Mar del Plata Travel Guide

Discover all the attractions and must-visit places in Mar del Plata, including its cultural landmarks, natural beauty spots, top food and drink recommendations, local culture, customs, safety and health tips, getting around guide, and other helpful advice for travelers.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata is a beautiful beachside city in Buenos Aires province located in the Pampas region of Argentina. Its fantastic mix of picturesque beaches, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty spots make it a highly sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists alike. Whether you are a nature lover, culture enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a laid-back beach vacation, Mar del Plata has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through all the must-visit places, popular attractions, top food and drink options, local culture, customs, safety and health tips, getting around guide, and other helpful advice for travelers planning a trip to Mar del Plata.

List of Places to Visit in Mar del Plata

Here is a list of some of the places you should include in your itinerary for Mar del Plata:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mar del Plata has a rich history and culture that is reflected through its numerous museums and historical sites. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Mar del Plata Cathedral
  • Museum of the Sea
  • Villa Victoria Cultural Centre
  • Museum of Contemporary Art of Mar del Plata
  • Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum

Natural Attractions of Mar del Plata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Mar del Plata is breathtakingly beautiful, and you should definitely explore some of its natural wonders. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Punta Mogotes
  • Laguna de los Padres
  • Mar del Plata Aquarium
  • Sierra de los Padres

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mar del Plata

If you love outdoor activities, Mar del Plata offers numerous hiking, biking, running, and horse riding trails that provide stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Rambla de Mar del Plata
  • Parque Camet
  • Reserva Natural Integral de Punta Loma
  • Circuito Costa Bonita

Best Things to Do in Mar del Plata: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the must-see attractions, there are several other things to do in Mar del Plata, including:

  • Beach Activities: Sunbathing, Surfing, or Kite surfing
  • Fishing Tours: Deep-Sea Fishing and Shore Fishing
  • Golfing: Play a round at Mar del Plata Golf Course
  • Nightlife: Experience the Mar del Plata nightlife with some Tango shows and live music performances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mar del Plata

If you are planning to spend a week in Mar del Plata and want to make the most of your trip, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Enjoy the Beaches Day 2: Explore the Museums and Historical Sites Day 3: Discover the Natural Beauty of Mar del Plata Day 4: Go on a Hiking or Biking Tour Day 5: Indulge in the Local Food and Drink Day 6: Take a Day Trip to Sierra de los Padres Day 7: Wrap Up Your Trip in Style with Some Nightlife Activities

Food and Drink Scene of Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata offers a variety of food and drink options, reflecting the multicultural cuisine of the city. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Milanesa: Deep-fried beef or chicken cutlet with a breadcrumb coating and served with mashed potatoes.
  • Choripan: A sausage served on a bread roll and topped with chimichurri sauce.
  • Asado: Grilled meat and vegetables served as a barbecue.

Local Beverages

  • Mate: An Argentinean tea made by steeping the leaves of the yerba mate plant.
  • Fernet: A uniquely flavored bitter liquor, usually served with cola as a mixed drink.

Where to Stay in Mar del Plata: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mar del Plata has something to offer for all kinds of travelers, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some popular options:

  • Sheraton Mar Del Plata Hotel
  • NH Gran Hotel Provincial
  • Hotel NH Mar Del Plata
  • La Rocchetta

What to Buy in Mar del Plata: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Mar del Plata, you can take home various local products as souvenirs, including:

  • Leather Goods: Buying handmade leather items is a popular thing to do here.
  • Argentinean Wine: Take home some Malbec from the nearby Mendoza region.
  • Alfajores: A cookie-like biscuit filled with dulce de leche (caramel) and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Local Culture and Customs of Mar del Plata

Argentineans are friendly, open-hearted people, proud of their cultural heritage. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and social etiquette, such as:

  • Smile: Greet people with a smile, and they will respond positively.
  • Dress: Dress conservatively when visiting places of worship or formal settings.
  • Time: Be punctual and avoid being late for appointments and events.

Best Time to Visit Mar del Plata

The best time to visit Mar del Plata is during the summer months, between December and February. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mar del Plata

Do:

  • Learn Some Spanish: Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help communicate with the locals.
  • Tip: Tipping is customary in Argentina.
  • Be Ready to Eat Late: Argentineans usually eat late, with dinners served from 9 pm onwards.

Don’t:

  • Be Offended by Personal Questions: Argentineans tend to ask personal questions, and it is not considered rude.
  • Eat Lunch Too Early: Lunch is typically served between 1 pm-3 pm.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata is a generally safe city, but visitors should take some precautions to avoid petty crime. Some tips include:

  • Avoid flashing expensive items in public areas
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secured

Health in Mar del Plata

It is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Mar del Plata. You can also take some standard precautions to avoid health problems, including:

  • Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid tap water.

Getting to Mar del Plata: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mar del Plata is well-connected to other major cities in Argentina. Here are the most common ways to reach Mar del Plata:

Airports Near Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata has an international airport, the Astor Piazzolla International Airport, which is well-connected to other major cities in South America.

Bus Stations Near Mar del Plata

The main bus station in Mar del Plata is Terminal de Omnibus, which connects the city to other parts of Argentina.

Other Options

You can also choose to drive from Buenos Aires or take a train to the nearest station, which is called Mar del Plata Station.

How to Get Around in Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata has several modes of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Mar del Plata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mar del Plata is a gateway to several other popular destinations in the Buenos Aires province, including:

  • Miramar
  • Mar Chiquita
  • Balcarce

Conclusion

Mar del Plata is a beautiful and diverse city that has something for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with all the necessary information and tips to have an unforgettable trip to Mar del Plata. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to have an experience of a lifetime!

Beach in Mar del Plata Beach in Mar del Plata Catedral de los Santos Pedro y Cecilia Catedral de los Santos Pedro y Cecilia Monument to South American sea lion Monument to South American sea lion