Known by various nicknames such as Paris of the South, Tangopolis, and Queen of the Plate, Buenos Aires is a city steeped in nostalgia, aspirations, and ambivalence. Its name derives from the “fair winds” that guided the first conquerors to its shores in the 16th century. The residents, known as porteños or “port people,” reflect the city’s mixed heritage, blending historic maritime roots with modern Latin American influences.
With over 14 million inhabitants in the Greater Buenos Aires area, the city’s sights, museums, gastronomy, arts, and nightlife are concentrated in central neighborhoods like Palermo, Recoleta, Puerto Madero, and San Telmo. From chic parks and trendy bars in Palermo to the grandeur of Recoleta’s historic wealth and the authenticity of San Telmo’s old-world charm, Buenos Aires offers a diverse range of experiences.
Navigating the city is relatively straightforward due to its grid-pattern layout, and despite the bustling traffic, Buenos Aires remains a walkable city. Whether exploring art galleries, enjoying a tango show in San Telmo, or sampling the vibrant nightlife scene at spots like Dada Bistró Bar, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
For those looking to escape the crowds of major European capitals, Buenos Aires offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and undiscovered charm. With friendly locals, English-speaking residents, and a relaxed atmosphere, the city beckons travelers to uncover its hidden treasures. Discover the magic of Buenos Aires with our guide to the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and attractions.
Explore Buenos Aires’ vibrant neighborhoods, immerse yourself in its cultural delights, and let the city’s allure captivate you. Begin your weekend adventure in Buenos Aires and let the fair winds guide you through this enchanting destination.
Explore a fusion of Spanish colonial and 19th-century Italian architectural styles at a historical mansion housing a collection of paintings, busts, flags, weapons, uniforms, and everyday objects from the 19th century. For a delightful break, visit Bar Británico located across from the Mendoza monument, a charming old café recognized for its antiquity and architecture, listed among the 50 greatest cafés globally. Stroll northward along Defensa Street, passing through quaint churches, Plaza Dorrego, and antique shops, all leading to Plaza de Mayo, the civic heart of Argentina surrounded by significant landmarks like the Casa Rosada and the Cabildo town hall.
For a cultural experience, visit BA’s public art museums along Avenida San Juan, home to the Museo de Arte Moderno and Museo de Arte Contemporáneo showcasing both permanent and rotating exhibitions. Delve into Argentina’s history at the Plaza de Mayo, a venue for various events from celebrations to protests, hosting iconic buildings such as the presidential palace and the metropolitan cathedral. A short walk south will take you to the Manzana de las Luces, a historic site with a Jesuit presence in the 18th century and the prestigious Colegio Nacional de Buenos Aires.
Indulge in a lunch at Bar El Federal, an old and distinguished establishment serving classic dishes in a vintage setting. In the afternoon, continue your stroll towards Plaza del Congreso on Avenida de Mayo, reminiscent of early 20th-century grandeur with notable landmarks like Café Tortoni and Palacio Barolo. Discover the architectural gems along the avenue, reflecting a vision of a Paris or Madrid in the southern hemisphere during a prosperous era for Argentina.
Conclude your day at Plaza del Congreso, where you can admire Rodin’s Thinker statue, Kilómetro Zero, and the Palace of Congress. For an evening filled with culture, consider attending a tango or folk concert at Torquato Tasso club in San Telmo or enjoy dinner and entertainment at Bar Sur.
Tango shows are available from Monday to Saturday. On the second day, kick off your morning in the vibrant neighborhood of Palermo. This expansive district features numerous leafy plazas, a large residential area, an exclusive embassy quarter, and the older section known as Palermo Viejo, which was split into ‘Soho’ and ‘Hollywood’ in the late 1990s. Palermo Viejo serves as a bustling hub for nightlife and independent shopping.
Spend a couple of hours wandering around Plazoleta Julio Cortázar, where you’ll find a plethora of stylish fashion boutiques, footwear shops, handicraft stores, and more along streets like Armenia, Gorriti, and Gurruchaga, as well as the intersecting Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua streets. The district also boasts several trendy coffee shops run by skilled baristas.
To gain insight into contemporary Argentina, delve into the history of the Peróns – President Juan and his most famous wife, Eva (also known as Evita). Visit the Museo Evita, which showcases 13 rooms filled with photographs, paintings, sculptures, newspaper clippings, and dresses worn by Evita during her time as First Lady.
For lunch, stop by El Club de la Milanesa on Gurruchaga 1806, a local chain renowned for its breaded Angus beef or chicken served with fries or salad. Later in the afternoon, explore the Cementerio de la Recoleta to discover a different aspect of the city’s past.
Consider catching a performance at the Teatro Colón, a renowned opera house that hosts opera, ballet, and symphony orchestra shows. As evening approaches, you can opt for a traditional dinner at a bodegón or sample a steakhouse like Parrilla Peña for a more authentic experience. Remember that Buenos Aires offers plenty of dining options, so you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes.
Insider tip: While visiting attractions like La Boca, be cautious of tourist crowds and watch out for pickpockets. Nearby neighborhoods like Barracas, located just south of San Telmo, are undergoing revitalization and offer a mix of cultural spaces and residential developments.
Along Avenida Caseros, you will find a charming collection of faded 19th-century private mansions that have been transformed into trendy bars and restaurants. Craft beer establishments are popping up alongside traditional vermouth bars that have been rejuvenated. La Popular de San Telmo, adorned with colorful pendants, offers a tribute to classic Italian liqueurs and Argentine digestifs, as well as comforting cuisine. Hierbabuena, a vegetarian deli, serves up fresh juices, while On Tap is a popular spot for locally brewed beers in the early evening. For city exploration tips, consider taking the local buses, known as colectivos, which are both frequent and cost-effective with the use of a prepaid Sube card. Routes such as 152, 130, 64, or 59 provide a budget-friendly alternative to traditional tour buses. Did you know that Buenos Aires was once a lesser-known city compared to Lima during Spain’s colonial rule in the Americas? To navigate the city, rely on the well-connected Buenos Aires metro system, known as the Subte, and obtain a Sube card for convenient access. When traveling to Buenos Aires, most international flights land at Ezeiza Airport, while domestic and some regional flights arrive at Aeroparque. The city experiences distinct seasons, with spring and autumn offering pleasant weather for exploring. For accommodations, consider luxury options that exude elegance and modern style or designer digs with unique charm.
Hotels. Paying attention to detail, providing personalized service, offering gorgeous rooms, and boasting a superb location, this establishment is a nearly perfect urban retreat. Read our full review here. For a selection of more hotels in Buenos Aires, refer to our guide showcasing the best accommodations in the city.
Shopping for souvenirs? Consider purchasing maté gourds (along with green maté tea for sipping), leather belts and other leather goods, gaucho trousers known as bombachas, as well as wine. Maté gourds make a wonderful keepsake – as illustrated by Getty.
Before you embark on your journey, here are some essential informational resources:
– British Consulate: Dr. Luis Agote 2412, Recoleta (00 54 11 4808 2200); gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-buenos-aires
– Tourist information: Defensa 187, Florida 50, both in Centre and South neighbourhood; turismo.buenosaires.gob.ar/en
In case of emergencies:
– Ambulance: 107
– Police: 911 or 101; Tourist Police WhatsApp 00 54 911 5050 9260
– Fire: 100
Some basic information to keep in mind:
– Currency: The official currency is the peso, denoted as AR$, and is widely accepted throughout the city. Exchange rates have become less volatile recently, with only a 4% difference between official and parallel rates. It’s recommended to bring US dollars for currency exchange.
– Telephone code: Dial 00 54 for Argentina, followed by 11 for Buenos Aires. Omit the initial zero when dialing local numbers.
– Time difference: GMT minus 3.
– Travel time: Approximately 12 hours direct from the UK; 14-18 hours with layovers.
Regarding local customs and laws:
– Meeting times are often flexible in Argentina, so expect delays from friends. However, reliable tourist guides will adhere to schedule.
– Dining is typically enjoyed later in the evening, with restaurants quieter between 7-9pm.
– Exercise caution when in public areas; remain vigilant of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuable items, and use ATMs during daylight hours only.
Accessibility for travelers with disabilities:
– Wheelchair access is adequate at airports and gradually improving in public spaces and streets. Kerb ramps are commonly found in central neighborhoods. Refer to wheelchairtravel.org for more information.
Meet our expert:
Chris Moss, a longtime resident of Buenos Aires, has spent a decade immersing himself in the culture and landscape of Argentina. Each year, he returns to provide insightful writing and lead tours across the country.
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