a historic center and old grocery stores. A perfect combination to spend an afternoon.

Also, go to Tomás Jofré, a gastronomic town where you can taste all the flavors of the countryside.


Mercedes and its old grocery stores

What stands out the most about the city are its old grocery stores. Some are located within the historic center, while others are on the outskirts of Mercedes.

We recommend three options to choose from. And don’t forget to try the famous Salame Quintero Mercedino.

  • El Trompezón. A corner from 1903. The best thing is to try their snacks. It is located on the outskirts and opens on Saturdays and Sundays after 2 pm.
  • La Vieja Esquina. Within the historic center, this place recalls the past of Mercedes. Open every day. Address: Calle 280 Nº 600.
  • La Pulpería de Cacho Dicatarina. A place that remains standing for a country gastronomic experience. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Reserve by Whatsapp: (2324) 498741.
Mercedes and its old grocery stores

The grocery stores of Mercedes, province of Buenos Aires / Photo by @visitargentina

What to see in Mercedes

Don’t miss walking through its streets to perceive the spirit of this city. Its old town is located around Plaza San Martín. The Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes Cathedral Church, the Palace of Courts and the Dr. Víctor Míguez Historical Museum will immerse you in the history of the area.

If you are looking for greenery, the Parque Municipal Independencia has 54 hectares and the Luján River runs through it.


Get to Tomás Jofré

This small rural town of about 200 inhabitants is just 17 kilometers away by car. It is a renowned gastronomic hub, so it has many restaurants to try local flavors. We leave you the list to see which one you want to go to.

A recommendation: Visit the Mercadito de Campo Sustentable located in the old train station. You will find regional agroecological products made by local producers. It opens on weekends from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

How to get to Mercedes by car

From the city of Buenos Aires, you have to take the Acceso Oeste. Before reaching Luján, continue along Ruta Nacional 5 until you reach Mercedes. It is all highway. If you go to Tomás Jofré, there is an access on the left three kilometers before.


Rent a car with Rentennials

The best way to get around the tourist towns near Buenos Aires is by car. It allows you to get there in a short time, explore freely and in your own way. There is much more to see near each place.

If you are looking to rent a car to get to these corners of the province of Buenos Aires, Rentennials is the option for you. It guarantees you a car at your doorstep, safe and at a good price.

Go ahead and travel!

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Recommended Activities to Enjoy in Mendoza City

Mendoza, the land of sun and good wine, is an unmissable and unmatched destination to enjoy all its experiences, views, and activities in nature with its mountains, tourist attractions, and wineries to visit and enjoy with unforgettable guided tours.

Parque “General San Martín”

The Parque General San Martín is the most important green space in the city of Mendoza and therefo re a must-see in the city.

The park is very popular with locals and tourists. It was designed by the French landscape architect Carlos Thays (the same one who designed the forests and the rose garden in Palermo in Buenos Aires) and has an area of 307 hectares, an artificial lake, children’s playground, and different landscaped areas.

To get to the place and experience it in all its splendor, you will definitely need a vehicle. The main entrance where the famous gate is located is on Av. Del Libertador, corner Av. Bulogne Sur Mer.

The entrance gates to Parque San Martín are a true gem of wrought iron, originally designed for the palace of a Turkish sultan.

Caballitos de Marly

In the access roundabout to the park is Los Caballitos de Marly, a replica of a famous work by the French sculptor Guillermo Coustou called Les Chevaux de Marly, which can currently be seen at the Louvre Museum.

Lago del parque San Martín

With a size of 1000 meters long by 100 meters wide. The Club de Regatas de Mendoza, one of the most important and oldest in the city, operates on the lake, where rowing enthusiasts practice their sport. In the southern sector of the lake is the Isla de los “Enamorados” which is accessed by a beautiful bridge. On the north shore is the Fuente de los Continentes and the Rosedal.

Cerro de la Gloria

Next to the park is Cerro de la Gloria with an important monument to the independence struggles led by General San Martín and the Army of the Andes.

Teatro Griego Frank Romero Day

The Frank Romero Day Greek Theater can accommodate up to 19,000 people and since 1963 has been the venue for the closing of the National Grape Harvest Festival.

Malvinas Argentinas World Cup Stadium

With a capacity of 42,500 people, the Malvinas Argentinas World Cup Stadium it is located within the General San Martín Park in the capital of Mendoza.

It was inaugurated on May 14, 1978, in anticipation of the World Cup that was held in Argentina that same year. The stadium was also one of the venues for the 2011 Copa América, in which it underwent a renovation, and the South American qualifying rounds.

Since 2017, it has become one of the venues for the Copa Argentina.

Other places to visit in Parque San Martín:

Natural History Museum
Aboriginal Park
National University of Cuyo

Walk through Aristides Villanueva

Mendoza lives at night on Aristides Street, inviting both Mendoza residents and tourists from all over the world. After your tour of San Martín Park, we recommend going to this beautiful street full of bars and restaurants.

Arístides Villanueva Street is the most visited and renowned street in the city, on which the young night of Mendoza has been established. It offers restaurants, bars, Irish Pubs and much more, next to each other. It is also very close to the center, but we recommend you go by vehicle to explore more and see other places in the area. It is ideal as a “previous” to then go dancing and is prepared to receive the foreigner speaking their own language. Calle Arístides has shine and elegance and when the weekend arrives, there is no room for anything and fun is guaranteed.

The sidewalks of the avenue are completely occupied with the tables and chairs of the restaurants and during the weekends with small street shows. The Antares and the William Brown Irish bar are a must on a night chosen to have a good time.

Beer continues to be chosen to share a local or regional bite. But good Mendoza wines are taking over those spaces since the winery boom is changing tastes and customs. If we talk about wines and tastings, Cabrera Charif Wine House has its own wine bar and wine cellar.

In Mendoza, everything is close. In summer, when the days lengthen and the heat lengthens the time spent away from home, good drinks at Arístides are a good option.

Carlos Alonso Museum

The Carlos Alonso Museum is a mansion for Mendoza culture. On the traditional Avenida Emilio Civit, in the City, stands the impressive mansion, one of the most representative in the history of the province.

It was built in 1912 by Víctor Babino, at the request of Luis Stoppel, a diplomat and businessman born in Chile and based in Mendoza. Its imposing interior invites you to explore every corner, where, currently, the works of renowned Mendoza artists are exhibited.

This space for the visual arts has 2 sectors: Space A and Space B, where samples from different artists are presented.
The Stoppel Mansion can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Malls

For a day of shopping, we recommend the best shopping centers to visit, explore and add beautiful memories of “The land of sun and good wine” to your suitcase.

Mendoza Plaza Shopping: A shopping and entertainment experience

We begin our journey at the iconic Mendoza Plaza Shopping, the city’s first shopping center, presenting a perfect mix of fashion stores, dining options and entertainment for the whole family.

With 30 years of activity, located at Avenida Acceso Este 3280, Mendoza Plaza Shopping has 180 stores in different segments, from international brand stores to local stores with local products.

Beyond its variety of shops, shopping provides a great experience of services and entertainment. On your walk through this shopping center you can go to the movies, walk, taste the best dishes or take the children to Neverland, a place of games and entertainment for the little ones.

So, it is a fantastic place to enjoy with the whole family. You can visit it from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

La Barraca Mall & Outlet: An oasis of sophistication and good taste

La Barraca Mall offers its Luxury Outlet offering, being one of the pioneers in this model within the city.

It is not among the largest, but it certainly has an interesting variety of options in stores for women, men and children. In addition to the convenient service, deco & home premises and the gastronomic offer for all tastes, inside and outside the establishment.

Without a doubt, one of the great attractions in La Barraca are the outlet sections in almost all brands. This way, you can access the best options in terms of quality without investing a lot of money.

Located on Calle Las Cañas 1833, Dorrego, Guaymallén. The opening hours depend on the store you want to go to, but we leave you the general hours:
Clothing: from 10:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Gastronomy: from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Coffees: from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Palmares Open Mall: A place to relax and enjoy shopping and fun

We close our list with the charming Palmares Open Mall, an ideal option for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere for shopping, drinking a good wine or doing other leisure or consumption activities.

Located on Avenida Panamericana 2650, the Palmares Open Mall Shopping Center has a seal that distinguishes it from other shopping centers in Mendoza: its open-air design, surrounded by beautiful gardens and green areas, creating a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere.

This shopping center has more than 120 well-equipped stores and movie theaters and a play area for the little ones, thus expanding your entertainment options. Beyond offering an environment favorable to family fun, this center allows you to find the best offers, recognized brands and international franchises.

If you want to visit Palmares Open Mall, you must do so from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 21:00 and on Sundays between 11:00 and 21:00.

Independence Theater

The Independencia Theater is the main stage in the city of Mendoza, with an incredible infrastructure and shows every day and every hour.

It was designed following the French academic style, with a neoclassical front façade, Corinthian columns, a Rococo style frieze, the Shield of Mendoza in bas-relief and a balustrade crowning the complex.

The interior design was based on Italian opera theaters, and in the lobby the gray marble staircase that gives access to the room stands out. This includes four floors of galleries, with a seated capacity of 730 people. The theater is the headquarters of the Provincial Philharmonic Orchestra.

Located on Chile and Espejo streets, it is located in front of the Plaza Independencia theater.

Independence Square

It is the most important and oldest square in the province, located in the center of the city, it was inaugurated in 1863 and currently has more than 70 trees, 150 bushes, 2,200 hanging plants and 55,000 flower seedlings, the “Municipal Museum Modern Art”, and the imposing shield of the province that shines at night, artisans, shows for children and its beautiful fountains that dance all day long.

Also, you can take a souvenir photo at the colorful Mendoza sign, where you can see the entire square and part of Peatonal Sarmiento, another very important gastronomic street in the city, in case you want to explore and taste.

We are sure that these destinations and many more that the province offers will make you fall in love with it as much as we do. We hope you enjoy each place with Rentennials and choose us again on your next visit. Mendoza is always waiting for you, Rentennials too.

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We are Rentennials

Rentennials is the new way to rent cars from local hosts in your city, quickly, easily, and affordably. It's also your new path to starting your own car rental business and making money every month.
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