Santa Fe (province, Argentina) Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and scenic Santa Fe province of Argentina with our comprehensive travel guide, which includes a list of places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


A Complete Travel Guide to Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Nestled in the heart of Pampas, Santa Fe province of Argentina boasts of rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. This underrated destination is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travelers seeking an authentic South American experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we bring you everything you need to know to plan your trip to Santa Fe province in Argentina.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Santa Fe has a lot to offer to every traveler, whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff. Here’s a list of places you cannot miss on your trip to Santa Fe:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Flag Memorial – A monument built in honor of the Argentinian flag, the National Flag Memorial is a must-visit attraction in Santa Fe. You can climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
  • Colonial House Museum - This museum showcases the colonial-era art of Santa Fe province.
  • San Francisco Convent and Church - One of the few remaining colonial-era structures in the city, the San Francisco Convent and Church date back to 1680.

Natural Attractions of Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional Pre-Delta - Located on the Delta of Paraná River, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including capybaras, monkeys, and various bird species.
  • Costanera de Santa Fe - A scenic waterfront boulevard where you can take a stroll, run or cycle.
  • La Ribera Shopping - A popular shopping destination with several restaurants and a cinema, located on the banks of the Paraná River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Santa Fe province offers plenty of options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. If you’re looking for the best routes to explore, we recommend checking out:

  • Parque Nacional Pre-Delta - The park offers several trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts, providing the opportunity to observe the park’s flora and fauna up close.
  • Dique Los Molinos - A beautiful scenic destination for hikers with several trekking trails and scenic views.
  • Cerro de los 7 colores - The summit of this mountain peak rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Activities and Tours

  • Isla de los Inventos - A popular children’s museum designed to stimulate young minds and encourage creativity.
  • Alejandra’s Sanctuary - A beautiful Spanish-style chapel that attracts visitors for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.
  • Sports activities - Santa Fe is a great destination for sports lovers, with several popular sports, including football, tennis, and basketball.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Here’s a week-long itinerary you can follow to get the most out of your trip to Santa Fe:

Day 1-2: Explore the city of Santa Fe, visit museums, and taste the famous Argentinian wine.

Day 3-4: Head to the coast of Santa Fe, and visit the Parque Nacional Pre-Delta to explore its diverse flora and fauna.

Day 5-6: Take part in outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horse riding at Dique Los Molinos.

Day 7: Relax on the beach or enjoy water sports at La Ribera Shopping.

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Santa Fe province boasts of a rich culinary heritage, with a blend of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when visiting Santa Fe province:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado – A grilled meat dish, usually served with chimichurri sauce.
  • Empanadas – A pastry stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Mandarin liqueur - A locally produced liquor made from mandarin oranges

Local Beverages

  • Yerba Maradonian - A type of yerba mate produced in Argentina and favored by soccer legend Diego Maradona.
  • Quilmes beer - One of the most popular beers in Argentina and brewed in Santa Fe province.

Where to Stay in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santa Fe has a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all kinds of budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget hostels, or boutique guesthouses, we’ve got you covered.

  • Hotel Conquistador Santa Fe – A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Santa Fe, offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • Hostel de la Rivera – A budget hostel located near La Ribera shopping, offering clean and comfortable accommodation.
  • Guesthouse La Criolla – A charming guesthouse located in the historic center of Santa Fe, with comfortable rooms and warm hospitality.

What to Buy in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Santa Fe offers a wide range of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in Santa Fe:

  • Mate cups - A popular Argentinian drink, mate cups come in various shapes and sizes.
  • Leather products - Santa Fe province is known for its high-quality leather products, including belts, wallets, and shoes.
  • Traditional wool poncho - A traditional poncho is a cozy and stylish souvenir that you can take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Argentinians are known for their boisterous personalities and zest for life, and Santa Fe residents are no different. Here are some customs unique to Santa Fe province that you should know before visiting:

  • Mate drinking – The traditional Argentinian way of sipping a unique yerba mate tea from a mate cup.
  • Siesta time – Do not be surprised if you find shops closed between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM because it’s time for afternoon siesta.

Best Time to Visit Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Santa Fe experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between November to March when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to Santa Fe:

Do:

  • Try the Argentinian wine, famous for its rich flavor.
  • Experience the nightlife in Santa Fe.
  • Observe local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ever approach wild animals in their natural habitat.
  • Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and insect repellent when visiting natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Santa Fe is a safe destination for travelers, but like in any other city, tourists should take care of their belongings and keep them safe. Avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas.

Health in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

While the province of Santa Fe doesn’t require any specific vaccinations before entry, tourists should carry mosquito repellent as many natural attractions have mosquitos.

Getting to Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Transportation Options and Logistics

Santa Fe is well-connected to other parts of Argentina. Here are some transportation options you can opt for when traveling to Santa Fe:

Airports Near Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

  • Sauce Viejo Airport - Located about 15 minutes away from the city of Santa Fe.

Bus Stations Near Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

  • Terminal de Omnibus de Santa Fe - Bus station located in the city of Santa Fe that connects the city to other parts of Argentina.

Other Options

  • Taxis, rental cars, and private transfers are readily available in Santa Fe for tourists to travel within the city.

How to Get Around in Santa Fe (Province, Argentina)

Tourists can use public transport or taxis to get around Santa Fe city. Biking and walking are great options for exploring the city.

Where to Go Next from Santa Fe (Province, Argentina): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that are worth a visit after exploring Santa Fe:

  • Rosario - A buzzing port city, located about 150 kilometers from Santa Fe, known for its vibrant nightlife and historical attractions.
  • Paraná delta - Located about 100 kilometers from Santa Fe, the Parana Delta offers visitors boating and kayaking experiences.

Conclusion

A trip to Santa Fe, Argentina’s hidden gem, is a memorable experience for every traveler. With its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant nightlife, the city offers something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your trip to Santa Fe, and experience the best that Argentina has to offer.