Mendoza is a world-renowned wine region, offering stunning vineyard landscapes, exquisite Malbec wines, and access to the majestic Andes mountains. It's a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a relaxed South American experience.
Quick Facts
Recommended Stay2 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$500/day
Known For
ThessalyMonasteriesKalabakaPindus MountainsUNESCO World Heritage Site
🇬🇷 Country Information: Greece
CapitalAthens
CurrencyEuro (€)
LanguageGreek, English,Albanian
Phone Code+30
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink
Tipping
- Tipping is common but not obligatory
- In restaurants, a 5
- 10% tip is appreciated if service is good
- For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common
- For hotel staff or tour guides, a small tip is often given
Money & Payments
- ATMs are widely available, especially in urban and tourist areas
- Consider using a credit card for larger purchases, but cash is essential for smaller transactions and in rural areas
- There is no significant black market for cash
Cultural Norms
- Greeks are generally warm and hospitable
- Personal space can be closer than in some Western cultures
- Direct eye contact is common and a sign of sincerity
- Hand gestures are frequently used in conversation
- It is considered rude to refuse an offer of coffee or a drink when visiting someone's home
- Eating is a social activity, and sharing food is common
LGBTQ+ Information
Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Greece has made strides in LGBTQ+ rights, including civil partnerships for same-sex couples, but marriage is not yet recognized. Athens has a visible LGBTQ+ scene.
Alcohol & Drug Laws
- The legal drinking age is 18
- Alcohol consumption is common and generally accepted, but public intoxication is frowned upon
- Drug laws are strict, with severe penalties for possession, consumption, and trafficking of illegal substances, including cannabis
Special Laws
- Visitors to churches and monasteries should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees
- Some archaeological sites may have specific rules about touching artifacts or climbing on structures
- It is generally polite to ask before taking photos of people, especially in religious settings
Common Phrases
NoOhi (OH-hee) Όχι
YesNai (neh) Ναι
HelloYiasas (YAH-sas) Γεια σας
PleaseParakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH) Παρακαλώ
Excuse meSignomi (see-GHNO-mee) Συγνώμη
Thank youEfharisto (ef-hah-rees-TOH) Ευχαριστώ
Climate
General climate classification for Mendoza province, which is largely arid/semi-arid with mountainous influences.
Climate Zone: Semi Arid Steppe Cold
Best Time to Visit
- Summers (Jun
- Aug) are extremely hot
- Winters (Dec
- Feb) are cold, with occasional snow
Getting There
- Fly into Mendoza (MDZ) from Buenos Aires (approx
- 2h, $50
- 150) or Santiago, Chile (approx
- 1h, $100
- 200)
- Long
- distance buses available from major Argentine cities (e
- g
- , Buenos Aires, approx
- 12
- 14h, $30
- 70)
Getting Around
- Taxis and ride
- sharing apps (Uber, Cabify) are readily available and affordable
- Public buses operate within the city
- Car rental is recommended for exploring vineyards outside the city
Health & Vaccinations
- Routine vaccinations recommended (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid)
- No specific altitude sickness concerns in Mendoza city itself, but higher Andean excursions require caution
- Consult a doctor for personal recommendations
Staying Connected
- eSIMs are available
- Providers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal offer eSIM services
- Airalo, Nomad, and other global eSIM providers work well
Local Cuisine
Lamb Stew (Kleftiko)
regional_speciality
Slow-cooked lamb is a hallmark of Meteoran cuisine, often prepared with unique regional flavors and generous portions. This hearty stew highlights the
Tiroptia/Spanakopita Pies
snack
Flaky and crisp phyllo dough filled with cheese (tiropita) or spinach (spanakopita). These pies are a beloved staple throughout Greece and are readily
Mushrooms
regional_speciality
Given the area’s use of seasonal ingredients, local mushrooms are a popular item often prepared deliciously. They are sometimes served as an appetizer
Kolokithokeftedes
must_try
Fried zucchini balls, which are a flavorful vegetarian appetizer or side dish. This is a common and highly recommended Greek dish to try while visitin
Kokoretsi
seasonal
A Greek delicacy traditionally eaten on Easter Sunday, consisting of lamb innards wrapped in intestines and broiled over a charcoal fire until crunchy
Book in Advance
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:
🔴 Must Book in Advance
Book 6 weeks to 3 months in advance
Accommodation, especially in peak season, can sell out quickly due to the limited number of hotels near the monasteries.
🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead
Book at least 1 month in advance
Direct train routes, especially to Kalabaka, are popular for day trips or short stays and can fill up, particularly if you want a specific departure time.
Book 2 weeks to 1 month in advance
Popular guided tours (e.g., sunset tours, day trips from Athens or Thessaloniki) have limited capacity and sell out, especially during high season.
Fun Facts
- 1. The unique rock pillars of Meteora, which host the monasteries, were formed by earthquakes and weathering approximately 60 million years ago, making them an ancient geological phenomenon.
- 2. The site was heavily damaged and looted during World War II, with many pieces of art stolen after it was bombed and raided.
- 3. Meteora means “suspended in the air,” referencing the improbable location of the monasteries built on top of the eroded rock formations.
- 4. The Holy Trinity Monastery, one of the most famous and most-visited monasteries, gained extra notoriety after it was featured in the James Bond movie 'For Your Eyes Only.'
