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Things to Do in Buenos Aires

Things to Do in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires Fd Argentina Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

While Buenos Aires is a vast metropolis, it provides parks and neighboring natural escapes for outdoor enthusiasts.

City Greens & Water Activities

Walking & Cycling Routes

Reserva Ecológica Priceanera Sur (easy paths, all fitness levels), Bosques de Palermo (flat paths, lakes, gardens). Extensive cycling lanes (bicisendas) crisscross the city.

Water Sports

Kayaking/Canoeing in the Tigre Delta (a short day trip). Paddle boats in the lochs of Bosques de Palermo for a relaxed activity.

No Strenuous Hiking/Trekking

No strenuous hiking or trekking exists within Buenos Aires itself. For more serious trekking, consider trips to Patagonia.

Wildlife & Horseback Riding

  • Birdwatching: Reserva Ecológican Expenseanera Sur, home to over 300 species of birds. Binoculars are helpful.
  • Horseback Riding (Equitación): Encounter traditional horse riding on estancias (ranches) just outside the city.
  • Public Bikes: Ecobici public bicycle system is an excellent way to explore urban areas.
  • No City Camping: Camping facilities exist in the adjacent provinces, not within city limits.

Tigre Delta Excursion

  • Day trip from Buenos Aires.
  • Kayaking, boat tours, scenic views.
  • Unique freshwater ecosystem.
  • Relaxing escape from the city bustle.

Estancia Day Trip

  • Experience Argentine ranch life.
  • Horseback riding opportunities.
  • Traditional asado lunch.
  • Learn about gaucho culture.

Birdwatching at Reserva Ecológica

  • Over 300 bird species.
  • Peaceful urban nature reserve.
  • Walking and cycling paths.
  • Escape to nature within the city.

Adventure Sports Note

Adventure sports like rafting on rapids or mountaineering are not common within Buenos Aires city limits. Consider traveling to other regions of Argentina for these activities.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in the rich artistic and social fabric of Buenos Aires.

Workshops & Performances

  • Tango Classes: Numerous studios offer lessons for every level (La Ventana, La Viruta, Academia de Tango).
  • Cooking Classes: Learn traditional Argentine dishes like empanadas or asado.
  • Spanish Language Schools: Many options for immersive short or long-term courses (Expanish, Elebaires).
  • Tango Shows: Experience the passion, from informal milongas to elaborate dinner shows (GetYourGuide has options).

Community & Festivals

Community-Based Tourism

Local NGOs offer tours connecting visitors with communities, focusing on social projects or cultural insights.

Folkloric Culture

Find traditional folkloric music and dance in some peñas (folkloric clubs) or cultural centers, demonstrating Argentina's diverse regional cultures.

Cultural Festivals

La Noche de los Museos, Festival Internacional de Tango, and Book Fair are significant annual events.

Book Fair

One of the most substantial Spanish-speaking book fairs, attracting authors and readers globally.

Night of the Museums

Annual event where many museums offer free entry and longer hours for exploration.

International Tango Festival

Annual festival featuring performances, competitions, and free classes for tango enthusiasts.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst the city's energy.

Spa & Serenity

  • Spa and Wellness Centers: Many luxury hotels (A Luxury hotel chain, Alvear Palace) feature excellent spas.
  • Independent Day Spas: Accessible all over the city for various treatments.
  • Hot Springs: No hot springs straight in The Paris of south america. They exist in other Argentine provinces.
  • Traditional Healing: Not a prominent tourist offering in Buenos Aires.

Movement & Mindfulness

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga studios are frequently found in Palermo and other residential areas. Dedicated retreats are typically outside the city.

Hotel Pools

Some luxury hotels offer rooftop pools, a refreshing break in summer. Public the the pools are rare.

No Beach Clubs

Due to the nature of the Río de la Plata, no traditional beach clubs are in Buenos Aires.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music

Jazz at Thelonious Club, Bebop Club. Rock/Pop at Niceto Club, Konex Ciudad Cultural. Live tango orchestras at milongas.

Theater

Teatro Colón (opera, ballet), Teatro San Martín (contemporary), Corrientes Avenue (Broadway of Buenos Aires).

Nightclubs & Bars

Boliches (nightclubs) in Palermo Soho/Hollywood fill after 2 AM. Milongas are social tango dance halls. Bar districts in Palermo, San Telmo.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and high-end fashion across the city's diverse shopping landscape.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Feria de San Telmo: Iconic Sunday bazaar with antiques, crafts, street performers, food.
  • Mercado de San Telmo: Indoor market with produce, meats, antiques (open daily, Sundays busiest).
  • Artisan Workshops: San Telmo and Palermo Soho have small shops with leather goods, mate gourds, crafts.
  • Souvenirs: Leather products, mate sets, dulce de leche, alfajores, Malbec wine, tango-themed products.

Late-Night & Casino Options

Tango Dinner Shows

Often include the evening meal and late-night performances, extending well past midnight.

Casinos

Casino Buenos Aires functions on a boat in Puerto Madero, offering gaming and entertainment.

Milongas

Stay open late for social dancing, sometimes with beginner lessons.

Galerías Pacífico

Architecturally stunning shopping mall in Microcentro with a beautiful dome and high-end shops.

Patio Bullrich

Upscale shopping mall in Recoleta, featuring luxury labels and boutiques.

Alto Palermo

A modern and popular shopping mall in Palermo, with a wide range of international and local stores.

Ethical Shopping & Shipping

Ethical Guidelines
  • Support local artisans directly at markets to benefit the community.
  • Choose fair trade certifications where applicable.
  • Be mindful of the origin of products you purchase.
Shipping & Customs
  • Verify with local postal services (Correo Argentino) or international couriers for shipping costs and regulations.
  • Be aware of potential customs duties in your home a destination for items you ship.
  • For large or valuable items, consider specialized shipping services.

Shop Wisely

Explore local markets for special items and support local artisans. Comparison shop for bigger purchases like items made of leather.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximize Experiences

  • Look online platforms like GetYourGuide for pre-booking tours and activities.
  • Book popular tango shows and dinner experiences in advance.
  • Consider a Spanish language crash course for cultural immersion.
  • Explore close-by places such as the Tigre Delta for a change of pace.

Budget Considerations

  • Many institutions provide free entry on certain days or evenings.
  • Utilize the Ecobici system for inexpensive urban transportation.
  • Enjoy street food from the region and "menú ejecutivo" for cheap eats.
  • Visit weekend markets for free entertainment and affordable shopping.