Buenos Aires, Argentina is the city which endearingly captivates its visitors through juxtapositions of buildings seeming European, passionate tango, and rich cultural histories. Buenos Aires, Argentina’s “Paris of South America,” has much in store for any visitor. Whether visiting for the first time, or it is a multiple visit to dig even deeper into its charm, this itinerary should help guide your efforts in maximizing your time there.
Buenos Aires Itinerary
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Day 1 Discover Buenos Aires Heart of the Capital
Start your tour at the Plaza de Mayo.
Your journey in Buenos Aires should start in the heart of it all: Plaza de Mayo. Interlinked by some of the city’s most iconic monuments-like Casa Rosada, the Pink House; the Metropolitn Cathedral; and the Cabildo-this square breathes in the very fabric of Argentine history. Visit the executive branch of government housed at Casa Rosada, but let its charming façade steal your breath away.
Discuss the San Telmo neighborhood.
San Telmo is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Just a short walk from Plaza de Mayo. San Telmo is cobblestone streets, antique shops, and bohemian vibes-all treasure for the history lover. Visit the San Telmo Market, this bust indoor market sells everything from antiques, art, and the most delicious Argentine snacks, empanadas. If visiting on a Sunday, then stroll along for the San Telmo Feria, an up-and-running street market.
Evening Tango Experience
No visit to Buenos Aires is complete without a little tango. For those wanting a glimpse into tango as it is done, catch a live tango show at El Viejo Almacén or Rojo Tango. The eager dancer can also sign up for a tango class to learn firsthand the art of the impassioned dance form.
Day 2: Discover the Faces of Buenos Aires – Neighborhoods
Recoleta: Cultural Gem
Begin with a stroll through the glamour of one of Buenos Aires’ many upscale neighborhoods, Recoleta. What to see: the Recoleta Cemetery, where ornate mausoleums house the remains for famous people such as Eva Perón (Evita) inside. Then wander through the Recoleta Cultural Center and the lovely Plaza Francia-great for killing the morning or the afternoon rummaging through artisan markets.
Palermo: Parks and Urban Cool
Afternoon in Palermo. Humongous district divided into several sub-neighbourhoods. A must-start-with visit is in Palermo Woods, where place Japanese gardens, Rose Garden (Rosedal), and Planetarium. To look for the most beautiful boutiques, rich street art and lively cafes, searching for Palermo Soho. And of course, dinner is served at some of the best placed in Palermo-Don Julio. The most Argentine steak.
Night in Palermo Hollywood
End your evening in Buenos Aires by exploring Palermo Hollywood at sunset. Known for a glamorous hall of bars and restaurants, Palermo Hollywood offers everything from artfully crafted cocktails to late night diner bites.
Day 3: Art, Culture and River
The arts scene in Buenos Aires
Your third day will be filled with the fantastic art work of Latin America’s big artists at MALBA or Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, whose collections show the European and Argentine arts.
Puerto Madero: Modern meets Nature
Puerto Madero. Also a more recent revitalization of the waterfront district, stroll along the Puente de la Mujer (Women’s Bridge), whose design tango enthusiasts will recognize, and enter the Ecological Reserve to seek peace in the bosom of nature, or dine riverside at one of the restaurants that decorate this fashionable neighborhood.
Afternoon/Evening: Evening at Teatro Colón
End your day by visiting the Teatro Colón, one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Take a guided tour and learn about its stunning architecture, or, if it’s available, attend a live performance for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Day 4: Day Trip in Tigre or Colonia del Sacramento
Option 1: Tigre Delta
Short train ride to Tigre-town, pretty and very much focused on its system of waterways. Board a boat tour through the delta, see some of the attractions, like the Puerto de Frutos Market, and museums, including the Tigre Art Museum.
Option 2: Colonia del Sacramento
Take a ferry over from Uruguay to Colonia del Sacramentoa UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the riverside town’s supremely relaxed atmosphere.
Day 5: Discovering Local Flavors and Traditions
Let yourself be spoiled on Argentine Cuisine
On your last day, indulge in Buenos Aires culinary flavors. Your breakfast should be an Argentine breakfast with medialunas and coffee at a café. Your lunch on last day could be at a parrilla – steakhouse like La Brigada or Cabaña Las Lilas to sample quite grilled meats and Argentine wine.
Shops and Strolling around Microcentro
To visit this fantastically urban Microcentro, where the Obelisco and the famous Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the world’s widest avenues, stand; pay a visit to the very historic Galerías Pacífico with fantastic frescoes in high-class shops.
Farewell in a Milonga at Night
End your stay in a milonga, the city’s tango halls. Places such as La Catedral Club or Confitería Ideal close Buenos Aires in a very traditional, lively way.
Insider Secrets to Make Getting Around Buenos Aires Easy
- Money: Argentine Peso (ARS). Not everything takes cards so it’s a good idea to carry some cash.
- Getting Around: Subway and taxis or Cabify ride-hailing apps.
- Safety: Buenos Aires is fairly safe but keep on your toes, as any congested city can be a haven for crime
- The city greets us with a massive culture, passionate spirit, and endless charm. Whether it’s the stimulation of a whole day spent exploring historic neighborhoods, a culinary adventure, or dancing tango, this itinerary makes it memorable.