Buenos Aires 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Buenos Aires
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at El Sanjuanino (Rivadavia 5793), a traditional Argentine eatery known for its rich, homemade pastries and dishes.
- Visit the iconic Plaza de Mayo, the city’s main square, which houses several historic buildings, including the Casa Rosada (Pink House), where Eva Peron famously delivered her speeches.
- Explore the Casa Rosada (Tues-Sun 10:30 AM - 6 PM, $8 entrance fee) and learn about Argentina’s history through guided tours or exhibits.
Afternoon:
- Head to the Recoleta Cemetery (Junín Ave & Armenia), a unique and fascinating cemetery filled with elaborate mausoleums of famous Argentines, including Eva Peron.
- Visit the nearby Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Av. Libertador 1473) for an extensive collection of Argentine and international art. Admission is free on Sundays.
- Grab a quick lunch at La Carretilla (Avenida Caseros 5470), a popular spot for traditional empanadas and milanesa sandwiches.
Evening:
- Explore the vibrant neighborhood of San Telmo on a Sunday, when the Feria de San Telmo (Sunday antique fair) takes place along Defensa Street.
- Catch a tango show at Café Tortoni (Av de Mayo 825), one of the city’s oldest cafes, or at El Viejo Almacén (Gorriti 5061), a beautiful restored warehouse with live music and dinner.
- End your day with a drink at La Bomba de Tango, a unique tango-centric experience that includes live music and drum shows every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.
Day 2: Discovering Buenos Aires Beyond the City Center
Morning:
- Have breakfast at Buenos Aires Bike Tours (Defensa 875), which serves delicious pastries and coffee while also offering bike rentals for the day.
- Rent a bike and explore the eclectic neighborhood of Palermo, divided into Palermo Soho, Palermo Hollywood, and Palermo Viejo. Enjoy the street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
- Visit the Japanese Garden (Av Dorrego y Las Heras) for a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Afternoon:
- Head to the modern neighborhood of Puerto Madero, known for its trendy restaurants and waterfront promenade. Visit the EcoCentro (Madero 1662) for sustainable architecture and a glimpse into Argentina’s environmental efforts.
- Take a boat tour along the Rio de la Plata to see the city from a different perspective (tours depart from Puerto Madero).
- Enjoy lunch at La Marsea (Gascón 853), an innovative seafood restaurant with stunning views of the waterfront.
Evening:
- Visit the historic neighborhood of La Boca, known for its colorful caminito street and tango performances. However, be aware of pickpocketing and stick to well-lit areas.
- End your day at a local milonga (tango dance hall), such as Confitería Ideal (Balcarce 35), to witness and perhaps even try the art of tango dancing.
Transportation: Buenos Aires has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways. You can also rent bicycles or explore on foot in many areas. Taxis are widely available but be sure to use official taxi companies for safety.
Accommodation: There is a range of accommodations available in Buenos Aires, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include the Faena Hotel + Universe, Alvear Palace Hotel, and Hostel Buenos Aires.
Things to know:
- Argentinean currency is the Peso (ARS). Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
- Argentines typically eat dinner late, often starting around 9 PM or later. Many restaurants may not open until 8 PM or later.
- Buenos Aires is a safe city overall, but it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas.