Daily costs per person in US dollars. Mendoza offers extraordinary value — world-class wine and food at prices that would be impossible in comparable wine regions elsewhere. The blue dollar rate makes Argentina especially affordable for visitors with USD.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: ARS (Argentine Peso) (Check blue dollar rate)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $6–12 | $20–45 | $70+ | Dorm beds → private rooms → wine lodge hotels |
| Food | $6–12 | $15–30 | $40+ | Market meals → parrillas → fine dining |
| Transport | $1–5 | $5–15 | $20+ | Local buses → taxis → private transfers |
| Activities | $5–15 | $25–60 | $80+ | Self-guided cycling → group tours → private wine tours |
| Wine Tastings | $5–15 | $15–40 | $50+ | Maipú wineries → Uco premium tastings |
| Daily Total | $25–55 | $80–190 | $260+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Use the blue dollar rate
Argentina has a parallel "blue dollar" exchange rate that gives 30-50% more pesos than official bank rates or ATMs. Exchange cash USD at cuevas (informal exchange houses) on San Martín street — this is common, legal in practice, and dramatically stretches your budget.
Cycle the Maipú wineries
Renting a bike in Maipú costs $5-8 for the day and lets you visit 4-5 wineries at your own pace. Tastings cost $5-10 each. A full day of wine tasting by bike costs under $30 — the same experience on a guided tour costs $60-100.
Eat almuerzo set lunches
Many restaurants serve almuerzo (set lunch) menus for $3-5 including a main course, drink, and bread. Look for the "menú del día" signs on side streets away from Arístides Villanueva — the tourist strip is 2-3x more expensive.
Cook at your hostel
Mendoza's supermarkets and markets sell excellent beef, vegetables, wine, and bread at local prices. A barbecue at your hostel with steak and a bottle of Malbec costs $5-8 per person — much cheaper than eating out.
Take local buses
Mendoza's local bus system (Red Bus) covers the entire city and suburbs for about $0.50 per ride. Buy a SUBE card at any kiosk. The bus to Maipú is $0.50 versus $5-8 for a taxi.
Buy wine at cellar doors
Excellent Malbec costs $3-8 at the winery versus $15-25 in Buenos Aires shops or international markets. Buy directly from wineries and carry bottles home — the savings on even a few bottles are significant.
