The capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires, is a metropolis consisting of 15 independent municipalities and a total of 48 districts (barrios) that make it a gigantic “breathing body”, a multifaceted universe that enchants. Like all large cities, it has dark sides, but other sides … very colorful, in the true sense of the word. Its beauty lies in its churches, palaces, large streets and huge squares. But its beauty also lies in its tango clubs, in the unique identities of its ethnic neighborhoods. Coming to discover Buenos Aires is a journey within a journey. Unmissable!
When to go
The best time to go to Buenos Aires is the months that for us are summer (May-October) but for Argentina correspond to winter and early spring. Being a capital, and very expensive, visiting it in the “low season” is ideal to keep costs down… but also to admire the main monuments without too many crowds around. The southern winter is harsh, but in Buenos Aires the climate offers beautiful days despite everything.
Travel documents
You can enter Argentina by showing travel documents such as a passport valid up to 6 months after arrival and a visa. Italian citizens and residents of the European Union, however, can enter without a visa – as long as the trip does not exceed 90 consecutive days of stay.
What to pack for your trip to Buenos Aires
When you organize a trip to Buenos Aires, first think about clothing. Absolutely necessary: light raincoat, hiking boots, comfortable sports shoes, scarf or foulard, hat, evening wear for cultural events in the historic center.
Do not forget at home an adapter for electrical outlets, medications such as antidiabetics, antihypertensives, antiepileptics, antianginals, contraceptive pills, (if you use them) that are difficult to find abroad. Small first aid kit, obviously devices for photography, sunscreen, insect repellent creams.
How to get to Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires Pistarini Airport (EZE) is the main gate for those who arrive in Argentina. It opened in 1949 on a project by the minister after whom it was named, in the district of Ezeiza. It was intended to help the city’s old airport handle the increasing air traffic over the Argentine capital and has since grown enormously. Between 2000 and 2012 it recorded a significant increase in flight and reception operations due to tourism and business travels to this location. It serves the capital and the surrounding region mainly with regards to international flights. It has 3 terminals and 2 runways for a passenger traffic of 6 million people per year.
Buenos Aires Airport is well-equipped to handle the hustle and bustle of international and domestic travel. With terminals A, B, and C, it caters to a wide variety of airlines, connecting Argentina to major cities across the globe. The terminals offer a seamless travel experience with facilities such as duty-free shopping, dining options, free wi-fi, banks, police points, info points and comfortable lounges reflecting the warm hospitality of Argentine culture. In addition, airport facilities include currency exchange, VIP lounges, public and private transfers and everything the modern traveler may need.
Buenos Aires is also served by a second international airport, Newbery Airport (AEP).
How to move through Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city teeming with culture, history, and the ceaseless rhythms of urban life. Here’s a short guide about the transportation options available in Buenos Aires, ensuring you can traverse the city with ease.
The Buenos Aires Underground, locally known as Subte, is the quickest way to travel across the city. Stretching across six lines – A, B, C, D, E, and H – the Subte connects major tourist attractions, neighborhoods, and transport hubs. With affordable fares and frequent services, it’s not just pocket-friendly but time-saving too. With over 150 bus lines, Buenos Aires’ bus system, or ‘colectivos’ buses offer extensive coverage. They operate round the clock, making them an indispensable mode of transport. Plunge into the heart of local life but remember to get a reloadable SUBE travel card as buses don’t accept cash.
Yellow and black taxis are ubiquitous in Buenos Aires and can be easily hailed on the street. For a more pre-arranged service, opt for a ‘remis’, which operates at a fixed rate. Both are metered, providing a safe and comfortable mode of transportation. For those seeking a seamless, personalized travel experience, private transfers like Transfeero cater to your needs. From airport pickups to getting around the city, enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private car with professional chauffeurs. Under the ‘EcoBici’ initiative, Buenos Aires offers a bike-sharing program that is free for residents and tourists. Cycling is an excellent way to enjoy the city’s abundant parks and picturesque districts at your own pace.
What to see
Argentina’s cosmopolitan heart, Buenos Aires, is a city that seamlessly blends European elegance with American passion. Brimming with cultural treasures, historic neighborhoods, and pulsating nightlife, Buenos Aires promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking to explore iconic landmarks or savor the local cuisine, this city delivers in abundance.
Also known as ‘Paris of South America’, this capital collects all the beauty you might love to see: from the colours of quarter La Boca to the joy and music of Palermo, from the lovely parks to the busy port, from San Telmo’s cobblestone roads to the places of culture (Theatre Colòn, La Casa Rosada, Museum of the Art, Plaza de Mayo, the historic Recoleta Cemetery, the churches…).
Enjoy the shows and concerts of Buenos Aires by night, and try to dance a tango under the moonlight, after you tasted some delicious spicey food at one of the many lovely restaurants. Your memories will celebrate this city forever.
Ancient San Telmo Quarter, Calle Florida (the shopping street), the President’s Casa Rosada house, De Mayo Square, La Boca Quarter’s Houses, Obelisk of Avenida 9 de Julio, Palace of Cabildo Nacional, Palermo Quarter is your itinerary in the city. Not far from the city, you may visit Tigre (River Paranà’s delta), La Plata, Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve.
What to do and NOT to do in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a large, dynamic metropolis and, like all cities of this size, it is dangerous in some places and at some times. There is no shortage of crime, especially in areas such as Boca, San Isidro, Retiro or at the Constituciòn station, which is best avoided if you are alone or in a couple. Also avoid lingering in isolated streets and parks late at night. Do not show off money and valuables. Do not laugh at anyone who dances tango, even if they are clumsy! Tango here is a sacred thing.
For the rest, Buenos Aires offers many interesting activities to do: not only guided tours, but also cultural evenings, concerts, shows. Don’t miss an evening of tango, as a spectator or as a protagonist, if you have the chance! Don’t miss tasting one of the excellent Argentine steaks in the best restaurants in the capital either.