8 best things to do in Bariloche

Bariloche might look like a slice of Switzerland – but you're here for Patagonia, not postcard clichés. Set against snow-capped peaks and the deep blue of Lago Nahuel Huapi, this lakeside town is your base for wild hikes, glacier-fed lakes, and South America’s biggest ski resort. Yes, there’s chocolate and chalet-style buildings, but don’t stop there. Bariloche gives you easy access to some of Argentina’s most spectacular landscapes. From mountain biking to island-hopping, skiing to craft beer tasting, the best things to do in Bariloche are all about getting out there – and getting a little lost in Patagonia.

1. Take in the view at the Centro Cívico

Bariloche’s heart beats in its Centro Cívico, a set of alpine-style buildings made from greenish-grey stone and timber, designed in 1939 by architect Ernesto de Estrada. These solid, low-slung structures look straight out over Lago Nahuel Huapi, which makes sense, given they were built to channel the charm of a Swiss mountain village.

The plaza itself is dotted with Saint Bernards in barrels (photo ops at a cost) and street art remembering Argentina’s desaparecidos. At its center stands the weathered statue of General Roca – a reminder of a darker legacy.

2. Visit the Museo de la Patagonia

Right off the plaza, the Museo de la Patagonia is one of the best regional museums in the country. It covers everything from Patagonia’s wildlife to its colonial and indigenous history. You’ll see engraved Tehuelche stones, guanaco-hide playing cards, a Mapuche lance, and even General Roca’s original uniform.

There’s also a cheeky caricature of Perito Moreno breastfeeding Theodore Roosevelt – a satirical nod to a 1913 expedition. Small but packed with insight, it gives important context to the land you’re about to explore. If you're looking for things to do in Bariloche that go beyond the outdoors, this is a rewarding cultural stop.

3. Explore the lakes by boat or kayak

Lago Nahuel Huapi steals the spotlight in Bariloche, and the best way to experience it is from the water. For a relaxed option, join a boat trip to Isla Victoria and the twisted, otherworldly Bosque de Arrayanes. More adventurous? Rent a kayak and glide across the still waters, with the snow-tipped Andes as your backdrop.

Rafting trips are also available on nearby rivers, usually arranged through local outfitters. It’s touristy, sure – but it’s also unforgettable.

4. Cycle the Circuito Chico

If you’d rather stay on land, grab a bike and hit the Circuito Chico – Bariloche’s classic scenic route. It weaves past lakes, forests, viewpoints, and the odd lakeside brewery. Stop at Cerro Campanario to take the chairlift up for one of the most jaw-dropping panoramas in the region. Rent a bike from a local shop like Bike Cordillera or Patagonia Inhóspita and plan a few scenic pit stops. It’s a manageable ride – around 27km – and gives you total control over your pace.

5. Hit the slopes at Cerro Catedral

In winter, Bariloche transforms into Argentina’s skiing capital. Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in South America, with over 100km of runs and a dramatic alpine backdrop. From June through early October, the mountain draws crowds of locals and international visitors looking for powder and après-ski.

Outside of snow season, the resort still offers hiking and mountain biking, along with panoramic views. Just 20km from town, it's easy to reach by bus or taxi. If you're visiting between seasons, check ahead – early spring and late autumn can be hit or miss.

6. Wander along Calle Mitre

Calle Mitre is Bariloche’s main drag – packed with chocolate shops, ice cream parlors, artisanal goods, and the odd boutique brewery. Sure, it’s touristy – but it’s also a great place to sample local flavors like smoked trout, fruit jams, and, of course, chocolate. There’s no shortage of places to eat, and restaurants often stay open between lunch and dinner during peak seasons.

Even if you’re not a shopper, it’s a nice stretch to stroll with lake views peeking between buildings. It may not be wild Patagonia, but if you're after urban comforts, one of the easiest things to do in Bariloche is to simply follow your nose down this street.

7. Experience Bariloche’s nightlife

Thanks to a constant flow of Argentine students, Israeli backpackers, and young Brazilians, Bariloche’s nightlife has serious energy. Most of the action is on Elflein and Juramento, where bars and microbreweries serve up craft beers with mountain views. Drinks can be pricey – expect to pay around a third more than in Buenos Aires – but the setting makes up for it. It’s lively without being wild, and the local beers are genuinely good. If you're in town during the student influx, prepare for a loud night. Still, for many visitors, an evening out here ranks high among the best things to do in Bariloche.

8. Start your Patagonian adventure in Bariloche

Bariloche isn’t just one of the best places to visit in Argentina – it’s a perfect launchpad for exploring the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi. In town, you’ve got lakeside views, chocolate shops, and a mix of German-Chilean heritage. Step outside, and you’re minutes from remote forests, peaks, and valleys. While some complain the town itself lacks planning – the lakeshore is split from the center by a busy road – it still offers easy access to raw Patagonian wilderness.