Buenos Aires uncovered: Top activities for day, night, rainy days, and family fun
The coolest things to do in Buenos Aires require only comfortable shoes and a great mood. Take note of the most interesting areas to visit and create an itinerary with the tourist attractions that catch your attention the most!
Buenos Aires is a beautiful city brimming with options, ensuring that any itinerary—whether for three, ten, fifteen days, or more—will be filled with exciting things to do. In addition to classic tourist attractions perfect for Instagram-worthy photos, you can enjoy a variety of experiences, such as savoring good food and drinks, strolling through charming neighborhoods, and soaking up the local vibe.
When planning an itinerary for Buenos Aires, consider what experiences you wish to have. Are you interested in visiting famous restaurants, delightful cafes, and vibrant bars? Or do you prefer a cultural tour including museums and the historic center? Once you decide, to enhance your trip as a responsible traveler, we recommend walking extensively, utilizing the bikes available through apps, and using public transport to minimize your carbon emissions while immersing yourself in the local culture. Many areas outside the city center are easily accessible via the metro and bus network.
After spending nearly two months in the capital of Argentina, I’ve meticulously prepared a comprehensive list of attractions and things to do in Buenos Aires. Discover the diverse activities available during the day or night, rain or shine, and either for free or suitable for families with children. Let’s dive in!
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Best things to do in Buenos Aires
Here are 37 ideas for tourist attractions and places to include in your Buenos Aires itinerary:
Palermo
Let’s start our list with the Palermo neighborhood. Palermo Hollywood, Palermo Soho, and Palermo Chico are neighboring areas with a similar vibe. In addition to being some of the coolest places to visit in Buenos Aires, you’ll find most of the city’s Airbnbs here. The first two neighborhoods are more modern, featuring designer stores, specialty cafés, and a lively nightlife, while the third is a bit quieter.
Serrano Square
At the heart of bustling Palermo Hollywood, Plaza Serrano is actually a large roundabout surrounded by some shops and a multitude of bars offering diverse styles. Lively and crowded, this area is perfect for a relaxed night out. During the day, particularly on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, there’s a really cool crafts fair where you can find original works.
El Rosedal de Palermo Park
El Rosedal is an extensive public garden known for its more than 18,000 rose bushes. Located in the Palermo neighborhood within Tres de Febrero Park, it houses a diverse variety of rose species, providing a peaceful environment for walks, outdoor activities, and contemplation.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entry allowed until 5 p.m.
- The park is closed on January 1st, Good Friday, May 1st, July 20th, September 21st, November 8th, and December 24th, 25th, and 31st.
Prices*: Free
Galileo Galilei Planetarium
Also located in Tres de Febrero Park, the Buenos Aires Planetarium features immersive presentations, interactive exhibits, and an astronomical museum, providing an educational and fascinating experience for all ages. Don’t miss the opportunity to observe the sky through its telescopes!
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday. Check show times here.
Prices*: General admission is $6,000; free entry is available (with reservation) for children under 4 years old, retirees and pensioners, and people with disabilities plus one companion.
Buenos Aires Eco Park
Formerly the city’s zoo, Eco Parque Buenos Aires now offers trails, botanical gardens, and interactive areas to learn about local flora and fauna. It’s a great place to visit for families and nature lovers. Take the opportunity to explore its sustainable and educational initiatives.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: Entrance via Plaza Italia, Las Heras Avenue (Oceánica Station), and Libertador Avenue.
Prices*: Free
Buenos Aires Botanical Garden
The Jardín Botánico de Buenos Aires is a green space with a wide variety of native and exotic plants. It’s not very touristy, but if you’re looking for peace, quiet, and a moment in nature, you’ll find it here.
Opening hours:
- Summer (September 22 to March 21): Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with entry until 6:30 p.m.
- Winter (March 22 to September 21): Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entry until 5:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entry until 5:30 p.m.
Prices*: Free
Japanese Garden of Buenos Aires
The most sought-after destination for travelers, the Jardín Japonés in Buenos Aires reflects the aesthetics and harmony of Japanese culture. With its lakes, bridges, and meticulous landscaping, it offers visitors a Zen experience in the Argentine capital.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Ticket offices close at 6 p.m.
Prices*: $13,500 for foreigners
MALBA
Located in Palermo, the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) is dedicated exclusively to 20th-century Latin American art. The museum’s permanent collection includes “Abaporu,” the iconic work by Brazilian artist Tarsila do Amaral. It frequently features exhibitions of works by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, as well as fascinating temporary exhibitions.
Opening hours:
- Thursday to Monday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Closed on Tuesday.
Prices*:
- General admission, $8,000.
- Students, teachers and retirees: $4,000.
- Wednesdays, general admission, $4,000. Students, teachers and retirees: free.
- Free admission every day only for children under 5 and people with disabilities.
Recoleta Cemetery
One of the most famous cemeteries in the world, Cementerio de La Recoleta, is located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, you can book a guided tour or use an audio guide to discover captivating stories and visit the tombs of prominent Argentines, such as Evita Perón and Raúl Alfonsín.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Prices*: $17,620
Recoleta Cultural Center
The Centro Cultural Recoleta is a space dedicated to contemporary arts, offering a diverse program that includes exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and cultural events. Open daily, it serves as a meeting point for artists and the public who are in search of innovation and artistic expression.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
Prices*:
- General admission: $5,000
- Children under 12: Free
National Museum of Fine Arts
The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes in Buenos Aires, opened in 1896, boasts a vast collection of works by both Argentine and international artists. Located on Avenida del Libertador, its imposing building and free admission make it a must-see for art lovers visiting the Argentine capital.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
- The museum is also closed on May 1st, June 27th, December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st.
Prices*: Free
Floraris Genérica
You may not recognize the name, but you’ve likely seen this metal flower in images of Buenos Aires. Made of stainless steel and standing 23 meters tall, Floralis Genérica opens and closes its petals in response to sunlight. A strong storm caused significant damage, prompting repairs that began in May 2024. This iconic sculpture is located in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas, near the Buenos Aires Law School, which is another beautiful and imposing building in the city.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid
While there are many branches of the El Ateneo bookstore in the city, this particular location consistently appears on traditional lists of must-see attractions in Buenos Aires. Located in an old opera house, the space features redesigned boxes and galleries. Surrounded by paintings, red curtains, and golden ornaments, it has become home to thousands of books. Beyond browsing the extensive collection, visitors can enjoy a coffee on the stage of the former theater.
Address: Santa Fe Avenue, 1860
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Prices*: Free
Colón Theatre
Beautiful, golden, and all superlative adjectives you can think of are absolutely fitting. Both inside and out, the Teatro Colón is stunning. Visitors can explore the theater on a guided tour or by purchasing a ticket for a performance—the latter is highly recommended!
Opening hours:
- Ticket office: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sundays and holidays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Closed on: May 1st, December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st.
Prices*: Check details for guided tours and the theater schedule here.
Galerias Pacifico
Located in the heart of Buenos Aires, Galerías Pacífico is an iconic shopping mall that opened in 1891. Known for its impressive architecture and murals by Argentine artists, it offers a sophisticated shopping experience with luxury stores, restaurants, and elegant cafés. In addition to being a popular tourist spot, it also hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, attracting both tourists and locals.
Opening hours:
- Shops: Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Restaurants and cafés: Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Prices*: Free
Florida Street (Calle Florida)
Calle Florida, or Florida Street, in downtown Buenos Aires is a popular tourist destination lined with shops, art galleries, and bookstores. Street performers and tango dancers add life and color to the atmosphere, while cafés and restaurants serve delicious local cuisine. Known for its high concentration of currency exchange bureaus, the street has many individuals offering irregular exchanges, which requires caution from tourists.
Photo: Jade Knorre
Palacio Libertad (formerly Centro Cultural Kirchner)
Located in the city center, the Centro Cultural Palacio Libertad Domingo Faustino Sarmiento is a key cultural site in Buenos Aires. Housed in a historic building that once served as the headquarters of the Post Office, it offers a variety of free tours and performances, including concerts, art exhibitions, and plays. Formerly known as Centro Cultural Kirchner, its name was changed in 2024 under the government of Javier Milei.
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Prices*: Free
9 de Julio Avenue
Avenida 9 de Julio is renowned as one of the widest avenues in the world, featuring up to 18 lanes of traffic—making driving there a potentially nerve-wracking experience. It is home to the iconic Obelisk, a central landmark and reference point for the city.
Corrientes Avenue
Avenida Corrientes is one of the city’s main arteries, celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural offerings. It’s known for its traditional pizzerias, historic theaters, and cinemas, attracting tourists eager for entertainment and gastronomy. Additionally, free performances along the avenue present live music, dance, and theater, offering an authentic experience of Buenos Aires’s culture.
Buenos Aires Obelisk
The Obelisco, located at the intersection of Avenida 9 de Julio and Avenida Corrientes, is an iconic landmark in Buenos Aires that towers 67.5 meters high. While it is not accessible from the inside, the area around it is always open and beautifully lit at night, making it ideal for strolling and taking memorable photos.
Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve
Situated along the Costanera Sur, the Reserva Ecológica de Buenos Aires is a vast green space perfect for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. With well-marked trails and scenic views of the Río de la Plata, it serves as a natural refuge within the city. Open daily, the reserve offers a peaceful and revitalizing escape, providing an ideal environment for exploration by bike.
Congress Square
The Plaza del Congreso is a significant square with rich historical and architectural value, situated directly in front of the National Congress building. Visitors can admire the grandeur of its neoclassical architecture while enjoying a public space perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the square is home to the historic Cine Gaumont, which offers a variety of films, providing an enriching cultural experience for visitors exploring the area.
Barolo Palace
Palacio Barolo is an architectural landmark in Buenos Aires inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. Featuring an imposing tower, it offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. In addition to housing offices and commercial spaces, tourists can take paid tours or visit the dome by reservation for lunch, coffee, or dinner, enjoying a unique experience of viewing the city from above.
Tortoni Coffee
Café Tortoni is one of the oldest and most emblematic cafés in Buenos Aires. Founded in 1858, it has become a cultural icon, visited by artists, intellectuals, and tourists. Known for its historic architecture and inviting atmosphere, the café has hosted famous musicians like Carlos Gardel and Ástor Piazzolla.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Prices*: Free entry; individual consumption not included.
Casa Rosada and Plaza de Mayo
The Casa Rosada (Pink House) serves as the seat of the Argentine government, renowned for its iconic light pink color. Beyond housing the presidential office, it is a prominent tourist site where visitors can delve into the country’s history and politics. The Plaza de Mayo, where Casa Rosada resides, is famous for its role in historic events and political protests, including those of the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo. This movement, initiated in 1977, has become a symbol of resistance and the defense of human rights.
Buenos Aires Cathedral
Located in the historic Plaza de Mayo, the Catedral de Buenos Aires is renowned for housing the mausoleum of General José de San Martín, one of Argentina’s national heroes. Constructed in the 18th century, its neoclassical architecture continues to impress visitors with its magnitude.
Opening hours:
Cathedral:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sundays: 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Holidays: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Museum:
- Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Prices*: Free
National Cabildo Museum
The Museo Nacional del Cabildo in Buenos Aires provides an insightful exploration of the events leading to the May Revolution of 1810. Situated in the former Cabildo, the museum houses exhibits and artifacts pertinent to Argentina’s colonial history and the journey to independence.
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Prices*: Free
Puerto Madero
Puerto Madero, located in Buenos Aires, exemplifies a successful revitalization of a former disused port area. Known for its modern architecture, the area boasts numerous restaurants and leisure spaces. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the promenade, taking in views of the river, and exploring the many shopping and dining establishments available in the area.
Woman’s Bridge
The Puente de la Mujer is a swing bridge designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Featuring an innovative and elegant design, the bridge draws inspiration from the graceful form of a couple dancing tango.
Photo: Jade Knorre
Buenos Aires Floating Casino
The Casino Flotante de Buenos Aires, situated near Puerto Madero, offers a unique entertainment experience aboard a boat anchored on the river. Even if you are not interested in gambling, the casino is worth a visit for its vibrant and surreal interior, filled with various gambling games. The boat’s deck provides a contrastingly tranquil environment with a slightly decadent atmosphere.
Opening hours: 24 hours, seven days a week.
Prices*: Free admission; individual consumption not included.
Mafalda Statue
Located near San Telmo in Buenos Aires, the Mafalda Statue is a beloved tourist attraction. It pays homage to Mafalda, a curious and questioning girl created by the renowned Argentine cartoonist Quino. On Sundays, the line to take photos can be lengthy, with potential waits of at least an hour.
Fox’s Tip 🦊: Visit during the week when the neighborhood is quieter, allowing you to take as many photos as you like without rushing.
San Telmo Market
The Mercado San Telmo, in operation since 1897, is located in the historic neighborhood of the same name in Buenos Aires. This lively market is a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide variety of products, including fresh foods, meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and an array of crafts and antiques.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Prices*: Free entry; individual consumption is separate.
San Telmo Fair
The Feria de San Telmo is one of the largest and oldest open-air markets in Buenos Aires. It’s a bustling destination where visitors can discover a diverse array of products, including local crafts, antiques, clothing, accessories, and decorative items. In addition, food stalls offer delicious local delicacies, adding to the vibrant market experience.
Opening hours: Sundays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Depending on the day, some stalls may remain open a bit longer, occasionally until 6 p.m.)
Mataderos Fair
The Feria de Mataderos, held on Sundays in Buenos Aires, is a beloved market known for preserving its authenticity, being located a bit further from the city center. Visitors can enjoy performances of folk dances such as chamamé and chacarera, while exploring stalls that sell a wide range of handicrafts, colonial products, and street food featuring traditional dishes like empanadas and asado. The market stretches over several blocks, providing a lively mix of street vendors’ products, thrift stores, and a flea market.
Opening hours: Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo: Jade Knorre
Caminito, La Boca
La Boca is an iconic neighborhood in Buenos Aires, often regarded as the birthplace of tango. It was home to the famous painter Benito Quinquela Martín and serves as a testament to the history of Italian immigration to Argentina, embodying the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires. One of the neighborhood’s most recognizable attractions is the colorful Caminito, a street renowned for its vividly painted tin and wooden houses. Visitors can also explore La Boca Stadium, the home of the traditional Boca Juniors soccer team, adding to the area’s rich tapestry of cultural experiences.
Benito Quinquela Martins Museum
Located in La Boca, the Museo Benito Quinquela Martín is dedicated to showcasing the works and legacy of the renowned Argentine painter. Situated in the artist’s former residence, the museum offers visitors a unique insight into his life and artistic journey through a rich collection of his paintings and personal documents.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Prices*: $3,000
Photo: Jade Knorre
Tigre
Tigre, a charming city near Buenos Aires, is a popular destination for day trips, offering an enchanting escape into nature. Known for its captivating boat trips through the canals of the Delta del Paraná, Tigre provides a unique experience of connecting with the natural environment. If you’re visiting Buenos Aires with children during the summer, be sure to explore Parque de la Costa, an amusement park offering fun and entertainment for all ages.
Photo: Jade Knorre
What to do in Buenos Aires at night, in the rain, for free, or with children
At night in Buenos Aires, immerse yourself in the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling tango show, explore the elegant riverside Puerto Madero, or simply stroll through the streets, admiring the majestic, illuminated historic buildings.
Museums are always a great option when the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor activities. Consider visiting the Planetarium, catching a theater play, dining in one of the city’s restaurants, browsing the San Telmo Market, or being enchanted by the El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore.
Buenos Aires offers more free attractions than you might expect! Consider the following: stroll through El Rosedal Park or the Botanical Garden; visit the Argentine Congress Palace and follow Avenida de Mayo, passing by Café Tortoni, the Cathedral, Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada, and Palacio Libertad, continuing to Puente de la Mujer in Puerto Madero. Other beautiful and free spots include the El Ateneo Splendid bookstore and Galerias Pacífico. In La Boca, enjoy the vibrant colors of Caminito, and visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, which has free admission.
Enjoy an evening stroll through Puerto Madero, relishing the illuminated harbor and the delightful restaurants along the river. Plan a walk along Corrientes Avenue, dine at a traditional pizzeria like Guerrín or El Cuartito, and catch a theater or movie performance at a local cultural center, or enjoy outdoor street performances. The Buenos Aires Planetarium (Galileo Galilei) is also great for the whole family.
Children will enjoy the Museo de los Niños, exploring miniature city replicas. The Galileo Galilei Planetarium offers captivating astronomical displays, and the El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore has an engaging children’s section. Visit parks like Paseo del Rosedal and the Japanese Garden for their beautiful gardens and lakes. Street markets in Plaza Serrano or San Telmo often have games and craft toys to entertain kids.
Parks are ideal options, such as El Rosedal, the Botanical Garden, and the Japanese Garden. Palermo and Recoleta neighborhoods are great for strolling, with several playgrounds available. The range of cultural activities includes children’s shows worth checking out.
For a dynamic visit, rent bikes to tour Buenos Aires according to your interests. Watching a show at the Galileo Galilei Planetarium can be an incredible experience. Recoleta Cultural Center offers workshops and contemporary art exhibitions suited for young people. Touring Boca Juniors’ La Bombonera stadium or River Plate’s Monumental de Núñez stadium is also appealing for soccer fans.
Buenos Aires boasts a variety of tango shows, from intimate performances in traditional cafés to grand productions in renowned theaters. For an authentic experience, choose shows in historic venues in neighborhoods like San Telmo or Abasto. For a grander experience, perhaps with dinner included, opt for shows in renowned theaters, such as those in Puerto Madero. Enjoy street performances too, and remember to tip the artists!
Though the entire city is rich in sights, here are some of the most visited tourist attractions in Buenos Aires: Palermo neighborhood, El Rosedal Park, Floralis Genérica, MALBA, Recoleta Cemetery, Caminito, El Ateneo Bookstore, Florida Street, Galerias Pacífico, Colón Theater, Café Tortoni, Avenida de Mayo, Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada, Puerto Madero, San Telmo Fair, 9 de Julio Avenue, Corrientes Avenue, and the Obelisk.
Two must-visit museums in Buenos Aires include the National Museum of Fine Arts, with its expansive collection of Argentine and international art, and MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires), showcasing contemporary and Latin American art from the 20th century.
Things NOT to do in Buenos Aires
While it’s important to know what to do in Buenos Aires, it’s equally vital to be aware of what to avoid. Here are some exclusive recommendations:
Don’t go to the Lujan Zoo: Known for allowing direct interaction with its animals, this practice is questionable and not recommended for the welfare of the animals. It’s best to support wildlife sanctuaries and ethical animal tourism instead.
Skip shopping in tourist neighborhoods: If you’re looking to buy iconic Argentine products like dulce de leche and wine, steer clear of tourist shops that often inflate prices. Instead, explore local markets where you can find similar or superior quality products, organic, homemade, at a more reasonable cost.
Don’t exchange money on the street: Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized street changers, as the risk of scams is high. Opt for legitimate exchange bureaus or use ATMs for safer transactions.
Nearby cities worth visiting
Consider exploring these captivating destinations near Buenos Aires:
- Tigre (Argentina) – 30 km
- Rosario (Argentina) – 299 km
- Cariló Beach (Argentina) – 360 km
- Mar del Plata (Argentina) – 415 km
- Sierra de La Ventana (Argentina) – 580 km
- Montevideo (Uruguay) – 586 km (take the ferry for a faster route)
Where to stay
In this other article, you’ll discover the best neighborhoods to stay in Buenos Aires, each offering unique experiences and conveniences to enhance your visit.
Take advantage of Argentina’s attractive accommodation prices to indulge in a luxury experience. Explore our curated selection of 5-star hotels in Buenos Aires for an unforgettable stay.
Travel insurance for Buenos Aires
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Have you decided what to do in Buenos Aires, rain or shine, during the day or at night, for free or with children? Use all this information to craft your Buenos Aires itinerary, focusing on the attractions that intrigued you the most.
Fox’s Tip 🦊: Don’t overly restrict your itinerary in the Argentine capital; let the city surprise you with its unexpected delights!
🦊 Sincere fox informs:
* All prices reported in this article were collected in January 2025 and may be subject to additional taxes and change at any time.
** This post contains affiliate links, which means that when you buy a product/service after clicking on our links, LMTM earns a commission that helps us maintain free content for all the traveling foxes in the world✌🏽🦊 .
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