Are you planning a trip to explore the beauties of Argentina and still wondering how to get from Buenos Aires to Mendoza? The good news is that this route is quite simple, with several transportation options to reach the wine capital.
The most common ways to travel from Buenos Aires to Mendoza are by bus or plane, but it is also possible to make the journey by car. We have traveled to Mendoza by both bus and plane, and we enjoyed both experiences. However, you should choose the best way to reach your destination based on your travel style and budget.
What Is the Best Way to Travel from Buenos Aires to Mendoza?
Flying is undoubtedly the best way to travel from Buenos Aires to Mendoza. The flight takes only 1 hour and 50 minutes, and if you book your tickets in advance, you can find very attractive prices.
Discover a complete guide to the best wineries in Mendoza.
Buenos Aires to Mendoza by flight
The fastest and our favorite way to travel from Buenos Aires to Mendoza is by plane. If you book your tickets in advance, this can be a very affordable option, as Argentina’s low-cost airlines offer highly competitive fares.
Flights from Buenos Aires to Mendoza depart from either Aeroparque Jorge Newbery or Ezeiza International Airport, and the airlines that operate this route are Flybondi, AerolÃneas Argentinas, and JetSmart. The flights last an average of 1 hour and 50 minutes and land at El Plumerillo International Airport in Mendoza.
You can buy tickets for Flybondi, AerolÃneas Argentinas, and JetSmart directly on their websites. The sites are very easy to use.
Flybondi and AerolÃneas Argentinas tickets are quite affordable, but baggage must be purchased separately, which can significantly increase the final price. On the other hand, JetSmart flights tend to be slightly more expensive, although they also offer great deals on airfare, and baggage is likewise charged separately.
Price: You can find plane tickets from Buenos Aires to Mendoza starting at US$ 33. To get better deals, it is recommended to book your ticket at least three months in advance.
Buenos Aires to Mendoza by bus
Taking the bus is the most affordable way to travel from Buenos Aires to Mendoza if you are buying your ticket at the last minute. However, it is also the slowest option, with an average travel time of 18 hours. The journey is generally smooth, and the buses are usually comfortable.
Buses to Mendoza depart from the Retiro Bus Terminal, and the companies operating this route include Andesmar, Chevallier, Via Tac, Central Argentino, Cata, Via Bariloche, 20 De Junio, San Juan Mar Del Plata, and Rápido Internacional.
Although there are many bus companies operating this route, prices are quite similar across the board. Even if the fares seem high, it’s important to consider the blue dollar exchange rate, as paying in Argentine pesos gives you a 20% discount. Another advantage of traveling by bus is that there are no extra baggage fees.
To check prices and schedules, we recommend using the Plataforma10 website. However, keep in mind that tickets cannot be purchased through this platform. The most cost-effective way to buy bus tickets to Mendoza is to go directly to the Retiro Bus Terminal, purchase them at the company’s counter, and pay in Argentine pesos.
Price: Bus tickets start at US$ 68.54, not including the discount when paying in Argentine pesos.
Buenos Aires to Mendoza by car
For those who love driving, traveling from Buenos Aires to Mendoza by car can be a great option. However, keep in mind that this is a long journey, covering approximately 1,000 kilometers (621.371 miles) and taking around 12 hours on average.
You will encounter several tolls along the way, with fees starting at US$ 1.14. The good news is that the roads are flat and in good condition, making it a pleasant route to drive.
To make this trip, you will take Ruta Nacional 07 and follow it for many hours. Along the way, there are gas stations and convenience stores, making it easier to take breaks when needed.
Due to the long distance between these two Argentine cities, the journey can be quite exhausting. While it is possible to complete it in a single day, we recommend stopping in a town along the way to make the trip more enjoyable and less tiring.
Tip: If you plan to rent a car in Argentina, we recommend using the Discovers website. This platform partners with various rental agencies, offering great prices and free cancellation.
Tips for a Smooth Trip from Buenos Aires to Mendoza
- Flying? Book your ticket in advance to secure the best prices.
- Driving? Make sure to have Argentine pesos for toll payments. Some toll booths may not accept cards, and paying in cash can make your trip more cost-effective in Argentina.
- For more information, check out how to get to Mendoza from Santiago and other destinations in Argentina, as well as the best time to visit Mendoza.
Did you enjoy our tips on how to get from Buenos Aires to Mendoza? Check out where to stay in Mendoza, with recommendations for the best areas and hotels.
Planning a trip to Argentina? Don’t miss our complete 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ARGENTINA
Book your hotel in Argentina in advance
To ensure the best stay in Argentina, we recommend using Booking or Hotels.com, reservation sites we trust for all our trips. With a wide selection of hotels and the best available rates, you will find the perfect option for your stay, ensuring an incredible and economical travel experience. Our favorite hotels in Argentina are:
- Mine Hotel (Buenos Aires)
- Diplomatic Hotel (Mendoza)
- Hotel Nahuel Huapi (Bariloche)
- Hotel Kosten Aike (El Calafate)
For greater convenience, rent a car in Argentina
Argentina is a wonderful country to explore by car, offering stunning landscapes and charming cities. If your plan is to explore more than one city and maximize your comfort and freedom, renting a car is the ideal choice. The companies we recommend for car rentals are Discover Cars and Rental Cars.
Book your tours and experiences
Planning your tours in advance can save you a lot of time during your trip. Imagine being able to book all your activities directly from the comfort of your home and even pay with your credit card. The companies we use and recommend for booking tours and buying tickets are Viator, Civitatis, and Get Your Guide.
