What to Do on Your First Day in Bariloche with a Rental Car
Imagine this: You’ve just landed in Bariloche, dropped off your rental car at the airport, and have the whole day ahead of you. What do you do? Where do you go? You don’t want to waste a single minute, but you also don’t want to make the mistake of winging it. In this article, we’ll give you a clear guide to help you make the most of your trip. Your first day in Bariloche with a rental car, taking full advantage of the 100%'s ability to move freely.
Why rent a car at the Bariloche airport?
Get to Bariloche And having a car ready completely changes the experience. The Teniente Luis Candelaria International Airport It's only 14 km from downtown, but you can start enjoying yourself long before you get there. If you rent a car right away, you'll have immediate access to spectacular scenery, lakeside restaurants, and some of the best scenic overlooks in the region.
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
This itinerary is perfect for anyone wondering how to make the most of a rental car in Bariloche. You aren't tied to any schedules, you can avoid crowded tours, and you can stop wherever you like.
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
Although your first day in Bariloche can be a bit spontaneous, if you’ve already rented a car, it’s worth taking advantage of the freedom it offers. Our advice is to plan a short itinerary with 3 to 4 stops: a meal, a scenic overlook, a short walk, and a snack.
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
What should you do on your first day in Bariloche with a rental car?
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?
Take Route 237 and then Exequiel Bustillo Avenue. It's about a 25-minute drive.
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.