Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital city of Argentina, is a must-visit destination for any traveller. With its rich history, stunning architecture, passionate people, and world-class cuisine, BA (as locals call it) has something for everyone. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring this incredible city.

Places to Visit

Neighborhoods

  • Recoleta: Upscale neighborhood known for its beautiful parks, upscale boutiques, and the iconic Recoleta Cemetery.
  • Palermo: Trendy neighborhood with a mix of bohemian and high-end vibes, featuring trendy restaurants, bars, and nightlife spots.
  • San Telmo: Historic neighborhood with a charming, old-world feel, known for its antique shops, street art, and lively weekend markets.

Landmarks

  • Teatro Colón: World-renowned opera house offering guided tours of the building’s opulent interior.
  • Casa Rosada: Iconic presidential palace with a stunning view of Plaza de Mayo from the balcony where Eva Perón (Evita) used to appear.
  • Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar: Beautiful 18th-century church featuring impressive stained glass and ornate details.

Museums

  • National Museum of Fine Arts (MNBA): Showcasing Argentine art from the colonial period to the present day, with works by artists like Frida Kahlo.
  • Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA): Highlighting contemporary Latin American art in a stunning building designed by Japanese architect Satoshi Ohno.
  • Natural History Museum (Museo de Ciencias Naturales La Plata): Exploring the natural history of Argentina and the world, with dinosaur fossils, mammals, and more.

Parks

  • Parque Tres de Febrero: Large park featuring a lake, walking trails, and plenty of picnic spots.
  • Bosques de Palermo: Beautiful forest area with several lakes, walking paths, and scenic views.
  • Plaza Francia: A tranquil green space surrounded by high-rise buildings, ideal for relaxation.

Activities

Food and Drink

  • Asado: Traditional Argentine barbecue featuring grilled meats, which can be enjoyed at local asados or restaurants like Parrilla de la Renaissance.
  • Coffee culture: Visit cafes like Café San Juan or Café Tortoni to experience the rich coffee tradition of Buenos Aires.
  • Wine tastings: Explore the city’s wine scene by visiting wine bars like El Gualtiero or attending a wine tasting event.

Shopping

  • Mercado de San Telmo: Weekend market featuring local artisans selling handmade goods, vintage clothing, and antiques.
  • Galerías Pacífico: Upscale shopping mall offering high-end fashion brands and dining options.
  • Feria de San Isidro: Weekday market in the trendy neighborhood of Palermo, featuring local vendors selling everything from flowers to artisanal cheeses.

Nightlife

  • Cordoba Street: Vibrant nightlife destination with bars, clubs, and live music venues like Plaza Francia or La Parrilla.
  • Plaza del Congreso: Lively area with a mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural events.
  • El Gualtiero: Wine bar with a cozy atmosphere and extensive wine list.

Where to Stay

Budget Options

  • Hostel Los Yámanos: Central hostel with dorms and private rooms starting from $10-15 USD per night.
  • Hotel Plaza del Congreso: Basic hotel offering comfortable rooms for around $25-30 USD per night.

Mid-range Options

  • Hotel du Belles Arts: Stylish boutique hotel featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop bar, priced around $50-60 USD per night.
  • Hotel NH Buenos Aires: Modern hotel with clean, spacious rooms starting from $40-50 USD per night.

Luxury Options

  • Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires: 5-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations, upscale dining options, and a rooftop pool, priced around $150-200 USD per night.
  • Alvear Art Deco Boutique Hotel: Elegant boutique hotel with beautifully restored art deco decor, starting from $100-120 USD per night.

Things to Know

Safety

  • Petty theft: Pickpocketing and pickpocketing is common in tourist areas. Keep valuables secure.
  • Scams: Be cautious of street vendors or individuals who approach you with suspicious offers or deals.

Language

  • Spanish: The official language, spoken by most locals.
  • English: Widely spoken among younger people and those in the tourism industry.

Weather

  • Spring (September to November): Mild temperatures with average highs around 64°F (18°C).
  • Summer (December to February): Hot and humid with average highs reaching 86°F (30°C).

Transportation

  • Subte: The city’s metro system, consisting of six lines that cover most areas.
  • Colectivos: Public buses offering affordable transportation within the city.
  • Taxis: Available everywhere but be sure to use licensed cabs or ride-sharing services.

Tips and Tricks

Haggling

  • Markets and street vendors: Haggling is expected in these situations, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

Tipping

  • Restaurants and bars: A 10-15% tip for good service.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare or add a few pesos as a tip.

Street Food

  • Eat street food during the day: Avoid eating at night when vendors are less likely to be present.
  • Choose popular street food spots: Look for vendors with long lines or busy areas, indicating high-quality and popular options.