Capital city panoramic view of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Illustrative
Argentina

Buenos Aires

Tango capital, including European elegance, Tango show in San Telmo and La Boca colorful streets, steakhouses, and passionate culture.

#culture #food #nightlife #architecture #tango #wine
Off-season (lower prices)

Buenos Aires, Argentina is a Moderate destination perfect for culture and food. The best time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct, & Nov, when weather conditions are ideal. Budget travelers can explore from $53/day, while mid-range trips average $127/day. Visa-free for short tourism stays.

$53
/day
Visa-free
Moderate
Airport: EZE Top picks: San Telmo & Sunday Antiques Market, La Boca & Caminito

"Planning a trip to Buenos Aires? March is when the best weather begins — perfect for long walks and exploring without the crowds. Immerse yourself in a blend of modern culture and local traditions."

Our take

We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.

Why Visit Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires seductively seduces visitors as South America's most distinctly European capital city, where elegant tango dancers embrace passionately in intimate candlelit milongas dancing until dawn, sizzling parrillas (steakhouses) serve what many consider the world's absolute finest grass-fed beef from the Pampas, and beautiful Parisian-style tree-lined boulevards planted with purple-flowering jacaranda trees host passionate football (soccer) debates at countless sidewalk cafés where porteños (Buenos Aires residents) argue heatedly over coffee and medialunas. Argentina's sophisticated cosmopolitan heart (around 3 million in the autonomous city and over 15 million in Greater Buenos Aires, making it one of the largest metropolitan areas in the Americas and the second-most populous in South America after São Paulo) genuinely earned its famous 'Paris of South America' flattering moniker through grand Belle Époque and Art Nouveau architecture lining wide boulevards, spacious avenidas, and deep-rooted European-style café culture all imported by massive waves of Italian (largest group) and Spanish immigrants in late 19th-early 20th centuries who fundamentally shaped distinctive porteño identity and accent. Buenos Aires' passionate soul emerges strongest in its incredibly distinct atmospheric barrios (neighborhoods)—colorful La Boca's iconic corrugated metal conventillos (tenement houses) painted in vibrant blues, yellows, and reds where tango was born in poor immigrant neighborhoods, bohemian San Telmo's charming cobblestone streets hosting massive Sunday antique markets around historic Plaza Dorrego with tango street performers, and aristocratic Recoleta's French-style elegance culminating in the famous Recoleta Cemetery where Eva Perón's (Evita's) tomb draws constant pilgrims to elaborate marble mausoleums and family vaults genuinely rivaling Paris's Père Lachaise or European necropolises.

The passionate tango absolutely permeates absolutely everything in Buenos Aires culture—catch professional polished tango shows at historic Café Tortoni (operating since 1858, Argentina's oldest café, shows around $43–$76), authentic neighborhood milongas where serious local dancers embrace closely and dance until 4am (around $9–$16 entry), take private or group tango lessons in San Telmo studios ($16–$32), or watch talented street performers in Caminito's touristy but undeniably photogenic colorful alley. The outstanding culinary scene enthusiastically celebrates Argentina's serious carnivore beef culture—massive juicy bife de chorizo (sirloin) steaks, provoleta grilled cheese, morcilla (blood sausage), sweetbreads, and chimichurri herb sauce at traditional parrillas where beef is religion (steaks $11–$22 cheaper than Europe for superior quality), all washed down generously with bold Malbec from Mendoza's Andes vineyards (bottles $5–$16 at restaurants, impossibly cheap). Yet the city's contemporary creative edge shows strongly in trendy Palermo's vibrant street art murals covering entire building walls, craft microbreweries and third-wave coffee shops in hip Palermo Hollywood and Palermo Soho districts, and the Diego Maradona worship approaching actual religion visible at La Bombonera stadium where passionate Boca Juniors play amid deafening fan atmosphere.

The monumentally wide Avenida 9 de Julio (often cited as the world's widest avenue, about 140 meters across with up to seven lanes each way plus service roads) leads dramatically to the iconic 67-meter Obelisco monument and Teatro Colón's world-class opera house with acoustics genuinely rivaling Milan's La Scala (guided tours now cost roughly $32–$43 depending on how you book, while performance tickets usually start around $32+ for upper seats and rise for better views). Plaza de Mayo's presidential palace Casa Rosada (pink house) witnessed Evita's speeches and Mothers of Plaza de Mayo's protests. With Spanish language dominant (limited English outside upscale hotels and tourism), remarkably affordable prices thanks to persistent currency fluctuations and inflation (currently great value for foreigners with hard currency), and a distinctly late-night porteño culture where dinners rarely start before 10pm and nightclubs don't open until past midnight, Buenos Aires delivers intoxicating European architectural sophistication combined with passionate Latin American culture, tango heritage, and unbeatable steaks.

What to Do

Tango & Historic Barrios

San Telmo & Sunday Antiques Market

The historic heart of Buenos Aires comes alive on Sundays with the Plaza Dorrego antique market (roughly 10am–5pm), where vendors sell vintage treasures, antique furniture, and Argentine memorabilia. During the week, cobblestone streets are quieter, perfect for exploring tango studios and colonial architecture. Catch a live tango street performance in the plaza—free to watch, tips appreciated. The neighborhood has plenty of traditional cafés like Bar Plaza Dorrego where locals sip coffee for hours.

La Boca & Caminito

The colorful corrugated-metal houses of Caminito make it one of Buenos Aires' most photographed streets, painted in vibrant blues and yellows as they were when Italian immigrants built the neighborhood in the early 1900s. The two-block pedestrian street is touristy but photogenic—go in the morning before tour buses arrive. See tango dancers perform on the street ($5–$11 for photos with them). Visit La Bombonera stadium for a Boca Juniors match or stadium tour (book ahead). Avoid walking outside the main tourist area, especially at night, as surrounding streets can be unsafe.

Tango Shows & Milongas

Professional tango dinner shows at venues like Café Tortoni, Señor Tango, or Rojo Tango cost US$80–$150 per person with dinner and drinks—book online for discounts. For a more authentic experience, visit a traditional milonga (tango social club) where locals dance: try La Viruta (beginner-friendly, classes before the dance), Salon Canning, or Confitería Ideal (beautiful art-deco setting). Milongas usually start around 10–11pm and run until 2–3am. First-time visitors can take a group lesson (around US$15–$20) before the social dancing begins. Dress code is usually smart-casual.

Recoleta & European Buenos Aires

Recoleta Cemetery

One of the world's most beautiful cemeteries, with over 4,600 elaborate marble mausoleums housing Argentina's elite—including Eva Perón. Entry is free and it's open daily roughly 8am–5:45pm. Evita's tomb is in the Duarte family mausoleum (follow the signs or ask guards). Free guided tours in English run weekends around 11am. Allow 60–90 minutes to wander the labyrinth of neoclassical and art-nouveau tombs. The nearby Recoleta Cultural Center often has free art exhibits, and the area around the cemetery has upscale cafés perfect for people-watching.

Palermo Parks & Neighborhoods

Palermo is Buenos Aires' largest and trendiest neighborhood, split into sub-barrios. Palermo Soho has boutique shopping, street art, and trendy restaurants—wander Calle Honduras or Plaza Cortázar. Palermo Hollywood (north of the train tracks) is home to craft breweries, design shops, and nightlife. The Bosques de Palermo (Palermo Woods) offer green space, rose gardens, paddle boats on the lake, and weekend street fairs. The Japanese Garden charges a small entry fee (~$2) but is a peaceful oasis. Palermo is also the safest and most tourist-friendly neighborhood for accommodation.

Teatro Colón & 9 de Julio Avenue

The Teatro Colón opera house rivals Europe's finest with its seven-story interior, gilded balconies, and near-perfect acoustics. Guided tours (around US$10–$15 book online) run daily except Mondays and take about 50 minutes—they showcase the main hall, golden hall, and backstage areas. If you can catch a performance (ballet, opera, or classical concert), tickets start from US$15–$20 for upper balconies, though seats often sell out weeks ahead. The theater sits near the world's widest avenue, Avenida 9 de Julio, where the iconic Obelisco monument marks the city center—best viewed from ground level or from a café terrace.

Argentine Food & Football

Parrilla Steakhouses

Argentine beef is world-famous, and a parrilla (steakhouse) meal is essential. Order bife de chorizo (thick sirloin), ojo de bife (rib-eye), or asado de tira (short ribs), accompanied by chimichurri sauce, grilled provoleta cheese, and a bottle of Malbec. Expect to pay US$20–$40 per person at a quality parrilla like Don Julio (Palermo, book days ahead), La Cabrera (huge portions, no reservations, long waits), or La Brigada (San Telmo, traditional atmosphere). Argentines eat late—dinner starts around 9–10pm, and restaurants may be empty at 7pm.

Café Culture & Confiterías

Historic cafés (confiterías) are Buenos Aires institutions where porteños linger for hours over coffee and medialunas (croissants). Café Tortoni (since 1858) is the most famous—touristy but beautiful with marble tables, stained glass, and live tango shows in the basement. Try also Café La Biela (Recoleta, outdoor terrace under a giant rubber tree) or London City (Avenida de Mayo, art-nouveau interior). Coffee comes as cortado (espresso with milk), café con leche (like a latte), or lágrima (mostly milk, a 'tear' of coffee). Expect to pay $3–$5 for coffee and pastries.

Boca Juniors at La Bombonera

Watching a Boca Juniors match at La Bombonera stadium is one of Buenos Aires' most electrifying experiences—the stands literally shake when fans jump and chant. Tickets are hard to get for tourists (members get priority); use official resellers or tour companies that include tickets + transport (around US$100–$150). Stadium tours run daily (around US$15) when there's no match, showing the museum, pitch, and locker rooms. Wear Boca colors (blue and yellow) or neutral—never wear River Plate red. The neighborhood around the stadium is not safe to explore on foot; stick with organized tours or taxis directly to the entrance.

Travel Information

Getting There

  • Airports: EZE

Best Time to Visit

March, April, October, November

Climate: Moderate

Visa Requirements

Visa-free for EU citizens

Best months: Mar, Apr, Oct, NovHottest: Jan (28°C) • Driest: May (3d rain)
Monthly weather data
Month High Low Rainy days Condition
January 28°C 20°C 7 Good
February 28°C 19°C 5 Good
March 26°C 20°C 9 Excellent (best)
April 21°C 14°C 7 Excellent (best)
May 18°C 11°C 3 Good
June 15°C 9°C 9 Good
July 13°C 6°C 6 Good
August 17°C 9°C 6 Good
September 17°C 10°C 4 Good
October 20°C 13°C 8 Excellent (best)
November 24°C 17°C 5 Excellent (best)
December 27°C 18°C 5 Good

Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) • Historical avg. 2020–2025

Travel Costs

Budget
$53 /day
Typical Range: $43 – $59
Accommodation $23
Food & Meals $12
Local Transport $8
Attractions & Tours $9
Mid-range
$127 /day
Typical Range: $108 – $146
Accommodation $54
Food & Meals $29
Local Transport $18
Attractions & Tours $21
Luxury
$265 /day
Typical Range: $227 – $302
Accommodation $111
Food & Meals $60
Local Transport $37
Attractions & Tours $42

Per person per day, based on double occupancy. 'Budget' reflects hostels or shared accommodation in high-cost cities.

💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (January 2026): Plan ahead: March is coming up and offers ideal weather.

Practical Information

Getting There

Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) is 35km south for international flights. Manuel Tienda León shuttle to city center costs US$8–$13 per person (50-60 min). Public Bus Line 8 is cheapest (about US$1–$1 with SUBE card, but 1.5-2 hours). Remise (registered taxi) or Uber US$35–$45 depending on traffic. Domestic flights and some regional use Aeroparque (AEP) closer to city center. Buenos Aires is Argentina's hub—buses connect all cities (Mendoza 14hr, Iguazú 18hr, Patagonia 20+hr).

Getting Around

Subte (metro) is fastest—6 lines, operates 5am-11pm weekdays, later weekends. SUBE card (transport card) costs about ARS 880 (~US$1), rechargeable at kiosks. Most bus and Subte rides cost roughly US$1–$1 per trip at current rates. Colectivos (buses) cover entire city but complex. Uber/Cabify work well. Official radio taxis safer than street hails. Walking pleasant in Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo. Bike lanes expanding. Avoid rush hours (8-10am, 6-8pm).

Money & Payments

Argentine Peso (ARS, $). Exchange rate is highly volatile (often well over 1,500 ARS per $1); always check a live converter. There's a widely used parallel 'blue' rate that can be much better than the official rate. Many travellers use reputable exchange houses recommended by locals or services like Western Union. Credit cards typically use less favorable official rates. Bring USD/EUR cash. Inflation high—check current rates. Tipping: 10% in restaurants expected, round up taxis.

Language

Spanish is official. Porteño Spanish has Italian-influenced accent and unique slang (che, boludo). English limited outside tourist hotels and upscale restaurants—learn basic Spanish phrases. Younger people in Palermo may speak English. Translation apps essential. Gestures important in communication.

Cultural Tips

Porteños eat late—dinner rarely before 9-10pm, restaurants open 8pm. Lunch 1-3pm. Mate tea culture—shared gourd and metal straw. Greet with one kiss on right cheek. Argentines are passionate about football—ask about Boca vs River. Dinner reservations essential for popular parrillas. Tango lessons welcome beginners. Service can be slow—relax. Currency situation complex—ask locals for exchange tips. ATMs limit withdrawals—bring USD/EUR cash.

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Perfect 3-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary

Historic Center & Tango

Morning: Walk 9 de Julio Avenue to Obelisco, visit Café Tortoni for coffee. Afternoon: Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada (Evita's balcony), Cabildo museum. San Telmo antique shops (Sunday market if weekend). Evening: Authentic milonga tango experience or professional dinner show. Late steak dinner at parrilla (10pm+).

Neighborhoods & Culture

Morning: Recoleta Cemetery—find Evita's tomb, explore marble mausoleums. Recoleta Cultural Center. Afternoon: Palermo parks and rose gardens, lunch in Palermo Soho. Street art tour in Palermo Hollywood. Evening: Microbrewery in Palermo, dinner at trendy restaurant, late-night bar hopping.

La Boca & River

Morning: La Boca's Caminito colorful streets and tango dancers (daytime only). Boca Juniors stadium tour or match if playing. Afternoon: Puerto Madero's revitalized docks, Puente de la Mujer bridge, riverside walk. Teatro Colón opera house tour. Evening: Farewell Argentine beef dinner at Don Julio, wine tasting.

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

Palermo

Best for: Parks, nightlife, restaurants, street art, boutique hotels, trendy scene, safest area

San Telmo

Best for: Tango, Sunday antique market, colonial architecture, bohemian vibe, street performers

Recoleta

Best for: Aristocratic elegance, cemetery, museums, upscale cafés, European architecture

La Boca

Best for: Colorful Caminito, tango birthplace, Boca Juniors stadium, daytime only (unsafe at night)

Popular Activities

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Buenos Aires?
Citizens of EU, US, Canada, UK, Australia, and 80+ countries can visit Argentina visa-free for tourism up to 90 days. Passport must be valid for duration of stay. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens previously paid reciprocity fee ($160) but this was abolished in 2016. Always verify current Argentine visa requirements.
What is the best time to visit Buenos Aires?
March-May (autumn) and September-November (spring) offer ideal weather (15-25°C), fewer crowds, and cultural seasons. December-February is summer (25-35°C)—hot and humid but vibrant with outdoor events, though many porteños vacation in January. June-August is winter (8-18°C)—mild but grey, perfect for tango shows and indoor culture. Avoid January if you want businesses open.
How much does a trip to Buenos Aires cost per day?
Buenos Aires is affordable for foreigners due to currency situation. Budget travelers need $30–$50/$30–$50/day for hostels, street food, and subte. Mid-range visitors need $80–$140/$80–$140/day for boutique hotels, parrilla dinners, and tango shows. Luxury stays start from $250+/$248+/day. Steak dinners $15–$30 tango shows $80–$150 with dinner, wine bottles $5–$10
Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?
Buenos Aires requires awareness but most tourists visit safely. Tourist areas (Palermo, Recoleta, San Telmo) are generally safe by day. Watch for: pickpockets on Subte/buses, bag snatching on motorcycles (hold bags away from street), taxi scams (use apps like Cabify/Uber), and distraction thefts. Some neighborhoods (Villa 31, southern suburbs) are unsafe—avoid. Don't display expensive items. Night travel in tourist areas fine but use registered taxis/apps.
What are the must-see attractions in Buenos Aires?
Walk Recoleta Cemetery's marble mausoleums including Evita's tomb. Explore La Boca's colorful Caminito (avoid at night). Sunday antique market in San Telmo's Plaza Dorrego. Attend authentic tango milonga or professional show (Café Tortoni, Señor Tango). Tour Teatro Colón opera house. Steak dinner at Don Julio or La Cabrera. Add Palermo's parks and street art, Boca Juniors match at La Bombonera, and 9 de Julio avenue. Take tango lesson.

Why you can trust this guide

Headshot of Jan Křenek, founder of GoTripzi
Jan Křenek

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

Data Sources:
  • Official tourism boards and visitor guides
  • GetYourGuide and Viator activity data
  • Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data
  • Google Maps reviews and ratings

This guide combines personal travel experience with comprehensive data analysis to provide accurate recommendations.

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