Mendoza is the center of the wine industry in Argentina. It is also close to the Aconcagua, the world’s second highest peak. It is a popular vacation spot both for those who want to enjoy some wine tasting and those looking for an adventure. During winter (June to late August), the area draws many snow enthusiasts as it is home to great ski centers. It would be a shame to visit Argentina and not plan to stop in Mendoza, as well.
Quick summary
Although you can fly between Buenos Aires and Mendoza, the plane ticket is more than double than the bus ticket. If you are in a hurry and the budget isn’t an issue, then you can fly between the two cities in 2 hours. Otherwise, choose a night bus. You’ll be traveling for about 14 hours and you can choose a night bus and sleep the entire length of the trip.
Flights from Buenos Aires (airport code: AEP) to Mendoza
The main airport serving Buenos Aires is Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), which handles all international flights and some domestic ones. It is the largest airport in Argentina and a hub for Aerolineas Argentinas , LAN Airlines and SkyTeam. Most domestic flights depart from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP).
Mendoza is served by a small airport, El Plumerillo (MDZ) which receives flights from Buenos Aires (from both airports), run by Aerlonieas Argentinas and LAN Argentina.
It’s cheaper to fly from Buenos Aires’ Aeroparque airport (AEP) into Mendoza than to fly from the main airport. Flights start at US$215 one way on LAN Airlines. The travel time is about 2 hours.
>>read more about Cheap Flights to Buenos Aires
Buses from Buenos Aires to Mendoza
There are more than 10 companies that offer daily direct connections between Buenos Aires and Mendoza. The travel time is between 13h 30 min and 14 h 30 min, depending on the type of bus and company. There are departures during the day but you can also choose a night bus. Tickets cost between 350 Argentine pesos / US$83.50 and 470 Argentine pesos / US$112, per person, one way.
Some of the companies offering connections between the two cities are: Cata Internacional, El Rapido Internacional , Viajes Sendas, Andesmar and Flecha Bus.
Buses depart from Terminal Retiro in Buenos Aires and arrive at Terminal de Mendoza.
>>read more about Bus Travel in Argentina
Driving from Buenos Aires to Mendoza
Although the driving distance between Buenos Aires and Mendoza is long (1049 km), you can turn this journey into a lovely road trip. So, rent a car and prepare for about 12 hours of driving. Make sure to allow for stops along the way and remember that you’ll also be driving on toll roads.