Quick Trip Tips on Argentina and Buenos Aires
I publish many lists of things to see and do in Buenos Aires on my Argentina Travel Site for About.com. You can read about some of my favorite leather stores, an ideal and famous thing to shop for in Argentina, or read about great places to take the kids when traveling to the country, and of course plenty of things to see from Catedral Metropolitana where Pope Francis used to work before he went off to Rome.
Here, I highlight a list of some of my favorite recommendations and why, based on advice I recently gave for just a few highlights to look into on a very short trip to Argentina. There are always many different opinions about what not to miss when visiting Buenos Aires. Also, take a look through this piece on Hotels in Buenos Aires, which lists even more options.
Places to Stay:
Home Buenos Aires
Honduras 5860, between Carranza and Ravignani
Palermo Viejo Neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
TEL: +54/11-4778-1008
www.homebuenosaires.com
One of the best located boutique hotels in Palermo, it’s owned by young couple Patricia O’Shea, an Argentine native of Irish ancestry, and her British husband Tom Rixton. Mod-60’s Brady Bunch style touches, a grassy backyard, sunken spa and popular bar make it a chic, friendly spot. Come to the bar even if you're not staying here.
The Four Seasons
Posadas 1086/88 at Av. 9 de Julio
Recoleta Neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
TEL: +54/11-4321-1200
www.fourseasons.com
The Four Seasons is among the most awarded hotels in all of South America. Built in two parts, there is a turn of the last century mansion, and the modern tower with its panoramic views of Nueve de Julio and the Rio de la Plata. Wonderful restaurants like Elena are now part of their recent multi-million dollar renovation.
Places to Eat:
Tegui
Costa Rica 5852 at at Ravignani
Buenos Aires, Argentina
+54/11-5291-3333
www.tegui.com.ar
Another creation of star chef Germán Martitegui, this Palermo eatery offers a sense of intimacy. The cuisine is a mix of traditional Argentine favorites with a Mediterranean touch. It's especially great if you're here as a couple.
La Cabrera
Cabrera 5099, at Thames
Palermo Viejo Neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
TEL: +54/11-4831-7002
www.parrillalacabrera.com.ar
One of the city’s best parillas, or steakhouses, you’ll find enormous slabs of meat at a great price, along with a large selection of Spanish cuisine. Sit indoors or choose a table outside on the corner, and watch Palermo pass by.
Things to Do:
Tango Moda
Balcarce 961, 1st Floor
San Telmo Neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
TEL: +54/11-4300-3293
www.tangomoda.com.ar
A wonderful store for picking up tango accessories and clothes.
El Ateneo (The Grand Splendid)
Avenida Santa Fe 1860 between Riobamba and Calloa
Barrio Norte neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
+54/11-4813-6052
www.elateneo.com
Originally a turn of the last century theatre, this bookstore is one of the most magnificent examples of recycling architecture in Buenos Aires. The café is on the stage, and balconies have become cozy reading alcoves. You'll linger for long here.
Recoleta Cemetery
Calle Junín 1790, at Plaza Francesa
Recoleta Neighborhood
Buenos Aires, Argentina
TEL: +54/11-4804-7040
www.cementeriorecoleta.com.ar
The most visited place in all of Buenos Aires, this is the final resting place of Argentina’s political elite. it is mostly known to tourists for being the home of the tomb of Evita, the iconic first lady who symbolizes the country to millions around the world. The four block area is full of sumptuous sculptures in marble, bronze and granite that you should visit after paying your respects to Evita.
Take a look through more ideas on the site. Maybe even think of expanding outside of Buenos Aires, like the exciting Gualeguaychu Carnival, a surprising and fun adventure only a few hours north of the capital!
What are some of your favorite sites in Buenos Aires that you recommend to friends after your visit, even if they just have a day or two to visit? Drop me a note and let me know!