Mendoza City Guide

Food centers on local wine, asado, and empanadas. There’s good Italian and Spanish cuisine and growing vegetarian options. Nightlife dining is active on weekends.

Lively but more low-key than Buenos Aires, focused on wine bars and pubs. Aristides Villanueva and Plaza Independencia are main spots.

Good mix of traditional and specialty coffee shops, with a growing third-wave scene.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% in restaurants if no service charge. Small tips or rounding up for taxis and hotel staff.

SIM cards are sold at kiosks and mobile stores. Main providers are Personal, Movistar, and Claro. Passport required for registration.

City is mostly clean, especially central and tourist areas. Waste collection is regular with developing recycling.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores open late or 24/7 on rotation. Emergency services and some food outlets operate overnight.

Large supermarkets stock international products. Fresh produce is best at Mercado Central. Shops may close for siesta and Sundays.

Cards are accepted in bigger places, but cash is common and often preferred, especially in markets and smaller shops.

ATMs are common but can have high fees and sometimes run out of cash, especially on weekends. Banco Nación and Banco Macro are reliable banks to use.

American International School and Mendoza International School offer bilingual programs. English and Spanish are used.

Growing community with events and meetups supported by platforms like Punta and Mendoza Nomad. Places to work and socialize are plentiful.

Many parks and shaded streets, especially Parque General San Martín and Plaza Independencia. Great for walking and running.

Popular routes include Parque General San Martín and mountain trails. Safe during daylight with running groups available.

Gyms offer training, CrossFit, Pilates, yoga, and swimming.

Courts available at clubs, with memberships and possible coaching.

Padel courts exist at sports clubs with booking and equipment rental options.

Yoga classes at gyms and studios, some studios may have English-speaking teachers. Wellness centers and spas around thermal springs.

Various gyms offer martial arts and fitness classes, including CrossFit and possibly BJJ, boxing, or Muay Thai.

Nearby ski resorts include Las Leñas, Penitentes, and Los Puquios. Season runs June-September with terrain for all levels and equipment rental available.

White-water rafting is popular on Mendoza River. Kayaking and paddleboarding possible on dams, with rentals and guided tours.

No surfing; the city is far from the ocean.

No diving or snorkeling due to inland location.

Private hospitals like Hospital Español have some English-speaking staff. Public hospitals offer free care but can be busy. Pharmacies are common with some open 24/7.

Tap water is generally safe but has high minerals, which may upset some visitors. Bottled water is commonly used.

Lots of parks with playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Attractions like Cacheuta Hot Springs and Parque General San Martín are good for kids.

Generally accepting city with safe spaces and annual pride events. Argentina offers strong legal protections.

Pet-friendly parks and vet services are available. Policies vary, so check ahead for accommodations and restaurants.