Buenos Aires
The amazing Buenos Aires is an inviting and passionate city that utterly embodies the flair of Argentinian life. Epic food, dance, art and good times await!
What you need to know about Buenos Aires
Much of what springs to mind when you think of Argentina is encapsulated in Buenos Aires. Incredible steaks, delicious wine and superb tango are just some of the delights awaiting you.
Language: Spanish is spoken throughout Argentina. Many locals also understand English but some basic Spanish phrases will be helpful for you to know before travelling.
Currency: Argentine Peso
Banking: ATMs are found all over the country and all major cards are accepted.
Weather: Spring and Autumn are lovely weather-wise. The temperatures are fairly mild so you can enjoy the attractions and sights without being oppressed by the summer heat. The Summer is indeed very hot and humid but does provide a really South American feel to your travel experience. Winters are unsurprisingly cold compared to the other seasons but snow isn’t that likely. Maybe pack a few layers just in case it gets a bit chilly.
Buenos Aires in a nutshell
The capital of Argentina is Buenos Aires. In Spanish, the name means "fair winds" or "good airs." It is one of Latin America's major cities, with a diverse range of cultural attractions, and serves as a gateway to the vast majority of the country. Buenos Aires residents are known as porteos, or "those from the port," meaning that many of the city's residents are immigrants in some form. Buenos Aires is a one-of-a-kind, dynamic, and integrative destination that allows visitors to experience not just the city but also an extraordinary urban journey.
Buenos Aires is indeed a massive metropolis. If you enjoy wandering in green open areas and parks in huge cities like Buenos Aires, don't overlook the promenade in Palermo, a lovely neighbourhood in the city's northern half. There are not just open places to wander in, but also a vast body of water with paddle boats for hire and a vast floral park which is free of charge!
Whilst the Japanese and botanical gardens, as well as the surrounding neighbourhood, are beautiful, they are also rather loud due to the presence of multiple main roadways. Head north of the rail lines to the golf club for a calm, shaded walk or jog.
The Caminito public walkway in La Boca has arts and crafts. You may also take a river boat from there to see a massive attractive metal construction across the river. Tango is quite popular in La Boca, and you may regularly see Tango dancers practising in the streets. You may get your picture snapped next to a local tango dancer, but agree to pay a little charge. As well as tango, La Boca is known for its football, and you may see the La Bombonera Stadium, which is decorated with brightly coloured structures.
In contrast with other parts of the city, practically everything costs multiple times more in La Boca. It's a popular tourist destination since it's a fun spot with some real Argentine views. La Boca is likely better appreciated during the day, while the pavements are packed and many other visitors are present; nighttime is often avoided.
Buenos Aires is known as one of the world's street art capitals, with large paintings adorning big buildings. Because of the city's independence, the finest street painters in the world flock to Buenos Aires to paint. Buenos Aires Street Art Trips offers tours to some of the city's lesser-known districts to see some of the city's largest murals. Small groups with knowledgeable guides lead the tours.
Getting around when in Buenos Aires
Depending on your plans you have the option to grab yourself a SUBE card that will let you access local busses and Subte (the city’s metro). You’ll find that public transport will take you to most places of interest and it is pretty cheap to ride so if you’re not in a mad rush it is the suggested way to get around.
The alternative is a taxi and you will see LOTS of them on the streets so jump in them at your leisure. They run on meters so be sure to check the driver turns it on so you can see cost of your journey. Top Globedge tip is to learn the streets that intersect near your drop off point because this is the way drivers usually navigate and get around the city.
Visiting Teatro Colón is an amazing experience
the main focal point of the city’s performing arts scene is Teatro Colón with its unbelievable architecture. The very image of opulence, the theatre houses thick red drape curtains, crystal chandeliers and highlights of gold leaf fill the venue but the star of the show is the excellent performances that take place from renowned figures that have included Luciano Pavarotti and many operatic luminaries over the years.
You can take a tour to see the amazing building with tours starting every 15 minutes (they have them in several languages so no worries there) or check out the latest listings and book tickets for a fancy night at the opera.
The incredible Teatro Colón is the jewel in the artistic crown of Buenos Aires.
Cementerio de la Recoleta is a must see
It is surprising to rate a cemetery as a must see attraction but Cementerio de la Recoleta is no ordinary cemetery. War heroes, wealthy locals and pretty much every notable former resident of Buenos Aires is buried there.
The crypts and tombstones are huge, ornate and very creative making it not just a walk through history or a poignant look on who used to inhabit the city. It is also a very impressive display of local masonry with much of the stonework being really impressive. There are even maps at the entrance to help you find the resting place of famous people such as Eva Perón.
Plaza de Mayo is famous for many reasons
The area is synonymous with politics, religious activities and occasional protests. There are tours available for free at 12:30 and 14:30 every weekend (both Saturday and Sunday) but you have to book them in advance. This is well worth doing because the area encompasses Casa Rosada which is the palace of the president, the Cathedral Metropolitana where Pope Francis - the current Pontif - used to say mass as the city’s archbishop and also the famous Cabilo which is the impressive old town hall of Buenos Aires.
You’ll also get the chance to sing “don’t cry for me Argentina” in true Madonna style from the very balcony that Evita stood on when she addressed the amassed crowds below!
A book shop like no other
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a stunning former theatre that now operates as a book shop filled to the brim with the most amazing collection of books for sale. Most are in Spanish unsurprisingly but some early editions and classic books can be found in the English language section.
Even if you don’t want to buy any books as you travel you should still check out the super impressive building that retains its beautiful theatre interior. The on-site cafe makes it a lovely place to sit and enjoy a cuppa while you take in the ambience.
La Boca is the colourful side of the city
The vibrant buildings and passionate locals are often used as the iconic imagery of the city. The area is traditionally working class and is synonymous with hedonistic displays of tango and art. Head to El Caminito to see displays of the Tango on the streets by performers in traditional outfits and to might end up picking up a few steps yourself!
There are plenty of vendors selling paintings and craftwork which is unsurprising as the area draws a lot of tourists to it. Definitely one to check out.
Visit La Boca for some authentic Argentinian tango and local art.
Hit up San Telmo Market for authentic wares
If you’re looking for really authentic local products as souvenirs or keepsakes then check out San Telmo Market every Sunday. You’ll find sellers offering arts, crafts and lots of local goods which are great to have a look at.
The market is frankly huge also so you can indulge in retail therapy over many city blocks. Watch out for pickpockets so just be sure to keep your valuables secure. With that being said it’s a great way to see a different side of Buenos Aires if you’re there at the weekend.
Buenos Aires travel guides