Things To Do
in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires blends European-inspired architecture with a passionate Latin American spirit. Its wide avenues, grand plazas, and tango-filled corners create a living theater of culture, cuisine, and conversation. Neighborhoods range from the elegant, tree-lined streets of Recoleta to the bohemian lanes of San Telmo and the design-forward vibes of Palermo.

The city pulses late into the night with world-class dining, live music, and a cafe culture that invites lingering over conversations and coffee.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Plaza de Mayo
morning
:

Arrive at Ezeiza International Airport and transfer to your downtown hotel. Unpack your bags and freshen up before heading out to explore the city. Savor a traditional medialuna and café con leche at a local café.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Plaza de Mayo and admire the pink façade of the Casa Rosada. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and soak up the political heart of Argentina. Explore the Cabildo museum to learn about the country’s colonial past.

evening
:

Enjoy a riverside dinner at Puerto Madero with views of the skyline at sunset. Sample regional specialties like provoleta and empanadas. Toast to your first night in Buenos Aires with a glass of Malbec.

day 2
Recoleta Cemetery and Cultural Walk
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a sidewalk café and soak in the neighborhood's Parisian flair. Wander through the famous Recoleta Cemetery to admire ornate mausoleums and the grave of Eva Perón. Pause for a coffee break at a shaded plaza and chat with local residents.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes to view a rich collection of European and Argentine masterpieces. Stroll through the elegant Recoleta cultural center and its boutique shops. Snap photos of the nearby Floralis Genérica metal flower sculpture in full bloom.

evening
:

Dine at one of Recoleta's refined restaurants known for its gourmet Argentine cuisine. Sample a glass of Torrontés as you watch the sun set over grand Avenida Alvear. Take an after-dinner stroll past illuminated mansions and hidden courtyards.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍷Glass of wine at a bar$5-9
Coffee and pastry$3-6
🚇One-way public transport ticket$1-2
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant street life and cosmopolitan neighborhoods
  • World-class steak, wine, and culinary scene
  • Excellent tango culture and architecture
  • Traffic can be heavy and neighborhoods vary in safety at night
  • Prices can fluctuate with the peso; some tourist areas are pricier
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Buenos Aires

Visit one of these nice places.

La Boca & Caminito

Colorful buildings, lively street life, and tango-influenced imagery near the port district.

Plaza de Mayo & Casa Rosada

Iconic government buildings with grand architecture ideal for wide-angle captures and sunset shots.

Recoleta Cemetery

Elegant mausoleums and tree-lined avenues offering dramatic light and storytelling frames.

Puerto Madero & Puente de la Mujer

Modern skyline and striking bridges along the river for contemporary cityscapes.

Obelisco & Avenida 9 de Julio

Skylines and iconic monument shots from key vantage points in the heart of the city.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buenos Aires

Argentine cuisine centers on beef, simple yet bold flavors, and a strong coffee and pastry culture. Expect generous portions, social dining, and regional wine pairings that elevate every meal.

Buenos Aires Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Asado

A social barbecue featuring a variety of grilled meats (beef ribs, short ribs, chorizo) often enjoyed with chimichurri and salads at parrillas.

Must-Try!

Empanadas

Flaky pastry pockets filled with beef, chicken, or cheese, baked or fried; a popular snack or starter throughout the city.

Milanesa

Breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to a schnitzel, served solo or with a squeeze of lemon and a side of potatoes or salad.

Choripán

Grilled chorizo on crusty bread, often dressed with chimichurri or salsa criolla; a street-food staple near stadiums and plazas.

Pizza a la piedra / Fugazzeta

Argentine-style pizza with thick, cheesy toppings and a folded fugazzeta variety; widely available in pizzerias across the city.

Dulce de Leche desserts

Caramel-like dulce de leche used in cakes, pastries, and ice creams; a must-try sweet ending.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de San Telmo

Historic market with fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods; great for a tasting stroll and small bites.

Feria de Mataderos

Weekend market celebrating gaucho culture, traditional foods, folk music, and crafts on the city’s western edge.

Abasto Market

A historic market area turned shopping and dining hub with a blend of food stalls and eateries inside a landmark building.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buenos Aires has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are cool but rarely freezing, and spring and autumn are mild with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with occasional heavy downpours.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet and Personal Space

Buenos Aires locals often greet with a kiss on the cheek among friends and family; a handshake is common in formal settings. Polite, relaxed conversation is valued; avoid overly aggressive gestures in public.

Mealtime Etiquette

Meals start later than some other countries; expect long, social dining and shared dishes. Dress is generally smart-casual in nicer venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall, BA is safe in popular tourist areas, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded spaces. Keep valuables secure in transit, use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps at night, and stay aware in busy subways and markets. Use common travel precautions and have emergency numbers handy.

Tipping in Buenos Aires

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

If service is not included, a tip of 10% is customary in restaurants. In casual cafes, rounding up or small tips are appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in local pesos is useful for small purchases and markets. Some places may add a card surcharge; always carry some cash for street vendors and taxis.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon storms. Expect vibrant outdoor life, late dinners, and long daylight hours; stay hydrated and seek shade or air conditioning during peak heat.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and pleasant skies; ideal for walking neighborhoods, parks, and outdoor cafes as leaves turn golden.

Winter

Cool and sometimes windy, with chilly mornings and comfortable afternoons. Layered clothing is key; indoor cultural activities prevail during cooler spells.

Spring

Warm days with occasional rain; blooming trees and parks come alive, making outdoor exploration especially enjoyable.

Nightlife Guide

Buenos Aires at Night

The nightlife centers in Palermo, San Telmo, and Microcentro, with a mix of trendy bars, traditional parrillas, tango clubs, and live music venues. Expect late starts, with many locals dining after 9 pm and nightlife stretching into the early morning hours. Street music, cantinas, and intimate milongas offer a spectrum from casual to refined experiences.

Hiking in Buenos Aires

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tigre Delta trails

Boat and hiking routes through rivers and wooded channels in the greater Buenos Aires area, suitable for day trips from the city.

Costa de la Luján regional areas

Gentle, scenic options for short hikes along riverbanks and parklands near BA.

Airports

How to reach Buenos Aires by plane.

Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE)

Main international gateway located about 30-40 km from the city center; connected by highways, bus services, and car/taxi options.

Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP)

Domestic and regional flights hub closer to central BA; convenient for shorter trips and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Central districts like Microcentro, Recoleta, and Palermo are very walkable with dense amenities, while outer neighborhoods are more spread out. Subways (Subte) and buses complement walking, though traffic can slow longer trips. Expect hills and wide avenues in several areas, with good pedestrian infrastructure in the core.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals (porteños)

Diverse urban population with strong European heritage influence and a culture of social dining and nightlife.

Students and young professionals

Numerous universities and coworking spaces contribute to a dynamic, creative scene.

Tourists

Year-round visitors attracted by tango, architecture, cuisine, and cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (Soccer)

Argentina’s most beloved sport; local matches and stadium culture provide intense, festive atmospheres.

Rugby

Particularly popular among expat communities and in certain clubs; matches and social events are common on weekends.

Polo (in nearby provinces)

For fans and visitors, polo events occur in surrounding areas with scenic venues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during weekday rush hours. The Subte (metro) and buses offer efficient alternatives, though some routes experience congestion. Taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful, with longer waits during peak times in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buenos Aires.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in Buenos Aires, especially in Palermo and microcentro: look for veggie empanadas, grill-free salads, and pasta dishes; you can request ‘sin carne’ and avoid heavy sauces. Many places can adapt dishes; for gluten-free needs, confirm ingredients and ask for dressings on the side.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Buenos Aires offers robust healthcare options, including private hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff. Public healthcare exists but may have longer wait times and variable language support. Foreign travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical care and emergency evacuation.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide