Though far less visited than Patagonia, Salta might well be our favorite destination in Argentina. Blue skies and year round summer dominate the Argentine region that offers it all. This hidden gem combines centuries old architecture with impressive canyons and inca culture with world class vineyards. Only 2 hours away by plane from Buenos Aires, it’s the ideal location for a unique fly-drive vacation.
Walking through the colonial center of this city founded in 1582 with its cobble stone roads, beautiful churches and monuments wait around every corner including the 9th of July square with its neoclassical Catedral Basilica and the impressive Cabildo, the former colonial town hall and now a historic museum. Also on the square the archaeological museum houses the 500 year old mummies of three Inca children that were perfectly preserved in the eternal snow of the Llullaillaco volcano and are an integral part of the best tour to Salta.
Salta is also rightly famous for its local cuisine which uses more spices than common in other parts of the country. Doña Salta’s restaurant (Cordoba 46) has for decades been the place to go for a traditional meal of fiery empanadas and locro, a hearty stew of meat and beans. La Vieja Estacion (Balcarce 885) is a good place for local music and gaucho dancers with “folklore” shows nightly. For a younger vibe, Macondo, a block away at Balcarce 980, is a good pub with an enthusiastic mix of local students and tourists.
The Hotel del Antiguo Convento (Caseros 113) is, as the name clearly suggests, housed in an ancient convent and is perfectly located close to all the attractions in the city center. The luxurious El Lagar B&B (20 de Febrero 877) in a converted colonial mansion is an other excellent option for those wanting to spend the night in the town of Salta itself.
