Buenos Aires is one of those destinations that captivates you from the moment you arrive. Often called the “Paris of South America,” this cosmopolitan city blends European architecture with the pulsing energy of Latin America.
This South American capital will surprise and delight you at every turn. It’s the birthplace of tango dancers, where soccer is a religion, and where the steaks are in a class of their own! For our family, visiting Buenos Aires had been high on the bucket list for years, and it delivered in every possible way.
To help you amp up your vacation, consider adding some of my top ten unique, fun, and tasty things to do to your itinerary for Buenos Aires. At the end of this article. check out my expert tips for two of the best places to stay and how to best get around.
1. EXPERIENCE A THEATRICAL DINNER
There is a reason Fogón Asado ranked as Tripadvisor’s #1 Fine Dining Restaurant in the World for 2025 and earned a Michelin recommendation. Upon entering the intimate dining room, the mood is set. A glowing custom grill, the grand parrilla, stands at the center where chefs slowly cook Argentina’s legendary meats over open flame.
Diners sit around the chef’s counter in a luxurious space complete with dark curtains and dramatic lighting, watching the culinary team work with precision and flair. It feels less like dinner and much more like a show, as the staff explains each course, complete with cuts of meat, cooking techniques, and flavor profiles.
We chose the 9-course tasting menu with wine pairings, featuring bottles from some of Argentina’s oldest vineyards, which beautifully amplify each dish’s flavors. The progression included ember-roasted eggplant with ricotta, gooey provoleta cheese with grilled fruit, sweetbreads with roasted tomatoes and ginger sauce, blood sausage with quince and apple chutney, and smoky chorizo with roasted pepper griddle bread.
The experience continued with slowly braised asado, pork flank steak with yellow chili sauce and salad, pine-cone smoked flat iron steak with cauliflower purée and corn, ribeye steak with mashed root vegetables, and last but not least, a decadent dulce de leche pancake topped with whipped cream and berries served with an infusion tea. With polished yet friendly service, it is a meal and a cooking performance you will not forget.
TIP: This is an adults-only venue, and reservations are essential since tables book quickly. Lunch is slightly less expensive than dinner.
2. TIME TO TANGO
A must for any visitor to Argentina is immersing yourself in the raw passion of tango. With so many different types of tango shows in Buenos Aires, deciding which to pick can feel overwhelming. Since we craved a small, atmospheric show where we could really see the dancers up close, we chose Secreto Tango.
Instead of a traditional elevated stage, guests at Secreto Tango sit in a semi-circle while the dancers perform in the center, just a few feet (and at times, a few inches) away from the audience. With no bad seat in the house, you’ll feel every spin, lift, and dramatic stomp as the performers glide around the room.
The chemistry between the dancers at our show was truly electric, and at the end of the performance, we learned that the lead pair is a real-life married couple, making their onstage connection even more authentic. A nice perk was sipping a glass of wine by candlelight while watching.
The show blends classic and modern tango styles, accompanied by talented live musicians and vocalists that keep the energy high. Another big plus: Secreto Tango offers daytime shows. Many tango performances in Buenos Aires are tied to dinner packages and start very late, often after 10 p.m.
Here, you can simply enjoy the performance without committing to a long dinner or a late night out. No matter what time of day, you’ll find yourself clapping, cheering, and perhaps even tempted to take a tango lesson yourself.
3. TAKE A FOOD TOUR
One of the best ways we found to explore the cool and trendy Palermo neighborhood is by joining the 5-star “Buenos Aires Local Foodie Adventure” with Sherpa Food Tours. Our guide, Jony, was charming, knowledgeable, and genuinely funny, keeping our small group of foodies laughing along the way. Over the course of four hours, Jony delivered on Sherpa’s promise of a “crash course on the best of Argentine cuisine and culture.”
As we wandered through the lively streets of Palermo, Jony led us to a mix of well-known foodie spots and hidden gems. Between the many stops, Jony shared information about the neighborhood’s history, culture, and people, regaling us with stories about the colorful murals, influential residents, famed restaurants and bars, and verdant parks that we passed.
The tour included more than ten Argentine dishes and drinks! By the end of our time with Jony, our bellies were full and we knew so much more about regional gourmet specialties and spirits. Our personal highlights included a classic choripán hot off the grill, juicy Argentine steak with fresh and flavorful sauces, stretchy provoleta, salami slices, savory tortilla española, faina (a chickpea-flour treat), milanesa, fantastic artisanal ice cream, and layered chocolate bonbons. Mmmm!
We also enjoyed sampling the well-curated selection of regional wines at several stops, which paired beautifully with the dishes. Our advice: prepare to experience the best of Palermo with all your senses, one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Buenos Aires.
TIP: We were especially impressed with how accommodating Sherpa was with our family’s many dietary restrictions (including gluten-free and vegetarian options). In addition to Palermo, check out Sherpa’s historic San Telmo neighborhood food tour.
4. CHECK OUT THE CAFÉ CULTURE
Whether you love historic cafés, literary hangouts, specialty coffee spots, quirky themes, or modern artsy spaces, the café culture of Buenos Aires truly has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite spots, plus a few we wish we’d had more time to check out.
Obrador de Panes & Galletas, San Telmo
For a more modern and personal café escape, we headed to Obrado de Panes & Galletas in San Telmo. Eclectic dishware and charming silverware add a touch of whimsy, inviting guests to slow down and recharge. The owner, Carolina, greets visitors with genuine warmth, and it’s easy to see why locals linger here.
The counter is filled with beautifully made pastries, exquisite cakes, and other treats. The café also offers a wide range of breakfast and lunch options, including sandwiches, salads, egg dishes, yogurt with fruit, and other light, satisfying plates.
Our family’s top dish recommendation is the bondiola 60-day aged pork shoulder sandwich layered with cheese and kale. Everything is prepared with organic vegetables and freshly baked breads, and the menu features an excellent selection of coffee, tea, juices, and other drinks (my daughter loved the creamy hot chocolate). Just a few blocks away from the bustle of San Telmo Market, Obrado de Panes & Galletas is a zen oasis on the slower side of the neighborhood.
Moshu Treehouse, Palermo
The sun-filled Moshu Treehouse feels like discovering a secret hideout in the middle of a busy city. This inviting café opens with a quaint outdoor courtyard before leading into an intentionally designed two-story space that resembles a playful treehouse. Built from a mix of wood and glass, the café is layered with greenery everywhere you look.
The menu is extensive, with page after page of delicious options that make choosing almost impossible. From omelets and salads to sandwiches (we loved the Croque Monsieur with smoked pork loin, pancetta, parmesan, and bechamal), plus pastries and cakes, everything sounded tempting, and the stunning display of baked goods made us want it all.
The famous “one and only” red velvet cake, carrot cake, and lemon blueberry cake were all equally divine, and the coffee was full-bodied. Our picky crew appreciated the thoughtful vegan, keto, and gluten-free options. What made the visit even better was the warm, attentive service (shoutout to our standout server Camila) and the mix of locals, digital nomads, and tourists filling the tables.
Some other themed and fun cafés we did not get to try but hope to next time include:
Cuervo Café is a Palermo hipster hangout with minimalist yet bold decor.
Ao Kuma Cafés, another Palermo spot, features Japanese kawaii culture, bursting with cartoon bears, giant plush toys, pastel anime decor, and character-themed desserts and drinks that make it feel like Tokyo.
Lastly, Buenos Aires has a set of cafés that are known as the Bar Federals, where academics and politicians gathered over a century ago. Arguably the most well-known is also the oldest café in the city, Café Tortoni. Harkening back to the days of Parisian salons, Café Tortoni, built in 1858, exudes old-world elegance with its Belle Époque decor, complete with colorful stained-glass accents.
Order churros to dip in velvety hot chocolate. Also consider checking out the city’s second-oldest cafe, El Federal Bar, nestled in the San Telmo neighborhood.
5. MEAT-LOVERS’ REJOICE
Steak and Buenos Aires are synonymous. With an overwhelming number of restaurants claiming to have the best cuts of grilled meat in the city, it is hard to decide where to go. We picked three local award-winning restaurants, famed for their gourmet renditions of top-notch beef dishes.
DON JULIO, PALERMO
We’d heard the hype about the farm-to-table Don Julio long before arriving in Buenos Aires, but being there in person felt like stepping into a culinary sanctuary. It is easy to see why this Michelin-starred parrilla is on so many lists, including the World’s Best Restaurant List, The Best Restaurants in Latin America List, and has been named the Best Restaurant in Argentina.
The whole establishment has a lively, easygoing energy, with locals and travelers eating together. We chose to be seated in the beautifully appointed two-story dining room with classic gaucho touches.
We took our time perusing the menu because there are so many fantastic options. The staff was incredibly helpful, guiding us through the different cuts of meat and even inviting us to check out the underground wine cellar and spectacular open-kitchen area to view everything up close.
We selected the sirloin strip steak, which was packed with flavor. The sides really elevated the meal, with our standouts including the grilled peppers and a well-seasoned roasted potato dish.
Everything is prepared using seasonal, organic produce, much of it grown on Don Julio’s own farm, so you can really taste the freshness in every bite. And their sun-ripened, colorful heirloom tomato salad was a true culinary highlight! Dining at Don Julio is not just about the food, but really the entire experience, from the exceptional service to the attention to detail.
TIP: Book ahead. We showed up a little early, which we highly recommend, and were welcomed with complimentary glasses of champagne and warm mini empanadas while waiting on the sidewalk. These treats set a laid-back, celebratory tone right from the start.
ELENA, RECOLETA
Dining at Elena in Buenos Aires, which is on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, was a Michelin-recommended treat we won’t soon forget. Situated in the iconic Four Seasons Hotel, Elena’s dramatic space is inspired by San Telmo’s historic homes, with dark wood, soaring ceilings, and an open kitchen.
Elena felt both elegant and lively. The menu promised premium dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood, and, boy oh boy, did it deliver! Our highlights included juicy tenderloin steak and a unique arroz negro seafood dish, loaded with mussels, chistorra, octopus, prawns, chipirones, and langoustines.
We enjoyed skillfully executed sides of smoked potato purée and roasted cauliflower. Some surprises, like sautéed shrimp with falafel, peanut emulsion, and pickles, and the melty provoleta with roasted apricot, were standout hits. We saved room for dessert, and were rewarded as we savored refreshing sorbets and rich dulce de leche ice cream.
SECRETO NUESTRO, RECOLETA
Secreto Nuestro invites you to dine at one of two scenic options: inside a stunning, oversized greenhouse with a photogenic open kitchen, or outside on the patio surrounded by lush greenery. The menu is creative and flavor-driven, highlighting both seafood and local meats.
For appetizers, we sampled classic meat empanadas, a vibrant seafood dish brimming with prawns, mussels, and scallops in saffron cream with sea foam, grilled halloumi with almond cream and confit tomatoes, and prosciutto elevated with grilled Camembert and thick-cut toast. Our standout entrées included the tender 5-hour braised short ribs (a unanimous must-order), the succulent ribeye steak, and the catch of the day. To finish, we drooled over one of the best sets of desserts of our trip: heavenly dulce de leche crêpes and an irresistible chocolate volcano.
TIPS: All three of these restaurants are ready to accommodate diners with dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. An extensive wine and cocktail program, featuring exceptional Argentine vintages, further elevates dining at all three establishments, Don Julio, Elena, and Secreto Nuestro.
6. EXPLORE PALERMO WITH A LOCAL
Exploring Buenos Aires was so much fun with our guide, Ellen Paanakker of Besos from BA Tours. Dutch-born and fluent in English, Ellen has lived in the city for years and plans creative, bespoke tours that accomplish her goal of making you “fall in love” with Buenos Aires. We did!
It feels more like wandering with a local friend than following a script, and her tours are very reasonably priced. On our walk through La Boca, Ellen led us beyond the busy stretch of Caminito to see hidden murals, historic spots, and quieter corners of the neighborhood.
Ellen guided us through La Boca’s colorful streets, where we watched street tango and took photos on a balcony with a Lionel Messi statue (we paid an extra fee to join him for pictures), as well as in front of the famous bright yellow and blue La Bombonera stadium, home of the Boca Juniors soccer club.
While the area is bustling, it can be less safe if you wander off too far on your own, and Ellen does a great job expertly guiding you through the best areas while sharing La Boca’s vibrant history. She also takes great photos of your group along the way.
TIP: Ellen also offers other unique experiences, such as her shop ’til you drop tour through cool boutiques featuring local designers, a Tigre Delta tour, a tour inspired by soccer star Diego Maradona, and a nighttime tour to see the city beautifully illuminated.
7. SNEAK INTO SPEAKEASIES
Diving into the secret world of local speakeasies is one of the most exciting ways to partake in the enchanting Buenos Aires nightlife scene. From classy lounges to immersive themed bars, these spots serve up creativity, style, and world-class cocktails.
Presidente Bar
We discovered the ideal way to end a celebratory night in Buenos Aires: the Presidente Bar. Nestled in Recoleta, this old-school lounge blends timeless elegance with a touch of romance, with sumptuous drapes and sparkling chandeliers setting the scene. A special shout-out from our crew goes to Diego, whose friendly, playful personality turned our visit into the highlight of the night.
After asking each of us about our favorite flavor profiles, he crafted inventive, visually stunning cocktails tailored to our tastes, each with a distinct local flair. An evening spent toasting at Presidente is one we won’t soon forget.
Florería Atlántico
Through the front window, Florería Atlántico looks like a quaint little flower shop, brimming with loads of bright, blooming bouquets. But the real surprise comes when you open a vintage refrigerator door and head downstairs into the stylish basement bar. The cocktails here are inspired by Argentina’s immigrant communities, and many feature the bar’s signature yerba mate gin.
Both the Presidente Bar and Florería Atlántico are included on the World’s 50 Best Bar List.
The Hole Bar
For a one-of-a-kind night out, The Hole delivers a whimsical, immersive experience that transports you back to the 1920s with its Alcatraz-inspired theme. From the moment you step inside, the mischief begins as guests are invited to pose for a mock police lineup along the wall before entering the bar.
The setting, complete with an antique car and prison bars, evokes the world of gangsters and Prohibition-era bootleggers. With its kitschy cocktails and clever thematic touches, The Hole feels like stepping into a secret underground hideaway. Each drink is concocted with a comical nod to the Alcatraz motif, and the lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a night of adventure and laughter.
8. ALL THINGS EVITA
In Buenos Aires, Eva Perón’s legacy is felt everywhere. Known affectionately as Evita, she was Argentina’s beloved First Lady, a champion of workers, women, and the poor. Our journey to learn her story included a stop at Recoleta Cemetery, where her tomb lies in the Duarte family mausoleum. Visitors quietly gather there to pay their respects, often leaving flowers in tribute.
TIP: Cross the street to the food court at the top of the Recoleta Mall, which offers a free bird’s-eye view of the cemetery.
We also admired Casa Rosada (the pink house that is home to the president’s office), where Evita once delivered passionate speeches from the famous balcony to crowds that gathered below. Throughout the city, you will notice beautiful murals featuring her image, a powerful reminder of how deeply her story is woven into the culture.
A visit to Museo Evita was deeply moving. Using an audio guide or joining a tour helps bring the exhibits to life as you follow the remarkable arc of Evita from humble beginnings to becoming one of Argentina’s most influential figures.
Her signature dresses, along with personal belongings, offer an insider glimpse into her world. Film footage and recordings of her speeches allow visitors to better understand the passion that inspired her many supporters. We ended our visit at the museum café, enjoying coffee and a pastry in a tranquil garden.
9. EXPLORE THE PARIS OF SOUTH AMERICA
Buenos Aires captivates visitors with its intricate tapestry of architectural styles. The strong European influence is unmistakable, blending the elegance of Madrid and Paris through grand boulevards and decorative balconies.
Architectural highlights include the grand National Congress building, the colonial-era National Museum of the Cabildo, the “pretty in pink” Casa Rosada, the dramatic Metropolitan Cathedral, the striking Floralis Genérica sculpture that opens and closes with the sun, the ornate Recoleta Cemetery, and the Italian-inspired Teatro Colón.
TIP: Some of these sights offer tours.
We chose to dive deeper into one of the city’s unique architectural sights with a tour of Palacio Barolo, a landmark office building full of symbolism. Designed around Dante’s Divine Comedy, the structure is divided into sections representing Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, with each level reflecting themes of the epic poem.
As we moved through the corridors and ascended to higher floors, our guide pointed out the hidden meanings found in the design. After climbing a narrow winding staircase, you will reach magnificent panoramic views of Buenos Aires from a lighthouse at the top of the building, the highlight of the visit! TIP: Book a sunset tour for a magical view.
10. CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
I’ll admit it, I’m cheating a little on this top ten list by turning number ten into a catch-all “choose your own adventure.” But, there are too many unexpected experiences in Buenos Aires to fit neatly into a single slot, so follow your curiosity, whether wandering through the peaceful Japanese Gardens, spotting uncommon animals at the Ecoparque, catching a soccer match at the famed La Bombonera stadium, searching for comic characters along the Paseo de la Historieta, marveling at the rose gardens in Bosques de Palermo, or admiring vintage cars at the Museo del Automóvil.
You could also sign up for a wine tasting, cooking class, tango lesson, or even try yerba mate, a drink woven into the rhythm of daily Argentine life.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES
Buenos Aires offers hotel options for every budget and travel style. We split our stay between two standout boutique properties, Pleno Palermo Soho and Carles Hotel. Together, these two centrally-located hotels strike a strong balance of comfort, style, and attentive service, making your stay in Buenos Aires feel indulgent without breaking the bank.
Pleno Palermo Soho sits in the heart of the artsy Palermo Soho neighborhood, right next door to Don Julio on a charming cobblestone, tree-lined street. Its bright, stylish rooms and modern yet cozy design make it an ideal base for exploring this lively, tourist-friendly area filled with cafés, boutiques, street art, and nightlife. The beautiful dining room is a great way to start your day, and we were especially impressed by the expansive, top-quality options offered in the breakfast buffet. The warm, welcoming service makes you feel at home right away.
On the quieter, more refined side of the city, Carles Hotel in Recoleta offers a calm and elegant retreat. With its boutique charm, spacious rooms, and thoughtful service, it’s a great base for exploring nearby cultural highlights. One detail we especially appreciated was the team’s warm hospitality. When we had a very early morning ferry to catch, they prepared breakfast for us to take with us, making for a smooth start to the day.
GETTING AROUND BUENOS AIRES
Getting around Buenos Aires is easy, whether you’re touching down at Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE), Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), or simply exploring the city. To keep our arrival and departure stress-free, we booked all airport transfers with Baires Cab.
Across four separate pickups and drop-offs, the multilingual drivers were consistently professional and punctual, exactly what you need when traveling as a family.
TIP: Pre-booking and pre-paying made everything seamless.
Once in the city, ride-hailing apps and traditional taxis are plentiful and very affordable, far cheaper than in the U.S., making them our go-to for quick, convenient trips. Buenos Aires also has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and the Buenos Aires Underground, but we loved the efficiency of Uber to move easily between neighborhoods without worrying about schedules.
BOOKING TIPS
For those of us in the northern hemisphere, remember that the seasons in South America are flipped, so summer in Argentina is winter in North America. Consider fitting in some epic side trips to the jaw-dropping Iguazú Falls, the rough beauty of Patagonia, or Ushuaia all the way down at the “edge of the world.” Buenos Aires is just the beginning of your Argentinian adventure.
DISCLAIMER
The author was provided with some discounted and/or complimentary passes and meals so that she could try the attractions/restaurants and review them for your information. All opinions are her own. Most images courtesy of Lisa Grabelle unless otherwise noted.
ABOUT AUTHOR
This guest post was written by Lisa Grabelle. Lisa, a freelance travel writer, has been traveling all her life…48 countries and loving it! Originally from the sunny skies of Miami, Lisa, a former big firm lawyer, lives near Philadelphia. Travel is her passion. As soon as one vacation ends, Lisa busily plans her next adventure for her non-stop family of adventurers. Lisa’s motto is “don’t just visit the destination…live it!” You can follow Lisa on Instagram.
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