The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city like no other. Rich in history, culture, and entertainment, BA (as locals call it) will captivate you with its energy, passion, and warmth. As a tourist, you’ll find plenty to explore, from world-class museums and theaters to lively street performers and mouthwatering food. Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating the city like a pro.

Places to Visit

Historic Neighborhoods

• San Telmo: A charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, antique shops, and street performers. Don’t miss the famous Feria de San Telmo (Sunday afternoons) for vintage shopping and food.
• La Boca: A colorful, bohemian area known for its street art, tango shows, and soccer stadium (Estadio Alberto J. Armas). Explore Caminito Street, a lively pedestrian walkway lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.

Iconic Landmarks

• Casa Rosada: The Argentine president’s office, an impressive building that offers guided tours.
• Teatro Colón: One of the world’s top opera houses, featuring stunning architecture and performances. Take a tour to see behind the scenes.
• Plaza de Mayo: A historic square surrounded by government buildings, cafes, and shops.

Museums

• National Museum of Fine Arts (MNBA): Showcasing Argentine art from colonial times to modern pieces.
• Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA): Exhibiting contemporary works from Argentina and other countries.
• Eduardo Mollo Archaeological Museum: Dedicated to the history and pre-Columbian cultures of Argentina.

Parks and Gardens

• Bosques de Palermo: A beautiful urban park with walking trails, lakes, and plenty of green space for picnics or relaxation.
• Parque 3 de Febrero: Another scenic park featuring a lake, walking paths, and a zoo.

Activities

Outdoor Pursuits

• Tango Shows: Experience the Argentine passion for tango by attending live performances at venues like El Querandi or Cafe Tortoni.
• Street Performances: Enjoy buskers in San Telmo’s Plaza Dorrego, La Boca’s Caminito Street, and other public areas.
• Boat Cruises: Take a leisurely boat tour of the Rio de la Plata and explore the city from a different perspective.

Sports

• Soccer Stadiums: Visit Estadio Alberto J. Armas (La Boca) or Estadio Antonio Vespucio Liberti (Núñez) to catch a live game.
• Horseback Riding: Explore the countryside or nearby towns on horseback for a unique perspective.

Where to Eat

Traditional Cuisine

• El Desnivel: A classic parrillada experience in Palermo, offering high-quality Argentine meat and sides.
• Café Tortoni: This historic cafe serves traditional Argentine dishes like asado and fainá (fried cornmeal).
• Tegui: Enjoy upscale Argentine cuisine with a modern twist.

International Options

• La Parrilla de la Renaissance: Try Italian food in the heart of San Telmo.
• Pizza en el Barrio: Savor delicious Neapolitan-style pizza in Palermo.
• Kilcafe: Experience contemporary Asian-fusion cuisine.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

• Hostel Suites Buenos Aires: A modern hostel with comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and city views.
• Ibis Buenos Aires: An affordable hotel with basic amenities and proximity to public transportation.

Mid-Range Accommodations

• Hotel NH 9 de Julio: Enjoy clean rooms, an indoor pool, and excellent location in the heart of BA.
• Regency Hotel: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and scenic views.

Luxury Options

• Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires: Treat yourself to luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and top-notch amenities.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Buenos Aires: Experience upscale comfort in the heart of BA, with elegant rooms and excellent dining options.

Transportation

Public Transportation

• Subte (Subway): The efficient subway system covers most areas of the city.
• Colectivos (Bus): Utilize the extensive network of buses to navigate the city.

Taxis

• Radio Taxi Buenos Aires: A reliable service with a wide coverage area.
• Uber: Available in BA, providing an affordable and convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Tips and Essentials

Safety

• Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated neighborhoods.

Language

• Spanish is the official language; learn basic phrases like “gracias” (thank you) and “¿Dónde está…?” (where is…?).
• Many locals speak English, particularly younger people, but it’s always a good idea to practice your Spanish before visiting.

Currency

• Argentine Pesos (ARS): The official currency; exchange rates may fluctuate.
• Credit cards and ATMs: Widely available for accessing funds and making purchases.

Tipping

• 15% is standard for restaurant and bar services.
• Round up the bill or leave small change for taxi drivers and other service providers.

Additional Tips

Weather

• Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
• Summer (December to February) can be hot; enjoy outdoor activities during the cooler morning and evening hours.

Cultural Insights

• Argentine passion for football is a national obsession; be prepared for lively discussions and debates about local teams.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historic sites or attending cultural events.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the vibrant city of Buenos Aires like a pro. From world-class attractions to delicious food and drink options, BA has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience all that Argentina’s capital has to offer!