The capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with origins that trace back to the early 16th century. Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza established a settlement that faced extreme adversity from indigenous groups and needed to be re-founded in 1580. From the 19th century on, Buenos Aires developed rapidly and experienced waves of immigration from Italy and Spain. Today, the city is home to over 15 million people and is well-known for its diverse neighborhoods, remarkable architecture, and exciting arts scene. The Porteños (as locals are called) take pride in their unique urban-based identity and provide a cultural flair filled with tango, literature, and gastronomy that is unmatched anywhere else in the world. Plan your trip with Gray Line Worldwide and experience everything Buenos Aires has to offer today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Buenos Aires
In the thriving heart of Buenos Aires lies the Teatro Colón, one of the finest opera houses in the world. Typically frequented by both locals and tourists, its performances provide a marvelous opportunity to appreciate high art in a truly magnificent setting. Originally opening in 1908 after some initial closures, the Teatro Colón was designed by Italian architect Francesco Tamburini and completed posthumously by Belgian Julio Dormal. Gaining a reputation for its superb acoustics, Teatro Colón has been systematically ranked as one of the five best concert venues in the world. Renowned artists like Luciano Pavarotti and María Callas have performed there, and the theater holds approximately 2,500 seated people with an additional standing-room only for 1,000. See which performances are scheduled during your Buenos Aires stay and plan a trip to the opera, ballet, or symphony!
La Boca is a historically and culturally rich neighborhood located in Buenos Aires. With strong influences from Spain and Italy, the buildings are colorfully painted and committed to artistic photography and performances. Translating to “The Mouth,” La Boca was established as a settlement for immigrants at the mouth of the Riachuelo River. Near the Port of Buenos Aires, the area developed quickly and transformed into a veritable melting pot. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the emergence of the tango, a dance synonymous with Argentine culture. A visit to La Boca allows guests to see the colorful corrugated iron houses called conventillos (small convents) built from leftover materials from the shipyard. Artist Benito Quinquela Martin supported the creation of El Caminito, a famous pedestrian street known for its vibrant facades and street art. The La Bombonera Stadium is also a fun place to spend an afternoon watching the Boca Juniors football team.
Considered one of the most sophisticated and charming neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, Recoleta is celebrated for its European-inspired architecture and landmarks. Located in the northeastern part of the city, its streets are filled with trees, upscale boutiques, and a bustling atmosphere of residents and visitors. In the 18th century, Recollect monks founded a convent that evolved into Buenos Aires’ first public cemetery. Famous Argentines — including Eva Perón — are buried there. During yellow fever outbreaks of the 1870s, wealthier residents relocated to Recoleta seeking safer living conditions. This “elitist” identity remains, particularly as Recoleta is regularly compared with the elegance of Paris. Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes or take pictures in front of the Floralis Genérica sculpture.
Located about 30 kilometers north of Buenos Aires, the Tigre Delta emerged from the Paraná River’s branching into numerous smaller rivers and islets. This separation formed a sprawling network of waterways. In the 1800s, European settlers recognized the delta for its agricultural potential, particularly when it came to wicker and fruit production. Named “tigre” due to the jaguars that once roamed the area, a town developed that later became a “healthful” retreat for wealthy Argentines in the larger city. The delta is a lush paradise peppered with cultural and historical sites, museums, and outdoor activities. Book a horseback ride or engage in some bird watching while you’re there.
Renowned as Bueno Aires’ oldest district, San Telmo’s origins date back to the 17th century. The area developed as a hub for dockworkers and brick makers for the port of Buenos Aires. The patron saint of sailors is St. Pedro González Telmo, who served as the district’s namesake. Yellow fever epidemics in the latter half of the 19th century led to a mass exodus of wealthy residents from San Telmo and a subsequent reputation as a more impoverished part of the city. The 1960s, though, saw an increase in young artists, writers, and students who fueled tourist interest again. As the storied birthplace of tango, San Telmo has many venues devoted to the passionate dance. The San Telmo Market and Plaza Dorrego are also great outdoor places to shop, grab food, and explore the local art scene.
Palermo is the largest neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Founded by Juan de Garay in 1580, the area that is now Palermo was most likely named after either the Franciscan Abbey of Saint Benedict of Palermo or an Italian property owner named Juan Domingo Palermo. The late 19th century saw Palermo become home to attractions like the Buenos Aires Zoo and Parc Tres de Febrero. Now known for its bohemian lifestyle, Palermo is filled with expansive parks that make it the “green lung” of the city. Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood are famous sections devoted to trendy boutiques, cafes, bars, and nightlife activities. Don’t miss a trip to the Buenos Aires Botanical Garden and Evita Museum.
Since 2014, the River Plate Museum is dedicated to the storied history of the Club Atlético River Plate, which is one of the most celebrated football clubs in Argentina and South America. Established as part of efforts to celebrate and preserve the legacy of the 1901-founded club, the museum provides an interactive experience that allows guests to engage directly with the beloved sport. The museum encapsulates the club’s monumental achievements, including its numerous national and international titles. Check out the museum’s historic memorabilia and virtually simulated games during your visit.
Michelangelo is a renowned venue in Buenos Aires, particularly for its live tango show. Located in the historic San Telmo district, this establishment aims to bring together Argentine heritage and the performing arts. Offering an authentic experience of tango showcases an integral part of Buenos Aires’ cultural identity. Watch world-class dancers and musicians in a passionate performance from an intimate candlelit table. Enjoy a three-course dinner while watching the show and a post-performance cocktail bar. Depending on when you visit, Michelangelo might be hosting special events for holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
El Gato Negro — translating to “The Black Cat” — is a historic cafe and spice shop located on Corrientes Avenue 1669. Founded in 1926 by Victoriano López Robredo, the establishment was a place for Robredo to showcase his deep knowledge of teas and exotic spices cultivated by time spent in Sri Lanka. Nowadays, El Gato Negro is one of Buenos Aires’ “Bar Notables,” a designation given to places that carry historical significance in the city. The cafe is characterized by its art deco design, elegant wooden furniture, and large glass jars that contain various spices from around the world. The feel of an “early-19th century pharmacy” contrasts with the lively Theater District that is just down the street from the cafe.
Located around the corner from Plaza Evita on Calle Austria, Un Café con Perón is themed around Eva Perón and her husband, Juan Perón. As the only remaining building from the former Unzue Palace where the legendary couple lived, the cafe stands as both an homage and living legacy for two individuals who loom large in Argentine history. Visitors can enjoy coffee and themed treats like alfajores decorated with Juan Perón’s portrait and filled with dulce de leche. The cafe doubles as a cultural center known to host events, exhibitions, and political discussions. Conveniently, the Museo Evita is located nearby and provides a deeper dive into the life of Evita Perón.
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Absolutely fantastic. Our plane was 3 hours late departing, due to a medical emergency. I emailed GrayLine to inform them. When we arrived in Buenos Aires our driver was there waiting. He was great. Very polite and efficient. Took us to our hotel with no problems.
Fiz um passeio maravilhoso e recomendo a todos que estão visitando Buenos Aires. O tour passa pelos principais pontos turísticos da cidade, e o melhor é que você pode parar nos locais de maior interesse, explorar a região e depois embarcar no próximo ônibus para continuar ...
really enjoying hopping on and off! got to see Buenos Aires and used again the following day to hop on and off at the places we thought looked most interesting. Good value tour, definately recommend.