Buenos Aires isn’t a place you rush through — it’s a city that rewards time, curiosity, and a little spontaneity. It has the grand architecture of Europe but the restless energy of Latin America.
Some days move fast — cafés spilling onto sidewalks, live tango at the corner of San Telmo. Others stretch long — late-night steaks, wine-soaked conversations that end at sunrise.
When I travelled to Buenos Aires, I didn’t follow a set itinerary. I had ideas, a few must-sees, but the best moments came when I let the city lead.
This Buenos Aires itinerary isn’t a checklist. It’s a framework. Each day balances culture, food, and local experiences, giving you the chance to see beyond the obvious and step into the rhythm of the city.
You’ll visit its historic landmarks, explore its creative neighbourhoods, experience tango beyond the stage, and eat your way through the city’s bodegones and parrillas. Whether you’re here for a few days or a full week, you can mix and match these days in any order — pick what resonates, skip what doesn’t.
Buenos Aires isn’t about doing it all. It’s about experiencing it fully.
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Buenos Aires Itinerary: How Many Days Do You Need?
Buenos Aires is the kind of city that reveals itself in layers. Whether you have a few days or a full week, you’ll experience a different side of it depending on how long you stay. Here’s how to make the most of your time.
- 3 Days – Enough to cover the essentials: historic landmarks, local markets, and a taste of Buenos Aires’ nightlife.
- 5 Days – A deeper dive, with time for lesser-known neighbourhoods, cultural experiences, and food beyond the tourist hotspots.
- 7 Days – The full experience, including day trips to Tigre, Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay), or an estancia for a gaucho-style escape.
No matter how long you stay, Buenos Aires is best explored at a slower pace — so don’t feel pressured to fit everything in. Pick what speaks to you and let the city do the rest.
3-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary: The Essentials
If you have limited time, this 3-day Buenos Aires itinerary covers the city's rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods, and cultural highlights — without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Historic Buenos Aires & Tango Culture
Day 1 in Buenos Aires is all about immersing yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant tango culture, from grand colonial landmarks to the rhythms of Argentina’s most iconic dance.
Morning
- Start in Plaza de Mayo, the city’s political and historical heart. Visit Casa Rosada, where Eva Perón once addressed the masses, and step inside Catedral Metropolitana, where Pope Francis once presided as Archbishop.
- Walk along Avenida de Mayo, a grand boulevard known for its European-style architecture, historic cafés, and cultural landmarks. This avenue links Plaza de Mayo to Plaza del Congreso and is a perfect introduction to Buenos Aires’ past and present.
- Stop at Palacio Barolo, one of the city’s most intriguing buildings. Inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, it’s filled with literary and Masonic symbolism. If you have time, a guided tour to the top offers one of the best panoramic views of Buenos Aires, with a perfect alignment between the Congress and Casa Rosada.
- Continue past Teatro Avenida, a historic theatre known for Spanish zarzuela performances, before reaching your next stop.
Midday
- Walk over to Café Tortoni, Buenos Aires’ most iconic café, and soak in its old-world charm over coffee and medialunas.
Afternoon
- Explore the cobblestone streets of San Telmo, stopping at antique shops and peeking into the Mercado de San Telmo. If you’re curious, visit the Witches’ Market for a glimpse into Argentina’s mystical traditions.
Evening
- Immerse yourself in tango at a historic venue like El Querandí, where the music, movement, and passion bring Buenos Aires’ most famous dance to life.
Day 2: La Boca, Recoleta & Culture
Day 2 takes you through Buenos Aires’ most distinct neighbourhoods, from the bold colours and street art of La Boca to the refined elegance of Recoleta, with a deep dive into the city’s artistic and cultural scene.
Morning
- Start your day in La Boca, where the bold colours of Caminito Street set the scene for vividly painted houses, lively street performances and tango dancers. Wander past murals, browse artisan stalls, and soak up the bohemian energy.
- If you're interested in contemporary art, stop by Fundación PROA with rotating exhibitions. The rooftop café offers a great view of La Boca’s colourful streets.
- Take note of Conventillos – the old, brightly painted tenement houses that once housed immigrants. Some have been transformed into artisan shops, where you can buy local crafts and paintings.
- Walk beyond Caminito to Pasaje Garibaldi and Magallanes Street, where you’ll find some of the best street art in Buenos Aires. Many murals depict Argentine history, football culture, and tango legends like Carlos Gardel.
Midday
- Stop for lunch at El Obrero, a traditional bodegón and grab a quick empanada or choripán before heading to Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of Argentina’s most famous figures, including Evita Perón.
Afternoon
- Depending on your interests, admire fine art at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes or get lost in the literary grandeur of El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a bookstore housed in a former theatre. You could do both, if time permits.
Evening
- Wrap up the day in Palermo Soho, where stylish restaurants and rooftop bars create the perfect setting for dinner and drinks.
Day 3: Palermo & Parks
Day 3 is all about slowing down and soaking up Buenos Aires’ green spaces and creative energy, from the tranquil parks of Palermo to its stylish cafes, boutiques, and contemporary art scene.
Morning
- Start your day in Bosques de Palermo (Palermo Woods), where locals jog, picnic, and sip mate under the shade of jacaranda trees.
- Walk around the lake, then step into the Jardín Japonés, a beautifully manicured garden offering a quiet escape from the city’s energy.
- If time permits, immerse yourself in Latin American creativity at MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art), where you’ll find works from Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Argentina’s own Antonio Berni.
Midday
- Head to Palermo Hollywood for a laid-back brunch at one of its stylish cafés.
Afternoon
- Return to Palermo Soho but in daylight to explore boutique stores, independent bookstores, and vibrant street art.
- Visit Libros del Pasaje, a cosy independent bookstore with warm wooden shelves, a thoughtfully curated selection (including some English titles), and a café perfect for a quiet break.
- Wander to Plazoleta Julio Cortázar (Plaza Serrano), a bustling square at the heart of Palermo’s creative scene, surrounded by colourful street art, boutique shops, and cafés. On weekends, it hosts markets with local designers and artists.
Evening
- Wrap up your 3-day Buenos Aires itinerary with rooftop cocktails at Sky Bar, offering panoramic city views.
5-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary: Going Deeper
(Includes everything from the 3-day itinerary plus the following additions)
Your 5-day Buenos Aires itinerary takes you beyond the highlights, giving you a deeper look into the city’s hidden corners, cultural gems, and local life. With these extra days, you’ll have time to slow down, explore lesser-known neighbourhoods, and experience Buenos Aires the way locals do.
Day 4: Puerto Madero, Contemporary Buenos Aires & Hidden Gems
Day 4 takes you beyond the historic core of Buenos Aires and into its modern, artistic, and lesser-known sides. From nature escapes in the city to views in La Boca, today is about seeing Buenos Aires through a different lens.
Morning
- Start the day with something unexpected — a nature walk in the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve. This green oasis, tucked between Puerto Madero’s sleek skyline and the Rio de la Plata, offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s usual energy.
- Stroll along the pathways, spot wildlife, or rent a bike to explore the trails.
- If you’re feeling peckish, grab a choripán (chorizo sandwich) from one of the local food stands outside the entrance — a classic Buenos Aires street snack.
Midday
- After the reserve, head into Puerto Madero, the city’s newest and most polished neighbourhood, known for its waterfront restaurants and high-end feel. While it lacks the grit of San Telmo, it’s a great spot for a long lunch with a view.
- For seafood: Try Sorrento Madero, known for its fresh fish and riverfront setting.
- For steak: Go all out at Cabaña Las Lilas, an upscale parrilla famous for its premium Argentine beef.
- For a casual option: Stop by La Parolaccia, an Italian spot with generous portions of homemade pasta.
Afternoon
- This is where Buenos Aires’ contemporary side takes the spotlight. Choose one of these experiences based on your interests:
- Usina del Arte – A striking cultural centre housed in a former power plant. It hosts free exhibitions, concerts, and events. Even if nothing’s on, the architecture alone is worth a visit.
- A Themed Walking Tour – If you prefer a deeper dive into Buenos Aires’ history, book a specialised city tour. Some agencies offer:
- Architecture-focused walks (exploring gems dotted around the city).
- Literary tours (visiting some of the most beautiful bookstores in the Argentine capital).
- Palermo Graffiti Tour (diving into the art scene of this neighbourhood as you explore creative hubs and street art).
Evening
- Tonight is about stepping off the tourist trail and into the city’s hidden corners.
- Drinks at a speakeasy – Florería Atlántico is one of Buenos Aires’ best-kept secrets, disguised as a flower shop with a hidden entrance leading to a cosy, subterranean bar.
- Another option is Uptown, a speakeasy designed like a New York subway station.
- Live Theatre – Instead of a tango show, why not see a local play? Teatro San Martín showcases Argentine theatre, dance, and contemporary performances with fewer tourists than Teatro Colón.
- Palermo’s Nighttime Street Art Scene – Many bars in Palermo double as art spaces, blending graffiti, live painting, and DJ sets. Post Street Bar and Nicky Harrison (another hidden speakeasy) are great places to start.
Day 5: A Taste of Local Life & Football Culture
For the final day of your 5-day Buenos Aires itinerary, shift gears and experience the city through its local traditions, whether that’s at a lively street market, a historic café, or in the roaring stands of a football stadium.
Morning
- Today’s activities depend on the day of the week and your interests.
- If it’s the weekend: Head to Feria de Mataderos, a traditional fair celebrating Argentina’s gaucho (cowboy) heritage. Expect live folk music, horse parades, artisan crafts, and regional food like empanadas and locro (a hearty stew). The fair offers a rare glimpse into Argentine rural culture, right in the city.
- If you’re a football fan: Tour La Bombonera (Boca Juniors’ stadium) or El Monumental (River Plate’s stadium). Both clubs are legendary in Argentina, and their stadiums are filled with history. If your visit aligns with a match day, don’t miss the chance to experience the stadium atmosphere — it’s unlike anything else.
Midday
- Step into Almagro, a neighbourhood where Buenos Aires unfolds at its own pace. Here, you’ll find family-run cafés, traditional tango schools, and small independent bookstores tucked between tree-lined streets. It’s a place where locals linger over coffee and medialunas, and where tango isn’t just a performance — it’s part of everyday life.
- For lunch, seek out a bodegón, one of Buenos Aires’ classic no-frills eateries known for hearty portions and timeless recipes.
- For a true taste of Buenos Aires' no-frills dining, Don Ignacio in Almagro is a classic bodegón that locals swear by. Known for its generous portions and homely atmosphere, this spot is famous for serving over 30 varieties of milanesas, Argentina’s beloved breaded meat dish. The standout? The milanesa vigilante, topped with mozzarella and quince paste — a perfect mix of savoury and sweet.
- After lunch, take your time wandering. Step into an old bookstore, peek inside a tango studio, or simply sit in a café and watch the neighbourhood move around you.
Afternoon
- For something offbeat, visit the Xul Solar Museum, dedicated to one of Argentina’s most fascinating artists. Xul Solar wasn’t just a painter — he was a visionary, an astrologer, and an inventor who created his own languages and tarot system.
- His surreal works blend esoteric symbols, dreamlike landscapes, and mystical themes, offering a completely different perspective on Argentine art and culture.
Evening
- For a local, under-the-radar dining experience, head to Villa Crespo, Buenos Aires’ quieter, hipster cousin to Palermo. This neighbourhood is home to some of the city’s best hidden restaurants, from old-school bodegones to modern spots experimenting with flavours. Try Gordo Chanta, a contemporary pizzeria offering inventive takes on classic recipes.
- End the night with a wine-tasting session at Pain et Vin, a wine bar where Argentine vintages take centre stage. With expert sommeliers guiding you through the flavours of Malbec, Torrontés, and beyond, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your deep dive into Buenos Aires. Unpretentious, intimate, and distinctly porteño.
7-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary: Day Trips & Local Gems
(Includes everything from the 5-day itinerary plus the following day trips)
Your 7-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary now extends beyond the city, adding day trips to round out the experience. These additions take you outside the urban rush and into the countryside, coastal escapes, and historic sites, giving a more complete sense of Argentina’s diversity.
Day 6: Tigre & the Paraná Delta (Optional Day Trip)
Day 6 offers a refreshing escape from the city with a trip to Tigre and the Paraná Delta, where winding waterways, riverside markets, and tranquil islands create a completely different side of Argentina.
Morning
- Start your day with a scenic train ride to Tigre, a riverside town known for its relaxed vibe and artisan markets. Wander through Puerto de Frutos, where you’ll find everything from handcrafted goods to fresh produce, all set against the backdrop of the Paraná Delta’s waterways.
Midday
- Find a riverside café and watch the boats drift by while enjoying a coffee or a cold cerveza.
Afternoon
- Spend the first part of your afternoon at the Museo de Arte Tigre, housed in a grand Belle Époque mansion showcasing Argentine art.
- Hop on a lancha colectiva (water taxi) or a guided boat tour to explore the Paraná Delta’s network of islands, spotting stilted houses, floating markets, and lush greenery along the way.
Evening
- After a day exploring Tigre, take the train back to Buenos Aires and unwind with a relaxed dinner. Opt for a classic parrilla if you haven’t indulged enough in Argentina’s famous steak, or try something lighter at a bistro in Palermo or San Telmo.
- For a unique experience, visit La Catedral Club in the Almagro neighbourhood. Housed in a rustic, cathedral-like building, this eclectic venue offers live music, tango dancing, and an artsy atmosphere that captures the bohemian spirit of Buenos Aires.
Day 7: Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay (Optional Day Trip)
Day 7 includes taking a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, a charming UNESCO-listed town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and scenic river views.
Morning
- Start your day early by taking the ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO-listed town in Uruguay. The most popular ferry services are Buquebus and Colonia Express, both offering comfortable and scenic rides across the Río de la Plata. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll immediately notice the change in pace — Colonia feels worlds away from the bustle of Buenos Aires.
- Once there, grab a coffee at a riverside café before setting off to explore the charming Barrio Histórico (Historic Quarter).
- Spend your morning wandering through Colonia del Sacramento’s beautifully preserved old town, where every corner feels like a step back in time. Walk along the cobblestone streets, admiring its mix of Portuguese and Spanish colonial architecture.
- Climb to the top of the El Faro Lighthouse for sweeping views over the river, then visit the Puerta de la Ciudadela, the old city gate that once guarded Colonia’s fortified walls.
- Stop by the Museo Portugués to see artefacts from the town’s colonial past, then take a leisurely stroll down the Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), one of the most picturesque streets in Uruguay.
- Explore the Museo del Azulejo (Tile Museum). This small but unique museum showcases beautifully preserved Portuguese and Spanish ceramic tiles, some dating back to the 19th century. It’s a short but worthwhile stop for those interested in design and history.
Midday
- When you're ready for a break, enjoy a long lunch at a riverside restaurant, sipping on Uruguayan wine while watching sailboats drift along the Río de la Plata.
Afternoon
- Though no longer in use, this abandoned Real de San Carlos Bullring offers a fascinating glimpse into Uruguay’s past. The grand structure, built in the early 20th century, hosted bullfights until they were banned in 1912. Today, it stands as a historical curiosity, with its partially crumbling façade adding to its charm.
- One of the best ways to explore Colonia beyond the historic centre is by renting a golf cart or bicycle. Ride along the scenic coastal road, passing by charming homes, hidden beaches, and stunning viewpoints along the Río de la Plata.
- If the weather is warm, take a break from sightseeing at Playa Ferrando, a peaceful beach with golden sand and gentle waves. It's a great spot to unwind and soak in the tranquil riverside atmosphere.
Evening
- After a day of exploring Colonia del Sacramento, take the evening ferry back to Buenos Aires, arriving just in time for a farewell meal to wrap up your trip.
- For a classic Argentinian steakhouse experience, head to Don Julio, one of the city's most celebrated parrillas, where the cuts are perfectly cooked, the Malbec flows freely, and the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming.
- If you’re after something more relaxed, opt for a wine bar in Palermo or a neighbourhood café for a final taste of Buenos Aires’ café culture before heading home.
Essential Information for Visiting Buenos Aires
From navigating Buenos Aires’ extensive public transport system to choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in, here are a few things you might need to know.
Getting to Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is served by two main airports: Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) for most international flights and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) for domestic and regional flights. From the airport, the best ways to reach the city centre are official taxis, private transfers, or rideshare apps like Uber or Cabify.
If you’re arriving overland, long-distance buses connect Buenos Aires to other cities in Argentina and neighbouring countries.
The ferry from Uruguay (Colonia or Montevideo) is another option, arriving at Terminal de Buquebus near Puerto Madero.
Getting Around Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has an efficient and affordable public transport system, including the Subte (subway), buses, and trains. The SUBE card is required for all public transit and can be purchased at kiosks and subway stations.
Buses run 24/7, while the Subte operates until around midnight.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Didi are widely available.
For a more scenic option, biking is popular in certain neighbourhoods, and there are designated cycle lanes throughout the city.
Walking is also a great way to explore central areas like San Telmo, Palermo, and Recoleta.
Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
Your choice of where to stay in Buenos Aires depends on your travel style — Palermo is trendy and full of nightlife, Recoleta offers classic elegance, and San Telmo immerses you in history and tango culture.
Budget: Che Juan Hostel BA
For budget travellers who want to stay right in the heart of Buenos Aires, Che Juan Hostel BA ticks all the boxes. It’s got air-conditioned rooms, a friendly shared space, and even a barbecue area — because in Argentina, good food is a must.
With Plaza de Mayo, Teatro Colón, and the Obelisk just a short walk away, you’re never far from the action. Plus, solo travellers love it — it’s rated 9.7 for a one-person stay, which says everything about the vibe.
Mid-Range: DEL900 Hotel Boutique
DEL900 Hotel Boutique feels like a mix between a stylish guesthouse and a social hub. Just steps from Mayo Avenue, it has a unique character — think vintage decor, a games room, and a terrace for winding down in the evenings.
Private rooms come with balconies and city views, while the common spaces make it easy to meet fellow travellers. If you like a bit of old-world charm with your mid-range comfort, this is a solid choice. Plus, you’re within walking distance of Buenos Aires' major landmarks.
High-End: Principado Downtown
For a stay that feels both refined and convenient, Principado Downtown is a strong choice. Just a short walk from Galerías Pacífico and San Martín Square, it’s right in the thick of Buenos Aires' elegant downtown district.
Rooms are sleek, with Smart TVs, work desks, and well-stocked minibars, while the hotel’s solarium and gym give you space to unwind. The location makes it perfect for those arriving by ferry or train, and with Puerto Madero just around the corner, you’re never far from the city’s best riverside dining.
Final Thoughts on Your Buenos Aires Itinerary
Buenos Aires isn’t a city you simply pass through — it’s a place that lingers with you long after you leave. Whether you follow this itinerary to the letter or let the city pull you in unexpected directions, the key is to embrace its energy. Wander without a plan, linger in a café longer than you intended, say yes to a tango invitation even if you don’t know the steps.
No matter how many days you have, Buenos Aires offers experiences. From historic plazas to hidden speakeasies, football stadiums to leafy parks, this city is best enjoyed at a rhythm that suits you.
So, take your time, as did I, follow your instincts, and let Buenos Aires unfold in its own way.