Top 19 Best Things To Do In Buenos Aires, Argentina

There are so many things to do in Buenos Aires, you’ll never get bored.

Argentina is one of the most visited countries in South America. Buenos Aires is the only city on the continent that will make you feel like you just landed back in Europe. 

After about 2 weeks in Buenos Aires, I can recommend some spots that will keep you entertained for more than a couple of days. 

This is not about the food (although I added plenty of suggestions too for the foodies out there), but more about the things to do in Buenos Aires, which are plenty. 

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Argentina. 

Top things to do in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, when visiting for the first time

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, has so much to offer. Regardless of your type of traveller, there will be something for you to do and enjoy while in Buenos Aires. 

The list of things to do in Buenos Aires is actually much longer, but there are the places I’ve personally visited and things I’ve done, and I can speak from experience when offering tips to help you plan your trip to Argentina. 

In this article, I only focus on the top things to do in Buenos Aires, but I encourage you to read my other blogs about Argentina, which have a more personal touch.

In fact, you should definitely read the one about the blue dollar exchange rate, as Argentina has a somehow difficult economy, and foreigners might not know how to handle it.

I also wrote a travel guide about Argentina, which is aimed to help anyone travelling to Argentina for the first time.

And now, let’s talk about the things you should not miss when visiting Buenos Aires for the first time.

Casa Rosada

Location: Balcarce 78

The iconic pink presidential palace on Plaza de Mayo is where major political events have taken place in Argentina’s history. It’s a symbol of the country’s power and the backdrop for many public speeches.
Tip: Visit on weekends for a free guided tour of the building’s interior.

The Obelisk

Location: Av. 9 de Julio
This towering monument is one of Buenos Aires’ most recognisable landmarks, built to celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary. It stands proudly in the heart of the city at the intersection of major avenues.
Tip: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Buenos Aires, or visit at night when it’s illuminated.

Avenida Corrientes

Known as the “Broadway of Buenos Aires,” this bustling street is lined with theatres, bookstores, and cafes. It’s the centre of the city’s vibrant cultural and nightlife scene.
Tip: Catch a local theatre performance or grab a pizza at one of the famous pizzerias along the avenue.

Attend a Tango Show

Multiple posible theaters: Tango Porteño, El Viejo Almacén, La Ventana, Esquina Carlos Gardel, Café de los Angelitos, Madero Tango

Tango is the soul of Buenos Aires, and watching a live show is a must for any first-time visitor. These performances combine music, dance, and drama, immersing you in the city’s passion for tango.

I went to Tango Porteño, but there are multiple Tango theatres near Avenida Corrientes. I recommend booking your tickets online or via WhatsApp to make sure you get a table for the desired time and day. 

Most theatres offer similar services, which include a show with drinks only or an entire dinner. Some more expensive services can be added, such as hotel pickup and drop-off. 

Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially for popular venues like El Viejo Almacén or La Ventana.

Recoleta Neighbourhood

Recoleta is an upscale neighbourhood known for its European-style architecture, high-end shopping, and charming cafes. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks through tree-lined streets.

Tip: Don’t miss the weekend artisan market near Recoleta Cemetery for unique local crafts.

Recoleta Cemetery

Location: Junín 1760
This cemetery is famous for its elaborate mausoleums and is the resting place of many notable Argentinians, including Eva Perón. It’s often compared to an open-air museum due to its grand architecture.
Tip: Join a guided tour to learn the fascinating stories behind the cemetery’s most famous tombs.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore

Location: Av. Sta. Fe 1860

This former theatre-turned-bookstore is frequently ranked as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its stunning interior preserves the grandeur of its theatrical past.

Tip: Enjoy a coffee there, and take in the view.

Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays

Location: Av. Santa Fe 3951
This peaceful botanical garden offers a break from the urban hustle, featuring thousands of plant species from around the world. It’s a green oasis perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Tip: Bring a book and relax in the shaded areas—it’s free to enter and enjoy.

Zoo de Palermo

Location: Av. Sarmiento 2671

Now known as the EcoParque, this former zoo has been transformed into an ecological park focused on conservation and education. Visitors can explore its naturalistic enclosures while learning about environmental preservation.

Tip: Check their website for free entry days or special tours offered throughout the year.

Japanese Garden

Location: Av. Casares 3450

The Japanese Garden in Palermo is one of the largest outside Japan and offers serene landscapes, ponds, and traditional structures. It’s a tranquil spot for reflection and relaxation.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

La Boca Neighbourhood (Caminito)

La Boca is a colourful and lively neighbourhood known for its brightly painted buildings and tango street performances. Caminito, the main street, is filled with artists and vendors showcasing their work.
Tip: Keep an eye on your belongings, as the area can be tourist-heavy and prone to pickpocketing.

San Telmo

San Telmo is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires, known for its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and Sunday market. It has a bohemian vibe with plenty of historic charm.

Tip: Visit the San Telmo Market on Sundays to experience its full vibrancy, including live tango performances.

Galerías Pacífico

Location: Av. Córdoba 550

This historic shopping mall features stunning, frescoed ceilings and high-end boutiques. It’s a popular spot for both shopping and admiring Argentine art.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to escape the heat and enjoy the art displays inside.

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Fine Arts Museum)

Location: Av. del Libertador 1473

This museum houses Argentina’s largest collection of European and Argentine art, including works by masters like Goya and Van Gogh. It’s a cultural highlight for art enthusiasts.
Tip: Admission is free, so take your time exploring the impressive permanent collection.

The Beatles Museum

Location: Av. Corrientes 1660

This small, quirky museum is dedicated to all things related to The Beatles, showcasing memorabilia and collectables. It’s a must-see for fans of the Fab Four.
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at the adjacent Cavern Club, a Beatles-themed bar with live music.

Palermo Neighbourhood

Palermo is Buenos Aires’ trendiest neighbourhood, known for its parks, street art, and buzzing nightlife. It’s a great area for dining and discovering hidden gems.
Tip: Explore Palermo Soho for boutique shopping and cool cafes, and head to Palermo Hollywood for dinner and drinks.

Things to try in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina is about an entirely new culture, so let’s talk about the unique things to try while in Argentina. 

I find it fascinating how people just decided to move to Argentina, which feels to me like the other end of the world, and took all their customs and cuisine and redesigned it. 

So, two very Argentinian things are the Yerba Mate and the alfajor cookie. 

Try Yerba Mate

Yerba Mate is Argentina’s traditional herbal drink, often shared socially from a communal gourd. It’s a significant part of local culture and daily life.
Tip: Try it at a local café or market, and be ready for the unique bitter taste—it’s an acquired flavour!

Enjoy an Alfajor

Alfajores are sweet, crumbly cookies filled with dulce de leche and often covered in chocolate or coconut. They are a popular treat in Buenos Aires and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Tip: Try different varieties from local bakeries or pick up a box as a souvenir to bring home.

Argentinian foods to try

I’m not necessarily a foodie, but some people love to experience a new culture through food. So here’s a list of must-try Argentine foods for first-time visitors:

1. Asado (Argentine barbecue) – Grilled meats, especially beef, prepared over an open flame.
2. Empanadas – Savory pastries stuffed with fillings like beef, chicken, or cheese.
3. Milanesa – Breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to a schnitzel.
4. Provoleta – Grilled provolone cheese, often served with chimichurri sauce.
5. Choripán – Grilled chorizo sausage served in a crusty bread roll, often with chimichurri.
6. Dulce de Leche – A sweet caramel-like spread used in desserts like alfajores.
7. Alfajores – Soft cookies filled with dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate or coconut.
8. Locro – A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat, often enjoyed during national holidays.
9. Torta Rogel – A layered pastry dessert filled with dulce de leche and topped with meringue.

What else to do in Buenos Aires?

There are other places that I passed by but didn’t spend too much exploring, or I didn’t go inside, as some places offer tours of the building.

These places can be added to my original list of things to do in Buenos Aires. But I believe that as long as you are going to see some of the places from the list, you will inevitably pass by other spots that will seem interesting to you and then you should take your time exploring them.

That’s why I strongly encourage you to have a flexible schedule so you can change plans if needed so that you can spend your time in Buenos Aires doing things that are actually fun for you.

So, with that in mind, here are the rest of the official best things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina, that I didn’t particularly explore, but a lot of tourists visit:

• Teatro Colón
• The Cabildo
• Puente de la Mujer
• Ecological Reserve
• Café Tortoni
• Palermo rose garden
• Plaza Dorrego
• Boca Juniors’ “Bombonera” stadium
• Palacio Barolo
• Zanjón de Granados
• Floralis Genérica
• Feria de Mataderos

Teatro Colón
One of the world’s best opera houses, Teatro Colón is famous for its grand architecture and exceptional acoustics. It hosts opera, ballet, and classical music performances.

The Cabildo
A historic colonial building that played a significant role during Argentina’s independence. Today, it houses a museum showcasing artefacts from the colonial period.

Puente de la Mujer
A striking modern bridge in Puerto Madero, designed to resemble a couple dancing tango. It’s an architectural symbol of the city’s blend of tradition and modernity.

Ecological Reserve
This large green space along the Rio de la Plata is perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Café Tortoni
Buenos Aires’ oldest café, famous for its classic décor and rich cultural history. A perfect spot to enjoy coffee and soak in the city’s literary past.

Palermo Rose Garden
A beautiful park with thousands of roses, peaceful lakes, and statues. It’s a favourite spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature.

Plaza Dorrego
A lively square in San Telmo, known for its Sunday antique market and live tango performances. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a bohemian atmosphere.

Boca Juniors’ “Bombonera” Stadium
The home stadium of the famous Boca Juniors football team, known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere during matches. A must for soccer lovers.

Palacio Barolo
This architectural masterpiece was inspired by Dante’s “Divine Comedy.” Guided tours offer insight into its symbolic design and rich history.

Zanjón de Granados
A fascinating underground site showcasing 400 years of Buenos Aires’ history through tunnels and archaeological remains. It’s a hidden gem for history buffs.

Floralis Genérica
A giant steel flower sculpture that opens and closes with the sun. It’s an impressive modern landmark located in a park near Recoleta.

Feria de Mataderos
A vibrant weekend market where you can experience traditional Argentine culture, with folk music, dancing, and artisanal goods. It’s a great place to enjoy authentic local cuisine.