Buenos Aires might be South America's most seductive city, known for its elegant colonial buildings, tango dancers, and sizzling steaks. The Argentine capital is a melting pot of Latin American and European influences, and each barrio has its own character, from colorful La Boca and cobbled San Telmo to the leafy parks and plazas of Palermo. There’s plenty to pack into a sightseeing tour, but the best things to do in Buenos Aires have a local flavor: Take a tango class, drink some yerba mate, and attend a football match.
There isn’t really a bad time to visit Buenos Aires, but the warm yet breezy days of spring (September–November) and fall (April–June) get our vote when it comes to sightseeing. Summer (December–February) is the peak season for tourists—but with soaring temperatures and prices, it’s little surprise that most Porteños (“port city people,” or Buenos Aires residents) escape to the coast or countryside during the hottest months. Expect many restaurants and nightclubs outside the main tourist areas to be closed if you visit this time of year.
The easiest way to get around Buenos Aires’ many neighborhoods is by hopping on the Subte, a metro system with regular, high-speed links to destinations all over the city. Buses (colectivos) and taxis provide an affordable and convenient alternative for short journeys, although inner city traffic can sometimes make this the slowest option. If you prefer to get around on two wheels, Buenos Aires also has an urban bike-sharing scheme (EcoBici) and 125 miles (200 kilometers) of bike lanes.
It’s not all tango in Buenos Aires. Another equally unforgettable musical experience awaits at the Ciudad Cultural Konex nightclub. Join the electric crowd on Monday nights to see legendary percussion group La Bomba de Tiempo perform.
Attractions 80 | Tours 1,260 | Reviews 30,658 |
The Argentine capital is celebrated as the birthplace of the tango, as well as for its delicious steak and its footballing legacy—soccer icon Diego Maradona was born in the city. This city was also the home of Eva Peron, ‘Evita’, whose grave can be visited at the magnificent Recoleta Cemetry.
...MoreThe Plaza de Mayo is one of Buenos Aires’ most visited sites—the grand square is home to the Casa Rosada presidential building, where Eva Peron or ‘Evita’ famously addressed the people from the balcony. Recoleta Cemetery is another one of the city’s top tourist attractions, home to Evita’s grave.
...MoreYes. Central Buenos Aires neighborhoods such as Palermo, Recoleta, and San Telmo are generally safe to walk around during the day, but keep an eye on your belongings as pickpocketing is common and take care if heading off the beaten track. At night, it’s always safer to take a taxi.
...MoreBuenos Aires has a buzzing nightlife, and locals fill up the bars, parrillas (grill houses), and milongas (tango dancehalls). For an unforgettable local experience, attend a football match at La Bombonera stadium, take a tango lesson, browse the stalls at San Telmo market, or watch the spectacular La Bomba de Tiempo show.
...MoreTwo days is enough time to take in the main attractions of Buenos Aires and gives you time to explore neighborhoods such as Palermo and Puerto Madero. Visit Recoleta Cemetery, the Casa Rosada, and San Telmo market; stroll around the colorful houses of Caminito Street in La Boca; and attend a tango show.
...MoreYes, Buenos Aires can be an expensive city to visit in comparison to other South American cities. However, it is still cheaper to visit than London or NYC, especially if you eat and drink at local haunts. Money-saving tip: pay in pesos rather than US$—you’ll save big on the exchange rate.
...More
