Yes, you can explore Bariloche without renting a car. Combine walks with trips by public transport and focus on one area each day, allowing enough time to get back.
Which activity suits you?
These suggested durations help you plan your day; they are not journey times or service timetables.
| Activity | Allow | Getting around | What to budget for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown and the waterfront | Half a day | On foot from downtown | Food, drinks and optional visits |
| Cerro Campanario | Half a day, with extra time | Bus along Bustillo and access to the hill | Transport and the chairlift if used |
| Llao Llao area | A leisurely day | Bus 20 and walks of your choice | Transport and optional activities |
1. Start downtown, on foot
Start with a walk around the Centro Cívico, Mitre Street and the waterfront. Leave time to enjoy the lake and take a break; you do not need to fill your day with stops.
If you are staying outside downtown, allow for the return journey. Adapt the length of your walk to the weather and your mobility; not every downtown route is accessible.
Open the map to plan your route →For a break, browse the places to eat in Take a Map and choose somewhere nearby.
2. Plan a trip to Cerro Campanario
Cerro Campanario is an option for a trip focused on the views. Before setting off, check your bus stop and direction along Avenida Bustillo, and ask the venue about opening times, prices and ascent conditions.
Do not assume that hill access is included in your bus fare. Allow for waiting times and check your return journey before setting off.
3. Explore the Llao Llao area
Bus 20 connects downtown with Llao Llao. Use it as a starting point to decide what to visit and how far to walk; check each stop before planning your trip.
Reaching Llao Llao is not the same as completing Circuito Chico. To complete the circuit, consider a tour or additional transport rather than assuming one bus serves every stop.
For walks in the municipal park, check trail conditions and choose a route suited to your experience. If you prefer a boat trip, ask the operator where it departs and whether port transfers are included.
Check bus routes and timetables →A suggested two-day itinerary
- Day 1: downtown and the waterfront, with a meal break.
- Day 2: choose Campanario or the Llao Llao area; add stops only if your timetable allows.
This is a suggested itinerary, not a booked tour. Change the order to suit the forecast and where you are staying.
Before setting off
- Check outward and return timetables for the day of your visit.
- Check current transport payment methods and bring a backup option.
- Save your accommodation address and return journey details.
- Check the forecast and conditions for your chosen activity.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to stay downtown?
No. If travelling without a car, check the distance to bus stops and nearby services before booking your accommodation.
How can I pay for the bus?
You can pay with a physical SUBE card, digital SUBE on compatible devices, contactless Visa and Mastercard, or Mercado Pago transport QR payments. Check the current conditions before travelling.
Can I complete Circuito Chico on bus 20?
Bus 20 reaches Llao Llao. Do not plan the entire circuit as though it serves every attraction: arrange any additional stops and transport.
Does travelling without a car mean every activity is free?
No. Budget separately for transport, admission, ascents, tours, food and drinks.