Hola! My name is Ana and in this article I’ll be sharing tips on the best things to do in Buenos Aires. I’m from Brazil and have a degree in advertising, and worked for a large television network in Brazil called TV Globo. My passion for travel started when my boyfriend (now husband) took me on my first trip outside my country to Peru. Imagine, having never traveled abroad, your first experience is spending the day in Machu Picchu!
Our blog – ateondeeupuderir.com – arose from the desire to keep memories of our trips and to help people. I can say that we were the first Brazilian blog to create a format of scripts ready for anyone to read. Our YouTube channel, on the other hand, was an extension of the blog. At the start it just showed images of beaches etc. (which was horrible), but over time we learned how to edit videos properly and the channel improved a lot. On the blog I’m more detailed and with our vlogs I’m more romantic!
Two Amazing Trips to Buenos Aires
We have been to Buenos Aires twice now and one of the biggest motivations to visit was the fact that the prices were attractive for us as Brazilians (due to the Argentine economy). On our first trip, we stayed for 15 days and we liked it so much that the following year we went for a month. We wanted to learn Spanish but in reality I just wanted to eat the food!
Another reason we wanted to go is because it’s a great place to take a puppy (we have a dog called Don). By staying there for a month, we visited practically all of the tourist attractions as well as seeing other places like Tigre and San Isidro. On our second visit, we explored the city in depth, went shopping and ate a lot because the restaurants are so wonderful.
What I Love Most About BA
Buenos Aires is a wonderful destination that’s very close to my heart. I really love the atmosphere of the city, the friendly local Portenos, the variety of food and gastronomic experiences. This is the only place on earth that I have visited twice in my life – which just goes to show how much I adore it!
One of my favorite places in BA is Bosques de Palermo (Palermo Woods) because in October when we went everything was still in bloom and I love parks in general. We also discovered another park in Buenos Aires that isn’t often visited by tourists called Lago de Regatas. This place won my heart.
I also really enjoyed walking around the Palermo neighborhood, and discovering the cafes and street art. Puerto Madero is another pleasant place to spend the day. It’s a quiet part of the city and has everything you need, including fantastic parks such as Micaela Bastidas Park and Costanera Sur Reserve. I should mention the Japanese Garden and Chinese neighborhood too, as they are both unique spots worthy of visiting.
10 Things To Do in Buenos Aires
1. Take an Uber or Book a Transfer from the Airport
If you arrive at the airport, you can opt for an Uber which is a convenient way of getting to your hotel without the need to pre-book transfers. However, some transfer agencies provide perks that you might find beneficial like a complimentary cell phone SIM and discounts on attractions. Travelers can choose between the simplicity of Uber or the advantages of booking through agencies upon arrival in Buenos Aires.
2. See a Tango Show in Buenos Aires
Seeing a tango show is a captivating experience that showcases Argentina’s rich heritage. You can witness these performances in traditional tango houses such as Cafe de los Angelitos or historic theaters like Teatro Colon. The shows range from intimate performances in smaller venues to grand spectacles featuring elaborate costumes and live orchestras. Beyond the dance itself, these shows offer insights into Argentine history and passion – making them a must-see for anyone visiting BA!
3. Book a Ballet or Opera Show at Teatro Colon
Visiting Teatro Colon is a must-do for its unparalleled grandeur and cultural significance. Known for its superb acoustics and opulent architecture, the theater offers a variety of performances including world-class ballet, opera and orchestral concerts. While not primarily known for tango shows, Teatro Colon occasionally hosts special tango performances, blending the elegance of the dance with the theater’s majestic setting.
4. Watch the Boca Juniors Play Football
Attending a football match in La Boca is a thrilling experience due to the passionate atmosphere and historical significance of La Bombonera. Booking tickets in advance through official club websites or trusted vendors is advisable. To reach La Boca, taxis or public buses offer convenient options from central BA. It’s essential to check the match schedule, arrive early to soak in the pre-game rituals and embrace the fervent crowds. Prepare by wearing team colors and staying safe.
5. Have a Picnic in the Parks of Buenos Aires
Having a picnic in the parks of Buenos Aires, such as the Palermo Woods or the lesser-known Lago de Regatas, is a delightful way to enjoy the city’s green spaces. You can pack a variety of Argentine delicacies like empanadas, choripan and alfajores, along with a bottle of Malbec wine for a true local flavor. Find a shady spot near the lakes or under the trees to savor the food, wine and peaceful surroundings of these picturesque parks.
6. Explore Barrio Chino (Buenos Aires’ Chinatown)
Visiting Barrio Chino offers a vibrant cultural experience amidst the bustling city. Located in the Belgrano neighborhood, it’s a haven for Asian traditions. Wander through its narrow streets lined with colorful lanterns, shops selling exotic goods and authentic restaurants offering dim sum, noodles and tea. Don’t miss the annual Chinese New Year celebrations, featuring dragon dances and fireworks. Easily accessible by public transport, Barrio Chino provides a fascinating glimpse into Buenos Aires’ multicultural fabric, blending Argentine flair with Chinese heritage.
7. Enjoy Breakfast at the Quaint Cafes
Having breakfast in the quaint cafes is a quintessential Buenos Aires experience, with Oli standing out for its unforgettable array of sweet and savory delights. Located in the heart of the city, Oli offers a cozy ambiance perfect for indulging in freshly baked pastries, artisanal breads and aromatic coffee. Their menu boasts a mix of traditional Argentine favorites like medialunas (croissants) and modern twists on breakfast classics.
8. Gorge on the Delicious Food of Buenos Aires
When visiting Buenos Aires, indulging in Argentine meat is a culinary must-do, renowned for their exceptional flavor and tenderness. Pairing this with local wines enhances the dining experience, as Argentine wines are celebrated for their quality. And for a sweet finale, sampling Buenos Aires’ ice cream is essential. Whether savoring a juicy steak, enjoying a glass of Malbec or treating yourself to artisanal helado – Buenos Aires offers a gastronomic journey that delights the senses and caters to every palate.
9. Use Public Transport to Get Around Buenos Aires
Using public transport not only provides a deeper immersion into the city’s daily life but also proves incredibly cost-effective. With a network of buses and the iconic Subte (subway), navigating BA becomes both convenient and economical. The Subte’s single fare allows unlimited transfers, making it a practical choice for exploring various neighborhoods. Buses, identified by numbered routes, offer routes that reach every corner of the city.
10. Make the Journey Up to Tigre
If you find yourself with extra time in Buenos Aires, a visit to Tigre is highly recommended and well worth the journey. Located just north of the city, Tigre offers a serene escape with its charming riverside setting and picturesque landscapes. Explore its famous delta by boat, discovering lush islands, historic rowing clubs and vibrant markets. Tigre’s attractions include museums, art galleries and waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. Accessible via train or boat from Buenos Aires, Tigre provides a refreshing contrast to the city’s hustle, making it an ideal day trip.
Neighborhoods to Stay at in BA
The two times we went to Buenos Aires, we stayed in Airbnbs in Palermo. This is a great place to base yourself as it’s quiet and, at the same time, it’s home to some of the best restaurants in the city. There’s also lots of shops, squares and markets. In other words, it’s a very complete and safe neighborhood! Another popular area is Recoleta which I stayed at for a few days. Recoleta is nice as well but Palermo is better in my opinion.
How Many Days to Spend in BA
If you want to see the main tourist attractions, dedicating a day to each neighborhood is a good idea. You could spend the day in Palermo, Recoleta, Puerto Madero, San Telmo and La Boca. I would suggest visiting for five days but to be honest the city deserves longer. As I mentioned, there are many good restaurants, experiences and hidden gems. So the longer you stay in Buenos Aires, the better! At least a week is a good idea.
Favorite Memory of BA: Coldplay
To finish, I would like to leave you with my favorite memory of Buenos Aires. The first time we went, we managed to go to the Coldplay concert. In Brazil, it was impossible to get tickets. However, when Coldplay were playing in Buenos Aires during our stay, we asked some Argentines to buy tickets for us and we got them. It was the best show I have ever seen. Their organization, security and cleanliness was impeccable. It was amazing!
