Making the most of Mar del Plata
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The port is within walking distance of town.
Printable map to take along.
Two hundred and thirty miles (400km) south of Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata or Mardel is by far Argentina's most popular beach resort. Around three million local tourists holiday here every summer, drawn to its busy beaches and lively entertainment. Visitors can alternate between spending idle days people-watching on the beach or enjoying a spot of culture at one of the city's small galleries. There is also the bustling port to visit with its numerous and colorful traditional fishing boats and noisy colony of sea lions.
Taxis are very cheap, plentiful, and pretty honest. If you want to walk or bike, Mar del Plata is perfect.
Getting around
Municipal Tourist Office (Blvd Marítimo) Emtur conducts free organized tours (called ‘Paseos Para Gente Inquieta’) of various city sights.
Food and shopping
For a taste of the good life, the Mar del Plata has some excellent bars and restaurants and, at the height of summer, a non-stop nightlife. Some visitors prefer to travel outside the peak Christmas season when there are shorter queues for restaurants and the like. Even in winter the city doesn't close down, as there are half a million permanent residents.
Nightlife centers on the world's largest casino (it's mostly roulette-and black tie is de rigueur)
Money
The Argentina Peso is volatile
Exchange tips for Agentina
Staying connected
Spanish