Curator’s statement
Buenos Aires beckons travelers with its intoxicating blend of European elegance and Latin American passion. It offers far more than just a destination. It’s a vibrant portal to the most extraordinary experiences South America has to offer. This cosmopolitan jewel is not merely a stop on the map, but a strategic launching point for some of the continent’s most breathtaking adventures. Imagine Buenos Aires as your urban basecamp, a sophisticated starting or ending point for journeys that span the most dramatic landscapes on the planet. For the intrepid explorer, the city serves as an ideal springboard to multiple iconic South American destinations. Patagonia’s wild, windswept landscapes and massive glaciers are just a short flight away. It offers travelers the opportunity to transition seamlessly from urban sophistication to raw, untamed wilderness. Wine enthusiasts and adventure seekers will find Mendoza’s world-renowned vineyards and stunning Andean backdrop equally accessible, creating a perfect complement to the city’s urban experiences. The proximity to Brazil’s legendary Iguazu Falls and Chile’s diverse landscapes further amplifies Buenos Aires’ appeal as a strategic travel hub. For those drawn to the ultimate expedition, take a journey to the white continent. Buenos Aires emerges as the perfect pre- or post-expedition staging ground for Antarctic voyages. Travelers can luxuriate in the city’s vibrant culture. All while indulging in world-class cuisine and preparing for or reflect on their expedition to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. The city offers a compelling blend of comfort, culture and connection before venturing into the most remote wilderness on Earth. Our three-day itinerary is carefully crafted to capture the essence of Buenos Aire. It's a city that is at once a destination and a gateway. It offers travelers a taste of South American dynamism while positioning them perfectly for broader continental exploration.
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Day 1: City exploration
Morning: Orientation and city exploration
For first-time visitors arriving early in Buenos Aires, the day presents two ideal options:
Early Hotel Check-In: If your accommodation allows early check-in, take a couple of hours to refresh and rest after your journey.
Immediate City Exploration: For the eager traveler, kick off your Buenos Aires adventure with a small group walking or e-bike tour of the city center.
City tour insights
Buenos Aires offers a unique urban landscape that benefits from guided exploration. While the city is generally safe to navigate independently, a guided tour provides invaluable insights, especially for solo travelers. The city’s complex urban geography, where wealthy neighborhoods often border less-affluent areas, makes a guided introduction particularly beneficial. These tours typically:
Start around 10:30-11:00 am
Provide cultural and historical context
Help you get oriented to the city’s layout
Offer safety tips and local insider knowledge
Lunch: Culinary first impressions
After the morning tour, refuel at one of the city center’s exceptional eateries. While there are numerous options, two standout choices include:
Local Recommendation: Petit Colon, a charming local restaurant in the city center.
Legendary Option: Guerrin Pizzeria - A Buenos Aires institution famous for its traditional Argentine-style pizza
Afternoon: Hotel check-in and rest
Return to your hotel to freshen up and take a short rest to recharge for the evening.
Evening: Asado experience - A culinary theatrical journey
Fogon Asado offers the ultimate introduction to Argentine culinary traditions.
Location: Two venues (Palermo original location recommended for a more intimate setting)
Experience: Theatrical BBQ tasting menu
Dining style: Communal counter dining
Ideal for: Meat lovers and culinary adventurers
Dining highlights
A reservation is necessary
Caters to a variety of dietary requirements
Primarily attracts international travelers
Authentic flavor and preparation
Must-try dessert: Crepe with caramelized sugar and dulce de leche filling
For those with remaining energy, Palermo offers excellent nearby bars to extend the evening. The neighborhood comes alive after dinner, perfect for those looking to experience Buenos Aires’ vibrant nightlife.
Pro tips
Make Fogon Asado reservations well in advance
Bring an appetite and an open mind
Dress smart-casual
Be prepared for a late dinner (typical Argentine dining starts late)
A perfect first day that introduces you to the soul of Buenos Aires — a city of culinary delights, rich culture and warm hospitality
Day 2: Architectural wonders and cultural treasures
Morning: Breakfast and neighborhood discovery
Start your day with authentic Argentine breakfast delights:
Medialunas: A sweeter, glazed version of a European croissant
Bolas de Fraile: A decadent doughnut often filled with dulce de leche
Hotel breakfast alternative for those seeking convenience
Morning tour: Recoleta and Retiro neighborhoods
Recommended: Private or small-group walking tour focusing on:
Architectural marvels
Rich historical context
Iconic neighborhoods of Buenos Aires
Recoleta Cemetery highlight
A must-visit destination with remarkable historical significance. The cemetery is more than a burial ground — it’s a museum of Argentine history and architectural beauty. Notable personalities laid to rest here include:
Eva Perón (Evita): Iconic political figure and beloved national hero.
Carlos Gardel: Legendary tango singer and cultural icon.
Julio Argentino Roca: Influential Argentine president and military leader.
Pro Tip: A guided tour is essential to truly appreciate the cemetery’s rich stories and architectural nuances. Most tours include a midpoint coffee and snack break.
Midday cultural exploration
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: An extensive collection of Argentine and international art spanning multiple centuries. There is a particularly impressive selection of Argentine modernist works.
Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA): World-renowned for its exceptional collection of 20th-century Latin American art. This museum features works by iconic artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
Botanical Interlude: Gardens of Tres de Febrero Park.
Japanese Garden: A serene landscape of traditional Japanese design.
Rose Garden: European-inspired floral beauty. Towering palm trees and local flora create an impressive, mixed landscape.
An afternoon in Palermo Hollywood
Lunch at Las Flores. This is a peaceful midday retreat from the city’s energy set in a refreshing courtyard setting. Follow lunch with a stroll through the Palermo neighborhood. Spend the afternoon wandering through unique boutique shops, charming local cafes, artistic street scenes and trendy design stores.
Evening: Culinary delights
Dine at El Preferido, a sister restaurant to the renowned Don Julio. The must-try dish is Milanesa de Chorizo, breaded, thinly pounded beef steak. Make reservations in advance! Follow dinner with a nightcap at The Backroom Bar. This is a truly special venue that captures the essence of Buenos Aires' nightlife. It has a hidden, speakeasy-style location with an intimate atmosphere. It reflects the city’s love for mysterious, underground social spaces. It's perfect for those seeking an authentic, local evening experience
Pro Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Carry water and sun protection.
Have cash for small purchases.
Be prepared for a late dinner (typical Argentine dining style).
A day that beautifully blends Buenos Aires’ architectural grandeur, cultural richness and vibrant neighborhood life.
Day 3: San Telmo, La Boca, and a farewell feast
San Telmo: A journey through history and culture
San Telmo is a neighborhood steeped in historical significance, representing the soul of Buenos Aires’ colonial past. It was once home to the city’s elite in the 19th century. The area underwent dramatic transformation after a yellow fever epidemic in 1871 forced wealthy residents to flee. The neighborhood became a melting pot of immigrant cultures, particularly Italian and Spanish. This created a unique urban tapestry that defines Buenos Aires’ character today.
Artisan experience
The famous San Telmo Market offers an immersive cultural experience with a variety of artisan stalls that showcase local craftsmanship. There are hand-knitted animals, traditional Mate cups and straws, unique jewelry featuring local precious stones. The market also features a wealth of cultural activities, from spontaneous tango demonstrations to street musician performances.
Exploration tips
Safe to explore independently.
Optional guided tours available for deeper historical insights.
Look out for famous street art featuring Argentine cartoon characters like Mafalda.
Enjoy local cafes and absorb the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere.
Lunch at Mercado de San Telmo
Enjoy the bustling market with diverse food stalls and a mix of local and tourist visitors. I recommend the traditional Choripan (meat sandwich), roasted tomato salad and the authentic local flavors found throughout the market.
Spend the afternoon exploring the La Boca neighborhood and Colón Theater Factory. This is primarily a tourist area, and the main street can feel overcrowded. There are less-affluent neighborhood beyond tourist zones. It is recommended to view from a taxi and exercise caution.
Colón Theater Factory
This is a must-visit for theater enthusiasts. You get an extraordinary behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. There is an impressive collection of opera set designs, costume exhibitions and historical production maquettes. The tour also includes multimedia presentations of past performances and is perfect for theater and performance art lovers.
Evening: Farewell dinner at Don Julio
This is the ultimate Argentine dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended. Their signature dish: perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth steak (some of their country’s best cuts). Accompaniments include traditional sides and spiced chimichurri sauce. For dessert, I recommend the dulce de leche, vanilla or plum sorbet. The atmosphere features gorgeous indoor dining rooms for an intimate experience or the festive outdoor seating
Consider a potential departure in the evening or you have the option to rest at the hotel before dinner if flying the next day. Taxis are most recommended for transportation.
Pro tips
Make your Don Julio reservation in advance and consider your flight timing when planning the evening. Leave room for that spectacular dessert!
A perfect finale to your Buenos Aires adventure — capturing the city’s culinary excellence, cultural richness and vibrant spirit.
Need to know
Beyond the city
Try these extended-stay experiences in and around Buenos Aires that include excursions and day trips:
Tigre river tour: It is the perfect escape from urban life, Located just 35 kilometers from Buenos Aires, you witness the picturesque river delta region. It is ideal for boat tours, exploring island communities, relaxing natural scenery. This could be a weekend getaway experience offering a complete contrast to the city’s urban landscape. It's an excellent opportunity to see a different side of Argentine life.
Uruguay day trip: Visit Colonia del Sacramento. It is a quick ferry ride from Buenos Aires and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This trip features charming colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. There is a historic lighthouse, quaint cafes and restaurants. This is a perfect option for history buffs and those seeking a quick international adventure with approximately a 1-hour ferry ride.
Estancia experience: La Bamba de Areco. Choose this Argentine countryside adventure for an immersive gaucho (cowboy) culture experience. It is located in San Antonio de Areco, a traditional gaucho town that offers horseback riding through stunning landscapes, Argentine hospitality in a rural region. Learn about horse breeding and traditional skills. Take a deep dive into Argentina’s rich equestrian and pastoral heritage. Combine luxury with authentic cultural experience.
Live music and performances: For music lovers, check opera schedules at Teatro Colón and look for international artists performing in the city. Venues range from intimate theaters to large concert halls, and many international stars include Buenos Aires in their tours. Take this opportunity to experience world-class performances in a vibrant setting
Tango experiences: Skip highly commercialized tourist tango shows, as these performances often lack authenticity and feel staged. Instead, try taking tango lessons. This is one of the best ways to understand the dance’s cultural significance and learn from local professionals. It is an intimate, authentic experience. You can also opt for attending an intimate tango performance. Look for small venues with professional dancers that focus on dance artistry, not tourist spectacles.
Milongas for confident dancers: These are local dance halls where authentic tango happens. Join the dance floor if you’re confident and immerse yourself in local culture. Watch and learn from local dancers.
Additional recommendations
Language classes: Consider a short Spanish course.
Cooking classes: Learn to make Argentine specialties.
Walking tours: Explore different neighborhoods in-depth.
Local markets: Discover artisan crafts and local produce.
Pro travel tips
Book experiences in advance
Be flexible with your itinerary
Embrace spontaneity
Engage with local culture
Learn a few Spanish phrases
Extending your stay in Buenos Aires opens up a world of experiences beyond the typical tourist path. From river deltas to countryside estancias, from intimate musical performances to authentic cultural experiences, the city and its surroundings offer something for every traveler.
Travel Advisor
Chloe Kletsa
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