Argentina Food and Wine Discovery

We depart the US for Argentina in the early evening for an overnight flight to Buenos Aires!

Upon arrival we take a private transfer to our hotel in the city center, within walking distance of the sites. After unpacking a relaxing, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. We will reconvene at 6:30 for a welcome dinner before heading to bed early.

We start our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, preparing for an exciting exploration of the vibrant capital city with our local guide, Fabian. At 9:30 AM, Fabian picks us up to embark on a full-day tour that immerses us in the history, culture, and charm of this fascinating metropolis. Our journey begins with a visit to the iconic Teatro Colón and the towering Obelisk, symbols of the city’s rich artistic heritage. As we move through the heart of the city, we stop at Plaza de Mayo and the Metropolitan Cathedral, where we reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis, who once served here. The tour continues into the cobblestone streets of San Telmo, where we explore the bustling market filled with antiques, street performers, and local crafts. A stroll through the colorful Caminito in La Boca follows, offering a feast for the eyes with its vibrant murals and lively tango performances.

In the afternoon, we take in the modern allure of Puerto Madero before venturing to the historic Recoleta neighborhood, where we pay our respects at its famous cemetery, the final resting place of Argentina’s most notable figures. Our day of discovery concludes in Palermo, known for its expansive parks and trendy boutiques, before a visit to the majestic El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore, often hailed as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. As we return to our hotel in the late afternoon, we have time to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences. The evening promises a delightful end with a traditional Argentine dinner at a nearby restaurant, where we indulge in the country’s renowned cuisine, savoring every bite of an unforgettable day in this captivating city.

A one-day food tour of Buenos Aires is a culinary journey through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, offering a taste of Argentina’s rich gastronomic heritage. Begin your day in the historic San Telmo district, where you can indulge in freshly baked medialunas (Argentine croissants) and a robust cup of coffee at a traditional café. From there, explore the vibrant San Telmo Market, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and empanadas while soaking in the lively atmosphere. As you wander the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter parrillas (grill houses) offering perfectly grilled choripán—a beloved Argentine sausage sandwich that’s a must-try.

In the afternoon, head to the upscale neighborhood of Palermo, where modern cuisine meets traditional flavors. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trendy bistro, savoring dishes like provoleta (grilled provolone cheese) and succulent cuts of steak, paired with a glass of Malbec. Continue your exploration with a visit to a local heladería (ice cream shop) to try the famous dulce de leche ice cream. As the day winds down, make your way to a classic milonga in the Recoleta area, where you can enjoy a light dinner of tapas and regional wines while watching a tango performance, capturing the essence of Buenos Aires in both flavor and culture.

Our day begins with a flight from Buenos Aires to Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s wine country. As the plane descends, we are greeted by breathtaking views of the Andes, a majestic backdrop that sets the tone for your stay. Upon arrival, we will be met by our guide, who will take us on a scenic driving tour en route to our hotel, the charming Fuente Mayor. The drive offers a first taste of the region’s beauty, with lush vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, interspersed with quaint villages and the occasional glimpse of snow-capped peaks.

The tour highlights some of Mendoza’s key attractions, including a stop at a panoramic viewpoint where you can take in the sweeping landscapes and learn about the area’s rich viticultural history. You’ll pass by local markets brimming with fresh produce, and perhaps catch sight of gauchos tending to their horses, a nod to the region’s deep-rooted traditions. As you approach Fuente Mayor Hotel, nestled in the picturesque Uco Valley, the tranquility of the surroundings becomes evident. By the time you check in, you’ll feel a sense of calm and anticipation for the days ahead, surrounded by the serene beauty and world-renowned vineyards of Mendoza. 

Vicente picks us up at 08:45 AM sharp, ready to guide us through our first day of indulgence in one of the most exclusive wine regions in the world, home to celebrated wineries like El Enemigo, Catena Zapata, Ruca Malen, Terrazas de Los Andes, and Chandon. Our first stop immerses us in the storied legacy of a renowned winery, where centuries-old traditions blend with modern techniques to produce exceptional vintages. We tour the vineyards, marveling at the breathtaking backdrop of the Andes, and savor meticulously crafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The second winery offers a more intimate experience, with a focus on sustainable practices and boutique production. Here, we taste limited-edition releases, each glass revealing the winemaker’s passion and precision, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the art of winemaking.

See video of Catena Zapata Winery here.

Our final stop is a grand estate, where we are treated to a gourmet lunch paired with an exquisite selection of wines. The meal, a celebration of local flavors and culinary artistry, perfectly complements the robust reds and elegant whites that have made this region famous. As we dine with a view of the sprawling vineyards, the sense of place is overwhelming—the marriage of food, wine, and landscape creating a truly unforgettable experience. By the time we return to our hotel around 4:00 PM, we are both satisfied and inspired, having spent the day immersed in the rich culture and exceptional wines of this world-class wine region.

Today we will continue our wine exploration with more of Mendoza’s most renowned wineries. We begin our day at Finca Decero, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting of their handcrafted, single-vineyard wines, followed by a visit to the family-run Bodega Bandini for an intimate tasting experience that highlights the unique characteristics of their terroir-driven wines. Afterward, savor a lunch at Durigutti Family Winemakers, where the artisanal wines are perfectly paired with local cuisine, making for a delightful midday stop.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Trapiche Winery, where you’ll learn about their pioneering role in Argentine winemaking and sample a selection of their premium wines. The day concludes with a visit to Bodega Vistalba, known for its elegant blends, followed by a gourmet dinner at their on-site restaurant. The evening meal, paired with Vistalba’s finest wines, provides a luxurious end to a day filled with top-tier tastings and breathtaking vineyard views in the heart of Mendoza.

A day tour from Mendoza into the Andes offers a leisurely exploration of Argentina’s stunning mountain landscapes, with minimal walking required. The journey begins with a drive to the Potrerillos Dam, where a short walk reveals striking views of the turquoise reservoir set against rugged peaks. Continuing to the charming town of Uspallata, you’ll take a relaxing coffee break before heading to the Aconcagua Mountain viewpoint. Here, a brief hike leads to breathtaking vistas of Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas. The tour then continues to the Puente del Inca, a natural rock formation with vibrant mineral colors and historical significance, where you’ll enjoy a short walk and learn about its ancient history.

After a day of scenic driving and light exploration, the tour concludes with a return to Mendoza in the early evening. To cap off the experience, you’ll enjoy dinner at a local Argentine restaurant, savoring a meal centered around grilled meats and vegetables. This final touch provides a perfect end to a day filled with the beauty and culture of the Andes.