Rosario – Cheap, pleasant, and a short trip from Buenos Aires
Rosario, in the province of Sante Fe, may not be a big-name tourist destination in Argentina, but it’s worth having a look at if you’re sick of the Buenos Aires grind, and don’t feel like spending big on a trip away. Rosario isn’t as gorgeous as Mendoza, nor will it take your breath away like Bariloche, but what is does offer is plenty of culture and history for those who are so inclined, and a great night life for young and fun-loving travelers.
Argentina’s third biggest city, with a population of over a million, Rosario is situated on the Paraña River. The smallish population and position on the water ensure that the Rosarinos are a bit more laid back and outdoorish than their Buenos Aires counterparts.
Paying tribute to Argentina's national flag - the Monumento a la Bandera
There are some lovely walks along the river with pleasant scenery, highlighted by the impressive National Flag Memorial monument with its ornate tower overlooking an expansive courtyard, all of which is easily accessible on foot and offers great photo opportunities, or just a nice place to mill around with the locals. The abundance of theaters and museums in the city attest to its importance in Argentine history as a center for trade and political influence. You can also swing by the house where “Che” Guevara was born (Urquiza and Entre Rios Streets).
Rosario is also known within Argentina as a great party town, due to its young population and wide variety of bars and clubs. Many porteños from Buenos Aires will even hop over to Rosario on a weekend just to go clubbing for a night or two. It is also reputed to be the home to the best looking girls in Argentina; quite a claim considering many Argentines believe that their country has the ‘best looking women in the world’. Men travelling with wives or girlfriends should probably just keep their eyes on the floor at all times (or wear dark sunglasses).
Perfect for a four-day trip, or even a long weekend, Rosario is relatively close to Buenos Aires, and cheap to get to. A micro (long distances coach) ride from the Retiro station costs approximately AR$55 for a semi-cama (reclines to 45 degrees) seat, and AR$70 for cama (fully reclinable) and takes between three and a half to four hours. There are a multitude of companies offering services at all hours of the day. You can compare prices here and purchase tickets online, or head into the Retiro bus station (Av. Antártida Argentina and Calle 10) and ask around at the different company stands. A really convenient option is to go into the Hostels International office (Florida 835, ground floor), where you can book and pay for both your bus trip and hostel in one go.
Rosario is full of museums, galleries and scenic walks
For budget travellers, there are several well-known hostels to choose from in Rosario. La Casona de Don Jaime is a popular hostel with two locations to choose from. Both are situated centrally, close enough to both the bus station and downtown area, as well as the more attractive tourist zones. They are also the only hostels in Rosario with the Hostelling International mark of approval. Prices start from AR$35 per person. A hip alternative is the nearby Cool Raúl Hostel; alternative being the operative word – this hostel is geared towards freewheelers and those looking for an escape from the everyday routine.
La Casona de Don Jaime 1
Pte Roca 1051
Rosario, Santa Fe
Tel +54 (0341) 527 9964
La Casona de Don Jaime 2
San Lorenzo 1530
Rosario, Santa Fe
Tel: +54 (0341) 530-2020
Cool Raúl Hostel
San Lorenzo 1670
Rosario, Santa Fe
Tel: +54 (0341) 426-2554
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