Winter break: 10 places to visit near Buenos Aires

San Nicolás de los Arroyos is a destination that has it all: nature, history, and recreational activities to enjoy with the whole family. About three hours from Buenos Aires, tourists can visit its Eco Park and explore its trails filled with informative signs about the species inhabiting the area. Its most important cultural attractions are the Casa Barco Irupé, the Rafael de Aguiar Theater, and the emblematic Virgin's Sanctuary, which attracts thousands of people each year.

From July 13 to 28, the city celebrates its River Festival. This event at the Eco Park features activities like an inflatable park, a Ferris wheel, a two-meter-high maze, and more.

Fun Fact: One of the attractions that most surprises children is the Yaguarón, a 9-meter game with slides and rubber flooring, located in the Eco Park.

Where: San Nicolás de los Arroyos is in the northern part of Buenos Aires province, on the Paraná River banks.

Using a superpower to travel in a capsule and land in a medieval village is a perfect story for children to experience with their families. This 208-hectare site, 45 minutes from Buenos Aires, takes you back in time.

Campanópolis is an open-air village with cobblestone alleys, striking buildings, and secret places. There are fountains, lakes, wooden bridges, docks, a windmill, and even a locomotive, all explored in guided tours. During July, visits are from Wednesday to Saturday. Visitors can stay for 4 hours after the tour, and tickets must be purchased in advance through this link.

Fun Fact: There's a market on-site where you can buy sandwiches and other snacks for a picnic.

Where: Bariloche 7300, González Catán, Buenos Aires Province.

For princesses, princes, history lovers, and those who enjoy country life, La Raquel is an excellent option. Located 168 kilometers from Buenos Aires, this estate once belonged to the wealthy Guerrero family in the 19th century.

In July, La Raquel opens on Sundays 7, 14, and 21, offering day experiences that include exploring the site, learning its history, visiting the organic garden, having lunch outdoors, visiting the chicken coop, and enjoying a warm snack.

Fun Fact: The estate's park has a special design with 350 imported species and six pathways explored during the visit.

Where: Concejal Tribulato 2182, Castelli, Buenos Aires Province.

Enjoying a boat trip is an ideal outing for the whole family. The trip lasts just over an hour, making it possible to go and return the same day. In Colonia, you can explore the historic district with cobblestone streets, walls, and cannons, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

One of its most visited attractions is the Plaza de Toros, recently restored, and the Puerta de la Ciudadela, dividing the old and modern parts of the city. In July, several artistic activities are scheduled in its various cultural spaces, like coffee talks at the Plaza de Toros every Friday at 1:30 PM until July 26. The Colonia del Sacramento Aquarium is open from Wednesday to Sunday every week.

Fun Fact: Colonia has a unique Origami Museum offering courses, workshops, and books. During the first two weeks of July, it is open Tuesday to Friday from 2 PM to 6 PM, and on weekends from 11 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 5:30 PM.

Where: Southwest Uruguay, on the northern shore of the Río de la Plata, 50 kilometers (in a straight line) from Buenos Aires.

You might also be interested in: The 10 best ski destinations in Argentina

Fifty-five kilometers from Buenos Aires, this city prepares for winter vacations with various activities for the whole family, from horseback riding and outdoor hiking to newer attractions like escape rooms and indoor go-kart tracks.

In July, free guided tours are available along the city's foundational axis and other attractions. The La Plata Planetarium offers immersive shows on weekends and holidays and 45-minute guided tours with various themes.

Fun Fact: The Museum of Natural Sciences is a true gem for young and old alike. It's considered one of the most important in the world, showcasing meteorites, dinosaurs, and mummies. There are children's guided tours on weekends.

Where: Approximately 55 kilometers southeast of Buenos Aires.

A town vying for the title of one of the world's most beautiful is perfect for a getaway, even if it requires traveling some distance. Founded in 1863, Saldungaray served as a military post during Juan Manuel de Rosas' campaign. The town has around 2,000 inhabitants and attracts many tourists interested in its history.

Surrounded by nature and 30 minutes from Tornquist Provincial Park, open daily from July 8 to 28, you can visit the Cerro de la Ventana Natural Monument and other landscapes. Forty-eight minutes away, Estancia Mahuida Co offers a two-hour tour to see animals, eucalyptus groves, and other natural spaces.

Fun Fact: The Udi dairy farm, open daily in July from 8 AM to 1 PM and 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, lets visitors play with animals, enjoy the outdoors, and watch milking.

Where: About 570 kilometers southwest of Buenos Aires Province, in the Tornquist department.

Balcarce celebrates in July with the National Dessert Festival from the 19th to the 21st. The event revolves around the Balcarce dessert, a gastronomic icon of the town, featuring a fair for sampling pastries, masterclasses, live shows, and children's activities with free admission at La Rural de Balcarce.

Balcarce also honors Juan Manuel Fangio, a five-time Formula 1 world champion born here. His museum, housing over 50 cars and all his trophies, is open daily in July from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Fun Fact: The El Cruce café, at the intersection of routes 226 and 55, is famous for its monumental sandwiches with 8 slices of cheese and 16 slices of ham.

Where: Southeast of Buenos Aires Province, in the town of the same name.

While often a summer destination, Mar del Plata also has winter charm. Enjoy some of the country's best croissants, scenic views from beach spots, or theater performances. The winter vacation lineup is extensive: the National and International Puppet Festival at La Bancaria (July 17-28), Pixar in Concert (July 20-21), and the Manta Festival with live artists (July 20). There are also entertainment options like an ice skating rink, an adventure activity aeropark, and a 30-hectare urban nature reserve. Activities for this season can be found through this link.

Fun Fact: For the active and adventurous, winter offers sports like surfing and boat tours.

Where: Southeast Buenos Aires Province, on the Argentine Sea coast.

You might also be interested in: What to do in Buenos Aires this month

Tapalqué is ideal for disconnecting and relaxing in a rural setting. One of its main attractions, located 248 km from Buenos Aires, is a thermal pool complex near the town center. It features 4 covered pools with jacuzzis, a commercial patio, outdoor pools, and a children's area with games. Open from Thursday to Sunday and holidays, you can complement a visit with a walk along the 5-kilometer promenade and lunch at the Pulpería San Gervasio, a National Historic Monument dating back to 1850.

Fun Fact: Tapalqué's black cake is a gastronomic emblem celebrated in the January Black Cake Festival.

Where: Central Buenos Aires Province, in the homonymous district.

Costa Salvaje is perfect for families with young children. This site has replicas of prehistoric animals in a natural setting. In Tierra de Dinos, you can see life-size dinosaurs that move and make sounds. There's also footgolf, a 20-meter suspension bridge, soft play areas for young children, a farm, and large sandpits where kids can play as paleontologists. It also has a football field and a giant chess set. In July, it's open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM starting Saturday the 13th.

Fun Fact: The site has free-use grills and allows food and beverages. It also has a buffet restaurant.

Where: Ruta 11 KM 314, General Lavalle, Buenos Aires Province.