Things To Do
in Guernica

Guernica, Argentina is a quiet town on the Pampas just outside Buenos Aires City. It blends rural gaucho heritage with a modern Argentine pace, featuring wide streets, tree-lined plazas, and open skies. The town is a gateway to nearby nature reserves, rivers, and farm-to-table dining rooted in the region's agriculture.

Visitors come for a relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and easy access to larger urban centers like La Plata and Buenos Aires.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Guernica
morning
:

Arrive in Guernica and check into your accommodation. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the surroundings before heading out to explore. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to fuel your adventures ahead.

afternoon
:

Stroll around the town center, visiting small shops and enjoying the local architecture. Stop for lunch at a traditional Argentine parrilla to taste some local grilled meats. Take photographs of the vibrant street murals that tell the story of Guernica's rich culture.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a nearby restaurant for dinner, sampling regional dishes. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and perhaps join in on a traditional folk dance. Wind down your day with a glass of Malbec under the stars.

day 2
Exploring Nature Reserves
morning
:

After breakfast, head out to the nearby wetlands for an immersive experience in nature. Prepare for a guided bird-watching tour, where you'll observe the diverse avian species native to the region. Take in the peaceful landscape and serene atmosphere that surrounds you.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the nature reserve while soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild. Explore a hiking trail that leads you deeper into the lush environment. Capture the breathtaking views through photographs and embrace the tranquility of the area.

evening
:

Return to Guernica and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery. Try some homemade empanadas and fresh salads while chatting with locals. Relax in the town square, enjoying live music that often pops up in the evenings.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or snack at cafe$2-5
🚌Public transport ticket$0.5-1.5
🧺Groceries for a week$25-60
🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night)$40-90

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Good access to La Plata and Buenos Aires
  • Authentic Pampas experience with farm-to-table options
  • Reasonable costs for food and lodging
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Fewer high-end dining and shopping options
  • Smaller selection of international services in some spots
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?

Places to Visit in Guernica

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Central de Guernica

The town’s main square with mature trees, historic facades, and a central fountain—great for daytime street photography and golden-hour portraits.

Ribera del río cercano

Waterside paths and low-lying wetlands provide reflective water shots and expansive skies at sunset.

Campos de la Pampa al amanecer

Wide-open prairie landscapes with soft light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography early in the morning.

Iglesia histórica y fachada

Old church exterior with period details perfect for architectural photography and moody skies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guernica

Guernica's cuisine reflects its Pampas roots: hearty meats, simple regional preparations, fresh produce, and cafe culture. Expect homestyle cooking, generous portions, and a focus on seasonal ingredients. Parrillas, empanadas, milanesas, and choripán are common staples, often enjoyed with local bread and chimichurri. For drinks, try mate and, if available, a glass of Malbec or other Argentine wines with meals.

Guernica Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asado argentino

Classic Argentine grill with beef cuts, chorizo, and morcilla; best experienced at a parrilla or countryside cookout.

Must-Try!

Empanadas argentinas

Savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or cheese and green olives; widely found at markets and bakeries.

Milanesa

Breaded meat cutlet, often served with potatoes or a simple salad; a staple in many homes and eateries.

Provoleta

Grilled provolone cheese with herbs, a popular starter at parrillas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Guernica

Small municipal market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks like empanadas.

Plaza stalls and roving vendors

Casual spots around the town center where you can grab choripán, pastelitos, and other street foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are cool to mild with occasional rain, and spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and pleasant skies. Humidity can be noticeable year-round, especially near river and agricultural areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet politely

Common to greet with a handshake in formal settings or a kiss on the cheek among friends and family; use polite language and say gracias meaningfully.

Punctuality and conversation

Casual pace is common; expect relaxed timelines for social visits. Keep voices at a normal level in public spaces and show hospitality to guests.

Tobacco and meals

Avoid smoking at indoor public places where prohibited; accept hospitality with warmth and share food and drink with guests when offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guernica is generally safe for visitors, with typical rural-urban safety considerations. Take standard precautions against petty theft in crowded markets and at night, avoid isolated areas after dark, use licensed taxis, and keep valuables secure. If you need medical help, know the location of the nearest clinic or hospital in La Plata or Buenos Aires.

Tipping in Guernica

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in sit-down restaurants if service is good; many places include a service charge in the bill, especially mid-range to higher-end spots.

Payment Methods

Cash in pesos is widely accepted, especially at markets and smaller eateries. Cards are accepted in most restaurants and larger shops; carry some cash for market stalls and taxis.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with long days; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings and late afternoons.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and pleasant light; ideal for walking, cycling, and photo sessions.

Winter

Cool and dry to mild with occasional rain; layer up and enjoy indoor markets and museums during colder spells.

Spring

Warming temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor markets, hikes, and sunset photography.

Nightlife Guide

Guernica at Night

Guernica's nightlife tends to be low-key, centered around neighborhood bars, cafés, and casual eateries. Evenings are often social with locals sharing conversations, live music or regional playlists, and family-friendly venues. Late-night clubs are less common than in big cities, but weekend gatherings and small gigs can provide a pleasant, intimate atmosphere.

Hiking in Guernica

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverside and pampas trails

Short to moderate hikes along riverbanks and open prairie landscapes, suitable for day trips from Guernica.

Pereyra Iraola Park trails

Accessible nature trails in a nearby regional park offering varied terrain and birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Guernica by plane.

Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)

Ezeiza International Airport, serving Buenos Aires; major international gateway approximately 40–70 km from Guernica depending on route.

Jorge Newbery Airfield (AEP)

Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, focusing on domestic and regional flights; closer to the city and convenient for shorter trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable, with most sights within a short distance of the plaza. Sidewalks are present but can be uneven in places, and parking can be tight near popular spots. For exploring beyond the town, a short drive or bike ride is common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families and commuters

A mix of long-established local families, working residents, and school-age children; strong community ties in neighborhoods and plazas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport nationwide; expect local matches, casual play in parks, and community leagues.

Polo and horseback riding

Rural traditions include equestrian activities and polo in surrounding countryside and ranch communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate with peak congestion near larger nearby cities during rush hours. Buses connect Guernica to La Plata and Buenos Aires; roads are generally well maintained, but speeds may vary on rural stretches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guernica.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer cheese-based dishes, salads, and pasta. Look for grills or veggie options; you can ask for platos sin carne or opciones sin carne and request olive oil, bread, and fresh vegetables as sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Guernica through local clinics and private facilities; for more advanced care or emergencies, residents typically go to La Plata or Buenos Aires where larger hospitals offer comprehensive services and English-speaking staff occasionally available.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide