South America
Welcome Kit
Argentina
Córdoba
Cultural and touristic; historic and modern; industrial and traditional; Cordoba is the second most important city in Argentina and the main urban development in the central region of the country.
Highlights
Cities and villages. Rivers and hills. Lakes and sport. Shows and events. Discover a province that is also a region. An urban area with a busy commercial, cultural and university life. Charming valleys such as Traslasierra, Punilla and Calamuchita. A tourist center as Villa Carlos Paz. Experiences to take a close look at nature in streams, rivers and dams. Sail on boats or practice water sports in either a peaceful atmosphere or with full adrenaline.
The spirit of the people from Córdoba will captivate you from day one. Enjoy the Cosquín Folklore Fest and the National Beer Fest in Villa General Belgrano. Discover the cultural legacy in museums, churches and Jesuit ranches declared World Cultural Heritage by Unesco.
General Facts
Córdoba is one of the twenty-three autonomous provinces that make up the Argentine Republic.
It is located in the geographic center of the country, bordered to the north by Catamarca and Santiago del Estero, to the east by Santa Fe, to the southeast by the province of Buenos Aires, to the south by La Pampa, and to the west by San Luis and La Rioja.
Its capital is the homonymous city. With an extension of 165,321 km², it is the fifth largest province in the country.
The historical City of Córdoba emerged from the wish to join The Alto Peru and the Río de la Plata Viceroyalties through what became known as the Camino Real or Royal Road, in English.
Both the “Camino de las Estancias” and the “Jesuit Block”, due to their historical and cultural importance, were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2000.
Map Location
Documentation
A valid Passport.
Most countries in America and
Western Europe do not require a visa.
Insurance information.
Best Time to Go
The mountains, the climate and the landscapes are the main sources of beauty in this province, so that throughout the year it is possible to travel, tour and enjoy the Cordovan geography.
The best time to travel to Córdoba is between March and May (autumn) or September and November (springtime), where the weather is nice, and with little precipitation.
Clothing
Dress in layers. While the province has fair weather, the temperature might drop drastically as you ascend the hills. Bring a coat, a hat, sunscreen and suitable footwear for each activity.
Healthcare
Packing
Argentinean flights allow, as their restrictions are limited to 33 pounds (15 kg) per person.
Currency
Peso Argentino.
Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Electricity
Argentina: 220 V – 60 Hz.
Plugs Type C / I
Local Taxes
Foodie
Discover Córdoba through its flavors. Here, its culinary delights will get you to know different cultures and visit towns that will open up their doors and share their traditions with you. Have you tried the Cordoba “picada” [cheese and meat platter]? Taste salami and goat cheese, pork belly and bacon, olives and olive oil, smoked and flavored cheeses. Then, if we are talking about traditions, don’t miss the classic cabrito cordobés [Córdoba goat meat].
Fernet and cola drink
Put ice in a glass, then add fernet and the cola drink. Lastly, if it turns foamy, add more fernet. Quantities: 2 parts ices, 2 parts fernet and 6 parts cola drink. This might vary depending on the taste of the drinker.
For someone who has never tried this drink, it is recommended to prepare it Rosarino style: 1 part fernet and 7 parts cola drink. To drink it Córdoba-style, the ideal way to prepare it is in a long drink glass. First, put ice and then 3 parts fernet. Lastly, 7 parts cola drink should be added slowly while tilting the glass so that the drink doesn’t overflow due to the foam.
Cabrito (kid or baby goat)
The kid ceremony is one of the gastronomic rituals that you have to go through if you travel to Córdoba. Their main hallmark is that they breed in a specific area: Quilino, in the northwest of Córdoba, which is characterized by salty soils. That means that the meat already contains a very own flavor and that it is almost not necessary to put anything when cooking it: just a little salt and pepper. The kid is cooked for just over an hour in the oven and nothing else is needed to enjoy it.
“Picada” (tapas)
This item comprises two passions at the same time: a love for food and for football. Why? Because a picada is the best football match ally. Of course, it can be enjoyed without a sport event, but the pairing is just perfect and one of Argentinians’ great love. Different styles of cheese, salami, prosciutto, olives, peanuts, crisps, and bread. All these can only get better with beer.
A picada can also be the main dish of any friendship celebration. More often than not, this kind of platter is the starter, especially before the asado. Yet, other ingredients may be added so that the cold meat and snack party become enough as a main dish.
Cordoba Wines
At the beginning of the sixteenth century, and by the hand of the Jesuit priests, the vine populated the soil of Cordoba, and – as we are told – the wine that was obtained was the first to be served at the table of the King of Spain. The story continues in the nineteenth century, when Italian immigrants initiated a type of artisanal wine production based on non-traditional strains such as Frambua grapes.
This legacy is kept alive in Córdoba, where high quality, healthy and natural wines are developed. The cultivated varieties are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. The elaboration of the wines in the winery is very careful, and at all times it is sought that the wines express this particular terroir.
Alfajor
The sweet delicacy par excellence in Argentina. The alfajor has been going strong since colonial times, and it reached its peak in the 1950s in an industrial format. The rest is history: few things beat a good alfajor. The classic Cordobesa version consists of two honey cookies filled with a layer of dulce de leche or fruits jam and covered with a glazed sugar bath.
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Activities
Follow the Road of the Jesuit Estancias
During the 17th century Jesuits started schools and universities in Córdoba city. In order to finance these, they set up Estancias (Spanish word for “ranch or farm”) where agriculture and cattle breeding prospered. The Jesuits rapidly progressed to becoming rich, powerful and independent organizations. Too much power they gained, that they were expelled by the Spanish Crown in 1767.
The estancias fell into decay until the government restored and reopened them as museums. They are Alta Gracia, Jesús María, Colonia Caroya, La Candelaria and Santa Catalina.
The five estancias that remained along the years, together with the Jesuit Block, were declared Cultural World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 2000.
Discover Cordoba architectural and religious heritage
The ringing of bells covers the city. Would you like to get to know the faith of local people? Visit Córdoba Cathedral, one of the biggest treasures of Argentinian colonial architecture. Come to the church of the Santa Teresa Monastery and visit its religious art museum. Discover La Merced basilica and walk up to the altar, dating back to the 18th century. In Santa Catalina church, listen to religious people singing.
Go on through the churches Compañía de Jesús, built in 1653, and San Francisco, inspired in the Italian Renaissance style. In Santo Domingo basilica, observe the Renaissance style of the architecture, and in Sagrado Corazón church, find traces of gothic architecture.
Find a World within a Neighbourhood
Stroll around the Nueva Córdoba neighbourhood, one of the most symbolic areas of the city of Córdoba. Walk around the streets and discover their charms: Patio Olmos, Casa Palacio Minetti, España square, Vélez Sarsfield small square, Sarmiento park, and the Bicentennial Lighthouse. Visit an aristocrat mansion, Palacio Ferreyra, where you will find a fine art museum and a park designed by the landscapist Carlos Thays.
Would you like to enjoy the open air? Visit Súper Park, the city’s biggest recreational area, and Paseo del Buen Pastor, a cultural and observation tour. You will also find here the Anthropologist Museum, the Emilio Caraffa Fine Art Provincial Museum, the archbishop’s palace, and Sagrado Corazón de los Padres Capuchinos church, with a neo-Gothic architecture which will take you to the Medieval times.
Visit the cradle of folklore music
On the banks of a river, and at the foot of a hill, Cosquín, the oldest town in the Punilla Valley, is waiting for you. Discover its natural charm, get some rest on its beaches, cool off in its beach resorts, share a picnic by the river. Would you like some action? Go trekking and bird watching along wild trails. Practice fishing and water sports in crystal-clear waters.
Walk around emblematic landmarks such as the Artisans’ Museum and Paseo de las Estatuas, the Camín Cosquín Museum and Confitería Europea. If you travel in January, do not miss the mythical National Folklore Festival of Cosquín, one of the most important ones in Argentina and Latin America. Get close to its stage, enjoy the concerts, celebrate the music, tradition, and culture of this land. Live it all in the province of Córdoba.
A journey around Capilla del Monte and its mystical mountain
Would you like to join nature, mystique and adventure? Visit Capilla del Monte, the city that opens the door to the Uritorco. Did you know that this mount hides myths and legends about sightings of UFOs and aliens in the area? Walk around its paths. Delve into the forests covering its slopes. Reach its summit, almost 2,000 meters high, and let the panoramic views of the Córdoba hills amaze you.
Explore a city that awaits you between hills and gullies, between dams and rivers. Cool off at its beach resorts, discover its waterfalls, and hop into the crystal-clear waters that flow from its springs. Visit Los Mogotes and Paso del Indio, Los Terrones and El Zapato, Agua de los Palos and the Ongamira caves. And in the heart of the city, walk along the first roofed street built in Latin America.
Embark on an historical train
Would you like to blend mountain magic and the charm of a trip on a train? Then, you have an appointment in Alta Córdoba station. Get on and enjoy the adventure. Delight yourself as you see the city drive away and Punilla valley get closer. Enjoy a tour that will take you to discover the charm of San Roque, Biallet Massé, Santa María, and Cosquín (the national capital of Argentinian folk dance).
Did you know that the image of Tren de las Sierras was in Argentinian postcards during the 20th century? Discover the history of this train that opened in 1889 to carry freight and passengers between Córdoba and Cruz del Eje. With years, it has become a crucial means of transport to get towns closer, reactivate industries, and integrate the region.
Raise your glass and toast
Have you tried Cordoba drinks? Start with fernet and learn about its history: immigrants drank it as an appetizer more than a century ago. During the eighties, people from Córdoba turned fernet into a drink that is a symbol of this province: fernet on ice mixed with a cola drink. Its nickname: Fernando.
Córdoba also has a beer culture. In Villa General Belgrano, taste new varieties of craft beer and take part of the traditional Oktoberfest: a German immigrant legacy. Do you fancy wine? Tour the Córdoba route and come close to Colonia Caroya’s wineries and vineyards. Taste pinot and torrontés, chardonnay and merlot, malbec and red frambua: an exquisite local variety.
Get your adrenaline high
A mild climate. The gentle landscape of the hills. In this calm environment, adrenaline awaits. Dare to climb relentless rocks. Take shelter in the mountain. Travel the hills on a 4X4 truck or a mountain bike. Enjoy horseback journeys, cross cool water streams, and find hidden places. Walk along hiking trails. Dive under water in the lagoons. And hop on a paraglide from up high.
Visit all the hills: low, high, and western; the Camino de las Altas Cumbres road and the Traslasierra valley; the Champaquí mount and the Los Gigantes massif; the Azul lagoon and the Quebrada del Condorito National Park; the Cerro Pelado and Embalse, Piedras Moras, Segunda Usina dams. Explore the Punilla valley and the energy of the Uritorco mount; Villa Carlos Paz and Salinas Grandes. In the mountain, in the water, in the air, Córdoba is waiting for you.
Pick your own adventure in Traslasierra Valley
Are you ready to experience nature? In the province of Córdoba, Traslasierra Valley is waiting for you with a world of choices. Wild and rocky landscapes. Forest with diverse flora and fauna. Rivers with riverside resorts. Towns with traditions and history. Creeks of clear water descend from the mountains; paths for walks and horseback rides. Reservoirs to practice water sports like windsurfing and kayaking, rowing and canoeing.
Tour a valley where you will find more than twenty tourist locations: Mina Clavero and Villa Dolores, Nono and Villa Cura Brochero, Las Rabonas and Los Hornillos, Las Tapias and Villa de las Rosas, San Javier and Yacanto, Luyaba and La Paz. Visit the protected natural areas: Quebrada del Condorito National Park, Pampa de Achala Water Reserve and the Chancaní Nature Reserve. Explore Cerro Champaquí and the Altas Cumbres.
Enjoy the nightlife
When the sun sets, the city presents an active cultural atmosphere and nightlife manifested in the theaters that present a wide range of recreational and artistic performances. The typical music style in Córdoba is called cuarteto (its greatest exponents are the famous “Mona” Giménez and the late Rodrigo) and the way it is danced is another icon in our country. “Fernet con cola” (a drink made with a bitter aromatic spirit and coke), as the natives from Córdoba, usually call it, is the typical welcome whose flavor conveys the true feeling of Córdoba.