Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
05/08/2025
Matheus De Moraes Gugelmim, Pexels
Buenos Aires offers a captivating blend of South American heritage and European charm, known for its rich cultural scene, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. It is a city that provides a dynamic experience for diverse travelers, from exploring grand architecture to immersing oneself in the passionate world of tango.
For socializing with other tourists and backpackers, Palermo stands out as a hip and trendy district filled with numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants. San Telmo also offers a lively atmosphere, particularly during its Sunday market, with cobblestone streets, artistic venues, and opportunities to experience live tango performances. Recoleta, while more elegant, features charming bars and cafes, providing additional spaces for relaxed social interaction.
Top 6 Things to do in Buenos Aires
Activities include exploring historic sites and cultural landmarks, experiencing authentic tango, savoring the renowned food and wine, and discovering unique neighborhoods.
1. Experience a Traditional Tango Show
Witnessing a tango show is a quintessential Buenos Aires experience, offering a captivating glimpse into Argentina's passionate dance tradition. Many venues present a rich performance that often includes live music and singing. Opting for a dinner and show provides a complete evening, allowing one to savor local cuisine alongside the artistry. For an intimate setting, venues like El Querandí in San Telmo provide a historical backdrop and a focus on the dance's evolution.
Cost: Show-only tickets typically range from $35-$55 USD. A show including a three-course dinner can average around $95 USD per person.
Transport: Many tango venues are in central areas or offer pick-up services with dinner packages. Public transport like taxis or ride-sharing services are widely available, with costs varying by distance.
2. Explore Recoleta Cemetery
Wandering through Recoleta Cemetery feels like stepping into an open-air museum, filled with elaborate mausoleums, intricate sculptures, and diverse architectural styles. It is the resting place of many prominent Argentinian figures, most notably Eva Perón. Taking time to navigate its tree-lined pathways reveals the stories and artistry behind each family crypt, creating a serene and reflective experience. Guided tours are available to provide deeper historical context.
Cost: Admission for foreign visitors is approximately $5-$13 USD (5090 ARS as of 2024). Guided tours, often free in Spanish, may have a fee for English versions.
Transport: The cemetery is located in the Recoleta neighborhood. It is easily accessible by Subte (Subway) Line D to Pueyrredón station or Line H to Las Heras station, followed by a short walk. Numerous bus lines also pass nearby.
3. Visit El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Stepping into El Ateneo Grand Splendid is an awe-inspiring experience, as this grand bookstore is housed within a former theater. The stunning architecture, including ornate frescoes, plush red velvet curtains, and balconies that once held theater-goers, now frames towering bookshelves. One can relax in a former theater box with a book or enjoy a coffee on what was once the stage, admiring the sheer scale and beauty of the space.
Cost: Free to enter.
Transport: Located on Avenida Santa Fe in the Barrio Norte/Recoleta area. It is a short walk from Callao station on Subte Line D. Various bus routes also serve the area.
4. Immerse in San Telmo Market
A visit to San Telmo on a Sunday offers a vibrant and sensory overload at its famous street market. Cobblestone streets come alive with antique stalls, artisanal crafts, street performers, and spontaneous tango dancers. It is a place to browse for unique souvenirs, sample street food, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere, especially around Plaza Dorrego where the energy of the market is at its peak.
Cost: Free to wander. Costs for purchases and food vary.
Transport: San Telmo is a historic neighborhood, walkable from the city center. Taxis and buses are readily available to reach the area. The market spans along Calle Defensa.
5. Wander through La Boca and Caminito
La Boca's Caminito is an explosion of color and artistic expression, with its brightly painted corrugated iron houses and vibrant street art. This pedestrian street museum showcases the neighborhood's immigrant history and artistic spirit. One can watch street tango performances, browse local art, and soak in the lively atmosphere, though it is advised to stay within the main tourist areas for safety.
Cost: Free to walk around.
Transport: La Boca is not within easy walking distance of the city center. It is best reached by bus (e.g., routes 33, 54, 152 from Avenida Leandro N. Alem) or taxi/rideshare.
6. Indulge in an Argentinian Food Experience
Buenos Aires is a paradise for food lovers, particularly known for its world-class beef (asado) and Malbec wine. Participating in a food tour or a cooking class provides a fantastic way to explore the local cuisine beyond just steak. One can sample various empanadas, taste mate, and learn about the country's gastronomic traditions. Many tours visit multiple eateries in popular neighborhoods like Palermo or San Telmo, offering a diverse culinary journey.
Cost: Food tours typically cost $55-$95 USD per person, depending on the duration and inclusions. Cooking classes, such as an Asado masterclass, might be around $75-$89 USD.
Transport: Food tours often operate within specific neighborhoods like Palermo or San Telmo, which are generally walkable once you arrive. Public transport (Subte, bus) or taxis/rideshares can take you to the starting points.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
