Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city that pulsates with life. It’s a place where the grand and the gritty intertwine, where political fervor meets artistic expression, and where refined elegance dances with a raw, untamed spirit. This is a city that embraces all who come, immersing them in its passionate love for its people, its captivating music, its stunning architecture, and its history of social movements. Here, hidden gems await discovery: breathtakingly beautiful bookstores, milongas (tango dance parties) that stretch into the early hours, clandestine bars tucked away behind flower shops, captivating circus performances in neighborhoods steeped in forgotten grandeur, and family-owned steakhouses renowned the world over.
To truly savor the essence of this multifaceted city in a mere two days, it’s best to establish a base in a central location. This strategic positioning allows for convenient forays into various neighborhoods, offering glimpses into the city’s diverse and layered personality. For those seeking the best museums, unique antiquing spots, vibrant nightlife, tranquil green spaces, and delectable restaurants, the following itinerary provides an unforgettable introduction to Argentina’s captivating capital. Let’s discover The Ultimate Two-Day Itinerary for Buenos Aires.
Day 1: Morning
9:00 AM: After arriving at Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza), the main gateway to Buenos Aires, the first order of business is to secure transportation to your hotel. For an experience of unparalleled luxury, consider the Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires. This neoclassical palace, originally built in the 1930s for the prominent Duhau family, exudes an air of timeless elegance. The hotel has carefully preserved much of its original architectural grandeur, which is beautifully complemented by expansive and meticulously maintained private gardens.
For a truly unforgettable stay, consider booking the King Palace Balcony room. This lavish accommodation offers breathtaking views of the gardens from a private balcony, a luxurious spa bathtub perfect for relaxation, a cozy fireplace for cooler evenings, and the attentive service of a dedicated butler. Once you’ve settled in and left your luggage, take a moment to freshen up before venturing out to explore La Cuidad de la Furia, the City of Fury, as Buenos Aires is often passionately called.
11:00 AM: A leisurely 15-minute walk will lead you to El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a truly remarkable landmark. Housed within a 100-year-old former cinema, this bookstore is a testament to the city’s love of art and culture. Spread across five floors, it holds a staggering collection of over 120,000 books, a dedicated children’s section, and a charming café situated on the former stage.
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a visual feast. The space is brilliantly lit, highlighting the magnificent dome adorned with frescoes by the Italian painter Nazareno Orlandi. Be sure to capture a photograph from the top floor to fully appreciate the architectural splendor. Browse the extensive collection of works by Argentine authors, such as Jorge Luis Borges, and explore the art exhibition often featured on the top floor.
Day 1: Afternoon
12:00 PM: Next, immerse yourself in the somber beauty of the Recoleta Cemetery. This sprawling necropolis is a labyrinth of crypts and statues, each holding stories etched in stone. While undeniably beautiful, the cemetery possesses a slightly foreboding atmosphere. Art deco, neo-gothic, and art nouveau-style marble crypts line the pathways, inviting exploration.
Among the notable gravesites to seek out is that of Eva Perón, the iconic first lady of Argentina. Also of interest is the tomb of David Alleno, a former gravedigger for the cemetery. Legend has it that Alleno’s ghost still wanders the walled streets each morning, the clinking of his spectral keys echoing behind him.
2:00 PM: A short taxi ride will transport you to San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find Obrador, a delightful café and bakery serving authentic Argentine fare. Indulge in tartas (similar to quiches), delectable sandwiches made with house-made mayonnaise and free-range chicken, fresh organic salads, and inventive desserts like the torta de cumple, a heavenly meringue-topped cake with peaches, cream, and a touch of dulce de leche.
Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercado San Telmo, a bustling marketplace filled with vintage accessories, vinyl records, curios, leather goods, and antiques. If your visit falls on a Sunday, extend your shopping experience along Calle Defensa at the Ferria San Telmo, a sprawling street fair offering artisanal mate gourds, gaucho clothing, even more antiques, and lively musical performances throughout the day.
5:00 PM: Choose between a cultural immersion at one of San Telmo’s museums or a relaxing respite at your hotel. If you opt for the museums, the Museo de Arte Moderno Buenos Aires (Museum of Modern Art) and the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Buenos Aires (Museum of Contemporary Art) are conveniently located just steps from each other on Avenida San Juan. Both showcase a diverse collection of Argentine and international artists. Alternatively, the Museo Antartico offers a fascinating glimpse into Argentina’s explorations of the southernmost continent, featuring a collection of snow equipment, photographs, and even a few stuffed penguins.
Day 1: Evening
6:00 PM: Either by taxi or the subte (subway), make your way back to San Telmo for an evening of tango. La Ventana offers a comprehensive experience, including a tango class, dinner, and a captivating tango show. Begin with an hour-long class where you’ll learn the basic eight-count steps, then practice your newfound skills with a partner. Afterward, settle in for a sumptuous multi-course dinner of grilled steaks, creamy desserts, and rich Malbec wine in the elegant showroom lounge. The highlight of the evening is the spectacular performance, featuring over 30 professional dancers and talented musicians playing traditional instruments such as the charango and bondiola.
12:00 AM: If the night is still young, seek out one of Buenos Aires’ hidden bars for a nightcap. Floreria Atlantico is a particularly intriguing choice. Enter through the unassuming flower shop on Calle Arroyo and ask the florist to grant you access to the bar, which is cleverly concealed behind a door in the middle of the shop. Once inside, explore their inventive cocktail menu, inspired by the colonies, towns, and indigenous heritage of Argentina. The Picada Finlandesa, a vodka-based drink with aquavit, cassava, and the Brazilian jabuticaba fruit, is a particularly intriguing option.
Day 2: Morning
8:30 AM: Start your day with an invigorating walk or run along the historic Avenida Alvear, continuing onto Avenida del Libertador, culminating at the Bosques de Palermo, Buenos Aires’ largest park. Along the way, you’ll pass notable landmarks such as the National Library, the Law Faculty of the Universidad de Buenos Aires, and Floralis Genérica, a giant metal flower sculpture.
For a more relaxed morning, enjoy the hotel gardens or find a peaceful spot in a green space like Plaza Francia. Bring a mate gourd and thermos to savor a traditional morning mate (a caffeinated South American beverage). After your mate, grab some breakfast to fuel the rest of your day.
11:00 AM: Explore the Centro Cultural Recoleta to discover the day’s offerings. This cultural center functions as both a concert venue and exhibition space. You can find art installations, breakdancing sessions, drawing rooms, and many other activities, all free of charge.
Day 2: Afternoon
1:30 PM: Take a cab to Salvaje, a bakery known for its sourdough bread, music, and owner. Order coffee and the bondiola sandwich, made with pulled pork, pickled onions, kale, and barbacoa sauce. Finish with an alfajor salvaje, which features dulce de leche and peanut butter. Afterwards, walk to the meeting point for a bike tour.
3:00 PM: Meet your Biking Buenos Aires tour guide at Esquina del Antigourmet to get a bike and helmet. The tour explores Palermo’s street art. Learn about the history of the city and country through street art. The tour ends at a gallery where you can learn more about the art scene and buy prints.
Day 2: Evening
6:00 PM: After the bike tour, explore Palermo Soho’s boutiques and find souvenirs. Then, have a 7:00 PM reservation at Don Julio, a high-rated steakhouse in South America. Enjoy grass-fed beef steaks, wine, and goat-cheese provoleta.
8:00 PM: Return to the hotel for a quick shower before heading to Centro Cultural Trivenchi, a circus school, to see a show. See aerial acts, acrobatics, and a clown presenter. After the show, head back to Palermo to dance at the boliches (nightclubs).
This The Ultimate Two-Day Itinerary for Buenos Aires is a suggested plan, and you can customize it to fit your interests. The Ultimate Two-Day Itinerary for Buenos Aires provides a glimpse into what this city has to offer.
