Carlos Paz: More Than Just a Summer Getaway

Villa Carlos Paz is a summer holiday destination for Argentinians, but is it worth the hype? Check out what you can do in Carlos Paz.

Villa Carlos Paz is well-known in the province of Córdoba for being a popular summer destination with hikes, theatre, river, and theme parks. It’s a perfect holiday spot for families looking to entertain children, couples looking for a quiet romantic getaway, or even famous Argentinians here for the shows and the nightclubs.

I have spent a lot of time in Carlos Paz and have slowly gotten to know it over the years. I first came in 2022 with a local friend who has a house here. In 2024, I ended up spending quite a bit of time there due to the misfortune of having my van break down, but the great fortune of having friends who live here and generously let me stay with them.

This blog post will offer insights about where to stay, where to eat, what to do, how to get here, and my personal experiences with Carlos Paz.

My Personal Connection with Carlos Paz

I first came to Carlos Paz with my Franco, who I’ve known for nearly 20 years. We met while both living in Buenos Aires when we were just little babies in our 20s. Fast forward many years later, and I’m in the Córdoba province to visit him. His family has a home in Carlos Paz so we spent a few weekends there.

In 2024, I bought a van with the idea of driving all around Argentina. I came to the Córdoba province to pick it up from a local friend who had helped me purchase it. On my first big adventure with the van, it broke down, causing me to return to Carlos Paz and stay with friends until it got fixed. During this time I got to know the town much more.

Where is Villa Carlos Paz Located?

Carlos Paz is a small town in the province of Córdoba in Argentina. It’s about 45 minutes to the west of Córdoba Capital. It sits on the southern end of Lago San Roque.

What is the population of Villa Carlos Paz?

The population of Carlos Paz is just under 70,000. However, during the summer season (December-February), the population grows exponentially. There is also a spring festival that occurs in October which brings around 250,000 people to the area.

What is Carlos Paz Famous for?

Carlos Paz is one of the most popular tourist hot spots for Argentines, as it is a central spot to head to many other natural destinations within the province. Over the last few years, the popularity of Villa Carlos Paz has grown immensely with domestic tourism due to both COVID-19 and inflation, making it more difficult for Argentines to travel abroad.

Carlos Paz is known as the Las Vegas of Argentina, which feels at odds with the nature surrounding it. But here you can find casinos, theatres, drag shows, and nightclubs.

It is also famous for its natural surroundings. If you take the Tren de las Sierras from Córdoba, you’ll pass many spots near Carlos Paz and the San Roque Lake (Lago San Roque).

What is the vibe of Carlos Paz?

Carlos Paz is split into two main sections due to the river of the Lago San Roque cutting right through the center. The east side of the river has the Costanera where you can stroll along the water. You can also find several restaurants and bars with a view on this side. The west side has more shopping and seems to be more “local.”

If you have already done all the things to do in Córdoba and you’re looking for a nature escape, Carlos Paz could be exactly what you are looking for.

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What to do in Carlos Paz

Check out the Coo Coo Clock (Reloj Cucú Villa Carlos Paz)

In the downtown area on the west side of the river, you can find a Coo Coo clock that goes off every hour on the hour.

Visit the Aerosilla Park

This is a small area with lots of entertainment options. When you enter there is a dirt parking lot. All around that you will find tourist shops, restaurants, hiking trails, and a funicular.

Go Hiking

There are some great hikes in Carlos Paz. The most famous hike is called the Sendero Cerro de la Cruz. It’s just a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail. At the top, there is a giant cross, and you can get a great view of the city.

I use AllTrails Plus when I go hiking. I highly recommend it as you can download offline maps, and send out “lifelines” to friends and family to let them know exactly where you are. You can rate trails, and get inspired to try new ones. The membership is $35/year, but with this discount, it is just $25 for the year. That’s barely $2/month.

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Take the funicular above the city

Within the Aerosilla complex, you can find the funicular cable car that will take you to the top of the hill. From there you can get a great view of the city. There are also family activities up top such as restaurants, ziplining, etc. There is also a big bridge you can walk on. The ticket price includes both ways, and you can stay at the top as long as you want.

Have lunch

There are several small restaurants at the base of the Aerosilla complex where you can enjoy typical Argentine food such as lomitos and milanesas.

Play at the water park and ride the slide

In the warmer months, you can hang out at the swimming pool that has several water slides. Also, just next to the swimming pool you can find the “Magic Carpet Ride,” which is a big alpine slide.

Have lunch with a view

The Costanera of Carlos Paz is lined with several restaurants with great views. I’ve been to many of them. It is very peaceful to see the San Roque Lake while you enjoy your meal.

Relax by the river

There are lots of benches and green grass along the water. Bring your mate and a picnic blanket to spend the day here. The best river hang-out spots are in the southern portion of the river, where it starts to get narrow, near the Puente Juncal.

Take a stroll along the Costanera

There is a path that goes all along the Costanera. Take a walk along the path and buy some street food and sweets along the way.

Rent a row boat

Near the bridge where the the downtown area is, you can find several boat rental spaces. It’s a great family activity.

Speed around a Go-Cart track

Because Carlos Paz is a great family vacation spot, you can find a ton of activities and entertainment. There are two main go-cart tracks. One is near the center of town (Formula X Karting Center) and the other (Speed Kart) is on the west side of the river going up the hill.

See a show

If you speak Spanish and you want to see a theatre show, you have plenty of options in Carlos Paz. There are dozens of theatres around Carlos Paz, but the majority are in the downtown area on the east side of the river.

Where to Eat in Carlos Paz

La Termi Ruin Bar

Address: Sion 180, X5152 Villa Carlos Paz, Córdoba

This is a smaller, outdoor, Argentinian version of a ruin bar that you might find in Budapest. I ordered a craft IPA and “Mexican Nachos,” which were not nachos at all, but a pile of tortilla chips with a small serving of guacamole on the side. Apparently you have to order “cheddar nachos” if you want actual nachos.

Mercado San Antonio

Address: Bv. Sarmiento 384, X5152 Villa Carlos Paz, Córdoba

This is in a large building on the west side of the river. From the outside, it looks like a furniture store, but it is actually a two-story market with multiple restaurants inside, a cool and well-stocked bar, and a funky bathroom. It’s a great option if you’re in a group and everyone feels like eating something different.

Bravo Cafe

Address: Av Illia 899 Villa Domínguez, X5152 Villa Carlos Paz, Córdoba

The ambiance is spectacular. There are large open windows and the breeze blows through the curtains while you enjoy your lunch on the veranda. They have great decorations and a swimming pool. Prices are more affordable than you would expect based on how it looks. The downside is that the service is quite bad.

Nightlife in Carlos Paz

In the winter Carlos Paz is a slow and sleepy town. But in the summers it comes alive. Famous actors come to town to put on shows, and there have been many sightings in nightclubs of these well-known Argentines.

Nightclubs

Here are the most frequented nightclubs in town:

• Zebra Club
• Molino Rojo (Moulin Rouge)
• Khalama Disco

Theatres

Because Carlos Paz is known for theatres, there are several around. The majority of the theatres are on the east side of the river in the downtown area.

• Teatro Luxor (most famous)
• Zorba Theatre
• Espacio Africa

Is Carlos Paz Worth Visiting?

Carlos Paz is very particular. Is it worth visiting for your situation?

• If you’re traveling with your family? Yes.
• If you’re traveling alone? No.
• If you’re with a group of friends? Yes.
• If you’re with a partner? Yes.
• If you’re looking for adventure? No.
• If you’re looking for peace and tranquility? Yes.
• To read a book? Yes.
• For us to spend the weekend there? Yes.

Day Trip from Carlos Paz

Carlos Paz is on the south of the Lago San Roque, but there are dozens of small towns all around the lake. There are also many places to camp or park your van if you’re doing van life in Argentina. If you’re looking for some mini trips, I suggest heading to:

• Bialet Massé
• Tanti & Los Gigantes
• Cosquin
• Valle Hermoso
• Capilla del Monte
• Do the Tren de las Sierras
• Villa Icho Cruz
• Cabalango

How to get to Carlos Paz

It is easy to reach Carlos Paz from Córdoba Capital and other surrounding towns. The main station is called the Bus Station Villa Carlos Paz. It is in the center of town.

To check the bus schedules for the area, I suggest using BusBud or Unibus. You can purchase your tickets online or directly at the bus station. If you plan to take overnight buses, I suggest booking them as far in advance as possible. Getting a ride to any of the surrounding towns is easy and does not need advance notice.

Where to Stay in Carlos Paz

Costalago Suites Hotel

This hotel is right along the Costanera part of Carlos Paz so you’ll get great views of the water. Breakfast is included and there is an indoor swimming pool.

BOOK NOW to stay in this affordable hotel by the water

Hotel San José

This hotel is centrally located in the downtown, on the east side of the river. It’s close to everything and breakfast is included.

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Terra Firma Hotel Boutique

This is a beautiful hotel that looks like a castle. There is an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. It is located centrally on the west side.

BOOK NOW to stay in this beautiful hotel with a rooftop terrace

Final Thoughts on Visiting Carlos Paz

Carlos Paz is a jumping-off point for lots of natural spots in the area. It is worth a visit for a day or two, especially if you’re into (Spanish-speaking) theatre shows. While there are nightlife possibilities, it is also a calm place that is surrounded by nature so you can go hiking, stroll along the Costanera, and have delicious meals.

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