What to Do on Your First Day in Bariloche with a Rental Car
Imaginá esto: acabás de aterrizar en Bariloche, tirar tu auto alquilado en el aeropuerto y tenés todo el día por delante. ¿Qué hacés? ¿A dónde vas? No querés perder ni un minuto, pero tampoco querés cometer el error de improvisar. En este artículo, te damos una guía clara para disfrutar al máximo tu primer día en Bariloche con auto de alquiler, taking full advantage of the 100%'s ability to move freely.
¿Por qué alquilar un auto en el aeropuerto de Bariloche?
Get to Bariloche And having a car ready completely changes the experience. The Teniente Luis Candelaria International Airport está a solo 14 km del centro de la ciudad, pero mucho antes de llegar ya podés empezar a disfrutar. Si alquilás un auto desde el minuto uno, tenés acceso inmediato a paisajes espectaculares, restaurantes a la vera del lago y algunos de los mejores miradores de la región.
Scenic Route 1: Dining with a View
Hungry after your flight? Just 10 minutes from the airport, you'll find three dining options worth checking out:
- La Alpina Restaurant: Located at 98 Francisco Pascasio Moreno Street—perfect if you're looking for regional cuisine paired with fine Patagonian wine.
- El Mallín: a spot by Lake Nahuel Huapi with beautiful views and classic Argentine dishes.
- Still Life by the Lake: rustic atmosphere, perfect for trying empanadas, river fish, and southern-style meats.
These stops not only provide sustenance, but also set the mood for what's to come: unforgettable scenic routes.
Scenic Route 2: Cerro Otto and the Revolving Restaurant
Less than 15 minutes from the airport (and also close to downtown), the Cerro Otto Cable Car It's a great plan. You ride in a gondola up the hillside, and in about 12 minutes, you arrive at a revolving restaurant that looks like something out of a movie.
At the summit, there is also a suspension bridge, ideal for taking photos. This place is perfect for those who rent a car and want to take advantage of the freedom to explore unique landscapes starting on their first day.
Circuito Chico: A Hidden Gem for Those Renting a Car
Once you've eaten and enjoyed the first lookout point, you can continue your day by visiting the famous Circuito Chico, a circular route of about 60 km. It's ideal if you have a car, because you can stop at each lookout point at your own pace.
What are you going to watch?
- The Lake Moreno
- The Scenic Viewpoint
- The famous St. Edward Chapel
- The area around the Llao Llao Hotel
Este circuito es perfecto para los que preguntan cómo aprovechar un auto de alquiler en Bariloche. No dependés de horarios, evitás excursiones masivas y podés detenerte donde más te guste.
And what about Cerro Campanario? You can't miss it!
From the airport, you'll arrive at the Campanario Hill in about 25 minutes. You take the chairlift, and when you reach the summit, you’re treated to one of the most spectacular views in southern Argentina. You can literally see lakes, mountains, and valleys in every direction.
If you were planning to ask yourself How to get to Cerro Campanario from the airport, the answer is: simply and directly with your rental car. And without having to rely on anyone!
Helpful Services on Your First Day
It's not all about the scenery. There are also services that can be very useful as soon as you leave the airport:
- Bariloche Tourist Information: maps, suggested routes, weather alerts, and more.
- Bariloche Transfers: If you're traveling in a group and need to organize something special.
- Bariloche by AMAE Lounge: a space inside the airport where you can relax, have a cup of coffee, and plan your route using Wi-Fi.
Bonus tip: Plan your itinerary before you arrive
Aunque el primer día en Bariloche puede improvisarse un poco, si ya tenés un auto alquilado, vale la pena aprovechar la libertad. Nuestro consejo es armar una pequeña ruta de 3 a 4 paradas: una comida, un mirador, un paseo corto y una merienda.
Do you only have half a day? Choose Cerro Otto + Bodegón del Lago.
Are you free all day? Add the Campanario Hill and the Circuito Chico.
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Qué hacer el primer día en Bariloche con auto de alquiler?
You can enjoy regional cuisine, natural viewpoints such as Cerro Otto and Campanario, and scenic routes like the Circuito Chico—all just a few minutes from the airport.
Where are some scenic routes near the Bariloche airport?
You have direct access to places like Cerro Otto, Circuito Chico, and the area around Lake Nahuel Huapi. In just 10 to 20 minutes, you'll be right in the heart of nature.
How do I get to Cerro Campanario from the airport?
Tomando la ruta 237 y luego la Avenida Exequiel Bustillo. Son unos 25 minutos en auto.
Want another one?
If you have any other questions about what to see on the first day or which route to take, feel free to contact us directly. At Invernalia Rent a Car, we're here to help you.