Is it Safe to Visit La Plata? A Guide to Staying Safe in Argentina’s Capital of Culture

La Plata, the capital city of Argentina’s Buenos Aires province, is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. However, rumors of violence, theft, and crime have made many people hesitant to visit this beautiful city. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the safety of La Plata and provide valuable tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Crime in La Plata

Like any other big city, La Plata has its share of crime. However, it’s important to note that most of the crimes are related to theft and pickpocketing, rather than violent crime. According to official statistics, the crime rate in La Plata has been steadily decreasing over the past few years.

That being said, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. It’s recommended that you keep your valuables close to your body and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. You should also be cautious when using ATM machines, especially at night.

Safety Tips for Visitors

To avoid becoming the victim of a crime, it’s important to take some basic safety precautions when visiting La Plata. These include:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
• Use ATMs located inside a bank or shopping mall.
• Keep your belongings close to your body, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Stick to well-lit, busy areas.
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended when out at night.

Transportation in La Plata

Using public transportation in La Plata is generally safe and easy, with buses running throughout the city. However, it’s important to be cautious, especially when using taxis or ride-sharing services.

If you plan on using a taxi or ride-sharing service, make sure to only use official or registered companies. It’s also recommended that you use apps like Uber or Cabify, which offer more security and accountability than traditional taxi services.

Conclusion

Despite concerns about safety, La Plata is a relatively safe city to visit, especially if you take basic safety precautions. As with any big city, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, but don’t let fears of crime keep you from experiencing this beautiful and culturally rich destination.

An Insider’s Guide to Staying Safe and Enjoying La Plata

La Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires Province, is a beautiful city filled with rich architecture, thriving culture, and a vibrant nightlife. It draws tourists from all parts of the world with its resplendent art, history, and culinary scene. However, like most major cities, travelers must take proper safety precautions to avoid potential dangers and make the most out of their visit. This insider’s guide provides tips for staying safe and enjoying all that La Plata has to offer.

Staying Safe in La Plata

While La Plata is generally a safe city, tourists should still exercise caution when exploring. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas or side streets.
• Keep valuables out of sight and secure, and try not to carry too much cash on your person.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s best to avoid the area altogether.
• Stay away from street protests or demonstrations that may become violent.
• Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, especially at night.
• Learn basic Spanish words, so you can communicate with locals if necessary.

Top Local Attractions

La Plata is filled with fascinating landmarks, museums, and cultural sites. Here are some must-see local attractions:

• Catedral de La Plata: This impressive neo-gothic cathedral is the largest church in Argentina and one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the city.
• Museo de La Plata: If you are interested in history, natural science, and anthropology, then this museum is for you. Housed in a grand French-style building, it features a wide range of exhibitions related to the natural history of the region.
• Paseo del Bosque: Located just a few kilometers away from the city, Paseo del Bosque is a peaceful forest park with gardens, lakes, and a small zoo.
• Teatro Argentino de La Plata: This historic theater presents some of the best opera, ballet, and theater performances in the city.
• Museo Taller Ferrowhite: If you are interested in vintage cars, then this private museum is a dream come true. It has a large collection of vintage vehicles and an old railway station to explore.

Dining Spots in La Plata

La Plata is known for its delicious and affordable food, ranging from traditional Argentine cuisine to international flavors. Here are some popular and highly recommended dining spots:

• Curucu: This restaurant serves traditional Argentine dishes with a modern twist, using only organic and locally sourced products.
• Pirula Pizza: Enjoy some of the best pizza in the city at Pirula Pizza. They offer a wide range of options from classic margherita to creative toppings.
• Carne Argentina: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in Argentine steaks but also offers an excellent range of vegetarian options.
• Baker’s: A local favorite, Baker’s is a cozy little cafe offering delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
• Easy Sushi: If you’re in the mood for Japanese food, head to Easy Sushi, where you can enjoy a fantastic selection of sushi, sashimi, and tempura.

Cultural Experiences in La Plata

La Plata is known for its rich cultural scene, filled with theater, music, and dance performances. Here are some cultural experiences to add to your itinerary:

• Teatro Coliseo Podestá: Another historic theater in La Plata, Teatro Coliseo Podestá hosts some of the best plays, musicals, and comedy shows in the city.
• Fiestas provinciales en el Domo del Centenario: Participate in local festivals at the Domo del Centenario. These events usually feature food, drinks, and live music.
• Danza en el Parque: Every summer, La Plata hosts this free outdoor dance festival in the city’s parks. There are performances for various styles of dance, such as tango and salsa, and workshops for all levels of experience.
• La Plata Symphony Orchestra: Get tickets to see the local Symphony Orchestra, which performs throughout the year at the Teatro Argentino de La Plata.
• Museum Night: The city’s museums open their doors late at night to give visitors the chance to explore their collections and exhibitions. This event is held every year on November 24.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to dig deeper into La Plata’s rich history and culture, consider these suggestions:

• Take a walking tour: There are several guided walking tours that explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture. These tours can take you to places off the typical tourist trail.
• Casa Curutchet: Designed by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, this modernist house is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in La Plata.
• Cementerio Municipal: The city’s cemetery may not be for everyone, but it’s an outstanding place to explore fascinating architecture and the final resting place of some of the city’s prominent figures throughout its history.
• Estadio Único de La Plata: Football fans will know that this stadium is home to two of the city’s most popular football teams, Estudiantes and Gimnasia. You can catch a game or take a tour of the stadium.
• El Pasaje Dardo Rocha: This stunning Beaux-Arts building was formerly a casino, and a city leader designed and constructed it in 1898. Make sure to add this to your tour list.

In conclusion, La Plata offers a unique experience for travelers to discover Argentina beyond Buenos Aires. Despite a few safety concerns, La Plata has remained a charming, inviting, and vibrant city. Embrace the local culture, heritage, wonderful food, and stay safe as you discover all the treasuries of one of Argentina’s most promising cities.