Charming excursion from Buenos Aires to Lujan. Argentina off the beaten path.
Lujan is mostly known for its beautiful cathedral and the statue of the Virgin Mary. This town holds the name of La Capital de la Fe (the Capital of the Faith). It can make a great, one-day-long excursion from Buenos Aires.
Luján is best known as the country’s most important pilgrimage destination. At the center of the city stands the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján, a soaring Neo-Gothic church that draws millions of visitors each year. Pilgrims come to venerate the small statue of the Virgin of Luján, Argentina’s patron saint, while others simply admire the cathedral’s impressive spires, stained-glass windows, and copper rooftops. Whether or not one is religious, the basilica remains a powerful symbol of Argentine identity and faith.
Excursions from Buenos Aires: Lujan
Going there wasn’t a plan. We got invited to a beautiful wedding in a country very close to Lujan, which we decided to visit on a Sunday. The town was full of people, mostly to visit La Patrona of Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The cathedral itself is extraordinary and I am not afraid to say that Notre Dame in Paris stands in a shade of this one. I had never heard of Lujan before and after doing some research I realized that it is not a very popular travel destination for non-Argentinians and I thought that it is a little bit overlooked. So if you have a spare day while staying in Buenos Aires province, visiting Lujan is a good idea.
What to see in Lujan
Luján, a city located in the Buenos Aires Province of Argentina, offers a blend of historical, religious, and cultural attractions. Here are some best places to visit in Luján:
- Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Luján: The Basilica of Our Lady of Luján is the most renowned attraction in the city. This impressive Neo-Gothic basilica houses the statue of the Virgin of Luján, Argentina’s patron saint. Pilgrims from all over the country visit this religious site.
- Museo de Transporte: The Transport Museum exhibits a wide range of historical vehicles, including carriages, cars, trains, and agricultural machinery, showcasing the evolution of transportation in Argentina.
- Luján Historical Museum: This museum provides insights into the local history, displaying artifacts, documents, and exhibitions related to the city’s past, colonial times, and the development of the region.
- Pueblo de la Paz: A small village near Luján, Pueblo de la Paz, preserves its historic colonial architecture, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the 18th century.
- Luján Zoo: While controversial due to its housing of exotic animals, the Luján Zoo attracts visitors interested in seeing a variety of wildlife up close. It offers opportunities for interaction with some animals under supervision.
- Plaza Belgrano: Luján’s main square, Plaza Belgrano, is a pleasant place to relax, surrounded by trees, benches, and monuments. It’s often bustling with locals and tourists.
- Casa Ameghino: This historical building once belonged to the Ameghino family and now functions as a cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
- Gastronomy and Local Cuisine: Explore local eateries and restaurants to savor Argentine cuisine, including traditional dishes like asado (barbecue), empanadas, and regional specialties.
- Churches and Colonial Architecture: Apart from the Basilica, Luján boasts several churches and colonial-style buildings that add to the city’s historical charm.
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Luján Park: The surrounding park area of the basilica offers a serene environment for reflection, with gardens, sculptures, and spaces for quiet contemplation.
- Complejo Museografico Provincial “Enrique Udaondo”: Inside the museum complex, there are four areas. The one that I liked most is the Museo Colonial e Historico. In this part, you can find two historical buildings: Antiguo Cabildo (1770) and la Casa del Virrey, which are the monuments most significant for Argentinian history and well-known in the whole continent.
What else to do in Lujan
Around half an hours drive from Lujan, there’s an area called Carlos Keen. To experience a typical Argentinian style barbecue we went to La Posta del Camino Real . The restaurant sits in an old farmhouse surrounded by fields and open air, a simple and welcoming spot that captures the calm of rural Buenos Aires Province. Lunch here follows the rhythm of the campo: a relaxed meal shared slowly with friends or family.
The menu is traditional and hearty. It usually starts with a picada—cold cuts, cheeses, and bread—followed by an asado with several cuts of meat grilled over wood fire. There are also homemade pastas and classic desserts like flan with dulce de leche. Later in the afternoon, guests can enjoy mate and tortas fritas, a local custom that makes the visit feel complete.
Service is friendly and unhurried, and the atmosphere encourages you to take your time. Families often come for the open space and quiet surroundings, while others stop by after visiting nearby Luján. La Posta is open mainly on weekends and holidays, and it’s best to book in advance. Bring cash, as cards aren’t always accepted.
How to get from Buenos Aires to Lujan
Getting to Luján from Buenos Aires is straightforward; you can choose between driving or taking a bus. However, driving would be the best option. The city lies just 68 kilometers northwest of the capital, a good distance for a day trip from Buenos Aires.
The most convenient way to reach Luján is by car. Driving along the Acceso Oeste highway takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. But we decided to go on a Sunday and the way back took us over 3 hours. This route is direct, with clear signage, and allows you the freedom to explore not only Luján but also nearby towns such as Carlos Keen or San Antonio de Areco.
For those relying on public transport, buses are a popular choice. Several long-distance buses leave from Buenos Aires, departing mainly from the Retiro Bus Terminal or neighborhood stops along the way. The ride typically takes around ninety minutes and drops passengers close to the city center, within walking distance of the basilica. Buses are comfortable, affordable, and frequent, making them a solid option for travelers without a car.
See also:
- Visiting Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires.
- 7 short excursions from Buenos Aires
- Salta la Linda. A city in the north of Argentina you should visit.
- 4 steps to happiness in Bariloche if you are a chocolate lover.
- How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: Food, Culture & Hidden Gems
- Casino city of Mar del Plata- weekend escape from Buenos Aires
- 15 best restaurants to eat in Buenos Aires according to locals
Where to stay in Lujan
Luján offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. For those seeking proximity to the Basilica and the city’s historical sites, staying in the downtown area around Plaza Belgrano is an excellent choice. Here, you’ll find a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs offering convenience and easy access to Luján’s main attractions. Some hotels situated near the basilica provide scenic views of this architectural marvel, enhancing the overall stay experience.
Additionally, for a more serene and peaceful atmosphere, outskirts and countryside accommodations provide a retreat-like setting. Several estancias (ranches) and rural lodges in the surrounding areas offer a taste of Argentine rural life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature, relax amidst tranquil landscapes, and experience farm activities.
Whether you opt for a centrally located hotel or prefer the tranquility of the countryside, Luján ensures a pleasant stay with its warm hospitality, local charm, and a range of accommodation choices. Travelers can select from various lodging options that suit their preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit to this culturally rich city.
Accommodation recommendations for Lujan:
- Wyndham Garden Lujan– a beautiful hotel outside the city surrounded by nature. It has a swimming pool and breathtaking views from the rooms.
- Casa de campo– a countryside house with a pool.
- Casona Alegre– this apartment with a jacuzzi is a perfect place if you want to stay in the very center of Lujan.
Disclosure: Please note that this post included affiliate links, when you decide to purchase anything through these links I get a small commission at NO extra cost to you, it helps me to keep running this blog! I only promote products and services I use or would use myself. All images are the property of Postcards from the World and cannot be used without permission.
Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips
- Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
- AirHelp helps to get compensation for cancelled or delayed flights.
- Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
- Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
- Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
- World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
- WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
- Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
- Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
- Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
- Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.
Thank you for visiting. What places would you recommend to visit in Argentina?
Did you like the post? Pin it for later:
¡Qué bonitas las fotos de Luján q habéis colgado en el blog! Están preciosas.
¡Y qué cielo tan azul se ve, maravilloso! Se nota q hace un tiempo y una temperatura ideales.
Felicitaciones.
Great job, Anna! I really enjoy reading your blog, for sure I will follow some of your advices on my next trip to Hispanoamérica in the near future!!
Hermosas fotos Anna! , te felicito !!! me alegro que hayas disfrutado pisar las tierras de María en Luján. Su cielo estrellado y su cielo azul. Me gusta mucho tu blog, seguiremos disfrutando tus envíos.- Éxitos y un abrazo y bendiciones desde Bs.As.
Nelly de Olivos
Muchas gracias Nelly.