Standing proudly near the self-proclaimed ‘end of the world’, Argentina, the second largest country in South America, has actually for many expats become more of a place to chart a beautiful, new beginning, then any kind of end – despite this massive nation’s close proximity to Antarctica at its southern tip! And though most foreigners may be familiar with the world-renowned capital city of Buenos Aires, there are many more of the best cities to move to in Argentina to choose from, when thinking of a move to this Latin American powerhouse.
But in a nation that stands as the eighth largest country in the world by land mass, it leaves a lot of ground to cover when considering the best cities to move to in Argentina. Yet after having spent some quality time down in the land of Messi and Maradona, I’m glad to say that I’ve come to my own conclusions about this question – and I am more than happy to share with you now the best cities to move to in Argentina right here, dale!
#1: Buenos Aires
How else could I start this list but with the big one itself – the legendary city of Buenos Aires, and absolutely one of the best cities to move to in Argentina in turn. Being home to almost 60% of the nation’s population, Argentina’s capital city is as large as it is varied, with so many unique neighborhoods to explore – and I go into great detail about the best districts to live in within the city in an article I wrote right here!
Being home to the invention of the tango, Buenos Aires promises passion and flair down every alleyway – with the city also paying host to some of the best and cheapest food and entertainment in the world. And that all goes without mentioning the incredible fusion of architecture that the city is revered for – a kind of New York meets Paris fusion, unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Ultimately, what more can be said about the most famous city in Argentina, perhaps in all of Latin America, then the fact that if you choose to live in romantic, beautiful, and absolutely spectacular Buenos Aires – one of my favorite cities in the world, and one of the best cities to move to in Argentina, then you too will soon find yourself inspired by its enchanting magic as well.
#2: Mendoza
Meanwhile, for those not looking for so much of the big city vibes, but still desires all the class and elegance that a city like Buenos Aires provides, then look no further than Mendoza – one of the best cities to move to in Argentina. Known as the Argentine wine capital, the rolling hills of vineyards, producing some of the best quality vino on the planet, are flanked by the incredible beauty of the Andes mountains, providing some truly jaw dropping views while sipping your perfectly accented malbec.
But wine isn’t the only thing that Mendoza does so well – one of the best beers I’ve ever had comes from the region as well (Andina), and for those who don’t drink, the charming views of the countryside cannot be beat by dare I say even Napa Valley. Ultimately, for a prospective expat looking for a place that offers class, beauty, and relaxation, I highly recommend a look at Mendoza – easily one of the best cities to move to in Argentina.
#3: Bariloche
However, if vineyards aren’t really your thing, but you do prefer the mountains, then you’ll be sure to love the Patagonian paradise that is Bariloche – yet another one of the best cities to move to in Argentina.
Flaunted on all sides by the Andes mountains, Bariloche is often compared to a city in Switzerland that got transported to South America – such is the feeling you get when walking through the cobblestone streets, looking up at charming Germanic architecture, and out towards the gorgeous lake, making this town near reminiscent of Geneva.
And although during the summer months Bariloche may seem quieter, but no less beautiful, it is during the winter months that this central Argentine city really shines, becoming a major international destination for skiing and snowboarding – and providing the winter sports experience for some of the lowest prices to be had globally. For any expat or digital nomad who absolutely loves the mountains, lakes, and the cold, Bariloche should rank as high as the Andes atop your list of best cities to move to in Argentina!
#4: Cordoba
Coming a bit back down to earth, but with no less excitement then before, lies the lovely Argentine city of Cordoba, a famous college town in the country, but also one of the best cities to move to in Argentina. Attracting students all over the nation, as well as globally, Cordoba is filled to brim with new ideas, events, and youthful energy, ensuring there is always something to see or do in this architecturally gorgeous city.
Add in some of the best parks, museums, and nightlife in all of Argentina, and it quickly becomes apparent that Cordoba should rank high on the list of best cities to move to in Argentina if you are a young single, looking to mingle, in one of the most exciting and innovative places in all of Latin America.
#5: Salta
Rounding up my list of the best cities to move to in Argentina is the north-eastern town of Salta, close to the border of Chile, and laying claim to some of South America’s most beautiful desert scenery. Having preserved much of the old Spanish colonial architecture that can be found with greater regularity in other Latin American nations like Mexico, Salta has almost a Southwestern USA charm about it, all evident in the old but beautiful culture to be found everywhere you look.
But if old-world architecture doesn’t quite float your boat, wait until you go a bit outside town to see the natural wonders of the local salt flats, where on a rainy day you feel as if you are walking on water!
Ultimately, Salta’s charm, magic, history, and surreal natural setting has to give it a very high ranking not only on my personal list of best cities to move to in Argentina, but also one of the best, most relaxing cities to settle down in anywhere.
DESTINATION: Argentina, A Land of Love, Passion, and Endless Wonder
Like a love letter to a forbidden lover, Argentina has tugged on the heartstrings of countless dreamers over the centuries, drawing them ever closer to help create their dreams, across the beautiful canvas of its enchantingly vast landscape. It also called to me, which is why I truly believe Argentina is one of the best places to live as an expat – and I cover my top reasons why in an article here.
If you are thinking of moving to Latin America, and Argentina has begun to beckon to you – then know the call is real, and if you choose to live in any of these top 5 best cities to move to in Argentina, you too could be dancing tango with a love of your own soon enough – I know I did. 😉
Meanwhile, if you are looking to compare Argentina to other nations in the Latin American region you are considering relocating to, why not check out my article on my personal favorite places to pick from right here? You’ll be glad you did!