Buenos Aires, Argentina: Must-See Attractions and Things To Do during Your Holiday in Buenos Aires

Located in Latin America, Buenos Aires is the industrial, financial and cultural center of Argentina. With 5 million visitors each year, the capital of Argentina has become a popular tourist destination and was even voted the second most desirable city to visit in 2008. The mild weather in Buenos Aires has indeed made the city an attractive destination for foreign travelers.

Ever wanted to visit Buenos Aires? Let us take you on a virtual tour to the city.

Buenos Aires - Plaza de Mayo
Buenos Aires – Plaza de Mayo (image by {a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/monky/” target=”_blank”}Claudio Montes{/a})

Top destinations in Buenos Aires

  • The Plaza de Mayo: Being the scene of the May Revolution which brought independence to the country, the Plaza de Mayo (May Square) is one of the main historic sites of Argentina. Major political events, such as presidential inaugurations, are still held on this square, which also houses many tourist attractions. Make sure to take a look at the Pirámide de Mayo (May Pyramid) which was built in 1811, as a symbol of freedom.
  • The Casa Rosada: At the eastern end of the Plaza de Mayo, the Casa Rosada (Pink House) houses the President’s office and is the official seat of the executive government. This historical building, which gets its name from its traditional pink color, attracts a lot of travelers each year. Free guided tours are available in both Spanish and English: check out http://www.casarosada.gov.ar for further information.
  • The Puente de la Mujer: The Puente de la Mujer (Woman’s Bridge) is a famous uniquely shaped bridge located in Puerto Madero, a district of Buenos Aires which has played an important role in the Argentine economy. This impressive white structure attracts a lot of tourists each year and should not be missed.
  • The Cementerio de la Recoleta: The Cementerio de la Recoleta (Recoleta Cemetery) is a historic cemetery that houses the graves of famous Argentine people. It is renowned not only for the artistically-carved graves but also for housing the tomb of the beloved first lady Eva Perón.
  • The Obelisco de Buenos Aires: The Obelisco de Buenos Aires (Obelisk of Buenos Aires) is a gigantic monument that was built in 1936 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Buenos Aires.
  • El Ateneo Grand Splendid: El Ateneo Grand Splendid is one of the five most stunning bookstores in the world. This magnificent bookshop, which was originally an elegant theater, draws over a million visitors each year.
  • La Boca: Renowned for being the birthplace of tango, La Boca is a neighborhood (barrio) which housed the first Italian immigrants. With its pastel-colored houses, the barrio attracts many visitors each year. It is also renowned among football fans since it hosts the Boca Juniors football club, once joined by famous Argentine player Diego Maradona.
Buenos Aires - La Boca
Buenos Aires – La Boca (image by {a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/timsnell/” target=”_blank”}Tim Snell{/a})

 

 

Best Buenos Aires Experiences

  • Enjoying Wine events: Argentina is famous for its great selection of wines. Experience wine tasting with Anuva Wines. Taste wines from the best Argentine vineyards and talk to sommeliers or club members.
  • Taking a Gaucho Party Tour: The term Gaucho is commonly used to describe the South-American cowboy. Taking a Gaucho Party Tour will give you an opportunity to experience the traditional Argentine culture: learn about the gaucho’s life, try some empanada (traditional gaucho’s meat pies) and have an Argentine barbeque. You can also experience some horseback riding or listen to folk songs.
  • Visiting the Café Tortoni: Open since 1858, this coffee house has become one of Buenos Aires’ historic sites. People stop by to enjoy exceptional coffee as well as to learn about the café’s interesting history.
  • Enjoying the San Telmo Market: During your trip, do not miss this authentic flea market held at Plaza Dorrego, the main public square of San Telmo (the oldest Barrio of Buenos Aires). Each Sunday, antique lovers and travelers come to see and buy some artistic antique or handicraft. You can also enjoy street performances or tango dances everywhere, while sipping Argentine coffee.
  • Experiencing skydiving: Experience some tandem skydiving and contemplate a stunning view of Buenos Aires while diving through 3,000 meters (9,000 feet) of air.
Buenos Aires - tango
Tango happens in the street in Buenos Aires (image by {a href=”http://www.flickr.com/photos/geoliv/” target=”_blank”}Geoff Livingston{/a})

 

Buenos Aires, often known as the Paris of South America, combines the sophistication of Europe with the passion of South America. With its interesting culture, the capital of Argentina will surely meet all your expectations.

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