Looking for the best things to do in Buenos Aires? This vibrant city is alive with culture, history, and unmissable landmarks that make every corner a new experience. From the colorful neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca to iconic monuments and world-class museums, Buenos Aires offers an endless list of top things to do. Whether you’re seeking famous sights, free things to do, or unusual spots off the beaten path, Buenos Aires promises something memorable for every traveler.
For me, Buenos Aires was the perfect starting point on my itinerary through Argentina and Chile, and after six weeks of travel, I couldn’t resist returning here to finish my trip. The lively streets, incredible food, and the city’s diverse neighborhoods drew me in from the start. This guide will help you discover what to do in Buenos Aires, with tips on must-see sights, unique activities, and hidden gems to make your visit unforgettable.
Practical Tips for Visiting Buenos Aires
How to Get to Buenos Aires
Most travelers start their Argentina adventure in Buenos Aires, home to the country’s main international airport, Ezeiza. Located just south of the city, Ezeiza is accessible by bus, but for convenience, I recommend the shuttle service available right after customs; it’s slightly more expensive than the bus but much faster and more comfortable.
For national flights, head to Buenos Aires’ domestic airport, located to the north of the city. For those on a budget like I was, long-distance buses are also a great option, with routes departing from the Retiro Bus Terminal and connecting nearly every corner of Argentina. You can take a bus from Buenos Aires to destinations like Puerto Madryn (18 hours), Bariloche (22 hours), and Iguazu Falls (19 hours).
Getting Around Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is massive. While I love exploring a city on foot, distances here can be daunting. Luckily, the metro is affordable an
d covers most areas, making it an ideal way to navigate the city. Another great way to explore is by bike. Buenos Aires offers EcoBici, a free bike-sharing service with pick-up points all around the city. If you prefer a guided experience, there are plenty of bike tours available, which allow you to cover a lot of ground in just a few hours. However, be mindful that Buenos Aires is a bustling city with multi-lane roads and heavy traffic, so navigating on two wheels can be challenging. Fortunately, bike lanes are becoming more common.
Tip: Every first Sunday of the month, you can join the Masa Critica, a spontaneous 20-kilometer bike ride that takes a different route through the city each time. It’s a fun way to explore Buenos Aires like a local!
How Much Time Do You Need in Buenos Aires?
You could spend weeks, even months, exploring Buenos Aires and still find new things to experience. For those with a bit more time, it’s a fantastic city to take a Spanish course, as Buenos Aires has a lively social scene and countless spots to practice. However, for most travelers, a shorter stay will be ideal. I recommend spending at least 48 hours here to get a feel for the main neighborhoods and highlights, but for a more immersive experience, four to five days will do the city justice.
Exploring the Neighborhoods (Barrios) of Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a sprawling metropolis with not one single historic center but rather several neighborhoods, each with its own appeal and character. From the bohemian charm of San Telmo to the upscale elegance of Recoleta and the nightlife of Palermo, each barrio feels like a city within a city. Below are some of the most fascinating barrios, with must-visit spots in each.
Read More: Discover the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires to stay, learn what makes each barrio unique, and find the ideal accommodations.
#1 La Boca
La Boca is one of Buenos Aires’ most vibrant neighborhoods, famous for its colorful streets and lively restaurants. Known as the city’s artist quarter, it’s a magnet for soccer fans too, as it’s home to the iconic La Bombonera stadium, where Boca Juniors play and where Maradona began his career. The neighborhood’s most famous street, El Caminito, is filled with color and creativity but can be touristy. Discover more about the best things to do in La Boca.
#2 San Telmo
San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods, is a historic working-class district with a lively spirit. Every Sunday, the San Telmo Market draws locals and tourists alike to browse antiques, vintage finds, and local crafts. Explore the narrow alleyways for boutique shops, art galleries, and charming restaurants. This barrio is also known for its street art, so keep an eye out for murals as you wander.
Good to know: hotels in San Telmo are often more budget-friendly than other neighborhoods, making it a great choice for travelers looking for affordability.
#3 Palermo
Palermo is Buenos Aires’ trendiest barrio, popular with both locals and visitors. It’s the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, with bars and clubs that stay open long after midnight. Palermo is also known for its green spaces, and on weekends, locals gather in the parks for picnics. Dog lovers will appreciate the army of dog walkers here, often seen with impressive packs of pups in tow. Discover more about the best things to do and where to stay in Palermo.
#4 Recoleta
Recoleta is one of Buenos Aires’ most upscale neighborhoods, known for its embassies, grand mansions, and the city’s famous cemetery, where ornate marble mausoleums showcase Argentina’s aristocratic history. This neighborhood is perfect for experiencing European-style architecture and offers some of the city’s finest hotels and boutiques. Wondering where to stay in La Recoleta? With a mix of luxury accommodations and boutique hotels, this area makes for a comfortable and sophisticated base.
#5 Puerto Madero
Located along the waterfront, Puerto Madero is Buenos Aires’ newest and most modern neighborhood. This area is known for its skyscrapers, upscale dining, and luxury hotels. If you’re interested in a day trip to Uruguay, the ferry to Montevideo departs from here. In Plaza Reina de Holanda, named after Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, celebrating her Argentine roots, you’ll find a small monument dedicated to the Dutch Anne Frank. Learn more about where to stay in Puerto Madero and its iconic architecture and cultural highlights.
#6 Centro
Centro is Buenos Aires’ bustling political and business center, where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Plaza de Mayo and Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the widest boulevards in the world. This neighborhood is fast-paced and can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth exploring for its major sights before retreating to a more relaxed barrio.
From historic neighborhoods to iconic landmarks and hidden gems, Buenos Aires is a city full of variety and charm. In the next sections, we’ll cover the best things to do in Buenos Aires, from must-see attractions to unique activities and free things to do. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a month, Buenos Aires offers endless ways to make your visit unforgettable.
Buenos Aires Landmark Map
Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires
#1 Cementerio de Recoleta
Cementerio de Recoleta, nestled in Buenos Aires’ elegant Recoleta neighborhood, is one of the most unique and compelling sights in the city. Far more than a traditional cemetery, it feels like a miniature city with intricately crafted mausoleums, statues, and elaborate family tombs that tell stories of Argentina’s elite. Wandering its paths provides a fascinating glimpse into Argentine history and culture, with impressive monuments at every turn.
The most famous resting place here is that of Eva Perón (Evita). Despite her passing in 1952, Evita’s legacy endures, with fresh flowers often adorning her tomb. Her body’s story is one of mystery and intrigue: after her death, her embalmed body was hidden and even went missing when her husband, Juan Perón, was exiled. Decades later, her body was finally returned to Buenos Aires and laid to rest in Recoleta. A visit to Cementerio de Recoleta offers both historical insight and a powerful connection to Argentina’s past, making it one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires.
#2 Avenida 9 de Julio and The Obelisk
Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the world’s widest streets, is an unforgettable highlight in Buenos Aires. This grand boulevard, stretching 140 meters across with seven lanes in each direction, is a true spectacle. Pedestrians cross in stages, and the immense scale of the avenue captures the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires like nowhere else.
In the heart of Avenida 9 de Julio stands the Obelisk, a towering 30-meter monument and a celebrated symbol of Buenos Aires. Built in 1936 to mark the city’s 400th anniversary, the Obelisk sits on the very spot where Argentina’s first national flag was raised. Just nearby, you’ll see the famed mural of Evita Perón on the Ministry of Social Development building—another beloved landmark that celebrates Argentina’s most iconic first lady.
#3 Teatro Colón – One of the World’s Greatest Opera Houses
Teatro Colón is Buenos Aires’ renowned opera house and is widely recognized as one of the top opera venues in the world. Built in 1908, this architectural masterpiece is famed for its remarkable acoustics and stunning design. The theater’s lavish hall, adorned with marble columns and intricate decorations, can hold over 2,500 people, making it a visual and auditory delight for visitors.
The theater’s calendar is filled with opera, ballet, and classical music performances, showcasing talent from around the world. Over the years, legends like Luciano Pavarotti, Maria Callas, and Plácido Domingo have graced its stage. For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at rehearsal rooms and the costume workshops. Whether attending a performance or taking a tour, Teatro Colón is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires for fans of music, architecture, and history.
#4 Palacio Barolo
One of the top things to do in Buenos Aires, Palacio Barolo is a true architectural wonder. Completed in 1923, the building was inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, and architect Mario Palanti designed it as a symbolic representation of Dante’s vision of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Palacio Barolo was once the tallest building in South America, and its lighthouse offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.
Inside, the building’s unique blend of neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, along with a dome inspired by Hindu temples, creates an unforgettable experience. From intricate stained glass to marble and symbolic details, Palacio Barolo is rich in visual surprises. Guided tours take you through the building’s deeper meanings and culminate with a climb to the lighthouse dome, where you’ll get stunning views over Buenos Aires. This visit is a must for architecture lovers and those seeking an offbeat experience in the city.
#5 Tango Show at Café Tortoni
A Buenos Aires local tipped us off about the tango show at Café Tortoni, and it turned out to be a memorable experience. Founded in 1858, Café Tortoni is one of the oldest cafés in the city, and its classic Art Nouveau design and rich history make it a must-visit.
The intimate tango show, performed by professional dancers and accompanied by live musicians, lets you witness Argentina’s national dance up close. Unlike larger commercial performances, the show at Café Tortoni is more personal, capturing the raw passion and elegance of the tango. With affordable tickets and an authentic atmosphere, this show is an ideal way to experience one of the most iconic traditions of Buenos Aires. For anyone wondering what to do in Buenos Aires for a night out, this tango show should be high on your list.
#6 Museo Evita
Museo Evita is a must-see for anyone curious about the life and legacy of Argentina’s iconic first lady, Eva Perón. Set in a beautiful early 20th-century mansion, the museum dives into her remarkable life, from her early years to her influential role in Argentine politics and social reforms. Although Evita passed away at just 33, her legacy endures, and she is celebrated as a national icon.
The museum’s collection includes personal artifacts, clothing, photographs, and documents that bring her story to life. Visiting Museo Evita was a deeply moving experience, and having been a fan of the musical about her life, I found it fascinating to explore the real history behind the legend. For anyone interested in Argentine culture and history, Museo Evita is an essential stop that offers valuable insight into the story of one of Argentina’s most beloved figures.
#7 Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA)
The Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires, or MALBA, is a must-visit for art lovers exploring Buenos Aires. Opened in 2001, this museum features an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary Latin American art, with works from icons like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Antonio Berni. Alongside these celebrated artists, MALBA also highlights emerging Latin American talents, keeping its exhibitions fresh and dynamic.
The building itself, with its spacious, light-filled design, provides the perfect setting for the museum’s vibrant works. For anyone interested in contemporary art, MALBA is one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires. Beyond its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making it a consistently engaging destination.
#8 Plaza de Mayo
Plaza de Mayo is the historical and political core of Buenos Aires, where Argentina’s most defining moments have unfolded. Surrounded by grand architecture and important monuments, this square is a testament to the nation’s history and its enduring spirit.
One of the most powerful symbols to me was the weekly gathering of the Madres de Plaza de Mayo, or Mothers of Plaza de Mayo. Since 1977, these mothers have gathered each Thursday to remember their children who disappeared during Argentina’s military dictatorship. The white scarves painted on the plaza’s pavement serve as a reminder of their ongoing fight for justice. Whether you’re interested in Argentina’s history, politics, or simply want to experience the energy of the city, Plaza de Mayo is an essential stop and one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires.
#9 Casa Rosada – The Presidential Palace
Casa Rosada, the iconic pink Presidential Palace on Plaza de Mayo, is one of Buenos Aires’ most famous landmarks. Originally built as a colonial fort by the Spanish in 1580, it later transformed into Argentina’s government headquarters. President Domingo Faustino Sarmiento famously painted it pink, blending red and white to symbolize a union between the nation’s political factions.
Perhaps most famously, Casa Rosada’s balcony is where Eva Perón, or “Evita,” addressed adoring crowds in support of workers and social reforms. Behind the palace, you’ll find the Casa Rosada Museum, which covers Argentina’s history from colonial times to today. The museum is free to visit and features original walls from the old fort and a mural by Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros. On weekends, you can join a free guided tours of Casa Rosada, making this historical landmark one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires.
#10 Metropolitan Cathedral
The Metropolitan Cathedral on Plaza de Mayo is Buenos Aires’ grandest religious landmark. Its striking neoclassical facade, with twelve towering columns, is reminiscent of a Greek temple, while its interior showcases rich baroque and Renaissance details, from intricate altars to remarkable religious artwork.
The cathedral’s history dates back to the 16th century, with multiple reconstructions leading to the current structure completed in the 18th century. Inside, you’ll find the mausoleum of General José de San Martín, the revered liberator of Argentina, guarded by soldiers in traditional uniforms. For those interested in architecture or history, the Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires.
#11 El Ateneo Grand Splendid – A Gorgeous Bookstore
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is more than just a bookstore—it’s one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and a true Buenos Aires gem. Housed in a former theater built in 1919, the bookstore retains its original opulence, from the frescoed ceiling to the grand balconies and stage curtains, making it a breathtaking spot to explore.
The theater-turned-bookstore retains much of its original charm, with bookshelves extending throughout the building, from the main floor to the upper balconies. The stage now serves as a café, offering a unique spot to sip coffee while surrounded by stunning architecture. For book lovers and architecture fans alike, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is an absolute must and a perfect example of Buenos Aires’ rich cultural spirit.
#12 Feria de San Telmo – Authentic Sunday Market
The Feria de San Telmo is a vibrant Sunday market that fills the streets of the historic San Telmo neighborhood. Stretching along Calle Defensa, this popular market draws both locals and tourists looking for unique finds and a taste of old Buenos Aires. Stalls offer everything from antique furniture and vintage clothing to handmade jewelry, artwork, and rare collectibles, making it an ideal spot for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood, provides a charming backdrop for this bustling market, with cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and quaint cafés lining the way. If you’re after an authentic Buenos Aires experience rich in history, art, and culture, the Feria de San Telmo is one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires. Learn more in our San Telmo Neighborhood Guide.
Good to know: San Telmo also offers great value for accommodations, with charming boutique and luxury hotels that are often more affordable than those in other neighborhoods.
#13 La Boca
La Boca is one of Buenos Aires’ most iconic neighborhoods, famous for its brightly colored houses and vibrant atmosphere, making it one of the city’s most photogenic spots. Originally home to Italian immigrants who used leftover ship paint to decorate their homes, the neighborhood retains a unique, artistic vibe today, with Caminito as the centerpiece—a street filled with colorful buildings, street art, and lively music.
For sports fans, La Boca is also the home of La Bombonera, the legendary stadium of Boca Juniors. This stadium, where Maradona once played, is a must-visit for soccer enthusiasts. Find our more about things to do in La Boca. Whether you’re drawn by the art, culture, or passion for football, a visit to La Boca is one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires.
#14 Floralis Genérica
Floralis Genérica is one of Buenos Aires’ most striking public artworks. Located in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas in the Recoleta neighborhood, this massive metal flower was a gift to the city in 2002 by Argentine architect Eduardo Catalano.
The sculpture stands at an impressive 12 meters high and weighs 18 tons. Thanks to a hydraulic system, its six giant petals open each morning at sunrise and close at sunset, mimicking the movements of a real flower.
Floralis Genérica is free to visit, and the surrounding park provides a scenic setting for a stroll or picnic. This modern addition to Buenos Aires’ cultural landscape is perfect for anyone looking for free things to do in Buenos Aires, or a fresh take on art and innovation in the city.
Unusual Things to Do in Buenos Aires
#15 Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
The Museo Nacional de Bellas Arte is a cultural gem in Buenos Aires, home to one of the finest collections of Argentine and international art. Originally founded in 1896, this museum has occupied its current home—a beautifully restored former water pumping station in the La Recoleta neighborhood—since 1933. Its grand, spacious galleries and elegant architecture set the perfect stage for an impressive range of artwork.
MNBA’s collection spans renowned European masters such as Rembrandt, Goya, Monet, and Van Gogh, alongside a distinguished selection of Latin American art, making it unique in the region. Works by notable Argentine artists like Antonio Berni and Xul Solar offer a fascinating window into the country’s artistic heritage. Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is free, making it one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires for both art lovers and those looking for free cultural activities in the city.
#16 Jardín Japonés
The Jardín Japonés in the Palermo neighborhood is one of the largest and most stunning Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Originally built in 1967 as a symbol of friendship between Argentina and Japan, this beautifully landscaped garden provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s lively streets. Its serene paths wind through ponds filled with koi fish, arched bridges, and manicured bonsai trees, all designed to reflect traditional Japanese landscaping.
The garden is dotted with charming red bridges, stone lanterns, and quiet corners for contemplation. There’s also a cultural center and a Japanese teahouse where visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony. Jardín Japonés is an unusual attraction in Buenos Aires, providing a touch of Japan right in the city and offering visitors a unique way to unwind and connect with nature.
#17 Mercado San Telmo – Historic Market Hall
Mercado San Telmo, located in the heart of the historic San Telmo neighborhood, is one of Buenos Aires’ most vibrant markets and a must for food lovers and vintage treasure hunters alike. Established in 1897, this covered market has a distinct character, with its iron and glass structure harking back to Buenos Aires’ early 20th-century charm.
Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of vendors selling everything from fresh produce, meats, and seafood to classic Argentine specialties like empanadas, dulce de leche, and fine Argentine wines. In addition to food stalls, the market is filled with booths selling antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky collectibles. Mercado San Telmo draws locals and tourists alike, making it one of the more authentic and less touristy things to do in Buenos Aires and a fantastic place to immerse yourself in local culture.
#18 Galileo Galilei Planetarium
The Galileo Galilei Planetarium, located in the lush Palermo park, is a captivating destination for anyone curious about astronomy. Built in 1966, this futuristic dome-shaped building has become an iconic part of Buenos Aires’ skyline. The planetarium hosts interactive exhibits, awe-inspiring audiovisual shows, and astronomy workshops designed for visitors of all ages.
Inside the impressive dome, visitors can experience dazzling projections of stars, planets, and distant galaxies, with shows that transport you into the heart of space. The planetarium also features a museum with meteorites, astronomical instruments, and exhibits on space exploration. The Galileo Galilei Planetarium is a unique attraction in Buenos Aires, offering an educational and visually stunning experience that makes it a top choice for families and one of the most unusual things to do in Buenos Aires for a refreshing perspective on the city.
#19 Historic Sailing Ship – Fragata Sarmiento
Anchored along the waterfront in Buenos Aires’ chic Puerto Madero district, the Fragata Sarmiento is a captivating historical gem and former naval training ship turned floating museum. Built in England in 1897, the vessel served as a training ship for the Argentine Navy and completed an impressive 39 voyages around the globe. Named after Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a key figure in Argentine education reform, the ship is a proud piece of the nation’s heritage.
A visit to Fragata Sarmiento takes you through its narrow passageways, sailors’ quarters, and officers’ mess halls, where naval cadets once lived and trained. The well-preserved interiors showcase original navigational instruments, documents, and photographs that bring Argentina’s maritime history to life. This museum ship offers a fascinating, hands-on history lesson and is one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires for anyone intrigued by life at sea.
#20 El Zanjón de Granados
El Zanjón de Granados is an archaeological treasure hidden in San Telmo that transports visitors back to Buenos Aires’ earliest days. Located in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, this site reveals a network of ancient tunnels, water channels, and foundations dating back to the 16th century. These tunnels, discovered in the 1980s, have since become one of Buenos Aires’ most fascinating historical sites.
Guided tours take you underground, where narrow passageways once used for drainage and connecting homes now unveil the city’s architectural past. Archaeological finds, from colonial kitchenware to everyday artifacts, are displayed throughout the space, illustrating how the city grew and changed over time. El Zanjón de Granados offers a rare, immersive view into the hidden history of Buenos Aires, making it one of the most unusual things to do in the city for anyone interested in archaeology or urban history.
#21 Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur
For nature lovers, Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur offers a peaceful escape at the edge of Buenos Aires, just beside the sleek Puerto Madero district. This sprawling 350-hectare ecological reserve is a natural oasis filled with wetlands, grassy meadows, and woodlands teeming with hundreds of bird, butterfly, and animal species, creating a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle.
Visitors can explore the reserve’s network of trails on foot or by bike, which lead to scenic lookout points over the Río de la Plata. Costanera Sur is free to enter, making it one of the best free things to do in Buenos Aires and a perfect spot for a quiet picnic while enjoying the skyline views. Birdwatchers, in particular, will find it a paradise, as the reserve is home to many rare species not often seen within the city’s limits.
#22 Cementerio de la Chacarita
Cementerio de la Chacarita is the largest cemetery in Buenos Aires, spanning 95 hectares in the Chacarita neighborhood. Originally established in 1871 during a yellow fever epidemic, this sprawling cemetery serves as the final resting place for many of Argentina’s notable figures. Unlike the grand mausoleums of Recoleta Cemetery, Chacarita has a more understated feel, yet its sculptures and monuments are just as remarkable.
The cemetery’s most famous tomb is that of tango legend Carlos Gardel. His grave draws fans from around the world, who leave flowers and even cigarettes as a tribute to his memory. Chacarita also holds the graves of national heroes, politicians, and artists, offering a unique mix of history and artistry. Visiting Cementerio de la Chacarita is one of the more unusual things to do in Buenos Aires, especially for those interested in exploring Argentina’s cultural heritage and paying homage to its most celebrated icons.
#23 Day Trip to Uruguay & Colonia del Sacramento
A day trip to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay is one of the best excursions you can take from Buenos Aires. Just an hour by ferry across the Río de la Plata, Colonia offers a relaxed atmosphere and enchanting colonial architecture that provides a refreshing contrast to Buenos Aires’ fast pace. Founded by the Portuguese in 1680, this historic city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved streets and vibrant charm.
Upon arrival, visitors can wander the old town, exploring cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, ancient plazas, and landmarks. Highlights include the iconic lighthouse, the ruins of the San Francisco convent, and quaint cafés where you can savor local Uruguayan dishes like chivito sandwiches and mate. For anyone wondering what to do in Buenos Aires beyond the city, a day trip to Colonia is a rewarding cultural escape that adds another layer to your travel experience.
