Buenos Aires - Argentina, Travel Guide

Here we share the ins and outs of Argentina’s capital city. If you are planning to visit Argentina, you will definitely be passing through Buenos Aires and we recommend you stay a few days. It is a cosmopolitan city. It is considered the Paris of South America. Below we list the answer to some of the most common questions travelers have. 

How Much Time To Spend In Buenos Aires?

Wondering how many days to dedicate to the enchanting Buenos Aires? I recommend a minimum of 3 days, but for a more immersive experience with potential day trips, consider extending your stay to 5 days or even a week. Trust me; this vibrant city has a lot to offer, and you won't be bored!

Check our 72 hour guide to Buenos Aires

What To Do In Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires is a sprawling metropolis bursting with activities. Start with a walking or biking tour to grasp the city's layout and delve into its fascinating history. Don't miss out on a food tour to explore beyond the renowned steakhouses. Tango is a must – catch a show, take lessons, or enjoy locals dancing in the parks. Take your time to wander, people-watch, and savor the local cuisine.

Where To Stay In Buenos Aires?

For a cozy and charming stay, we recommend Palermo or surrounding neighborhoods like Colegiales, Villa Crespo, or Chacarita. These areas are brimming with restaurants, cafes, and shopping spots, offering a peaceful retreat from the downtown hustle. Opt for a boutique hotel, Airbnb, or hostel and enjoy doorstep breakfasts and dinners. While downtown may seem tempting, the noise and limited dining options after dark might steer you away.

Is Buenos Aires Safe?

Safety is a priority anywhere, and Buenos Aires is no exception. Comparable to major cities like New York or London, exercise the usual precautions. Avoid carrying your passport unless necessary, secure your belongings, and stay aware of your surroundings. While Buenos Aires is generally safe, leaving valuable heirlooms at home is a wise travel practice.

How To Get Around Buenos Aires?

Navigating Buenos Aires is a breeze with its well-connected public transportation. The subway, known as the subte, is efficient and covers major sites. Ensure you have a SUBE card for all public transport. Taxis and rideshare apps like Cabify and Uber are prevalent and affordable. Embrace comfortable footwear, especially on the cobblestone streets, and pack according to the season – light clothes for the hot and muggy summers, and comfortable boots for the winter.

Pro Tip: For a tango show, dress smart – jeans and a nice top, a stylish dress, or a button-up for men will do the trick. No need for a jacket or tie.

With this guide in hand, your Buenos Aires adventure is set to be unforgettable. Dive into the vibrant culture, explore the diverse neighborhoods, and savor every moment in this South American gem!

5 day trips we recommend from Buenos Aires

1. Explore the Delta by Boat or Kayak from Tigre

Travel Time: 1 hour

Tigre, the gateway to the Paraná Delta, offers a unique escape from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires. A mere one-hour journey leads you to a network of muddy waterways and green islands, accessible only by boat or kayak. Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle through overhanging branches, accompanied by birdsong and passing motorboats. Don't miss the chance to pull up at a low-key parrilla on the Delta for a delicious grilled meal.

How to get to Tigre from Buenos Aires: Tigre is a 50-minute drive or an affordable one-hour train ride from Retiro station. For a more scenic route, opt for a two-hour boat ride from Puerto Madero.

2. Wander the Cobbled Streets of Colonia del Sacramento's Barrio Histórico

Travel Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Just across the Río de la Plata lies the charming Uruguayan town of Colonia del Sacramento. A short one-hour and fifteen-minute ferry ride transports you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the cobbled streets of Barrio Histórico, capturing picturesque scenes like the 18th-century Calle de los Suspiros and the Faro, a working lighthouse. Rent a bike to venture to the Real de San Carlos and savor a classic Uruguayan chivito at Los Farolitos for lunch.

3. Experience Carnaval Celebrations in Montevideo

Travel Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

For a taste of Uruguay's vibrant culture, head to Montevideo during its lively late-summer Carnaval. A two-hour and fifteen-minute ferry ride from Buenos Aires brings you to a city pulsing with the rhythms of candombe and the vibrant displays of murga. Catch the Comparsas rehearsing in Palermo and Parque Rodó, leading up to the Desfile de la Llamadas in early February. Extend your stay to explore the city's rich offerings.

The best of all is that Carnival in Montevideo lasts up to 40 days! It starts around the 3rd week of January and ends around mid March. 

How to get to Montevideo from Buenos Aires: Take a direct ferry or opt for combined ferry and bus tickets via Colonia for a four-hour journey.

4. See the Awe-Inspiring Iguazú Falls

Travel Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Iguazú Falls is a must. A short one-hour and fifty-minute flight from Buenos Aires transports you to this natural wonder spanning the border of Argentina and Brazil. Explore rainforest trails, take boat rides, and feel the spray from the Argentine side. Consider staying overnight in Puerto Iguazú for a more immersive experience.

How to get to Iguazú Falls from Buenos Aires: Numerous flights operate between Aeroparque and Puerto Iguazú, or opt for an 18-hour bus journey.

5. Get to Know Gaucho Culture in San Antonio de Areco

Travel Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Immerse yourself in gaucho culture just an hour and a half from Buenos Aires in San Antonio de Areco. Spot modern-day gauchos on horseback around the town plaza or visit an estancia for a day of horseback riding and displays of gaucho horsemanship. Don't miss the Museo Gauchesco Ricardo Güiraldes and plan your visit during November's Fiesta de la Tradición for a lively celebration.

How to get to San Antonio de Areco from Buenos Aires: A 1½-hour car journey or a two-hour bus ride will take you to the heart of gaucho culture.

There you have it! These day trips promise a diverse range of experiences, from nature immersion to cultural exploration. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures from Buenos Aires and beyond!