The capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is a major South American hub located about halfway along the country’s far eastern coast, where the River Plate empties out into the South Atlantic. Culture-wise, the city has a strong European-Latin feel with long boulevards fringed by colonial architecture and a wealth of greenery which contribute to create an alluring destination.
The Argentine capital is a city that skips along to a tango beat, serving up great and incredibly cheap food and drink along with a renowned nightlife and carnival scene. This is a city with a distinctly European, mainly Spanish feel, with its classic architecture, numerous museums and laid-back atmosphere. Recoleta is the cultural heart of the city and a plush suburb of museums, art galleries and a basilica.
For many, a visit to Buenos Aires means a chance to feast on some of the best steak in the world and at ridiculously low prices. Restaurants and accommodation are more often than not fantastic value for money in the Argentine capital, where you can get a memorable dinner with locally produced red wine and a bed for the night for a fraction of the cost that you would pay in Europe or North America. The nightlife here is also worth checking out, but be aware that things can get very raucous and go on long after daybreak.
Highlights
Recoleta: almost worthy of a vacation in itself, this suburb is home of the cemetery that houses Eva Peron along with the 18th century Neustra Senora del Pilar Basilica and the institution that is the Biela Café.
Barolo Palace: a 100-metre tall architectural delight and national monument built using a curious mix of styles.
Dorrego Market: a compulsory Sunday morning shopping experience that attracts thousands of people to its stalls selling antiques, knick-knacks and more.
Palermo Park: a huge green expanse in the heart of the city featuring lakes, boating, sculptures and a huge rose garden of nearly 2,000 species.** **
The Obelisk: is the epicenter of Buenos Aires’ past and was erected in stages at significant points in the city’s history. ****
River Plate Football Stadium: shrine and sports arena wrapped in one giant complex and the home of one of the biggest clubs in football-mad Argentina.