Sightseeing
Buenos Aires is an exciting city full of life, culture, and history. Whether you are a tourist or a traveler, sightseeing in Buenos Aires is a must. Buenos Aires has many landmarks, museums, and attractions, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation.
Let’s take a look at the top sightseeing spots Buenos Aires has to offer:
Visit La Boca
La Boca is one of the most famous and iconic neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. It is renowned for its brightly colored buildings and extraordinary cultural heritage. This area of town was born as a shipyard district and still catches the eye with its colorful old-fashioned homes and quaint cobbled streets. A visit to La Boca will bring you close to tango’s traditional roots, as it was historically where European immigrants (mainly Italian) first settled upon their arrival in Argentina.
Today, La Boca draws large crowds of tourists from around the globe who witness firsthand the vibrant spirit of this mighty city. Walking through its alleys, you can take in all the sights and sounds from different angles:
- Stop at an outdoor cafe or dine at an inexpensive eatery.
- Observe locals practicing tango on street corners.
- Enjoy music blaring from bars at night.
There is something for everyone here. Whether you are a fan of art, culture, or history – La Boca has it all!
Be sure to go around Plaza Palermo Soho – a beautiful open-air plaza surrounded by outdoor art galleries where local artists offer their handmade works for sale – as it provides an excellent opportunity to find unique souvenirs while taking in one of La Boca’s most riveting spots during your sightseeing experience!
Explore El Ateneo Grand Splendid
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is the most stunning bookshop in the world and a must-see sightseeing destination in Recoleta’s fashionable neighborhood. This bookshop was extensively remodeled from a theater built over a century ago while maintaining its beautiful yet captivating features, such as the ceiling frescoes, stained-glass dome, and towering velvet curtains. It now houses several levels filled with books, CDs, and other items.
At El Ateneo Grand Splendid, visitors can relax on comfortable chairs while enjoying a book or magazine. Visitors can also have snacks at the café in a balcony box where crowds gather to watch live shows. With bookshelves stacked up with classics, political commentary, memoirs, and more recent children’s books, visitors of all ages will find something of interest while exploring this fantastic bookshop.
Guided tours offer deeper insight into the venue’s history and architecture – from its original construction over 100 years ago as one of Argentina’s leading theatres – to its transformation into one of South America’s most fabulous bookshops. See for yourself why El Ateneo Grand Splendido has been awarded some of the most prestigious awards in tourism, both domestically and internationally!
Take a Walk through Recoleta Cemetery
Recoleta Cemetery (or Cementerio de la Recoleta) is an iconic attraction in Buenos Aires, Argentina. As an open-air museum, it is the final resting place of hundreds of important figures throughout Argentine history.
Visitors to the cemetery will find tombs and monuments of varying styles and importance built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among its numerous highlights are dozens of intricately sculpted mausoleums spread across almost four hectares of land in the center of Buenos Aires.
Thanks to its level terrain and wide crossing streets, Recoleta also provides a pleasant walk through two contrasting worlds – one filled with immense historical value, another surrounded by urban architecture from a different age – juxtaposed through a fantastic sensory experience. Explore this fascinating site by taking a guided tour or visiting it independently. Just remember to come in comfortable shoes!
Dining
Buenos Aires is renowned for its delicious food and variety of eateries and restaurants. From traditional Argentinian fare to a mix of international and local dishes, there is something for everyone in Buenos Aires. So whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something light, here are some of the best spots to grab a bite in the city:
Try the Local Steak
Argentina is renowned worldwide for its excellent steak. The widely celebrated grass-fed beef is traditionally cooked over wood or charcoal, which imparts a distinctive smokey flavor. Every restaurant in Buenos Aires will have some version of a local steak.
Vacilão is the classic Argentine steak dish, and the type of cut used may vary depending on the establishment – it’s usually a large ribeye or skirt steak grilled over high heat with just salt to season it. Matambrito is also popular, and this cut of meat comes from the shoulder area and has been pounded flat like scaloppini. Other variations include vacío (similar to flank steak ), bife de chorizo (sirloin), and bife ancho (ribeye).
When dining out in Buenos Aires, ask your server, “cuál es el mejor asado?” It loosely translates to “what’s the best steak,” offering insight into the type of beef the restaurant specializes in preparing. Generally speaking, no matter what cut you select, you can expect succulent flavors and tender texture in every bite!
Sample Empanadas
Empanadas are a popular snack and meal option in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires. This pastry’s slightly crunchy exterior hides a tasty filling of ground meat, vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and spices. Empanadas can be baked or fried, with the fried version typically smaller and more substantial.
One of the best ways to sample Argentine-style empanadas is to visit one of the country’s many traditional restaurants. Popular spots in Buenos Aires include Bar el Federal and La Americana, offering delicious empanada options with various ingredients. Here you’ll find classic Argentine recipes, including carne picadillo (ground beef), pollo (chicken), jamón y queso (ham and cheese), jamon y pasas (ham and raisins), as well as more exotic flavors like llama steak!
In addition to traditional eateries, you can find empanadas at cafés tailored for locals on the go or even fiestas and street food stalls. In these settings, they offer convenience as much as flavor; however, it is essential to remember that street food has a higher risk potential, so always buy from trusted vendors known for their quality ingredients.
Enjoy a Traditional Argentinian Barbecue
Enjoy a traditional Argentinian asado (barbecue) – no visit to Buenos Aires is complete without experiencing the nation’s passion for grilled meats. Fire up your taste buds with succulent sausages, chorizos, sweetbreads (huevos de corral), flank steak (bife de Costilla), and juicy ribs. Expect to wash such a feast down with traditional Argentine Malbec!
If you want to sample the country’s signature barbecue, several parrillas in San Telmo and other parts of Buenos Aires serve exquisite cuts of grilled beef straight from the grill. Parrilla Don Julio is one of the most famous restaurants specializing in asado. Some places may even feature live music!
For sushi lovers, some great sushi places are located in Puerto Madero and Palermo; it’s worth watching for discounts from Happy Hours or special offers from new openings. Or, if you’d take a culinary trip around Argentina without even leaving your dinner table, try La Cocina Regional at the Four Seasons Hotel for a selection of dishes inspired by different regions in the country.
Shopping
With its stunning architecture, sweeping boulevards, and colorful culture, Buenos Aires is a perfect place to go shopping. From the vibrant markets of San Telmo to the designer boutiques of Recoleta, you’ll be spoilt for choice. With a wide range of goods at great prices, there’s something to suit every budget.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to go shopping in Buenos Aires:
Shop for Leather Goods in San Telmo
San Telmo is a district in Buenos Aires, Argentina, known worldwide as a cultural and shopping destination. A visit to this vibrant neighborhood is one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires, and it’s home to many diverse shops offering everything from antiques and collectibles to leather goods, art, and jewelry.
The leather goods available in San Telmo are of excellent quality and varying price ranges – from the budget-conscious traveler to luxury shoppers. In addition, visitors can find jackets, backpacks, wallets, purses, and travel bags. Skilled artisans run many shops specializing in custom-made items using fine, locally sourced materials. The shops provide a great opportunity for travelers looking for unique souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home. Many stores will also offer delivery services within Buenos Aires or even internationally, making it easy to send purchases directly overseas.
In addition to tangible souvenirs, visitors taking part in the strolls through San Telmo’s cobblestone streets will also be treated to the sights and sounds of street performances, with musicians providing live music throughout the day. Furthermore, with plenty of stalls selling local foods like empanadas and steak sandwiches, visitors can enjoy a bite while exploring this charming district.
Find Souvenirs in Palermo
Palermo is one of the most exciting and entertaining shopping areas in Buenos Aires. A visit to Palermo’s trendy designer shops, upscale bookstores, vintage clothing stores, and high-end jewelry boutiques should not be missed. There you will find a variety of authentic Argentine souvenirs to take home with you.
If you are looking for the perfect keepsake for yourself or a loved one, the infamous Museum of Modern Art on Calle Manuela Pedraza 2345 has plenty to offer. This museum specializes in traditional crafts made by artisans all over Argentina and showcases everything from contemporary art to wooden toys and leather goods. For something extraordinary, head to Calle El Salvador 4608, where many local merchants sell handcrafted items such as pottery, jewelry pieces, and handmade textiles produced by indigenous communities in Argentina.
Several neighborhoods should not be overlooked when searching for souvenirs with an Argentine twist in Palermo. First, Palermo Soho showcases independent shops that feature artisanal creations such as handcrafted furniture, unique homeware items, clothing boutiques, special women’s fashion, and stunning handmade jewelry selections with colorful stones and silver pieces. Next, take a trip to Palermo Hollywood with its vintage record stores brimming with classic vinyl albums, or hunt for antiques in the Las Cañitas neighborhood, where you will find interesting antique objects ranging from books and silverware to crystal chandeliers from old stately homes.
No trip to Palermo would be complete without sampling famous culinary streets, such as Avenida Santa Fe or El Salvador 1304, for traditional treats like alfajores cookies and pastelitos de membrillo (quince jelly pastries). Moreover, with many options for shopping destinations in Palermo, your ultimate quest for an unforgettable souvenir should not be too hard!
Visit the Flea Market in Plaza Serrano
A visit to the flea market in Plaza Serrano is a must when traveling to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Located near Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, this lively market is bustling with activity and character. With a wide variety of handmade products, farm-fresh foods, second-hand clothing, shoes, and art — you can find it all at Plaza Serrano!
If you are looking for unique souvenirs or gifts to bring home, the flea market has many interesting items from local artisans that you won’t find anywhere else. From leather wallets and accessories to jewelry made from Quirquincho shells — there is something here for everyone. There are also plenty of food stalls where you can get your fill of traditional Argentine cuisine such as empanadas, choripan (sausage sandwiches), matambre (Argentine steak roll), or bite into something sweet like medialunas (Argentine pastries).
Aside from shopping and eating tasty treats, visitors can enjoy live music performances in the plaza while browsing the many stands. The vibrant atmosphere creates a truly immersive shopping experience that allows visitors to become part of everyday life in Buenos Aires, Argentina. So be sure to visit Plaza Serrano when exploring this vibrant city!
Nightlife
The nightlife in Buenos Aires is nothing short of exciting. With its numerous bars and clubs, the city has earned a reputation as one of the top destinations for nightlife entertainment. Buenos Aires has something everyone can enjoy, from the traditional tango to the modern EDM and hip-hop beats.
Let’s explore some of the best spots in the city to experience the nightlife:
Enjoy a Night Out at La Bomba de Tiempo
La Bomba de Tiempo is a popular nightlife destination for locals and visitors to Buenos Aires. Located within the famous Ciudad Cultural Konex, La Bomba de Tiempo is a jam session in which a collective of percussionists creates their brand of improvisational music.
The performance is like no other and combines intense energy with soulful sounds that hit all the right notes. Here, you can enjoy an experience that brings together diverse crowds – old and young alike – bringing them together with dance and music. Every Monday, you can see between 20-30 drummers taking over. The crowd reacts powerfully to the unique rhythms created by symbols, drums, bells, and various percussion instruments coming together in harmony.
For those looking for a unique experience while visiting Buenos Aires – La Bomba de Tiempo should not be missed. Engage with locals as they express their energy through traditional South American rhythms; explore your senses through deep basses, exotic vocal sounds, and explosive moments throughout the night. Each night offers unpredictable sounds depending on who’s playing, which leads to an always new and exciting experience.
Dance the Night Away at a Milonga
When you’re ready to experience the city’s nightlife, head to a milonga where you can dance the traditional tango, the music is usually a combination of Argentinian folk and classical and a bit of Latin American mixes. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic – people come together to enjoy the music and express their passion through dance.
Most milongas (tango nightclubs or event spaces) are open from 10 pm until the early morning. It is possible to purchase tickets before your visit or make a reservation in advance to get VIP access to specific locations. Many milongas also include lessons for newcomers who want to learn how to tango properly before hitting the dance floor.
Most venues have an open bar that serves tasty drinks, such as wine and beer, plus classic spirited drinks like whisky, cognac, and gin & tonic. Nonalcoholic options are also available for those who don’t drink alcohol. Most milongas allow visitors free entry until 11 pm before guests pay an entrance fee – sometimes reduced with member discounts – and start dancing away into the night.
Catch a Show at a Local Theater
From avant-garde live theater to tango shows, Buenos Aires has much to offer regarding culture. So whether you’re interested in seeing a traditional Spanish performance in a beautiful historic theater or want to experience something new and exhilarating from the modern theater scene, Buenos Aires will have something that’ll tickle your fancy.
If you love the classics, Teatro Gran Rex and Teatro Opera are two of the most iconic theaters in Buenos Aires. Both have been standing since the 1930s and are still going strong today! You can catch some of Argentina’s best musical acts at Teatro Gran Rex, like Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, Juanjo Conti, and Tano Pasman. Meanwhile, Teatro Opera is home to legendary performances such as Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet.
The Aldo Bonzi Theatre is a beautiful place to take in some modern culture – they always have some shows happening here! If you love classical music, stop into Colon Theatre – world-class orchestras and soloists often perform here! For those who appreciate alternative theatre influences, check out Nuestra Dorrego and El Cubito Theaters – these small stages host unique productions that utilize literature and song for offbeat storytelling.
Buenos Aires comes alive at night with performances big and small for everyone’s enjoyment – catch a show or two while you’re visiting this wonderful city!
Activities
Buenos Aires, Argentina, is great to explore and discover a vibrant culture, fantastic architecture, and incredible food. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the things that you can do in the city:
Go on a Wine Tour
Wine tours are one of the most popular activities in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Wine lovers will delight in the several wineries and vineyards within a few hours of Buenos Aires, allowing them to discover the unique flavors and aromas of Argentina’s distinct terroir.
Tours, both large and small, are available for any budget. Many of these tours offer visits to multiple wineries. You can tour vineyards, production facilities, and cellars equipped with modern oenological technology to ensure quality control during aging processes and purchase fine wines directly or through a trusted online source. Tours can vary in length; some take just one day while others span more than one day, enabling visitors to experience more of the Argentinian countryside while they enjoy their journey into tasting Argentinean wines.
These tours also allow one to taste local dishes crafted with regional ingredients and traditional Argentinean culinary flavors. In addition, some winery tours include tastings conducted by expert sommeliers who educate on wine-making techniques and tricks for recognizing different varietals by scent or taste alone.
Buenos Aires wine tours provide tourists with an unforgettable exploration into this South American country’s unique character and culture combined with its diverse range of reds, whites, sparkling wines, and fortified wines produced from various grape varieties – making for an enjoyable sensory adventure!
Take a Tango Lesson
Taking a tango lesson in Buenos Aires is an unforgettable experience, regardless of your level of expertise. Tango is a beautiful way to become immersed in Argentine culture, and the passionate lyrical tones will have you gliding across the dance floor in no time.
Buenos Aires has an incredibly vibrant nightlife, particularly within the many bars and milongas where you’ll find locals and tourists alike dancing this captivating form of dance. Beginners are welcome, as are experienced dancers – everyone has part of the intricate tango puzzle to share!
When you’re ready to take your lessons, there are plenty of studios throughout the city. Visit maestros teaching at places such as El Motín Tango Club for truly authentic guidance and some classical milonga music. Private lessons are also available if you prefer one-on-one tutoring with your maestro. Be aware that prices and packages may vary widely, so do be sure to check before you enroll in any classes or workshops.
After your course, experienced teachers often offer their best students an opportunity to perform during a milonga event, so keep practicing! Encourage friends or travel buddies to join in on a lesson – this communal activity is best enjoyed with someone who can learn along with you – just like most experiences in Buenos Aires!
Visit the MALBA Museum
The Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) is one of South America’s most important modern and contemporary art museums. Located in the trendy Palermo area of the Argentine capital, the museum was founded by Eduardo F. Costantini, a businessman, and modern art collector, to promote cultural exchange between Latin America and Europe.
MALBA houses a significant collection of works from well-known Latin American artists, including Argentine masters Xul Solar and Antonio Berni, Mexican muralists Rufino Tamayo and Diego Rivera, Brazil’s Candido Portinari, and Peru’s Cesar Augusto Martinez. The museum also features regular traveling exhibitions from around the world showcasing contemporary works by some of the world’s leading visual artists. These have included retrospectives on film director David Lynch, American painter Chuck Close and Spanish surrealist painter Salvador Dali.
An onsite gift shop with several eateries adds to its appeal as a great day out for culture lovers looking for things to do in Buenos Aires.