Top 12 Things to do in Buenos Aires

Whether you want to learn or simply watch, Buenos Aires is the perfect city to indulge in a little tango during your trip to Buenos Aires. The national dance of Argentina, the tango was born in Buenos Aires and is still one of the city’s most popular attractions. From dinner-and-tango shows to authentic milongases (tango nights), shows, and classes are held every day of the week throughout the city.

Recommended destinations:

• La Catedral, located in the Almagro neighborhood, is renowned for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. A favorite among both locals and tourists, the venue often hosts live music and offers tango classes. 
• For a classic tango experience, head to El Viejo Almacén in the historic San Telmo, the oldest barrio (neighborhood) in Buenos Aires. This traditional tango house combines a delectable dinner with a captivating tango show. 
• Located in the trendy Palermo neighborhood, Milonga La Viruta is a vibrant and dynamic tango destination. It offers tango classes earlier in the evening, followed by a lively dance floor where locals and visitors come together to dance the night away.

Best time to visit: Buenos Aires is a great place to dance the tango year-round. But the city becomes the most lively during the summer months (December to February) when outdoor milongas (tango dance events) are held under warm, pleasant weather.

Recoleta Cemetery is more than just a cemetery; it’s a journey through the history of Buenos Aires. Wander among ornate mausoleums, resembling a small city for the departed, with captivating stories hidden around every corner. Discover famous figures like Eva Perón and marvel at the striking architecture that sets this cemetery apart. The place offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Best time to visit: Recoleta Cemetery can be visited year-round, but consider timing your visit during the spring (September to November) or fall (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the gardens surrounding the cemetery are in full bloom.

Quick tip: Try a mixed-bag sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires that includes a visit to Recoleta Cemetery as well.

Teatro Colón is a Buenos Aires landmark and one of the top five most important opera houses in the world. Since its opening in 1857, this magnificent building has been home to musical performances, symphonies, operas, ballets and more. Standing more than seven stories high and spanning an entire city block, Teatro Colón is one of the top things to see in Buenos Aires if you are a culture aficionado.

Best time to visit: Teatro Colón offers performances throughout the year, but the main opera and ballet seasons typically run from March to December. Consider visiting during these months to catch world-class performances.

Buenos Aires’ trendiest neighborhood, Palermo is a lush oasis waiting to be explored. Walk through tree-lined streets adorned with street art and discover hidden parks like the Japanese Garden and Rose Garden. This is where the city’s modernity meets nature’s beauty, offering a refreshing Buenos Aires experience for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to art lovers. With its enchanting atmosphere, Palermo is the ideal destination for those seeking romantic things to do in Buenos Aires.

Best time to visit: Palermo is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall are especially delightful due to their mild and pleasant temperatures. Spring (September to November) brings blooming flowers, while fall (March to May) offers beautiful foliage.

Don your best blue and yellow, warm up your vocal chords and experience one of the top things to do in Buenos Aires: attend a soccer match (known as football in Argentina). Nothing is as exhilarating and exciting as jumping up and down alongside die hard soccer fans as they sing, dance and cheer on their favorite players. Even if you’re not a football fan, going to the games for the atmosphere alone is an experience you don’t want to miss. Head to La Bombonera, one of Buenos Aires most famous football stadium and home to Boca Juniors club.

Best time to visit: Soccer matches in Buenos Aires happen throughout the year, but the atmosphere is particularly electric during the local soccer season, which typically runs from January to August.

Good to know: The easiest way to attend a match is to go with an organized group. Tours to games, as well as to the stadiums, can be arranged through a myriad of organizers.

Empanadas are not just a culinary delight of Argentina, they are also a cherished tradition. These savory pastries, filled with various delicious ingredients like meat, cheese, or vegetables, are a true Argentinean treat that you must try during your trip to Buenos Aires. As you savor these delectable hand-held snacks from street vendors or cozy cafes, you are not just enjoying a meal; you are tasting a piece of Buenos Aires’ culinary history. Whether on a food adventure or simply looking for a quick and tasty bite, gorging on empanadas is an essential experience that you must have in the city.

Recommended spots:

• Palermo, the trendsetting Buenos Aires neighborhood, presents a vibrant empanada scene. Whether you prefer traditional beef or adventurous combinations like spinach and cheese, Palermo has it all.
• In the vibrant streets of La Boca, small empanada shops offer a taste of local life. Enjoy classic empanadas with minced beef, spices, and olives amidst the neighborhood's colorful atmosphere.
• The upscale Recoleta neighborhood is a hub for gourmet empanadas. Cafes and bakeries here serve up innovative fillings like smoked salmon with cream cheese or goat cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, combining tradition with sophistication.

Best season: You can enjoy empanadas in Buenos Aires year-round.

Buenos Aires is not traditionally known as a wine-producing region, but it is a getaway to some of Argentina’s most renowned wine regions. While you won’t find vineyards within the city, you can explore wine bars, shops, and restaurants offering an extensive selection of Argentine wines. Whether you are a seasoned wine aficionado or a curious explorer, raising a glass in Buenos Aires is an invitation to celebrate the city’s remarkable heritage and flavors.

Recommended destinations

• Palermo in Buenos Aires is home to numerous wine bars and restaurants with extensive wine lists. Places like La Cava Jufre and Pain et Vin are known for their impressive wine selection
• San Telmo is another historic neighborhood in Buenos Aires, San Telmo features cozy wine bars like El Preferido de Palermo and Bar du Marche, where you can enjoy Argentine wines in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Puerto Madero is a modern waterfront district that houses upscale restaurants like Cabana Las Lilas and Carbet which offers a wide range of Argentine wine to complement your meal.

Best season: Wine tastings and tours are available year-round. However, the grape harvest season, known as the "vendimia," in Mendoza and other wine regions typically occurs from late February to early April, offering a unique wine-related experience.

One of the unique things to do in Buenos Aires is cruising the Tigre Delta. This captivating labyrinth of waterways and lush islands provides an enchanting escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Aboard a boat, you will navigate these tranquil passages where nature’s serenity blends with the charm of riverside villages. As you journey along, you will encounter houses on stilts, local artisans, and a vibrant culture thriving amidst this aquatic wonderland. Whether you opt for a leisurely daytime cruise or a moonlit adventure, exploring the Tigre Delta offers a chance to connect with Argentina’s natural beauty and local spirit.

Recommended places:

• Situated on the picturesque banks of the Tigre Delta, Parque de la Costa is an exhilarating amusement park that promises an unforgettable day of fun. This thrilling attraction boasts a diverse range of rides, from heart-pounding roller coasters to refreshing water slides, making it a magnet for adrenaline junkies and families alike.
• Housed in a magnificent historic building, the Tigre Art Museum is a treasure trove of Argentine art. Its extensive collection showcases the nation's rich artistic heritage, spanning various genres and periods. Here, you will encounter impressive paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, providing a comprehensive insight into Argentina's cultural evolution.
• Along the bustling riverfront of Tigre lies Puerto de Frutos. As you wander through the stalls of this marketplace, you will encounter a treasure trove of unique handmade crafts, vintage antiques, and regional specialties. From intricately carved wooden items to traditional mate sets, this market is a sensory journey through Tigre's artisanal heritage.

Best time to visit: Tigre is a great day trip from Buenos Aires, and it can be visited year-round. The summer months (December to February) offer warmer weather for outdoor activities, while the delta's landscape is beautiful during the fall (March to May).

Located in the La Boca barrio, El Caminito is one of the city’s most iconic streets. Thanks to its vibrantly painted houses and buildings and tango dancers in the street, this open-air museum and traditional alley is sure to attract attention. Visit El Caminito to learn more about the interesting history of the area and to snap some Insta-worthy photos.

Best time to visit: Consider planning your visit for either spring or fall when the weather is delightful. Keep in mind that La Boca tends to draw large crowds, so plan your trip accordingly.

Among the exciting things to do in Buenos Aires, seeing the races at Hipodromo Argentina is a thrilling event you do not want to miss. This historic racetrack, nestled in the heart of the city, offers a unique blend of sport, tradition, and excitement. Whether you are a seasoned horse racing enthusiast or a first-time spectator, the atmosphere at Hipodromo Argentina is infectious. Feel the adrenaline surge as the horses thunder down the track while the crowd roars with excitement. 

Best time to visit: Horse racing at Hipódromo Argentino takes place year-round, usually starting around noon. You can attend races at your convenience, but weekends are more popular among locals.

Good to know: Entrance is free. Horse races start at noon and go until 21:00, so you can place bets or even try your hands on the slot machines. Explore more of the grounds and visit the stables by taking a guided tour of the Hipódromo Argentino

In Buenos Aires, a city brimming with culture and creativity, one of the most enriching things to do is to explore its museums and art galleries. This vibrant metropolis boasts an impressive array of cultural institutions that cater to all interests. Whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply curious, you'll find a wealth of treasures waiting to be discovered. From modern art galleries in Palermo to the classic Museo Evita, Buenos Aires offers a cultural spectacle that will captivate your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation of the city's rich legacy.

Recommended destinations:

• Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is renowned for its impressive collection of European and Argentine art, featuring works by Goya, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and many others.
• Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) is dedicated to the celebration of Latin American art, boasting an extraordinary collection of 20th-century and contemporary masterpieces. Among its treasures are artworks by iconic figures such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
• Dedicated to the life and legacy of Eva Perón, Museo Evita showcases personal belongings, photographs and memorabilia, providing insights into Argentina's history.
• Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Buenos Aires (MACBA) specializes in contemporary art and hosts rotating exhibitions of both Argentine and international artists, making it a hub for modern creativity.
• Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires (MAMBA) presents a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by avant-garde artists from Argentina and around the world.

Best time to visit: Museums and art galleries are open year-round. Consider visiting during the cooler spring and fall months for comfortable exploration.

Good to know: Many museums and galleries in Buenos Aires offer free admission on specific days or during certain hours, so check their websites or inquire locally to take advantage of these opportunities. Some museums and galleries may have limited English signage, so having a translation app or guidebook handy can enhance your understanding of the artwork and exhibits.

Casa Rosada is one of the most important and emblematic buildings in Buenos Aires. This palatial mansion is where the president and government of Argentina work, and from where Juan and Eva Perón delivered their famous speeches from the balcony. Marvel at its bright pink exterior before taking a stroll through Plaza de Mayo, finding yourself at the epicenter of Argentine politics.

Good to know: Tours of Casa Rosada are offered in English on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays at 12:30 and 14:30.

From lively football matches and vibrant street museums to world-class museums and political attractions, there are so many things to do in Buenos Aires. No matter how you choose to journey through this city during your Argentina trip, you’re guaranteed to have a fabulous time.

Reach out to our local travel experts in Argentina for a customized tour of Argentina. Depending on your Argentina itinerary, you can choose how many days you want to spend in Buenos Aires. Or, if you want to explore further, there are other destinations in Argentina with abundant opportunities to venture out. You can check our guide on things to do in Argentina to find activities that best suit you. For a seasonal overview of the country, you can read our guide on the best time to visit Argentina.