Visitor's Guide to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has been referred to as the Paris to the South. It's a melting pot of both European and South American cultures, and you can see the influences in its eclectic architecture through the city. We loved Buenos Aires because of how clean it was and the number of parks we saw through the city. We only wish we had more time in the city to explore, but below you'll see what we reccomend visiting.

Where to visit 

Recoleta Cemetery

It may seem weird to have a cemetery on your itinerary, but it's definitely a must see. It’s the resting place of Eva Peron, the wife of Juan Peron and was most respected for using her power to fight for women's suffrage and improving the lives of the poor. She was well respected in Argentinian politics and you’ll find her crypt usually by following the crowds. 

You’ll be able to see beautiful crypts of famous presidents, politicians and generals.It is open to the public every day between 8am and 6pm and if you’d like they do free guided tours in spanish at 11am and 2pm Tuesday to Friday, and at 11am and 3pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Caminito-La Boca 

The Caminito is the walking street in La Boca with colorful buildings, restaurants, and street performers. The street is pretty busy with tourists but it’s perfect for a quick stop and see all the color.

Visit La Boca Stadium

In the same neighborhood you’ll find la Boca Stadium, home of the Boca Juniors. It fits 49,000 soccer fans and was built in 1940. The Museo de la Pasión Boquense, open daily from 10am-6pm and allows you to learn about the history of the club and check out the stadium. If you're visiting the area, definitely be on alert as the neighborhood isn’t one of the safest in Buenos Aires.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore

In the Recoletta neighborhood of Buenos Aires, you’ll discover this beautiful bookstore. It began as a theatre in 1919 and as you walk through you can truly see all that history as it’s been maintained so well. So grab a book and sit in the cafe, which is located on the stage. And enjoy was has been dubbed as the world’s most beautiful bookstore.

Casa Rosada

Located near the Plaza de Mayo, the casa rosada is the mansion of the president of Argentina. It’s a beautiful building which you can tour if you sign up in advance. Throughout the Plaza de Mayo you’ll find similar government buildings where many historic events took place.

Go to a tango show

Although we didn’t have enough time to go to a tango show, it’s something we regret not doing. What’s great is that it’s usually a dinner and show and there’s plenty of options. Some we saw that had good reviews were Tango Porteno, and El Viejo Almacen. It’s such a beautiful dance and if you’d like you can also find lessons if you have the time.

San Telmo Market on a Sunday

San Telmo is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires and hosts the feria every sunday. It’s a street fair with local vendors on the cobblestone streets. Although we didn’t get a chance to visit because we weren’t in Buenos Aires on a sunday, the pictures looked awesome with unique products and artists. It is open from 10am to 4pm.

Walk through the Parks

We were amazed with how many parks were nestled in the streets of Buenos Aires. All beautiful and all very clean. We saw people running, sun bathing, and relaxing in the parks we were able to walk through. It’s one of the reasons we chose to skip the uber. 

One which was located near the Palermo district in which we stayed was the Rosedal de Palermo. It’s a beautiful rose garden.

Where to Stay

We chose to stay in an Airbnb in the Palermo neighborhood, one of the largest in Buenos Aires. It’s home to the largest park in the city and some trendy restaurants and cafes. We loved the younger feel of it and found delicious restaurants everywhere we turned. 

Recoletta is another beautiful neighborhood which displays the European influence, and one of the many reasons Buenos Aires has been called the Paris of the south. You’ll be within walking distance of many of the sites listed above.

Tips

• Beware of pickpockets- Like many cities it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, and always mind your belongings. We always opt for bags that go across our bodies and have zippers when traveling. 

• Get your steps in- Buenos Aires is a large city but if the sights you are seeing are relatively close, walk. We were amazed at how clean the city was and how many cool restaurants and buildings there were that we never would've seen had we taken a taxi or uber. 

• Be mindful of mealtimes- Similar to many south american countries, Argentinians don’t eat till later most times after 9pm. So dinner spots might not open till later. 

• Rest time- Mid day it isn’t unusual for things to be closed. This is when people are taking their siesta or businesses are having their lunch. 

• Don’t forget WATER and sunblock- We visited during the summer (February) and the sun was shining. I’ve noticed when I'm in South America I tend to burn easier, so pile on the sun block and stay hydrated!