Mar del Plata is Argentina’s largest seaside resort, and most visitors arrive by road. Its airport (MDQ) is small, with few flights, and lies north-west of the city beside Ruta 2, the dual carriageway from Buenos Aires. Leaving the terminal is straightforward. The thing to check is how far along the coast you are staying, because the city is long.
The city from north to south
Following the shore, from the airport’s side to the far end:
- La Perla and the northern beaches. The first area you reach coming in from Ruta 2.
- The centre. The Rambla promenade, the Casino and Bristol beach, with most of the hotels.
- Playa Grande and Los Troncos. Residential streets with restaurants.
- The port.
- Punta Mogotes and the southern beaches. The beach clubs towards the lighthouse, on the far side of the whole city.
In high season, crossing the city along the seafront in the late afternoon takes a good deal longer than in winter.
Transport on offer
- Taxi and remis. Both work from the terminal. A remis is a car with a driver booked at a desk for an agreed fare. With few flights, supply follows the arrival times.
- City bus. Ask on arrival whether a line passes the airport and which card is used to pay.
- Apps and car hire. Check on the spot whether either is available at that moment.
- Private transfer. One vehicle for your group, with the driver waiting in arrivals.
If Mar del Plata is not your last stop
- Santa Clara del Mar. North along the coast, without crossing the centre.
- Miramar. South along Ruta 11; you cross or skirt the city.
- Sierra de los Padres. Inland.
- Villa Gesell and Pinamar. North along Ruta 11, a proper road trip.
High season and changeover days
January and February are the peak, together with long weekends and the July school holidays. Argentines tend to rent by the fortnight, and on changeover days the Ruta 2 entrance and the seafront avenue fill up. If you fly out on one of those days, leave your accommodation with time in hand.
Where a private transfer fits
It suits arrivals with children and several bags, and trips that end at a southern beach or in another town. The price is per vehicle and agreed before the trip. Many families skip the flight and take the road transfer from Buenos Aires to Mar del Plata door to door. See also the page on Mar del Plata Airport and how to book.