Situated along the west shoreline of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires harmoniously blends European magnificence with fiery Latin American spirit. It's a city that can be enjoyed all year round, thanks to its temperate climate - hot summers (December-February) and mild winters (June-August). Spring and autumn offer the ideal climate for wandering down the city's leafy avenues and exploring its numerous parks.
Porteños, the locals' nickname, embody a lively lifestyle that begins late and ends later. The city vibrates with life well into the wee hours, with dinner often not starting until 9 PM, and clubbing kicking off after 2 AM. As a cosmopolitan capital, Buenos Aires boasts a world-class arts scene, a passionate tango culture, and rich literary heritage.What truly sets Buenos Aires apart are its distinctive barrios (neighborhoods), each with its own unique vibe. Whether you're marveling at the colorful homes in La Boca, shopping at the chic boutiques in Palermo Soho, or cafe-hopping in historic San Telmo, the city offers a mosaic of experiences. The food scene is centered around phenomenal beef, with asado (barbecue) being a deeply ingrained Sunday ritual. The city's ice cream also holds its own against Italy's finest.
Must-visits include the iconic Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of Eva Perón amongst other prominent figures, which is home to a striking collection of Art Nouveau mausoleums. The Teatro Colón, one of the world's premier opera houses, offers guided tours and performances that highlight its impeccable acoustics and breathtaking architecture.
The city's six-line subway system offers the quickest route between major attractions. Purchase a SUBE card at metro station kiosks or nearby convenience stores. Trains operate from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM on weekdays, with slightly shorter hours over the weekend.
To enjoy mild weather and stunning jacaranda blooms, spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are your best bets. These seasons additionally boast lower tourist numbers and more competitive hotel rates.
While the main tourist areas are generally safe, common-sense city precautions should be observed. Be vigilant against pickpockets in crowded spaces and avoid flashy jewelry. Stick to well-lit streets at night and opt for official radio taxis.
A 10% tip is standard at restaurants; however, small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated but not obligatory. Be aware that some high-end restaurants may add a service charge, so it's worth checking your bill.
While being able to speak some basic Spanish is helpful, many people in tourist-heavy areas do speak English. It's worthwhile learning key phrases like "gracias" (thank you) and "la cuenta" (the bill), to demonstrate respect for the local culture.
Safe to drink, tap water in Buenos Aires is generally of a high quality, although many visitors opt for bottled water. Unless specified otherwise, restaurants will serve bottled water.
Travel Tips for Buenos Aires
Explore Buenos Aires