Buenos Aires – 10 Must-See Places and 5 To Avoid

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is one of the most vibrant cities in South America. With its bustling nightlife, modern architecture, and rich cultural heritage, it draws visitors from around the world. Whether you’re looking for activities during the day or night, Buenos Aires has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 10 must-see places in the city and five to avoid.

1. Plaza de Mayo

The Plaza de Mayo is the main square in the heart of Buenos Aires. Here, you can admire the Casa Rosada (the Pink House, the official residence of the president of Argentina) and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Every Thursday, the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo gather here to commemorate the people who disappeared during the country’s dictatorship. It’s a powerful reminder of Argentina’s tumultuous past.

2. Recoleta Cemetery

The Recoleta Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in South America. It is the final resting place of some of the most influential figures in Argentina’s history, including former presidents and Nobel Prize winners. The cemetery is filled with stunning mausoleums and sculptures, making it a popular tourist attraction.

3. La Boca

La Boca is one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. This area is known for its brightly painted buildings, cobblestone streets, and street art. La Boca is also home to the iconic soccer club, Boca Juniors. If you’re looking for a fun night out, you can find plenty of bars and restaurants in La Boca.

4. Palermo

Palermo is a trendy neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Here, you can find designer boutiques, trendy restaurants, and chic cafes. The area is also home to the beautiful Parque Tres de Febrero, a park with lakes and gardens. Palermo is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring its many attractions.

5. Teatro Colón

The Teatro Colón is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world. Built in 1908, the theater is renowned for its acoustics and lavish interior. Even if you don’t catch a show, you can take a guided tour of the theater to admire its beauty.

6. Puerto Madero

Puerto Madero is the newest neighborhood in Buenos Aires. It is home to modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels. Here, you can find a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Puerto Madero is also a great place to take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the stunning views.

7. Caminito

Caminito is a colorful street in the La Boca district. The street is filled with brightly painted buildings, tango dancers, and street artists. It’s a great place to take photos and experience the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires.

8. Plaza Serrano

Plaza Serrano is the epicenter of the Palermo nightlife. On weekends, the square is filled with people enjoying the outdoor bars and restaurants. The area is also home to many of the city’s best clubs and bars.

9. MALBA

MALBA stands for Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires. This museum is home to a vast collection of Latin American art, ranging from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary works. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s vibrant culture and art.

10. Obelisco

The Obelisco is an iconic monument in the center of Buenos Aires. It was built in 1936 and stands at 67 meters tall. It’s a great place to admire the city skyline and snap some photos.

Places to Avoid

1. Constitución

Constitución is a neighborhood in the south of Buenos Aires. The area is known for its drug trade, violent crime, and prostitution. It is best avoided, especially at night.

2. La Salada Market

The La Salada Market is a sprawling market in the south of the city. While it’s a great place to buy cheap clothing and souvenirs, it can be dangerous due to pickpocketing and other crimes.

3. Floresta

Floresta is a neighborhood in the north of Buenos Aires. The area is known for its high levels of crime and poverty. It is best avoided, especially at night.

4. Once Station

Once Station is a major train station in Buenos Aires. The station is crowded and chaotic, making it a prime target for pickpockets. It is best to avoid the station at night and stick to well-lit areas.

5. La Paternal

La Paternal is a neighborhood in the north of Buenos Aires. The area is known for its high levels of crime and poverty. It is best avoided, especially at night.

Buenos Aires is a beautiful city with a wealth of attractions. From the Plaza de Mayo to the Teatro Colón, there are plenty of places to explore. However, there are also some areas that should be avoided due to their high levels of crime. No matter where you go, make sure to stay safe and enjoy your time in Buenos Aires!