Choose your transport to Luján de Cuyo

Selecting your transport is the first major decision. A private driver, or "remis," is the most popular choice. Drivers will wait for you at each winery as you taste. You can find licensed drivers through your hotel or local agencies. Ensure you agree on a flat daily rate before starting your journey.

The Bus Vitivinícola is another reliable choice for many tourists. It follows specific loops and stops at different wineries throughout the day. You can check the latest schedules on the Mendoza Tourism official website. It is cheaper than a private car but follows a fixed timeline.

If you prefer an active day, biking is a fantastic option. You can take a taxi or bus to the Chacras de Coria neighborhood. Several shops there offer daily bike rentals for winery tours. This allows you to explore small roads at your own pace. Be careful with the sun and wind in this desert climate.

How to visit Luján de Cuyo wineries from Mendoza

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth tasting experience. Most high-end wineries in 2026 require reservations weeks in advance. Do not arrive at a vineyard expecting a walk-in tasting. Planning ahead is the key to seeing the best spots.

1. Book your tastings: Research and contact wineries 2-3 weeks ahead. Cost: $25 - $70 USD per person. Where: Official winery websites or email. Mistake: Trying to book on the morning of your visit.
2. Arrange your transport: Confirm your driver or bus tickets 3-5 days before. Cost: $60 - $120 USD for a private remis. Where: Through your hotel concierge. Mistake: Relying on Uber for a return trip from remote vineyards.
3. Plan a logical route: Select 3 wineries located close to each other. Time: Spend 1.5 to 2 hours at each location. Where: Use a Luján de Cuyo wineries guide to map locations. Mistake: Booking vineyards that are 45 minutes apart.
4. Include a long lunch: Book a 3-course or 5-course lunch at your second stop. Time: 1:30 PM is standard for Mendoza. Where: Wineries like Bodega Lagarde or El Enemigo. Mistake: Skipping lunch while drinking high-alcohol Malbec.

Always verify the location of each winery on a map before you leave. Some spots have similar names but are in different sub-regions. For more specific recommendations, see our list of the best boutique wineries in Luján de Cuyo for tastings. This will help you find smaller, family-run establishments.

Preparing for your winery day trip

A successful trip requires a few essential items. Mendoza is often dry and very sunny, even in winter. You will be walking through cellars and vineyards throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must for these tours. Avoid high heels as winery floors can be uneven and wet.

• Checklist:
• Valid physical ID or passport for entry.
• Physical Argentine Pesos for small tips.
• A portable battery for your phone.
• Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Bottled water to stay hydrated between pours.

Confirm the payment methods accepted by the wineries before you go. Most large estates accept international credit cards. However, smaller boutique spots might prefer cash or local apps. Having both options ensures you never run into trouble. Reviewing Lonely Planet can provide additional local context on tipping culture.

Troubleshooting common winery visit problems

Even the best plans can hit a few snags. Being prepared for these issues will save your day. Cell service can be spotty in the rural parts of Luján de Cuyo. Always download your maps for offline use before leaving the city center. This helps you and your driver stay on track.

• No transport for return: This happens if you do not book a return driver. Remis drivers can be hard to call from rural areas.
• Missed appointment times: Wineries are strict about tasting slots. Arriving late may result in a shorter or canceled experience.
• Sunday closures: Many family-owned wineries close on Sundays. Always double-check operating hours for the weekend.
• Alcohol limits: Argentine police often set up checkpoints. Never drink and drive; use a professional driver instead.
• Payment failures: Wi-Fi at wineries can be weak for credit card machines. Carry some emergency cash just in case.
• Overbooking yourself: Visiting more than 3 wineries is exhausting. Stick to two tastings and one long lunch.