15 Best Things To Do In Buenos Aires
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is an amazing city full of life and culture. It is renowned for its European inspired architecture and a range of Buenos Aires tourist attractions that appeal to both locals and visitors. From delicious cuisine to exploring museums and art galleries, there are plenty of best things to do in Buenos Aires that everyone who is visiting Argentina should experience. Whether you're just visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, here are some of the best activities to explore in this beautiful destination.
1. Catedral Primada
The Catedral Primada in Buenos Aires is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture. Located in the city center near Plaza de Mayo and the Casa Rosada, the building was designed by architect Francesco Tamburini and construction began in 1882.
It is renowned for its grandiose entrance which features two bell towers that are connected to one another with a large archway. Inside, you will find an impressive interior featuring several stained glass windows, ornate frescos on the ceiling, and beautiful sculptures carved from marble.
The Catedral Primada also serves as an important place of worship for many Catholics in Buenos Aires due to its status as a cathedral church.
Contact:
Address: San Martín 27, C1004 CABA, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 4331-2845
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2. Recoleta Cemetery
Recoleta Cemetery is one of the most iconic burial grounds in the world, and has been a hub for many of the country’s most notable citizens since its establishment in 1822. The cemetery houses some 4,500 graves across two hectares and is renowned for its intricate architecture and detailed sculptures that adorn both tombs and alleyways alike.
One of the most famous gravesites within the Recoleta Cemetery is that of former Argentine president and his wife, Juan and Eva Peron, whose mausoleum attracts visitors from all over the globe every year.
The cemetery itself is divided into several sections based on religion or social class; each area has its own distinct character. For example, there are some elaborate French-style tombs with marble artworks while others are more modest structures made out of brick or stone.
Contact:
Address: Junín 1760, C1113 CABA, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 4803-1594
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3. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
As one of the city's best Buenos Aires attractions, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is a renowned art museum located in the heart of Buenos Aires. Founded in 1895, its collection includes works by some of the most renowned European and Latin American artists from across history.
The museum of Latin American art hosts an impressive collection of over 20,000 works including sculptures, drawings, photographs, prints and other important religious artifacts. The museum also houses temporary exhibits from around the world that range from ancient to contemporary art pieces.
The building itself serves as one of Buenos Aires's most iconic monuments with its neo-classical architecture and grand halls filled with golden décor. Its beautifully landscaped gardens feature statues, lush greenery and ponds reflecting the Renaissance-style elegance of the main building.
Contact:
Address: Av. del Libertador 1473, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 5288-9900
4. San Telmo Market
San Telmo Market is a place like no other and definitely worth a visit. Situated in the vibrant San Telmo district, the market offers an array of stalls selling traditional antiques, clothing, and crafts. The San Telmo area draws throngs of tourists, who come to soak up the lively atmosphere and browse the colorful offerings. As soon as you set foot inside this bustling bazaar, you surrender to its dizzying sights and sounds.
The smell of grilled meat wafts through the air while vendors shout out their prices over a sea of people. Everywhere you look there are stands offering vintage leather goods, jewelry boxes made from re-purposed cigar boxes, and hand-crafted linens with elaborate embroidery.
5. Plaza Serrano
Plaza Serrano is one of the most iconic and vibrant squares in South America. Located in the middle of Palermo Soho, it is a lively meeting place with a great atmosphere that caters to all types of people.
On any given day you will find an array of activity: musicians playing traditional Argentine music, vendors selling handmade items and artisans selling their wares. The square itself is quite large and surrounded by cafes and shops offering local dishes, drinks or simply somewhere to sit and soak up the sun.
The Plaza Serrano area has become popular among locals and tourists because it offers something for all who come to visit Buenos Aires. On weekends there are open air markets full of antiques, clothing and food stalls as well as live music and tango performances from local artists.
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6. Palermo
The Palermo neighborhood is an area of Buenos Aires with a rich history, and a perfect place to visit during your stay in Buenos Aires. It was founded in the early 16th century by Spanish colonists and it has since become one of the most vibrant parts of the city.
It is known for its street art, its lively nightlife, and its collection of stylish restaurants and bars. It is located just north of downtown Buenos Aires, making it easily accessible to visitors who want to experience the culture that this area has to offer.
Originally known as Ciudad Vieja, this part of Buenos Aires was initially home to a small number of Spanish settlers who arrived in 1536. Over time, it became one of the most influential parts of Argentina’s culture and economy. Today, there are multiple neighborhoods within Palermo – each highly unique - which offer a wide variety of experiences for visitors.
This neighborhood is popular with young adults looking for an evening out on the town or simply enjoying some retail therapy. It also provides galleries featuring some of Argentina’s most cutting-edge artwork from local artists as well as international works from around the globe.
7. Teatro Colón
Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires is one of the world's premier opera houses, and one of the best things to see while visiting the city. Since its opening in 1908, it has held a prominent place in the country's culture and history. Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit each year to take in not only the impressive performances but also to take part in a guided tour through this architectural masterpiece.
The building itself is breathtakingly beautiful, combining both neoclassical and art nouveau styles. The main hall features an incredible view of some of Argentina’s most famous frescoes and sculptures, as well as exquisite chandeliers designed with over three thousand pieces of Bohemian crystal glass. Other rooms such as the Gran Sala are decorated with marble columns and ornate gold frames for paintings that depict scenes from classic operas.
Contact:
Address: Cerrito 628, C1010 CABA, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 4378-7100
8. Puerto Madero
Puerto Madero is one of the best places to visit in Buenos Aires during your trip to Argentina. Located right on the Rio de la Plata, this neighborhood has been transformed from an abandoned port to a lively area full of upscale restaurants and shops, as well as plenty of entertainment options.
When you visit Puerto Madero, it's hard not to be captivated by its colorful buildings and modern architecture. It has become a symbol of progress for Buenos Aires, showing how much the city has grown and developed over time.
The main attraction here is La Dique, which is made up of several docks connected to each other in the form of a U-shaped basin. Along with many restaurants and clubs that line La Dique, visitors can take part in activities such as kayaking or paddle boarding on the river or simply walk down its boardwalk admiring its incredible views.
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9. The Plaza de Mayo and La Casa Rosada
The Plaza de Mayo has long been the epicenter of Argentinian politics and culture. Located in downtown Buenos Aires, it is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Government House (La Casa Rosada), which was built in 1580.
This iconic building serves as a reminder of a tumultuous history, as well as being the home of Argentina's executive branch. During its time, La Casa Rosada has witnessed many significant political events; from being used to publicly proclaim Argentina's independence from Spain in 1816, to hosting numerous demonstrations and rallies for various causes over the years.
Every Thursday since 1977, mothers have gathered at La Plaza de Mayo to demand answers regarding their missing loved ones during the military dictatorship that tore through Argentina between 1976-1983.
10. Palacio Barolo
Palacio Barolo is an amazing architectural masterpiece built between 1919 and 1923 by Italian architect Mario Palanti as a tribute to Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, the building stands 100 meters tall with 22 stories of office spaces, incorporating an eclectic mix of styles from Gothic to Art Deco. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city and can be seen from most points in central Buenos Aires.
The exterior of the building was designed with mathematical precision to represent the nine circles of Hell mentioned in Dante's epic poem; each circle marked by three windows representing punishment for sins. Even more impressive is its interior which consists of intricate details such as painted frescos and stained glass windows depicting scenes from The Divine Comedy.
Contact:
Address: Av. de Mayo 1370, C1085 CABA, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 3221-1331
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11. Feria de Mataderos
Feria de Mataderos is an annual fair held in Buenos Aires. It celebrates the traditional gaucho culture of Argentina and has been running for over 25 years. The festival takes place every Sunday from May to December in the streets of Barrio Mataderos which is known as a cultural center of Argentine folklore.
At Feria de Mataderos, guests are able to experience and take part in the customs of Argentine people. Visitors can watch amazing shows and performances with some traditional music by live bands and local singers.
There is also plenty of food stands serving up traditional dishes like empanadas, tamales and grilled meats. Additionally, one can find handmade goods being sold at various stalls such as leatherwork, pottery ceramics and sculptures made out of wood or stone by artisans from different regions throughout Argentina.
Contact:
Address: Av. de los Corrales, Av. Lisandro de la Torre &, Buenos Aires, Argentina
12. Stroll Corrientes Avenue
Corrientes Avenue is one of the most iconic streets in Buenos Aires. It is a vibrant and energetic street full of life and history. The avenue runs through the lively downtown area of Buenos Aires, stretching from one end to another. With its many old buildings, theaters, bookstores, bars, cafes and restaurants it truly captures the essence of this amazing city.
Walking down Avenida Corrientes is an experience like no other. This iconic street has been witness to some unforgettable moments in Argentinean history as it was once home to some famous writers like Jorge Luis Borges and Roberto Arlt.
Nowadays it’s popular with visitors who come to stroll down this iconic street in order to get a glimpse into Argentine culture and daily life while enjoying traditional foods like empanadas or milanesas along the way.
13. Relax in the Botanical Gardens
Exploring the botanical gardens in Buenos Aires is an incredible experience for any nature enthusiast. Located inside of Palermo Woods, these sprawling gardens are a paradise of colorful flora and fauna native to Argentina.
Visitors can easily spend an entire afternoon looking at the stunning variety of plants, including agave cacti, hibiscus blossoms, giant water lilies and jacarandas – a lush purple tree that is one of the national symbols of Argentina. The garden also houses wildlife such as birds, turtles and fish as well as some rare species of frogs.
The best way to explore the botanical gardens is by foot; winding paths meander throughout the grounds allowing guests to discover new corners with every step. There are also plenty of benches to sit on so you can rest or admire the surroundings in peace.
Contact:
Address: C1425 Buenos Aires, Argentina
14. The Feria de Recoleta and Plaza Francia
Feria de Recoleta and Plaza Francia are two of the most beloved cultural centers in Buenos Aires. Situated in the chic Recoleta district, these two locations are frequented by locals and tourists, providing a unique insight into traditional Argentinian culture.
Every weekend, Feria de Recoleta is bustling with stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to antiques to handmade crafts. It's a great way to pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home or find something special for yourself.
Meanwhile, Plaza Francia is located right next door and provides live entertainment—from music performances to dancers preforming a tango show - all weekend long. The plaza also has many restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Argentinian food while soaking up the atmosphere of the plaza itself.
15. The Colorful La Boca Neighborhood
La Boca is a colorful and lively neighborhood in the city of Buenos Aires. The streets are filled with colorful art galleries, cafes, and restaurants that capture the spirit of this bohemian area. La Boca is a great example of how art can be used to bring people together from different cultures and backgrounds.
It’s also known for its cobbled stone streets lined with buildings painted in bright colors like yellow, blue, green, red, and orange. This artistic style was popularized by Italian immigrants who settled in the area in the late 19th century.
The community has remained close-knit throughout the years thanks to organizations such as the Abasto Social Club which works to help those struggling with poverty or addiction issues through cultural activities such as theatre performances, concerts, exhibitions and workshops.
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FAQ
Q: What is Buenos Aires best known for?
A: One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the breathtaking Teatro Colon, one of the world's top opera houses renowned for its acoustics and opulent architecture. Art enthusiasts flock to Buenos Aires to immerse themselves in its thriving art scene that includes numerous galleries and street art exhibitions. From works by Argentine artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo to contemporary pieces by local talents, there is no shortage of artistic inspiration in Buenos Aires.
Another aspect that sets Buenos Aires apart is its love affair with football. The city has produced some of the greatest football legends including Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
Q: Is Buenos Aires a walkable city?
A: Buenos Aires is often touted as a walkable city. With its wide boulevards, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, and numerous parks and plazas, it is no wonder that many residents and tourists alike choose to explore this city on foot. The city's grid-like layout makes navigation relatively easy for pedestrians, allowing them to move from one area to another without much difficulty.
Q: Are people in Buenos Aires friendly?
A: The answer is a resounding yes. People in Buenos Aires are generally friendly and outgoing, making it easy for tourists and expats to feel at home.
One of the first things you'll notice when interacting with locals in Buenos Aires is their genuine warmth. Whether you're lost on the streets or struggling to communicate in Spanish, Argentinians are quick to lend a helping hand. They are known for their hospitality and will go out of their way to ensure visitors have an enjoyable experience in their city. From recommending the best tango shows to suggesting hidden gems off the beaten path, locals are always eager to share their knowledge and passion for Buenos Aires.
Q: What are the best free things to do in Buenos Aires?
A: Buenos Aires offers a myriad of free activities for travelers on a budget. One of the most popular attractions is exploring the city's charming neighborhoods. Walking through the picturesque streets of San Telmo, with its colonial architecture and cobblestone lanes, allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere and witness street performers showcasing their talents. La Boca neighborhood is another must-visit spot known for its brightly colored houses and tango dancers on Caminito Street.
For culture enthusiasts, Buenos Aires boasts an array of museums that offer free admission. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is home to an impressive collection of European and Latin American art spanning centuries. From renowned works by Van Gogh and Picasso to contemporary Argentine artists, this museum provides an enriching cultural experience without breaking your wallet.
Exploring Buenos Aires' parks is also a great way to enjoy nature at no cost. The Bosques de Palermo park offers vast green spaces perfect for picnicking or leisurely strolls alongside serene lakes dotted with rowboats. On weekends, locals flock to Parque Centenario to partake in outdoor activities such as yoga classes or enjoy live music performances in its amphitheater.
Q: How far is Buenos Aires airport from the city center?
A: Buenos Aires is served by two major airports: Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also known as Ezeiza International Airport, and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery. While Ezeiza International Airport handles most international flights, Jorge Newbery is primarily used for domestic travel. For travelers arriving at Ezeiza International Airport, it is important to note that the distance from the airport to the city center is approximately 35 kilometers or 22 miles.
Upon landing at Ezeiza International Airport, travelers have several transportation options to reach Buenos Aires' city center. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic conditions.
Q: What food is Buenos Aires famous for?
A: One of the most famous foods associated with Buenos Aires is the mouthwatering Argentine steak. Argentinian beef is renowned worldwide for its tenderness and flavor, owing to the country's vast grasslands where cattle are raised. The steaks are often cooked on an open fire grill called a parrilla, ensuring they are succulent and perfectly charred on the outside while remaining juicy inside. Locals savor their steaks with chimichurri sauce, which adds a burst of tangy freshness to each bite.
Another beloved food in Buenos Aires is empanadas. These savory pastries originated in Spain but have been adapted to suit Argentine tastes over time. Empanadas come stuffed with various fillings such as ground beef, cheese and ham, chicken or vegetables. The dough is typically light and flaky, providing a contrast to the flavorful filling within. They can be found at every corner bakery or street food vendor in Buenos Aires, making them an easily accessible snack or quick meal option for locals and visitors.
Lastly, no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without indulging in dulce de leche. This caramel-like spread holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Argentinians as it is used generously in many desserts and pastries.
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