Buenos Aires , the capital of Argentina, is one of the largest cities in Latin America. It offers a large variety of cultural events, while the nightlife is lively. Dubbed as the “Paris of the south”, Buenos Aires has a European feel…with a Latin twist.
There are plenty of things to do here, some of them tree, so if you are planning a trip to Buenos Aires, make sure to read our suggestions.
A walk through La Boca
La Boca is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires and it can surely be a tourist trap. But it’s also an interesting cultural experience. You can see tango being danced on the streets, interesting cafes and soon enough you won’t know where to point that camera of yours.
You can also visit San Telmo, with its colonial-style houses and cobblestone streets.
Take a self guided tour
What’s best then exploring your city at your own pace, but with the help of a map and tours created by the tourist office ? The maps and instructions are free to download so all that’s left is for you to choose the one which sound more appealing.
There are also several websites which offer free guided tours. These are excellent options if you want to learn more about the history of the city and its landmarks. Plus, the tour guide is always friendly and speaks English.
Do some people watching on Plaza de Mayo
It is the oldest square in Buenos Aires and is a lovely place to just do…nothing. Or better said: sit back, relax and watch the people pass by.
Take a photo of the Obelisk
El Obelisco is probably the most important landmark in the city. It’s where the major cultural events take place and where you’ll see the locals cheer after a victorious sport event.
Visit a weekend fair
The Feria de Mataderos (Fair of the Mataderos) takes place every Saturday during the summer months in front of the Mercado Nacional de Hacienda and it’s the best place to browse traditional handicrafts and all things related to gauchos.
Tip: try the food, too. Buenos Aires is known for the excellent steak.
Tango
Ask the personnel at the hotel or hostel about the free tango performances in your area. Or , if you have the money, invest in some tango classes.
Take a special metro ride
Line A still uses wooden cars, which appeal to both kids and adults. Kids under 5 get to ride them for free. It’s best to show up during non peak hours.
Take a walk away from the city’s busy streets
You can walk or bike in Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (Ecological Reserve), which is a park with lovely views of Buenos Aires. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a day in nature.
Another option is the Bosques de Palermo (Forests of Palermo), an urban oasis featuring artificial lakes and a lot of trees and roses.
An interesting walk through Recoleta Cemetery
Unless you are a bit morbid – or fascinated by interesting cemeteries – this will sound a bit weird but … Recoleta Cemetery is where Argentina’s notables are having their eternal rest. And the mausoleums and statues are absolutely amazing. Try to find where Eva Duarte de Peron is buried.
A weekend trip to Tigre Delta
There are day tours available to Tigre Delta, a sub tropical paradise away from the city’s hustle and bustle, but , to get to it better, plan for a weekend getaway. It can be easily reached by train from Buenos Aires.
Attend a football (soccer) game
Football (soccer) plays an important role in the life of the Argentine. Nothing will prepare you for the chaos on the stadium but it’s surely worth your time. The game you want to attend is the “superclasico”, a historical “battle” between Boca Juniors and River Plate.
Photo credits : Walk in the city , La Boca , Plaza de Mayo , The Obelisk , Fair , Tango
Park , Cemetery , Tigre Delta