Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Tandil. Héroes De Malvinas Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of TDL:
- Can you legally enter Argentina? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Taxi/Remis, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ARS. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ARS in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Tandil
From TDL, the Taxi/Remis gets you to Tandil in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Remis offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at TDL
Luggage storage options at TDL can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Tandil for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Tandil might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$10 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$25 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Tandil, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Tandil:
Start with City Center Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside TDL — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Tandil: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TDL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Tandil and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at TDL
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TDL has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Tandil exploring the streets or relaxing at TDL, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.