Ultimate Travel Guide to Buenos Aires

Overview

Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is a vibrant, culturally rich destination known for its European architecture, passionate tango dances, delectable cuisine, and lively nightlife. This guide will help you navigate through the city’s many attractions and ensure an unforgettable experience.

Places to Visit

1. Plaza de Mayo: A historic square where important national events took place, including the May Revolution that led to Argentina’s independence. Nearby is the Casa Rosada (Pink House), the executive office of the Argentine president.
2. Recoleta Cemetery: Burial site for many notable Argentines, including Eva Perón. It’s a fascinating mix of grand mausoleums and simple family vaults.
3. La Boca: Known for its colorful houses and Caminito street, a traditional neighborhood that showcases the city’s European immigrant history.
4. San Telmo: An old neighborhood with antique markets, tango shows, and elegant old mansions. Don’t miss Sunday’s Feria de San Telmo.
5. Palermo: Divided into three sections - Soho, Viejo, and Hollywood - each offering a unique blend of restaurants, bars, parks, and shops.
6. Puerto Madero: A modern, upscale neighborhood with trendy bars and restaurants along the waterfront. The iconic Puente de la Mujer (Woman’s Bridge) is worth a visit.
7. Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires (MAMBA): One of Argentina’s leading museums, featuring an impressive collection of Argentine and international contemporary art.
8. Teatro Colón: An opulent opera house with world-class acoustics and a stunning interior. Guided tours are available.

Activities

1. Tango Shows: Experience the passionate dance at milongas (tango clubs) or professional shows like Tango Porteño, Esquina Carlos Gardel, or La Ventana.
2. Football Match: Watch a River Plate or Boca Juniors game at La Bombonera or El Monumental stadiums for an unforgettable local experience.
3. Day Trips to Tigre or Colonia del Sacramento: Take a boat ride on the Paraná Delta, explore the charming town of Tigre, or visit the old Spanish colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay.
4. Gaucho Day: Spend a day at an estancia (ranch) outside the city to learn about Argentina’s cowboy culture and enjoy a traditional asado (barbecue).
5. Visit a Feria: Weekend markets offer a variety of local crafts, antiques, food, and music. Feria de Mataderos is one of the largest and most popular.

Where to Eat

1. Parilla Restaurants: Traditional Argentine steak houses serving up delicious asados (grilled meats). Try La Cabrera or Don Julio in Palermo Soho.
2. Parrilladas: Casual, self-service grills where you can cook your own meat to perfection. La Cuchara de San Telmo is a popular choice.
3. Empanadas and Milanesas: Try these classic Argentine snacks from street vendors or cafes like Güemes in San Telmo.
4. Mendocinian Cuisine: Visit Casa Felix in La Boca for delicious dishes from the Mendoza wine region, paired with excellent wines.
5. Dulce de leche treats: Indulge in this sweet staple of Argentine cuisine at Confitería Ideal, a historic café in downtown Buenos Aires.

Where to Stay

1. Palermo: Offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels, and is centrally located for easy access to other neighborhoods.
2. Recoleta/Microcentro: These areas are convenient for visiting the city’s main attractions, including the Plaza de Mayo and Teatro Colón.
3. San Telmo: For those who prefer a more authentic and bohemian experience, this neighborhood offers charming bed & breakfasts and boutique hotels.
4. Puerto Madero: Ideal for travelers seeking luxury accommodations with stunning waterfront views.

Things to Know

1. Time Zone: Buenos Aires is in the Argentina Time Zone (ART), which is three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-3).
2. Currency: The Argentine Peso (ARS) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
3. Language: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Buenos Aires, although English is understood in many tourist areas and hotels.
4. Tipping: Service charges are usually included in restaurant bills, but it’s customary to leave a few extra pesos for good service.
5. Safety: Exercise caution in less touristy areas, especially at night. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.

Transportation

1. Public Buses (Colectivos): Cheap and widespread, but can be confusing for first-time visitors due to the lack of routes posted on buses. Ask a local or download a bus app like Citymapper.
2. Subte (Underground Train): A cheap and efficient way to get around the city. Line D serves many popular tourist destinations.
3. Buses (Microbuses): Small, shared vans that follow specific routes throughout the city. They’re often faster than buses but can be crowded.
4. Taxis: Taxis are relatively cheap and widely available. Use official taxis from radio-dispatched companies like Taxi Beige or Taxi Eco to avoid scams.
5. Uber: Operates in Buenos Aires, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Tips

1. Embrace the Culture: Argentines are known for their hospitality and love of conversation. Don’t be shy about striking up conversations with locals.
2. Try Maté: The traditional caffeine-rich drink made from yerba mate leaves is essential to understanding Argentine culture.
3. Bring Comfortable Shoes: Buenos Aires is a walkable city, and you’ll want comfortable footwear for exploring its many neighborhoods.
4. Respect Local Customs: Tango etiquette dictates that dancers should never step on each other’s toes or leave the dance floor without first asking permission from their partner. Similarly, Argentines value personal space, so keep a respectful distance when speaking with locals.
5. Stay Flexible: Buenos Aires can be unpredictable, with public transportation strikes and sudden changes in weather. Be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.