Buenos Aires Travel Guide

This travel guide provides comprehensive information for travelers visiting Buenos Aires, including lists of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, where to eat and drink, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options and logistics.


Introduction to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and is known for its rich culture, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. From the colorful buildings of La Boca to the wide boulevards of Palermo, Buenos Aires has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Buenos Aires

Here are our top picks for places to visit in Buenos Aires:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Recoleta Cemetery
  • Casa Rosada
  • MALBA Museum
  • Teatro Colon
  • La Bombonera Stadium
  • San Telmo Market

Natural Attractions of Buenos Aires: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ecological Reserve
  • Tigre Delta
  • Palermo Woods
  • Puerto Madero Waterfront
  • Costanera Sur

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buenos Aires

If you are looking to explore the city on foot or by bike, there are several great routes to choose from:

  • Puerto Madero to Recoleta
  • Palermo to San Telmo
  • Ecological Reserve Trail
  • Tigre Delta Bike Path
  • Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve Trail

Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in food, history, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in Buenos Aires:

  • Take a tango lesson
  • Visit a traditional Estancia
  • Take a cooking class
  • Tour a vineyard in Mendoza
  • Explore the Tigre Delta by boat

Week-Long Itinerary for Buenos Aires

If you have a week to explore Buenos Aires, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Recoleta Cemetery, MALBA Museum, Palermo Woods
2 San Telmo Market and La Boca
3 Teatro Colon, Casa Rosada, and Puerto Madero Waterfront
4 Tigre Delta day trip
5 Explore the Ecological Reserve
6 Take a tango lesson and enjoy a traditional Argentine dinner
7 Visit a nearby Estancia for horseback riding and a BBQ lunch

Food and Drink Scene of Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is known for its delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: a traditional Argentine BBQ
  • Empanadas: stuffed pastries
  • Milanesa: breaded meat cutlets
  • Dulce de Leche: caramel-like spread
  • Alfajores: sandwich cookies with dulce de leche filling

Local Beverages

  • Malbec wine
  • Fernet and Coke (a popular liquor drink)
  • Mate tea

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a variety of accommodations to choose from in Buenos Aires, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels:

  • Alvear Palace Hotel (luxury)
  • Four Seasons Buenos Aires (luxury)
  • Legado Mitico (boutique)
  • Milhouse Hostel (budget-friendly)
  • Selina Buenos Aires (hostel)

What to Buy in Buenos Aires: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Buenos Aires, here are some souvenirs to consider:

  • Tango music and dance lessons
  • Leather goods (shoes, jackets, bags)
  • Hand-painted ceramics
  • Argentine wine
  • Mate tea set

Local Culture and Customs of Buenos Aires

In Buenos Aires, it is common to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek. Tango is an integral part of the culture, and many locals enjoy attending milongas (social dance events).

Best Time to Visit Buenos Aires

The best time to visit Buenos Aires is during the spring (September-November) or fall (March-May) when the weather is mild. Summers (December-February) can be hot and humid, while winters (June-August) are cool and often rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buenos Aires

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture by taking a tango lesson or attending a milonga.
  • Try traditional Argentine cuisine like asado and empanadas.
  • Practice your Spanish, as many locals do not speak English fluently.
  • Use public transportation, which is safe and affordable.

Don’t:

  • Display flashy jewelry or expensive belongings.
  • Drink tap water, which may cause illness.
  • Hail a taxi on the street, as they can be unsafe. Use a ride-hailing app such as Uber instead.
  • Leave your belongings unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buenos Aires

While Buenos Aires is generally a safe city, tourists should take common-sense precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night and in remote areas.
  • Keep your belongings close and watch for pickpockets.
  • Use ATM machines in secure locations.

Health in Buenos Aires

To stay healthy while in Buenos Aires:

  • Drink bottled water instead of tap water.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Wear insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of illness.

Getting to Buenos Aires: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Buenos Aires

  • Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza)
  • Aeroparque Jorge Newbery

Bus Stations Near Buenos Aires

  • Retiro Bus Station
  • Liniers Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Buenos Aires has several train stations, including Retiro and Constitucion.
  • Ferry: There are several ferry services that connect Buenos Aires to Uruguay.

How to Get Around in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also available.

Where to Go Next from Buenos Aires: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in Argentina, consider visiting one of these nearby destinations:

  • Mendoza (wine country)
  • Iguazu Falls
  • Bariloche (Andes Mountains)
  • Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay)

Conclusion

Buenos Aires is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. With its rich culture, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that Buenos Aires is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s historic landmarks, try local dishes, or learn to dance the tango, Buenos Aires has an unforgettable experience waiting for you.