Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina, is a city that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder that this city has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. From tango shows and street art tours to museums and parks, Buenos Aires has a wealth of activities and attractions to explore. In this post, we will take you on a journey to discover the best attractions and things to do in Buenos Aires, so you can make the most out of your visit to this wonderful city.
The 17 Best Guided Tours in Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires Recoleta 2 Hour Walking Tour
- Discover Buenos Aires Private City Tour
- Shore Excursion Private Buenos Aires City Tour
- Buenos Aires 101 the Ultimate City Tour
- Intimate Bike Tour Ba North Route Green and Fancy Areas Lunch Included
- Private Tour Jewish Buenos Aires
- Skip the Line Colon Theater Tour Palaces of Buenos Aires
- Palermo Graffiti and Street Art Guided Walking Tour
- 3 Hr Private Driver Tour of Buenos Aires
- 9 Days Experience the Best of Buenos Aires Iguazu Falls and Rio De Janeiro
- Buenos Aires River Plate Museum Official Ticket and Tour
- Private Buenos Aires City Tour
- Buenos Aires Sightseeing Tour
- Full Day Buenos Aires Walking City Tour
- Semi Private City Tour of Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires Bike Tour San Telmo and La Boca Districts
- Buenos Aires Combo Tour City Sightseeing and Tigre Delta Half Day Trip Plus Gaucho Day Trip to Santa Susana Ranch
The 17 Best Guided Tours in Buenos Aires
1. Buenos Aires Recoleta 2 Hour Walking Tour
The Buenos Aires Recoleta 2 Hour Walking Tour is the perfect activity to discover all the important spots in the Recoleta neighborhood. You’ll have the chance to explore the cemetery where former first lady Eva Perón rests in an ornate crypt and discover secrets of the Buenos Aires aristocracy. Afterward, you’ll take a walk to appreciate the architecture and parks, including the incredible structure of the Law University and Floralis Generica. The tour will end at the Malba Museum. With a local and professional guide, this tour includes a walking tour, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and gratuities.
2. Discover Buenos Aires Private City Tour
Explore the beauty of Buenos Aires on this private city tour with a professional tour guide. You’ll be picked up from your location, and the tour will start with a drive past the Obelisco, a famous landmark in Buenos Aires.
Next, you’ll visit the Plaza de Mayo, where you’ll have 20 minutes to explore and take in the stunning views of the surroundings. There are five more stops along the way, where you’ll get to see more of the city’s attractions and learn about its history from your knowledgeable tour guide.
This private tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience of Buenos Aires with a flexible schedule. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures that you’ll be comfortable throughout the tour.
Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible. It’s near public transportation so it’s easy to get to and most travelers can participate.
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time or make changes to your booking, it won’t be accepted.
3. Shore Excursion Private Buenos Aires City Tour
This private Buenos Aires City Tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers who want to explore the city at their own pace. You can customize your itinerary to include the top sights like Plaza de Mayo or La Recoleta Cemetery, or opt for a quick overview or full-day excursion. This tour is designed for private groups of up to six people and includes all transportation with port pickup and drop-off. You’ll be picked up in a private comfortable vehicle or a 19-seater combi for larger groups of 7 to 15 people. Please note that pickup and drop-off outside the city of Buenos Aires will require a separate transfer. Enjoy the best of Buenos Aires with this private sightseeing tour!
4. Buenos Aires 101 the Ultimate City Tour
This tour is the ultimate introduction to Buenos Aires, covering all the must-see sights and attractions of the city. The tour includes pickup from your location in Buenos Aires in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional tour guide.
The first stop is the iconic Obelisco, one of the most recognizable landmarks of Buenos Aires. After admiring this towering monument, the tour continues onto Plaza de Mayo, where you will have 20 minutes to explore this historical square with its imposing Government House and Cathedral.
Next, the tour visits the picturesque neighborhood of San Telmo, where you can soak up the bohemian atmosphere and see the famous street performers of Plaza Dorrego. Then, explore the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, with its brightly painted buildings and iconic Caminito street.
Afterwards, the tour takes you to the elegant district of Recoleta, home to the impressive Recoleta Cemetery and the stunning Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church. Finally, the tour concludes in the charming Palermo neighborhood, with its beautiful parks, lively cafes, and trendy boutiques.
This is a private tour/activity, so only your group will participate. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
5. Intimate Bike Tour Ba North Route Green and Fancy Areas Lunch Included
This 4-hour bike tour takes you through some of the most scenic areas in Buenos Aires. You’ll visit the iconic Recoleta Cemetery, the Floralis Generica sculpture, and the stylish neighborhood of Palermo Soho. Along the way, you’ll see stunning French architecture, modern and old monuments, tombs of legendary historical figures, and peaceful wooded areas. Get a taste of local life in residential areas and stop for a snack of mate and alfajores to complete your experience. Bike helmet and bottled water are provided, along with lunch. Beginners should note that this tour may not be suitable. The meeting point is located at Armenia 2269, where we’ll store the bikes in the Palermo Area. Ten minutes before the departure time of 02:00 PM, we’ll be on the sidewalk with the bikes ready to start the tour.
6. Private Tour Jewish Buenos Aires
Looking for a unique way to experience Buenos Aires? Look no further than the Private Tour Jewish Buenos Aires. This full-day tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in a private vehicle, a flight from Buenos Aires to Iguazu, food and drinks, and the chance to explore the falls with your own private guide. No need to worry about booking transportation to the airport or paying admission fees on the spot – everything is taken care of for you. The tour starts at 6:00 AM with pick up from hotels and apartments in Downtown Palermo, Recoleta, Puerto Madero, Retiro, San Telmo, and Cruise Ship Terminal in Buenos Aires. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure to one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders.
7. Skip the Line Colon Theater Tour Palaces of Buenos Aires
Meet your guide in the late morning for an amazing experience exploring some of the most impressive palaces of Buenos Aires during a tour focused on La Belle Epoque architecture. The tour starts with a visit to the famous Colon Theater, where you’ll learn about its rich history and admire its stunning interior. With admission and skip-the-line access included, you’ll have plenty of time to appreciate the theater’s opulent horseshoe-shaped design and its 2487 seats.
Afterward, you’ll embark on a 1.5-hour walking tour through the city’s streets, where you’ll admire the exteriors of the most impressive palaces of Buenos Aires. Your professional local guide will provide insights into the economic and social realities of the city during the La Belle Epoque era and how it influenced the construction of the palaces. You’ll also learn about Argentina’s role and the influence of France and the world wars.
This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, gratuities (recommended), and transportation to and from the attractions. However, it is not suitable for people with mobility issues. So, get ready to skip the line and embark on a fascinating journey through the history, culture, and architecture of Buenos Aires.
8. Palermo Graffiti and Street Art Guided Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood of Palermo in Buenos Aires with a guided walking tour of its graffiti and street art. Capture photos of the famous Trump Wall at Madison Avenue Bar and delve into the history of Argentine street art from your knowledgeable guide.
Travel back in time to the 1920s and understand the political movements and how graffiti was used as propaganda and for election campaigns. Then, discover how the arrival of aerosol paints in 1969 changed the game and how messages could be written much faster than before, impacting the urban movements in the 1970s.
Enjoy a thought-provoking stroll through Palermo and get to know more about its captivating street art while learning more about the neighborhood’s fascinating history.
9. 3 Hr Private Driver Tour of Buenos Aires
Tick off more of Buenos Aires’ top attractions in less time on this 3-hour private city tour of Argentina’s capital. In a private air-conditioned car, you will travel between landmarks such as Plaza de Mayo, Recoleta Cemetery, and the Rose Gardens of Palermo. This personalized experience is ideal for first-time visitors to travel with ease between top BA attractions.
You’ll have the chance to explore the districts of San Telmo and La Boca with its charming Caminito, reputed to be the birthplace of tango. Additionally, you can experience the culture of these beautiful neighborhoods. Hotel/port pickup and drop-off are included, as well as local taxes and transportation to/from attractions. If the pick up or drop off is from EZE airport, there is a USD 60 surcharge per car.
Make sure to select a pickup point when booking this tour for a truly unforgettable experience in Buenos Aires.
10. 9 Days Experience the Best of Buenos Aires Iguazu Falls and Rio De Janeiro
Discover the best of Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, and Rio de Janeiro with this private tour package. Over 9 days, you’ll experience the highlights of each city including visits to top attractions with the help of an English-speaking guide. Accommodation in 4-star hotels with breakfast is included, as well as entry tickets to all the sights on the itinerary. You’ll also enjoy a dinner and tango show in Buenos Aires. This is a private tour, giving you a flexible and personal experience. On Day 1, the tour will begin with pickup at 7:00 AM from select locations in Buenos Aires. Join us for an unforgettable journey through Argentina and Brazil!
11. Buenos Aires River Plate Museum Official Ticket and Tour
Undoubtedly one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Buenos Aires is the River Plate Museum. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of Argentina’s biggest stadium, the “El Monumental de Nuñez.” With this official ticket and tour, you can go back in time through the museum’s time tunnel and remind yourself of the origins of the club, discover behind-the-scenes spots where some of the world’s best players made history, and witness the most precious treasures of Club Atlético River Plate history. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch a film at the 360 cinema, which is also equipped with the latest technology. With over 110 years of history, River Plate has lived glorious moments both in sports and as an institution. So, visit the museum and learn about those teams that made the club bigger, the best goals, memorable wins, and the most valuable players.
12. Private Buenos Aires City Tour
Explore Buenos Aires without feeling rushed on this private half-day tour. With a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and schedule, you’ll delve into the Argentinian capital’s culture and history through visits to its iconic landmarks and highlights. Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from your accommodations in the city and insightful commentary from your experienced guide. If needed, pickup can be arranged from the cruise terminal. With a private tour, your experience is personalized for your group, ensuring a memorable visit. Food, drinks, and gratuities are included, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the sights. Please note that if your hotel is outside the geographic area, the closest meeting point will be confirmed to you after booking. Join us at 9:00 AM to begin your adventure in Buenos Aires.
13. Buenos Aires Sightseeing Tour
Explore the top attractions of Buenos Aires on a sightseeing bus tour that covers all the essentials. Discover historic landmarks such as the Teatro Colón, the Plaza de Mayo, the Casa Rosada, and the Plaza de la República. Get to know the city’s different neighborhoods including the colorful La Boca, the historic San Telmo, the chic Recoleta, and the lush Palermo Woods. Walk down Caminito in La Boca and take advantage of two stops at some of the most important Buenos Aires sights to snap a photo and listen to informative commentary from your bilingual guide. Transportation to and from downtown hotels is included for your convenience.
14. Full Day Buenos Aires Walking City Tour
Start your adventure in San Telmo, the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant tango and arts scene. Visit the San Telmo market and taste some delicious empanadas while browsing through local shops selling gastronomy and specialties from all over the world. Walk along Defensa Street to Plaza de Mayo, the main square of Buenos Aires, and see important landmarks such as Casa Rosada and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Explore the Recoleta neighborhood and visit the grave of Evita Peron, still visited daily by locals with flowers. Walk through Palermo and La Boca, two of the most famous neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, and experience the city like a local using public transportation such as local trains, public buses, and the subway. Enjoy the quality of a small group tour with a maximum of 12 participants, and make the most of your day in Buenos Aires by visiting its best spots.
15. Semi Private City Tour of Buenos Aires
Discover the vibrant city of Buenos Aires on a guided semi-private city tour ideal for first-time visitors. During this tour, a professional guide provides insight into the city’s history and culture while taking you to top attractions like La Boca, Palermo, and San Telmo. With all transportation included, this tour also offers hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience. The tour starts with a visit to Plaza de Mayo, followed by a stop at Calle Defensa, and six other stops to explore the city’s highlights. Pickup is available at centrally located hotels in Buenos Aires’ Palermo, Recoleta, and Downtown areas. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and it’s important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
16. Buenos Aires Bike Tour San Telmo and La Boca Districts
Discover the charming neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca in Buenos Aires on this 4-hour bike tour. Accompanied by a bilingual guide, pedal along the Rio de la Plata and make stops to admire the city’s eclectic architecture and snap some photos. Visit well-known landmarks like the Caminito, Casa Rosada, and Plaza de Mayo while learning about the history of Buenos Aires. See the local life as you ride through residential districts and take in the sights of the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve. The tour includes the use of a bike and a helmet, bottled water, and tips. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Meet the guide at the starting point at La Bicicleta Naranja Tours & Rentals.
17. Buenos Aires Combo Tour City Sightseeing and Tigre Delta Half Day Trip Plus Gaucho Day Trip to Santa Susana Ranch
Experience the best of Buenos Aires with this 2-day combo tour that includes a half-day sightseeing tour of the city’s top attractions, such as Plaza de Mayo, San Telmo, La Boca, and Palermo, followed by a leisurely half-day cruise along the Tigre Delta. On the second day, immerse yourself in Argentina’s cowboy culture with a full-day trip to Estancia Santa Susana where you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, live folk music, and gaucho demonstrations, as well as a traditional BBQ lunch. This great-value package is perfect for travelers who want to see all the must-visit Buenos Aires sights and experience the country’s unique Pampas culture, all in just two days. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tour!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and world-renowned tango scene. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, it’s important to do some research beforehand to make the most of your time there. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Buenos Aires.1. What language do they speak in Buenos Aires?
The official language of Argentina is Spanish, and Buenos Aires is no exception. While it’s possible to get by with just English in some areas of the city, knowing at least some basic Spanish will definitely come in handy. Consider brushing up on your Spanish skills before your trip, or using a translation app or phrase book while you’re there.2. When is the best time to visit Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires has a mild climate, so you can visit any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) or the fall (March to May). During these seasons, the weather is comfortable and there are fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the heat, you can also visit during the summer (December to February) when the city is buzzing with festivals and events.3. What’s the best way to get around Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires has an extensive public transportation system that consists of buses, subways, and trains. The subway, or “Subte” as it’s called locally, is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city. Buses are also a good option, but they can be crowded and slow during rush hour. Taxis are safe and affordable, but make sure to only use licensed taxis and ask for an estimated fare before getting in.4. What are some must-see attractions in Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires is full of amazing sights and attractions, but some of the must-sees include:- The Recoleta Cemetery
- The iconic Obelisk
- The colorful La Boca neighborhood
- The stunning Palermo parks
- The historic Plaza de Mayo
5. Where can I try authentic Argentinean food in Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires is renowned for its delicious food, particularly its famous steak and wine. Some great places to try authentic Argentinean food include:- La Cabrera in Palermo
- Don Julio in Villa Crespo
- El Baqueano in San Telmo
- La Brigada in San Telmo
- La Carnicería in Palermo Hollywood
6. Is Buenos Aires a safe city?
Like any big city, Buenos Aires has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, if you take some basic precautions and stay in well-lit and well-populated areas, you should be fine. Don’t carry around large amounts of cash, keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious when taking taxis at night.7. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?
Argentineans are known for their hospitality and friendliness, but there are a few cultural customs you should be aware of. For example, it’s customary to greet people with a kiss on the cheek (known as a “beso”) when meeting for the first time. It’s also considered rude to be late to social events, so make sure to arrive on time. Finally, tipping is usually expected in restaurants and cafes, so be sure to leave a little something extra for good service.8. Where can I go shopping in Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from designer boutiques to flea markets. Some great places to shop include:- The upscale Avenida Alvear in Recoleta
- The trendy boutiques in Palermo Soho
- The San Telmo flea market
- The Recoleta Cultural Center craft fair
- The Galerías Pacífico mall in the city center
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. It is a beautiful city, and there is so much to see and do. As a tourist, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to make the most of your time in Buenos Aires. In this guide, we will provide you with some great tips and advice on how to spend your time as a tourist in Buenos Aires.1. Visit La Boca
La Boca is a colorful neighborhood that is famous for its vibrant buildings, tango culture, and football scene. The streets are lined with colorful houses and buildings painted in bright hues of blue, yellow, green, and red. The neighborhood is home to the famous La Bombonera stadium, which is the home of Boca Juniors, one of Argentina’s most popular football teams.While in La Boca, make sure to visit the Caminito street, where you can find artists, street performers, and vendors selling handicrafts, gifts, and souvenirs. You can also watch tango dancers perform in the street, and try some of the local food, such as empanadas, choripan, and asado.2. Explore San Telmo
San Telmo is one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods and is known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historic buildings. It is a great place to walk around and explore, with plenty of cafes, art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques.On Sundays, San Telmo hosts a famous flea market, where vendors sell everything from antiques and jewelry to clothes, books, and artwork. You can also enjoy live music, street performers, and food stalls selling delicious snacks and treats.3. Visit the Recoleta Cemetery
The Recoleta Cemetery is a stunning cemetery that is the final resting place of some of Argentina’s most famous and influential citizens, including Eva Perón, the former First Lady of Argentina. The cemetery is a beautiful, peaceful place with ornate tombs, statues, and mausoleums. It is also a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.4. Enjoy the Argentine Cuisine
Argentina is known for its steak, wine, and dulce de leche, and Buenos Aires is the perfect place to sample all of these delicacies. There are many great restaurants, cafes, and bars in Buenos Aires where you can enjoy the best of Argentine cuisine.One of the best places to try Argentine steak is at one of the many parrillas (steakhouses) in the city. Some popular dishes to try include asado (barbecue), beef empanadas, and milanesa (breaded meat).5. Attend a tango show
Tango is an integral part of Argentine culture, and Buenos Aires is the perfect place to see a tango show. There are many venues in the city where you can watch tango dancers perform, from intimate clubs to grand theaters.Some popular tango shows include La Ventana, Esquina Homero Manzi, and El Viejo Almacen. Many tango shows also include dinner and drinks, making for a great night out.6. Visit the MALBA
The MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires) is a great museum that is dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. The museum’s collection includes works by many famous artists, including Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Joaquin Torres-Garcia.The building itself is also worth seeing, with its sleek, modern design and stunning views of the city from the rooftop terrace.7. Take a bike tour of the city
Buenos Aires is a great city to explore by bike, with many bike lanes and paths throughout the city. Taking a bike tour is a great way to see the city’s sights and learn about its history and culture.There are many bike tour companies in Buenos Aires that offer guided tours of the city, including BA Bikes, Biking Buenos Aires, and La Bicicleta Naranja.Book Your Tour Now
Buenos Aires is a city that is full of life, culture, and history. There is so much to see and do, from exploring colorful neighborhoods like La Boca and San Telmo to sampling the best of Argentine cuisine and attending a tango show.By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Buenos Aires and experience all that this fantastic city has to offer. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and have fun!
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