Five days is the sweet spot for Mendoza. You get to visit all three major wine regions (Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo and Valle de Uco), experience the jaw-dropping High Mountain excursion to Aconcagua, and explore the city. This itinerary alternates wine days with mountain adventures to keep things varied.
5-day itinerary overview
- Day 1: Maipu by bike — Trapiche, Lopez, olive oil factory, chocolate shop
- Day 2: Lujan de Cuyo — Catena Zapata, Ruca Malen lunch, Chandon
- Day 3: High Mountain — Potrerillos, Puente del Inca, Aconcagua
- Day 4: Valle de Uco — Zuccardi, Salentein, Andeluna
- Day 5: Mendoza city — Free tour, Cerro de la Gloria, farewell dinner
- Budget traveler: ~USD 400 total
- Mid-range: ~USD 700 total
- Premium: ~USD 1,200+ total
Day 1: Maipu by bike
Start your trip with the classic Maipu bike circuit (USD 10/day). Cycle between 4-6 wineries on flat, easy roads. Highlights: Trapiche (tasting USD 12), Olivicola Laur (free olive oil tasting), Bodega Lopez (underground cellars, USD 10) and La Abuela Goye chocolate shop. Lunch at a winery (USD 10-20). Day cost: USD 45-75.
Day 2: Lujan de Cuyo — Premium Malbec
Day two is for Argentina's most prestigious wineries. Take a group tour (USD 36 with Civitatis) or hire a remis for the day (USD 80-120). Highlights: Catena Zapata pyramid (tasting USD 30), wine-paired lunch at Ruca Malen (USD 65, book ahead), sparkling wines at Chandon (USD 15-25). Day cost: USD 100-260.
Day 3: High Mountain — Aconcagua
A total change of scenery. The High Mountain excursion (USD 59.40 with Civitatis, 10% off) is a full-day drive through the Andes on Route 7: Potrerillos reservoir, Uspallata valley, Puente del Inca natural bridge, and the Aconcagua viewpoint (6,961 m — highest peak in the Americas). Day cost: USD 75-90.
Day 4: Valle de Uco — World's best wineries
The most exciting wine region. Zuccardi Piedra Infinita (world's best winery, tasting USD 25-50), lunch at their restaurant (USD 80+, book 2 weeks ahead), Salentein with art gallery (tasting USD 20), or sunset dinner at Andeluna (USD 148 via Civitatis, 10/10 rating). Day cost: USD 120-300.
Day 5: Mendoza city
Morning: Free walking tour (2 hours, 9.1/10 rating). Afternoon: Cerro de la Gloria tour (USD 21) for panoramic views of the city and the Andes. Browse the wine shops. Farewell dinner at a top restaurant like Azafran or 1884. Day cost: USD 60-150.
Budget breakdown
Budget version (~USD 400)
- Hostel (5 nights): USD 60
- Tours & activities: USD 170
- Food (5 days): USD 125
- Transport: USD 25
- Tastings: USD 30
- TOTAL: ~USD 410
Premium version (~USD 1,200)
- Boutique hotel (5 nights): USD 400
- Private tours & tastings: USD 350
- Dining (wine-paired lunches, gourmet dinners): USD 300
- Private transport: USD 150
- TOTAL: ~USD 1,200
FAQ
Is 5 days enough for Mendoza?
Yes, 5 days is the ideal length. You get to visit all three wine regions, do the High Mountain excursion and explore the city. If you want to add rafting, Canon del Atuel or more adventure activities, extend to 7 days.
Do I need to rent a car?
Not necessary. Everything can be done with organized tours (most practical for solo travelers and couples) or with a hired remis driver (best for groups of 3-4). Renting a car gives more flexibility but means someone cannot drink at tastings — police enforce strict zero-tolerance DUI rules.
