20 Best Day Trips from Buenos Aires

Are you searching for “day trips from Buenos Aires”?

You’re not alone—many travelers spending a few days in Argentina’s capital start wondering where they can go for a short escape beyond the city.

In this article, I’ve compiled a curated list of destinations that are perfect for a day out.

Whether you're in the mood for gaucho traditions, riverside towns, peaceful countryside, or even a quick cross-border adventure, you’ll find practical, experience-based tips right here. If you're looking to make the most out of your stay while visiting Buenos Aires, consider hiring a local tour guide who can help build an itinerary based on your requests. Coordinating a day trip to a nearby destination while travelling can be made easy if you have a local guide who can help you with all the logistics. 

Let’s dive in.

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20 Best Day Trips from Buenos Aires

From charming river towns and peaceful nature reserves to historic cities and cross-border escapes, Buenos Aires is perfectly positioned for a wide variety of day trips.

This list includes the most rewarding destinations you can visit in just one day—each one handpicked with traveler satisfaction and ease of access in mind.

Nature & Relaxation

Looking to escape the noise of the city and recharge in a calm, natural setting?
These day trips offer riverside breezes, open skies, and a slower pace of life—perfect for anyone craving a peaceful break from urban energy.

Tigre Delta – Boat Rides, Markets, and a Laid-Back Escape

Just an hour from Buenos Aires, Tigre offers a refreshing escape into a unique river delta ecosystem. Explore winding canals by boat, visit quirky riverside museums, or simply relax with a drink along the waterfront. The Puerto de Frutos market is perfect for browsing crafts and local goods, while the slower pace of life here makes it ideal for unwinding.

• Transport: Train from Retiro Station to Tigre (Direct)
• Travel Time: ~1 hour
• Highlights: Boat rides, Puerto de Frutos market, riverside cafés, Museo de Arte Tigre
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$80 round trip), Boat tour (~AR$3,000–5,000 depending on type)

San Antonio de Areco – Gaucho Culture and Open Countryside

This charming town gives you a taste of traditional Argentine life. Visit museums dedicated to gaucho heritage, stroll cobbled streets lined with colonial architecture, or enjoy a traditional asado (BBQ) at a local estancia. It’s an ideal place to unwind and learn about the country’s rural roots.

• Transport: Long-distance bus or private transfer
• Travel Time: ~2 hours
• Highlights: Estancia visits, Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Güiraldes, horseback riding, asado lunch
• Estimated Cost: Bus (~AR$2,000), Estancia day package (~AR$15,000–20,000)

Luján – Cathedral, Museums, and a Peaceful Break

Luján is home to one of Argentina’s most important religious sites: the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján. Whether you're spiritual or not, the cathedral's grandeur impresses all visitors. You can also visit nearby museums and relax in the town’s peaceful plazas.

• Transport: Bus or train from Buenos Aires (Once station)
• Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours
• Highlights: Luján Basilica, religious museums, slow-paced town life
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$150 round trip), Museum entry (~AR$1,000 total)

Reserva Natural Otamendi – Birdwatching and Riverside Trails

Nature lovers will enjoy this protected reserve just outside the city. Otamendi is known for its native grasslands and diverse birdlife, including herons and storks. It’s a peaceful spot for hiking, photography, or simply enjoying Argentina’s natural beauty.

• Transport: Train to Otamendi station (Mitre line) + 15-min walk
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Highlights: Birdwatching, native flora and fauna, hiking trails, peaceful scenery
• Estimated Cost: Free entry, only train fare (~AR$100)

Campana Riverside – Quiet Town with Delta Views

Campana is a low-key destination that gives you a taste of everyday Argentine riverside life. Take a peaceful stroll along the Paraná River, visit the waterfront parks, or enjoy fresh empanadas at a local café. It’s not touristy—and that’s exactly the charm.

• Transport: Train from Retiro (Mitre line)
• Travel Time: ~2 hours
• Highlights: River promenade, local cafés, peaceful atmosphere, authentic vibe
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$150 round trip), local meals (~AR$1,500–2,500)

If you're the kind of traveler who values slower moments and local charm, these peaceful spots around Buenos Aires are perfect escapes. Want to make your day trip even smoother?

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Culture & History

If you're drawn to architecture, history, and the cultural roots of Argentina (and beyond), these destinations will take you deeper than the typical tourist experience. From colonial towns to grand cathedrals, each of these places offers something unique—and all are within a day’s reach of Buenos Aires.

Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay) – Cobblestone Streets and Colonial Charm

Step back in time with a short ferry ride across the Río de la Plata. Colonia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its preserved colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and waterfront views. It’s an ideal blend of culture, history, and relaxation.

• Transport: Ferry from Buquebus or Colonia Express terminal
• Travel Time: ~1–1.5 hours ferry
• Highlights: Historic quarter, lighthouse, cobblestone streets, river sunset
• Estimated Cost: Ferry (~US$70–100 round trip), Entry tax (varies by nationality)

La Plata – Cathedral and Science in a Planned City

Argentina’s capital of Buenos Aires Province, La Plata is a fascinating planned city filled with cultural gems. Visit the towering La Plata Cathedral, explore the impressive Museum of Natural Sciences, and admire the orderly grid design of the city itself.

• Transport: Train from Constitución Station or bus
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Highlights: La Plata Cathedral, Museo de Ciencias Naturales, city layout
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$100), Museum (~AR$1,500)

San Isidro – Colonial Architecture and Artisan Markets

Just north of Buenos Aires, San Isidro is a leafy, upper-class suburb with a colonial heart. The main attraction is its historic cathedral and artisan market held in the plaza. Combine your visit with a riverside walk or café break for a relaxed cultural outing.

• Transport: Train from Retiro Station (Mitre line)
• Travel Time: ~45 minutes
• Highlights: San Isidro Cathedral, weekend craft market, historic houses
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$80), market browsing free

Luján – Grand Cathedral and Pilgrimage Site

(Also featured in the “Nature & Relaxation” section)

Luján isn’t just peaceful—it’s also one of Argentina’s most important pilgrimage sites. While it fits the “Nature & Relaxation” category, its deep religious significance and architecture make it a cultural standout too. Many locals visit for spiritual reasons, but even secular visitors will be impressed.

• Transport: Bus or train from Once Station
• Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours
• Highlights: Basilica of Luján, religious museums, pilgrimage atmosphere
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$150), Museum entry (~AR$1,000)

Mercedes – A Glimpse into Small Town Heritage

Mercedes is a classic Argentine provincial town with colonial architecture, warm locals, and a relaxing vibe. It’s perfect if you want to avoid tourist crowds and experience authentic small-town life. There are no “big” attractions—just everyday charm.

• Transport: Train from Once or long-distance bus
• Travel Time: ~2.5 hours
• Highlights: Colonial streets, quiet plazas, local cafés, weekend fairs
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$300), Local food (~AR$1,500–2,000)

If you want to go beyond the surface and connect with Argentina’s culture, these trips offer a deeper look into its history and everyday life.

Looking for a more personal, guided experience?

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Food, Wine & Local Life

If your ideal day trip includes delicious food, regional wine, and slow local living, these destinations will satisfy your senses. From gaucho-style asado to artisan cheese tasting and riverside dining, these are the places where Argentina’s flavor truly comes to life.

Estancia Day – Asado, Horseback Riding, and Gaucho Life

Spend a day like a true gaucho at one of the many estancias just outside Buenos Aires. You'll be welcomed with empanadas, feast on a traditional asado, enjoy folk music or dance, and even ride horses through open fields. It’s one of the most immersive cultural experiences you can have in a single day.

• Transport: Private transfer or tour pickup
• Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours
• Highlights: Traditional barbecue, horseback riding, folkloric shows, local traditions
• Estimated Cost: AR$15,000–25,000 for a full-day package

Escobar – Local Markets and the National Flower Festival

Known for its annual Fiesta Nacional de la Flor (National Flower Festival), Escobar is a lively destination with a strong local identity. Even outside the festival period, you can enjoy farmers markets, regional street food, and relaxed small-town life with a colorful twist.

• Transport: Bus or train from Buenos Aires (Mitre line + connection)
• Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours
• Highlights: Flower Festival (Sept–Oct), food stalls, local crafts, greenhouse tours
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$150), Festival entry (~AR$2,000)

Cañuelas – Artisan Cheese and Wine Tour

Cañuelas is known as the birthplace of Argentina’s dairy industry, and it’s now gaining attention for its wine-and-cheese day tours. Visit small producers, enjoy tastings in a rustic setting, and learn about local food traditions with a glass of Malbec in hand.

• Transport: Car or private tour recommended
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Highlights: Artisan cheese tastings, boutique wineries, rural charm
• Estimated Cost: Tour packages range AR$15,000–20,000

Zárate – Gourmet Riverside Dining with a View

This riverside town has quietly become a foodie destination for weekend getaways. Enjoy a slow lunch with river views, try locally sourced dishes, and take a peaceful walk along the waterfront. It’s a great choice for couples or foodies looking for something authentic.

• Transport: Train or car from Buenos Aires
• Travel Time: ~2 hours
• Highlights: Riverside restaurants, quiet waterfront, local flavors
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$150), Lunch (~AR$4,000–6,000 per person)

San Vicente – Traditional Life and Local Flavors

San Vicente is a quiet town with deep agricultural roots and a focus on local living. Visit weekend markets, chat with locals over choripán, or take a stroll through the peaceful town center. It's an easygoing trip perfect for those looking to connect with real Argentine life.

• Transport: Bus or private car
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Highlights: Local markets, small-town cafés, open-air barbecues
• Estimated Cost: Bus (~AR$500), Local food (~AR$1,500–2,500)

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Urban Escapes & Coastal Trips

Need a change of scenery with a bit more energy or ocean breeze? These trips take you to vibrant cities, coastal retreats, and even across the border—all offering a fresh take on life beyond Buenos Aires.

Montevideo (Uruguay) – A Quick International City Escape

Hop across the river and spend a day in Uruguay’s capital. Montevideo offers a relaxed coastal vibe, colorful neighborhoods like Ciudad Vieja, a fantastic food market at Mercado del Puerto, and a scenic rambla ideal for walking or biking.

• Transport: Ferry from Buenos Aires (Buquebus or Colonia Express)
• Travel Time: ~2–2.5 hours ferry
• Highlights: Ciudad Vieja, rambla waterfront, Mercado del Puerto, mate culture
• Estimated Cost: Ferry (~US$100–150), local transit and food (~US$30–50)

Mar del Plata – Beachside Fun and Seafood (Best with One-Night Stay)

Argentina’s most famous beach city is bustling during the summer. Enjoy the sandy coastline, seaside restaurants, and vibrant boardwalks. While technically possible as a day trip by early train or car, it’s best savored over a one-night stay.

• Transport: Long-distance train, bus, or car
• Travel Time: ~5 hours (one way)
• Highlights: Beaches, seafood, casino, summer energy
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$3,000), food and beach gear (~AR$5,000+)

Rosario – Argentina’s Artsy Riverfront City

Rosario, birthplace of Che Guevara and the Argentine flag, is a youthful, creative city with riverside parks, cafés, and lively cultural spots. It’s a long day trip—but doable with an early start or a one-night stay for full enjoyment.

• Transport: Long-distance bus or train
• Travel Time: ~4–5 hours
• Highlights: National Flag Monument, riverwalk, museums, local vibe
• Estimated Cost: Bus (~AR$4,000 round trip), local activities (~AR$3,000–5,000)

Bahía Blanca – Off-the-Radar Port City

Rarely on tourist maps, Bahía Blanca is a working-class port town with relaxed energy, wide plazas, and an artsy underground. If you want to skip the crowds entirely and see a side of Argentina most travelers miss, this is it.

• Transport: Overnight bus or domestic flight
• Travel Time: ~7–9 hours by bus
• Highlights: Street art, port life, history museum, local vibe
• Estimated Cost: Bus (~AR$7,000+), flight (~US$80–120)

Lobos – Lagoon Views and Small-Town Calm

Just over an hour from the city, Lobos is a peaceful town known for its lagoon, fishing spots, and traditional parrillas. It’s an easy getaway for anyone wanting to breathe fresh air, eat well, and enjoy nature at a slow pace.

• Transport: Train or car
• Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
• Highlights: Laguna de Lobos, outdoor lunch, relaxed vibe
• Estimated Cost: Train (~AR$300), local meals (~AR$2,000–3,000)

Whether you're craving beach time, a different city atmosphere, or just new scenery, these trips let you stretch your experience of Argentina beyond the capital. Ready to plan your perfect escape?

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How to Choose the Right Day Trip

With so many great options, how do you choose the day trip that fits your style, energy, and travel goals?

Here are some quick tips to help you narrow it down and pick a destination that delivers what you’re looking for.

By Your Interests

• Love nature? Go for Tigre, Otamendi Reserve, or Lobos.
• Into history and culture? Choose Colonia, La Plata, or San Isidro.
• Food-focused? A day at an estancia or a gourmet trip to Zárate might hit the spot.
• Craving urban vibes or a beach scene? Montevideo, Rosario, or Mar del Plata will work well.

By Travel Time and Transport

• Under 1 hour: Tigre, San Isidro
• 1–2 hours: Luján, San Antonio de Areco, Pilar
• 2+ hours: Colonia, Rosario, Mar del Plata (early start or overnight recommended)
• Use the time you’re willing to spend in transit to filter your shortlist. If you only have a half-day free, aim for destinations closer to the city.

By Solo, Couple, or Group Travel

• Solo travelers often enjoy places with structure: Colonia (walkable, compact), Tigre (easy access, boat tours).
• Couples love wine, river views, and scenic walks—think Zárate, Montevideo, or Campana.
• Families might enjoy estancias with activities, nature reserves, or beach destinations like Mar del Plata.

Need help deciding based on your interests or schedule? The next section will walk you through logistics and local tips to make the most of your trip.

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What to Know Before You Go

Before heading out on your day trip, keep these practical tips in mind to avoid surprises and make the most of your adventure.

Transportation Tips

• Trains are great for Tigre, Luján, La Plata, and San Isidro. Check schedules in advance, especially on weekends.
• Long-distance buses are reliable for Rosario, Mar del Plata, and Mercedes—but book ahead during holidays.
• Ferries to Uruguay (Colonia, Montevideo) require advance booking. Bring your passport and check customs rules.
• Private tours or car rentals are ideal for rural estancias, wine tours, or places like Cañuelas and Zárate.

Apps like Google Maps and Omnilineas.com are useful for checking bus and train times in Argentina.

Documents and Currency

• Bring your passport if you're going to Uruguay—even for a day trip.
• Cash is still king in many rural towns and local markets. Have pesos (or US dollars) on hand.
• Exchange rates may vary widely, so avoid exchanging at airports or tourist-heavy areas.

Safety and Local Etiquette

• Most places listed here are safe for travelers during the day.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy markets or stations.
• Dress modestly for religious sites like Luján.
• A smile and a simple “gracias” go a long way with locals.

Best Times to Go

• Weekends are best for markets and live events (San Isidro, Escobar).
• Weekdays mean fewer crowds at touristy spots like Colonia or estancias.
• Spring (Sept–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) offer the most comfortable weather.

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Bonus Tips from a Tour Guide

Over the years of guiding travelers, I’ve picked up on the small things that can turn a decent day trip into a truly memorable one. Here are some final tips!

What Guests Love Most

• The boat ride in Tigre surprises many—it’s scenic, peaceful, and a refreshing contrast to the city.
• A day at an estancia feels like stepping into another world: slow food, horses, and open skies.
• Colonia at sunset is often described as magical—don’t miss the view from the lighthouse.

Common Mistakes First-Time Travelers Make

• Underestimating travel time: Argentina is big, and even close places can feel far without planning.
• Not booking ferries or tours in advance, especially for weekends or holidays.
• Arriving during siesta hours (2–5pm in smaller towns) when shops and restaurants may be closed.
• Forgetting to bring cash—some rural areas don’t accept credit cards, even in 2025.

Recommended Hidden Gem

If I had to pick one quiet, often-overlooked place, it would be San Vicente. It’s not flashy—but it’s real.
Local butchers selling choripán, relaxed people, and slow rhythms—it gives you a feel for everyday Argentina.

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Conclusion

Buenos Aires has so much to offer—but stepping just a little beyond the city opens up a whole new side of Argentina. Whether you’re after fresh air, local flavor, peaceful villages, or a change of pace, there’s a day trip that perfectly fits your mood and interests.

This guide was created to help you skip the guesswork and choose with confidence, using real insights from years of working with travelers just like you.

Now it’s your turn—

Will you ride the delta canals of Tigre? Explore colonial streets in Uruguay? Or savor asado on the pampas?
Whatever you choose, a great day trip starts with good planning and a curious spirit.

Browse through local guides in Buenos Aires who can take you on day trips: Find a guide