Natalie
Buenos Aires the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city that offers a perfect blend of excitement, culture, and relaxation.
From indulging in delicious cuisine and sipping on exquisite wines to experiencing the energetic tango scene, Buenos Aires has something for everyone.
Get ready to discover the best of Buenos Aires with this ultimate travel guide!
WHAT TO EXPECT IN BUENOS AIRES
When visiting Buenos Aires, expect to be enchanted by its lively energy and rich cultural history. As for practical considerations here are some helpful tips to get you started!
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is also understood in many places.
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS); credit cards widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash on hand.
- Credit Cards and Banks: Easily accessible throughout the Buenos Aires.
- Climate: Buenos Aires experiences seasons that are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. Summers (December to February) are hot and humid, while winters (June to August) are mild with cooler temperatures. Keep in mind the reversed seasons when planning your visit.
- Safety: like any major city, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Take the standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night.
- Hours: Buenos Aires is a late night city – don’t expect to have dinner until after 9pm!
GETTING AROUND BUENOS AIRES
Buenos Aires is a pretty easy city to navigate. Hop on a colorful colectivo, glide through the city’s veins on the Subte, or hail a taxi for a tango-inspired ride to your destination.
- Public Transport: The best way to get around Buenos Aires is through its extensive public transportation system. The city has a vast network of buses, known as “colectivos,” which can take you to almost any destination. The subway, called “Subte,” is another convenient option with six lines connecting various neighborhoods.
- Car: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available. Traffic is not too bad in Buenos Aires and prices are reasonable.
- By Foot: Walking is a great way to explore certain areas, especially in the city center and neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta.
- Arriving by Plane: If you’re flying internationally into Buenos Aires, you’ll most likely be landing at Ezeiza International Airport. From there its about a 45 minute car ride to the city center. I recommend getting a taxi or Uber.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES
Buenos Aires is a very large sprawling city. Because of this there are a several neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own personality.
The most popular neighborhoods for tourists are Palermo and Recoleta. Recoleta offers elegant architecture, upscale hotels, and proximity to the iconic Recoleta Cemetery. Palermo, on the other hand, offers a trendy and lively atmosphere with its hip bars, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops.
For a more bohemian (and cost effective) stay, San Telmo is the neighborhood to explore, known for its cobblestone streets, tango bars, and vibrant street market.
Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
Located in a meticulously restored palace dating back to the 1930s, this luxurious hotel is a great pick for an extravagant stay.
📍Recoleta
⭐️ 5 Star
💲 $$$$
Mine Hotel Boutique
Esthetics, avant-garde and a warm style of personalized attention are combined in this boutique option that offers a garden with pool.
📍Palermo Soho
⭐️ 4 Star
💲 $$$
Urban Suites Recoleta Boutique Hotel
Just a few steps away from the Alvear Avenue and the Recoleta Cemetery, this is the perfect spot to stay to explore Buenos Aires.
📍Recoleta
⭐️ 4 Star
💲 $$$
Miravida Soho Hotel & Wine Bar
Located on a cobblestone street it has the feel of a private residence, intimate and comfortable.
📍Palermo Soho
⭐️ 3 Star
💲 $$
Anselmo Buenos Aires, Curio Collection by Hilton
Located in front of the famous Plaza Dorrego: a colorful, dynamic square in the epicenter of the historical neighborhood of San Telmo.
📍San Telmo
⭐️ 4 Star
💲 $$
Hotel Costa Rica
Just steps away from central Palermo, this hotel offers a great location at a great price. Enjoy the sun, magical sunrises on the roof and the magic of the nights at the rooftop bar.
📍Palermo
⭐️ 3 Star
💲 $
WHERE TO EAT IN BEUNOS AIRES
Buenos Aires is a true paradise for food lovers – wine, steak, pastries, and
From sizzling steaks and mouthwatering empanadas to delectable pastries and bold Malbec wines, the city offers a diverse and vibrant dining scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage.
And let’s not forget the charming cafes that are an integral part of Buenos Aires’ culinary landscape. Whether you’re in search of a cozy spot to enjoy a strong cup of coffee or a stylish cafe to indulge in delicious pastries, Buenos Aires has you covered.
ANAFE
🍴 Modern Argentinian
Anafe was my favorite restaurant in the city. The star of the show is undoubtedly their paella, bursting with flavors and expertly crafted with a perfect balance of textures and aromas. The cozy and intimate atmosphere, combined with the warm and attentive service, adds to the overall dining experience. If you’re in Buenos Aires – GO HERE!
El Preferido de Palermo is just so good – I don’t even know where to start. From the second you get there (when they serve you a welcome Gin & Tonic and an empanada might we add) you will fall in love with this place. All of the food is delicious but they are known for their Milanese which is a Schnitzel like steak. Long story short, grab a reservation.
CUERVO CAFE
🍴Cafe
I usually love trying out new coffee shops in the morning on my travels, but Cuervo Cafe was so good… I came back multiple times. You can order from a window or go inside, either way the coffee and pastries are fantastic.
Don Julio
🍴Steakhouse
Don Julio is a must go for the quintessential steak dinner in Argentina. The atmosphere is so cozy and rustic, and the staff makes you feel right at home. Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the steaks. They’re cooked to absolute perfection, juicy and flavorful with that signature Argentine beef goodness. Seriously, you’ll be in carnivore heaven! Don’t miss their mouthwatering paella either, it’s out of this world.
EL GAUCHITO
🍴Empanadas
It may look like a hole in the wall, but El Gauchito has some of the best empanadas you will ever have. They had about 8 flavors including vegetarian options. And their house wine is better than a lot of fancy restaurants
WHAT TO DO IN BUENOS AIRES
Some of the best days in Buenos Aires is getting lost in the city – trying empanadas, drinking some Malbec and enjoying the beautiful city.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Buenos Aires by exploring its eclectic neighborhoods, indulging in delicious Argentine cuisine, and experiencing the passion of a tango show. Here are my top 5 things to do in Buenos Aires:
Check out the colorful streets of La Boca, known for its iconic Caminito street lined with vibrant houses and tango performances. fun fact is that the iconic Caminito street, a popular tourist attraction, takes its name from a tango song by Juan de Dios Filiberto.
Stroll along the cobblestone streets of San Telmo and soak up its bohemian atmosphere. Its home to the oldest market in Buenos Aires, Mercado de San Telmo, which dates back to 1897 and still retains its traditional charm, offering a variety of food, antiques, and local products. If you’re there on a Sunday, check out the outdoor market that takes place on Calle Defensa.
Discover the enchanting Recoleta Cemetery, a fascinating labyrinth of ornate mausoleums and tombs. Take a walk through history as you explore the final resting place of notable figures, including Eva Perón (Evita), and admire the exquisite architecture.
Head to Plaza de Mayo, the city’s main square and a historic hub. You’ll see the iconic landmarks like the Casa Rosada (Pink House), the presidential palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. This square has witnessed significant events and movements, including the May Revolution of 1810 that led to Argentina’s independence from Spain.
Experience the mesmerizing world of tango, the national Argentine dance. Two excellent options for a tango show are Rojo Tango, known for its luxurious setting and world-class performances (its hosted at the hotel where Beyonce stayed when she visited Buenos Aires!), and El Querandí, a traditional venue where you can enjoy a magical evening of tango accompanied by delicious Argentine cuisine.
