Buenos Aires, often referred to as the Paris of South America, is a city that mesmerizes with its European architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich cultural scene. Our recent five-day journey to this enchanting city was a blend of exploration, culinary delights, and cultural immersion. Here's a detailed look at our adventure, along with tips on getting around, top activities, and must-see places.
Getting There and Around
Flights within Argentina are surprisingly inexpensive. A handy tip is to book your flights on local sites and use a VPN if you're booking from outside the country. This way, you can take advantage of local rates in pesos, saving a significant amount.
Once in Buenos Aires, we found Uber to be the most cost-effective and convenient mode of transport. Taxis can be challenging to flag down and often a source of frustration for tourists. Uber, on the other hand, was reliable and easy to use.
Neighborhood Highlights
Recoleta and Palermo
Recoleta and Palermo are two of the most charming neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Both are highly walkable, with cafes, wine bars, and parrillas (steak houses) on every corner. Recoleta is known for its grand architecture and the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried. The neighborhood also features beautiful parks and plazas, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Palermo is the city's trendiest area, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, two sub-neighborhoods, are particularly popular for their eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and designer shops. The area is also home to several parks, including the sprawling Bosques de Palermo, offering a green escape from the urban hustle.
Day 1: Historical and Architectural Wonders
We kicked off our adventure with a visit to the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral. This magnificent structure, located in Plaza de Mayo, is the main Catholic church in Buenos Aires. Its neoclassical façade and ornate interior, featuring statues and frescoes, make it a must-see. Entrance is free, and it's a peaceful spot to reflect and admire the architecture.
Nearby, we explored Avenida de Mayo, a bustling avenue lined with beautiful buildings and cafes. This avenue connects Plaza de Mayo with the National Congress and is known for its rich architectural heritage, including the iconic Palacio Barolo. One must-see here is Casa Rosada, the presidential palace known for its distinctive pink hue. Guided tours of the palace are available on weekends and must be booked in advance.
Other Activities in the Area:
- Café Tortoni: One of the oldest cafes in the city, offering a glimpse into Buenos Aires' literary and cultural past.
- El Zanjón de Granados: An intriguing museum that explores the history of the city through its underground tunnels.
Day 2: Culinary Delights and Literary Escapes
Our second day began with a visit to Oli Café. Though the wait was long, the delicious brunch spread and artisanal pastries were well worth it. Each sip of coffee and every bite of food was a delight. Oli Café is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it a perfect spot to start your day.
From Oli Café, we headed to Ateneo Grand Splendid, often hailed as the most beautiful bookstore in the world. This converted theater features stunning architecture, a magnificent domed ceiling, and a vast collection of books. The combination of a delicious brunch and literary exploration made for a perfect day. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a coffee and a book while soaking in the ambiance.
Other Activities in the Area:
- Palermo Soho's Street Art: Take a walking tour to explore the vibrant murals and graffiti that decorate the neighborhood.
- Plaza Italia: A central hub in Palermo, with various attractions nearby, including the Buenos Aires Eco Park and the Galileo Galilei Planetarium.
Day 3: A Japanese Oasis and Spa Relaxation
We ventured into the serene Jardín Japonés, a beautifully maintained Japanese garden in the heart of Buenos Aires. The koi ponds, cherry trees, and meticulous landscaping transported us to Japan for a moment. The park was crowded, possibly due to our weekend visit, but it was still a peaceful experience. The garden also has a traditional tea house and a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine.
Later, we treated ourselves to a spa day at Club Spa, easily booked through WhatsApp. The 2-for-1 deal we got included a massage, afternoon tea, sauna, and bath for $34,707.00 ARS. The facilities were top-notch, and it was a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Other Activities in the Area:
- Museo Evita: A museum dedicated to the life of Eva Perón, housed in a beautiful early 20th-century mansion.
- Malba - Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires: Showcasing Latin American art from the early 20th century to the present.
Day 4: Art and Shopping Extravaganza
With the kids choosing to stay in, I set off solo to explore the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. This museum boasts an impressive collection of over 600 major works and 12,000 sketches, fragments, and potteries, making it a must-visit for art lovers. The collection includes works by European masters like Rembrandt, Goya, and Van Gogh, as well as prominent Argentine artists.
From there, I walked to Centro Cultural Recoleta, housed in a former Franciscan convent. The cultural center features art galleries, exhibition halls, and a cinema, with events, courses, and workshops regularly offered. On weekends, the market around the center is a lively spot to explore, offering crafts, antiques, and local delicacies.
My next stop was Galerías Pacífico, an elegant shopping center and a national historical monument. Built in 1889, its design emulates Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The stunning murals and architectural beauty of this shopping center are worth admiring, even if you don't plan on shopping. I enjoyed a croissant and cosmopolitan for under $4 at the center cafe.
Other Activities in the Area:
- Cementerio de la Recoleta: Famous for its elaborate tombstones and mausoleums, it's the resting place of many notable Argentines, including Eva Perón.
- Floralis Genérica: A massive metal flower sculpture that opens and closes with the sun, located in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas.
Day 5: Market Exploration and Beyond
On our final day, we immersed ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Mercado San Telmo. This market is a treasure trove of antiques, local crafts, and delicious street food. It's a fantastic spot to soak in the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs. The market is particularly lively on Sundays, with street performers and tango dancers adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Other Activities in the Area:
- San Telmo Antiques Fair: Held every Sunday, this fair is a must-visit for antique lovers.
- El Zanjon de Granados: An archaeological site that offers guided tours, providing a glimpse into Buenos Aires' colonial past.
Top Activities and Must-See Places in Buenos Aires
- Teatro Colón: One of the world's best opera houses, renowned for its acoustics and stunning architecture. Guided tours are available.
- Puerto Madero: A modern waterfront district with upscale restaurants, a beautiful boardwalk, and the iconic Puente de la Mujer bridge.
- La Boca and Caminito: A colorful neighborhood famous for its vibrant street art, tango performances, and the Boca Juniors football stadium.
- Plaza Dorrego: Located in San Telmo, this square is surrounded by cafes and bars, and hosts a lively market on weekends.
- Recoleta Cemetery: Known for its elaborate tombstones and mausoleums, it's the resting place of many notable Argentines, including Eva Perón.
- Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires (MAMBA): A museum showcasing contemporary Argentine and international art.
- El Ateneo Grand Splendid: A beautiful bookstore housed in a former theater, considered one of the most stunning bookstores in the world.
- Bosques de Palermo: A large park offering walking paths, lakes, and the stunning Rose Garden (El Rosedal).
- Take a Private Tour of the City: Private tours can provide a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides offering insights into the city's history, culture, and hidden gems.
- Visit Tigre: A picturesque town located on the Paraná Delta, Tigre offers boat tours, a charming market, and beautiful riverside views. You can reach Tigre by train from Retiro Station in Buenos Aires.
- Bike Around Buenos Aires: Renting a bike is an excellent way to explore the city. Rentals are available for around $10-15 USD per day, and you can find bike rental shops throughout the city. Popular biking areas include the Ecological Reserve and the parks in Palermo.
- Visit the Planetarium: The Galileo Galilei Planetarium in Palermo offers shows and exhibits about astronomy and space. It's a fascinating visit for both adults and children.
- Explore the Botanical Gardens: Located in Palermo, the Botanical Gardens feature a wide variety of plants, sculptures, and beautiful green spaces for a relaxing stroll.
- Go for a Meal or Drink Along Avenida Alicia Moreau de Justo: This avenue in Puerto Madero is lined with upscale restaurants and bars, offering a scenic dining experience by the waterfront.
- Enjoy a Traditional Argentinian BBQ: Known as an "asado," this barbecue is a social event where various cuts of meat are cooked on a grill. Many restaurants and parrillas in Buenos Aires offer this experience.
- Go Wine Tasting: Consider a day trip or overnight trip to neighboring wine regions such as Mendoza. Tours and buses are available, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 USD, depending on the package. Many tours include visits to multiple wineries, tastings, and meals.
- Make the Trip to Iguazu Falls: Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. From Buenos Aires, you can fly to Puerto Iguazú, with flights taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once there, guided tours are available to explore the falls. Entrance fees to the national park are around $30 USD.
Final Thoughts
Buenos Aires is a city that invites you to explore its streets, savor its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Whether you're wandering through its historic avenues, relaxing in serene gardens, or indulging in a spa day, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. With its mix of European charm and Latin American flair, Buenos Aires promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
