Studying Spanish in Mendoza rather than Buenos Aires has plenty of perks. You’ll enjoy a smaller, quieter city with a beautiful mountain setting and a lower cost of living. However, when it comes to things to do in Mendoza, sometimes it can seem like touring wineries and going to wine tastings is the only activity available!
While Mendoza is undoubtedly famous for its wine, there are actually plenty of non-wine-related activities for students to enjoy here.
Andes Driving Tour – Rent a car and take a long, meandering drive through the rocky peaks surrounding the city. Ruta 7 will take you to Potrerillos, an artificial lake and popular outdoor recreation spot. Ruta 28 will take you to the Cachueta Thermal Baths, a natural hot springs spa. On either route, beware of poor road conditions in winter.
City Sightseeing – Yes, it is a bit cliche but we do recommend taking a bus tour of the city, mainly because it will take you up to the Cerro de Gloria for fantastic views over the city. Also be sure to stroll through Mendoza’s 5 major plazas, and pack a picnic to enjoy in the rose garden of the Parque San Martin.
Nightlife – Calle Aristides Villanueva is the main drag for nightlife in Mendoza. Bars and clubs offer sidewalk seating and the party just kind of sprawls down the street over the course of the evening. There are several hostels nearby, so you will see a fair amount of tourists, but this nightspot is also quite popular with local Mendocinos.
Olivicolas – If you want to learn about traditional agriculture in Mendoza without the crowds and commercialism of the wineries, check out the olive groves. At Familia Zuccardi, you can pick your own olives, taste artisanal olive products, or enjoy an olive-themed meal at the Pan y Oliva restaurant.
Chacras de Coria – A Sunday stroll through this quaint little neighborhood can be quite refreshing. The valley housing Chacras de Coria is often a few degrees cooler than Mendoza in the summer, so it’s worth the 40 minute bus ride to come explore the shops and cafes here.