Things To Do
in San Isidro
San Isidro is a leafy suburban city just north of Buenos Aires, perched along the banks of the Rio de la Plata. It blends historic, belle-epoque architecture with modern cafés, shops, and green spaces that make for relaxed city wandering. The town center around Plaza Mitre anchors a walkable, family-friendly atmosphere with the iconic Catedral de San Isidro and charming streets.
Riverfront promenades, gardens, and the nearby Hipódromo de San Isidro add character and variety to a visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wander through the tree-lined streets near the old train station, admiring the ornate façades and local art galleries. Sample a freshly baked medialuna at a century-old café as you soak in the neighborhood’s colonial charm. Chat with friendly shop owners to learn about San Isidro’s rich history and local legends.
Visit the Museo Pueyrredón to delve into Argentine art and history housed in a majestic historic mansion. Enjoy a guided tour through its elegant rooms and lush gardens while learning about the life of one of the country’s founding families. Pause at the museum’s café for a light empanada and mate alongside locals.
Head to the Plaza Mitre and watch the sunset paint the cathedral’s twin spires in golden light. Join an outdoor gathering or live music performance in the square’s vibrant atmosphere. Cap off the night with a glass of Malbec at a nearby wine bar, mingling with residents under string lights.
Rise early to attend a local mass at the neo-Gothic San Isidro Cathedral, admiring its intricate stained glass and soaring spires. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as morning light filters through the colorful windows. Then explore the surrounding square, where vendors sell handcrafted souvenirs and local pastries.
Have lunch at a sidewalk café overlooking the plaza, savoring grilled provoleta cheese with chimichurri. Join a guided walking tour that explains the cathedral’s architectural details and the plaza’s role as San Isidro’s social hub. Explore nearby artisan markets, picking up handmade textiles and leather goods from local craftspeople.
Return to the plaza to watch street performers and live music events under the ancient ombú trees. Relax on a bench with a dulce de leche alfajor and a cortado as the square fills with families enjoying the mild evening. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the illuminated walkways, breathing in the festive air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a bar | $5-8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming walkable town center with historic architecture
- Easy access to riverfront and nature within reach
- High-quality dining options and a strong parrilla culture
- Safe, family-friendly atmosphere and good transit links
- Less nightlife compared to central Buenos Aires
- Can be pricey in some restaurants
- Public transport to outer areas can be infrequent
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde queda?" - Where is it?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede hablar inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
- "Soy vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
- "¿Recomienda algo sin gluten?" - Do you have gluten-free options?
Places to Visit in San Isidro
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-inspired cathedral with a striking facade and interior; best photographed in the soft morning light.
Cobblestone lanes, colonial buildings, and lanterns create classic Buenos Aires–area photography scenes.
Wide horizons over the Rio de la Plata and sunset opportunities along the water.
Urban wetlands with boardwalks, reeds, and birds; great for nature and bird photography.
Historic racecourse with grandstands and architectural details for dynamic shots.
Food in San Isidro
San Isidro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Argentine sirloin steak, often served with chimichurri and potatoes.
Must-Try!
Grilled provolone cheese with oregano and chili flakes; a staple at parrillas.
Hand pies filled with beef or chicken, olives, and spices.
Breaded meat cutlet topped with tomato, ham, and melted cheese.
Chorizo sausage on crusty bread with chimichurri or salsa criolla.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market near the cathedral offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, empanadas, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes are common in formal settings; friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek (usually one on each cheek). Use polite language with strangers and address elders with 'usted' in formal situations.
Spanish is the default; Argentinians often use 'vos' informally in casual speech. Politeness and patience go a long way in service settings.
Dinner often starts late (around 9–10 pm). It’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to share plates when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in San Isidro
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service at cafés is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in Argentine pesos is handy for small vendors. Contactless payments are increasingly common, especially in mid-range and tourist-friendly spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with occasional thunderstorms. Dress light, sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take advantage of riverfront shade and early-evening strolls.
Mild temperatures with comfortable days and cooler evenings. Layered clothing works well; rainfall is possible.
Cool but rarely freezing; typical highs in the low to mid teens Celsius. Bring a warm layer and a light rain jacket.
Pleasant and often sunny with blooming greenery. Great for outdoor activities; occasional showers can occur.
San Isidro at Night
Hiking in San Isidro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban wetlands with boardwalks and trails ideal for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Waterfront and delta routes offering scenic walks with views of the river and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach San Isidro by plane.
Main international gateway for the Buenos Aires region; located roughly 35–50 km from San Isidro, reachable by highway or public transit connections.
Domestic and regional flights hub; closer to central Buenos Aires and about 20–25 km from San Isidro, often used for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly middle-to-upper-middle-class households seeking a calm suburban lifestyle with good schools and green spaces.
Commuters who work in the city or local services, often in well-established neighborhoods.
Older residents who value safety, quiet streets, and community amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Hipódromo de San Isidro hosts major races and related social events iconic to the region.
Many clubs offer tennis facilities and host local tournaments.
A favorite pastime across the area with local clubs and park games throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Isidro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In San Isidro, vegetarians can enjoy vegetarian empanadas, provoleta bites, salads, pastas, and grilled vegetables; look for restaurants with plant-based dishes or request meat-free preparations.