Grand Architecture and the Old City
Buenos Aires wears its European inheritance proudly, in wide avenues and belle-époque façades that echo Madrid, Paris and Rome. Start at the Plaza de Mayo, fronted by the pink presidential palace (the Casa Rosada) and the cathedral, then explore the historic Monserrat and San Telmo districts, home to the best of the old architecture and Sunday’s famous antiques market.
Tango and the Neighbourhoods
Each barrio has its own character. San Telmo is the cradle of tango, danced on its cobbled corners; colourful La Boca, with its painted houses along the Caminito, is the home of the Boca Juniors football club; and leafy Palermo is the hub of hip cafés, boutiques and nightlife. Don’t miss the extraordinary Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried among marble mausoleums.
Culture and the Good Life
This is a city that loves the arts and the table in equal measure. Catch a performance at the magnificent Teatro Colón, one of the world’s great opera houses, browse the stunning El Ateneo bookshop in a former theatre, and above all eat: Argentine beef at a traditional parrilla (steakhouse), washed down with a glass of Malbec, is a Buenos Aires rite of passage.
FAQ
How many days do you need in Buenos Aires?
Three to four days covers the main neighbourhoods, a tango show and the museums, with time for the city’s late-night dining and café culture.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer the most pleasant weather; remember the seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere.
What is the nearest airport?
Ezeiza (EZE) handles international flights, while Aeroparque (AEP), close to the centre, serves most domestic routes.
