Things To Do
in Banfield

Banfield is a quiet residential district in the southern part of Greater Buenos Aires, blending traditional porteño influences with suburban charm. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, local cafés, and a strong football culture centered around the Estadio Florencio Sola. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Buenos Aires metropolitan area while offering affordable dining and easy access to the city by rail.

Visitors can expect approachable attractions, friendly locals, and a laid-back pace typical of outer suburbs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Banfield
morning
:

Arrive at Ezeiza International Airport and travel to Banfield, where you’ll check into your hotel. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll around the local parks to absorb the atmosphere of this charming town. Enjoy a quick breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Argentine pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling shops of Banfield and discover unique local crafts and handmade goods. Visit the nearby Plaza A. D. de Bussi, where you can relax and mingle with the locals. Grab lunch at one of the many parillas to savor authentic Argentine barbecue.

evening
:

Enjoy your first Argentine dinner at a restaurant renowned for its empanadas and steak. Afterward, take a walk through the streets, appreciating the blend of traditional and modern architecture. End your day with a local wine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Banfield Cultural Center, where you can immerse yourself in the local art scene and perhaps catch an exhibition. Participate in a workshop or take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the area. Savor a light breakfast at the center's café, surrounded by artistic murals.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Church of San Benito, marveling at its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. After this, head to the Kiosko de la Plaza to grab a local snack and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the sun. Engage with local artisans in nearby markets and discover handmade crafts.

evening
:

Relish dinner at another renowned steakhouse, devouring a signature asado accompanied by a rich Malbec. Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting local bars featuring live music, where you can enjoy tango performances. Cap the night off with a stroll through the illuminated streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🧃Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.6-1.5
🚌Public transit ride$0.5-1
🛒Weekly groceries$40-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Buenos Aires with easy access to the city
  • Relaxed suburban atmosphere with affordable dining
  • Good value for money and friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife compared to central Buenos Aires
  • Less English spoken in some areas
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Banfield

Visit one of these nice places.

Estadio Florencio Sola exterior

The stadium’s exterior offers striking angles, especially under stadium floodlights on game days.

Plaza Don Bosco and town center

A pleasant square with mature trees, benches, and classic street furniture for candid photos.

Railway arches near Banfield station

Industrial-chic perspectives with tracks and arches ideal for urban photography.

Cafés along Avenida Hipólito Yrigoyen

Colorful storefronts and people-watching scenes provide lively street photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Banfield

Banfield offers classic Argentine flavors with an emphasis on affordable, hearty fare. Expect traditional parrillas, empanadas, milanesas, and plentiful bakeries serving dulce de leche desserts and pastries. Coffee, mate, and light snacks accompany most daytime activities, while wine accompanies many dinners. Vegetarian options are available, though choices may be more limited in meat-focused eateries.

Banfield Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asado

Argentine barbecue featuring various grilled cuts; widely available at local parrillas.

Must-Try!

Milanesa

Breaded beef or chicken cutlet, often served with mashed potatoes or salad.

Empanadas

Filled pastries with beef, chicken, or cheese; a common grab-and-go option.

Dulce de Leche pastries

Sweet pastries and desserts made with the beloved caramel-like dulce de leche.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Banfield

Local market offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared snacks; a good place to observe daily life and try small bites.

Street stalls along Avenida Hipólito Yrigoyen

Casual vendors selling choripán, empanadas, and other quick bites; ideal for a quick, tasty meal.

Climate Guide

Weather

Banfield experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant, with comfortable daytime temperatures and evolving foliage. Rainfall occurs throughout the year, though summer afternoons are when storms are most common.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Say 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' with a handshake in most social or business interactions.

Conversation and manners

Be polite and patient; use 'por favor' and 'gracias'; avoid raising voices in public spaces.

Punctuality and dress

Punctuality is appreciated for appointments; casual but neat attire is common in most eateries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe in central and well-lit areas; practice standard urban safety: keep valuables secure, be mindful of crowded spots and train stations, and use reputable taxis or rideshares late at night.

Tipping in Banfield

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Argentina, rounding up the bill or leaving 10-12% for good service is common if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash (Argentine peso) and cards are widely accepted; some smaller vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; carry water and seek shade; evenings can be cooler indoors.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with pleasant light for walking and outdoor dining; layers recommended.

Winter

Cool to mild days with the possibility of chilly winds; pack a light jacket and enjoy indoor cafés and markets.

Spring

Warmer days with blooming trees; ideal for outdoor markets, walking tours, and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Banfield at Night

Banfield’s nightlife is comparatively low-key, centered on cozy bars, cafés, and small live-music venues. On weekends and during football match days, you’ll find more activity around the stadium area and in local plazas. Many locals enjoy a relaxed evening with friends over wine or beer; late-night options are more limited than in central Buenos Aires.

Hiking in Banfield

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Urban nature walks in nearby parks

Short, accessible trails within the Greater Buenos Aires area.

Parks in neighboring municipalities

Easy hikes and scenic routes in nearby towns like Lomas de Zamora and Avellaneda.

Airports

How to reach Banfield by plane.

Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)

Main international airport; typically 40-60 minutes by car, depending on traffic; taxis and rideshares are available.

Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP)

Domestic and regional flights; typically 45-75 minutes by car from Banfield, depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is fairly walkable with good sidewalks; some residential areas are more spread out and require short rides to transit hubs. Pedestrian-friendly streets cluster around the main avenues and plazas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Long-time residents and new families seeking affordable housing.

Young professionals

Commuters who work in Buenos Aires or nearby towns.

Immigrant communities

Diverse backgrounds contributing to local culture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport with local clubs and regular matches that energize community life.

Rugby

Active clubs in the broader area offering recreational play and social events.

Basketball and tennis

Common in schools and community centers; accessible for beginners and locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Rush-hour traffic can be heavy around key corridors and train lines. The area relies on suburban rail to reach central Buenos Aires; buses and rideshares are common alternatives. Allow extra time during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Banfield.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; look for salads, grilled vegetables, pastas, and empanadas with cheese or vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is available with local clinics in Banfield and nearby towns; for major services, larger hospitals in Lomas de Zamora or Buenos Aires city are accessible by train or car. Carry insurance information and know local emergency numbers.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide