The best things to do in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a city known for its rich culture, history, and vibrant nightlife. From tango dancing to visiting historical sites, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling metropolis. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are some of the top things to do in Buenos Aires.
Explore the Neighborhoods
Buenos Aires is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. The most famous neighborhood is La Boca, known for its colorful houses and street art. San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood, is home to antique shops, tango halls, and the famous Sunday fair. Palermo is a trendy neighborhood with lots of parks, museums, and upscale restaurants. Recoleta is the most elegant neighborhood in Buenos Aires, home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita Peron is buried.
See a Tango Show
Tango is a integral part of Buenos Aires’ culture, and seeing a live tango show is a must-do for any visitor. There are several venues around the city that offer tango shows, including the famous Tango Porteno. The shows are typically held in the evening and include dinner, making for a perfect night out.
Visit the Museums
Buenos Aires is home to several world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Decorative Arts. The Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA) is a must-see for art lovers, with a collection that includes works by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
Take a Walking Tour
Walking tours are a great way to get to know the city and its history. There are several companies that offer walking tours of Buenos Aires, covering everything from the city’s architecture to its political history.
Visit the Cemeteries
Cemeteries may seem like an odd thing to visit on vacation, but in Buenos Aires, they are a must-see. The most famous is the Recoleta Cemetery, where many of Argentina’s most famous figures are buried, including Evita Peron. The cemetery is a fascinating place to explore, with ornate tombs and sculptures.
See a Football Match
Football, or soccer as it’s known in the United States, is a religion in Buenos Aires, and seeing a match is a unique experience. The city has two major teams, Boca Juniors and River Plate, and matches between the two are known as the Superclásico. Tickets to matches can be hard to come by, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Visit the Parks
Buenos Aires has several beautiful parks, including the Botanical Garden and Palermo Parks. The Palermo Parks are a group of parks that cover over 400 acres and are perfect for picnics, walks or bike rides.
Go Shopping
Buenos Aires is a great place for shopping, with everything from high-end designer boutiques to street markets. The most famous shopping street is Florida Street, where you’ll find a mix of street vendors and shops selling everything from leather goods to souvenirs.
Try the Food
Argentinian cuisine is known for its meat, and Buenos Aires is the perfect place to tryit. Some must-try dishes include asado (barbecue), empanadas (meat or cheese turnovers), and chimichurri (a sauce made from herbs and oil). For a true culinary experience, head to one of the city’s parrillas (steakhouses) where you can enjoy a hearty meal of steak, chimichurri, and a glass of Argentine Malbec. Additionally, Buenos Aires has a wide variety of international cuisine, including Italian, Spanish and Chinese, as well as a growing vegetarian and vegan scene.
Take a Day Trip
If you have some extra time, consider taking a day trip out of the city. One popular option is to head to Tigre, a small town located on the delta of the Parana River. Here, you can take a boat tour, visit an art museum, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Another option is to visit San Antonio de Areco, a picturesque town located about two hours outside of Buenos Aires. This town is known for its gaucho (cowboy) culture and traditional crafts, and is the perfect place to experience the Argentine countryside.
Experience the Nightlife
Buenos Aires is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and milongas (tango dance halls) to choose from. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own unique nightlife scene, from the trendy bars of Palermo to the traditional milongas of San Telmo. The best time to go out is on a weekend, when the city really comes alive, but there are also plenty of options for a good night out during the week.
Relax at a Spa
After all the walking and exploring, you may want to relax and indulge in some pampering. Buenos Aires has several spas that offer a variety of services, including massages, facials, and beauty treatments. These spas are the perfect way to unwind and recharge after a busy day of sightseeing.
In conclusion, Buenos Aires is a city full of culture, history, art, music, dance, and delicious food. With so many things to see and do, it’s hard to get bored in this vibrant metropolis. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply want to soak up the local culture, Buenos Aires has something for everyone.
