This Patagonian city sits among snow-capped mountains and lakes. Visitors can ski nearby slopes, explore colonial buildings, and experience local culture in cafes around the main square.
Neuquén, the largest city in Patagonia, sits at the confluence of the Limay and Neuquén rivers in west-central Argentina. You can swim at riverside beaches, taste local craft beers at microbreweries, and explore hiking trails in the surrounding barda hills. The city's converted railway buildings contain art collections and archaeological exhibits, while the semi-desert landscape offers walking paths with views of the valley. Many travelers use Neuquén as a starting point for trips to the province's ski resorts and national parks.
Location and Natural Setting
Neuquén occupies a strip of land where two major rivers meet to form the Río Negro. The city center lies 8 kilometers northwest of this confluence, with the railroad line dividing it into two distinct areas: the Alto in the north and the Bajo in the south. The northern section rises into the barda hills, with red-rock formations and desert plants typical of Patagonia. In the surrounding valley, irrigation channels support orchards of apples and pears, along with vineyards.
Getting Around the City
You'll find the main commercial area in the Alto district along Avenida Argentina, lined with high-rise buildings, banks, and government offices. The Bajo district, south of the railroad, contains most of the city's shops. You can take local buses on 30 different routes throughout the city, or use the cycling path that connects the bus station to Central Park and continues to neighboring Cipolletti. The compact city center makes walking a practical option.
Museums and Cultural Spaces
Several museums occupy restored 1900s railway buildings in the Central Park area. The Gregorio Álvarez Museum displays archaeological artifacts and documents about local indigenous communities. At the Paraje Confluencia Museum, you can learn about the region's geology and wildlife. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, in a modern building designed by Mario Roberto Alvarez, exhibits Argentine art from the 20th and 21st centuries. All museums are free to enter.
Recreation and Parks
From mid-November to early April, you can swim at the public beaches in the Río Grande neighborhood along the Limay River. Walking trails wind through small canyons in the barda hills, starting just 2 kilometers from the city center. Along the Limay River's shores, you'll find a park with playgrounds, food vendors, and areas for sports activities.
Day Trips from Neuquén
Several destinations make good day trips from the city. Cipolletti, 6 kilometers east, has a growing food scene with local restaurants and bars. At El Chocón, 100 kilometers south, you can see the massive hydroelectric dam and visit the small town of Villa El Chocón. Wine enthusiasts can drive to San Patricio del Chañar to taste Patagonian wines at the area's bodegas.
