Choose from 191 Fun Things to Do in Argentina
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Trapiche Winery
Unlike some of the smaller wineries in the Mendoza area, Trapiche is very well known in the international wine scene, and in fact, the winery traces its history to 1883, and began sending wines to international competitions in Paris as early as 1920. Since the 1970s, Trapiche has been exporting its wines to the international market and has won the Argentine Wine Producer of the Year award twice. Their wines are imported by businesses in 40 countries.
But that doesn’t mean that they have sacrificed quality, and some of their best-scoring wines are a line of single vineyard Malbec, which is made from grapes from high altitude near the Mendoza River valley. Other wines they produce include Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Torrontés, Rosé, Viognier and a Pinot Grigio. Visits to the winery include a multimedia presentation, walks through the cellars and tastings.
Practical Info
Some of the land managed by Trapiche is used for olive trees and vineyards raised biodynamically, which is a system of practices that use traditional calendars based on the phases of the moon and solstices, as well as organic plant and animal products used to enrich the soil.
Address: Trapiche, Argentina
From $ 22
Siete Lagos
The road of the seven lakes (Siete Lagos) is a spectacular 108 km (about 65-mile) drive in Argentina’s lake-dotted Patagonian lakes region. Route 234 runs from Villa La Angostura up to San Martín de Los Andes, not far from the undisputed capital and largest city of the region, Bariloche.
The seven lakes drive passes looming mountains, majestic lakes, waterfalls, turn-offs with emerald lagoons, beech forests, and even condor nesting areas. The seven lakes, going from Villa Lo Angostura, on the north shore of branched Lake Nahuel Huapi (Bariloche is on the south side) are the following: Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Correntoso, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico and Lácar. Lago Escondido (which means hidden lake) is not technically on the route, but you can take a peek at it between Villarino and Correntoso all the same.
On this drive, you’ll also pass the Argentine national parks of Nahuel Huapi and Lanín, both of which are worth a visit. The best views are in autumn (in April and May) with the beech forests turning red and yellow.
The seven lakes drive passes looming mountains, majestic lakes, waterfalls, turn-offs with emerald lagoons, beech forests, and even condor nesting areas. The seven lakes, going from Villa Lo Angostura, on the north shore of branched Lake Nahuel Huapi (Bariloche is on the south side) are the following: Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Correntoso, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico and Lácar. Lago Escondido (which means hidden lake) is not technically on the route, but you can take a peek at it between Villarino and Correntoso all the same.
On this drive, you’ll also pass the Argentine national parks of Nahuel Huapi and Lanín, both of which are worth a visit. The best views are in autumn (in April and May) with the beech forests turning red and yellow.
Practical Info:
The closest airport to Villa Angostura is an hour and fifteen minutes away, in Bariloche. You can easily rent a car and do the seven lakes drive yourself. The road is technically transitable all year round, but can be closed in heavy snows in the winter, which is from June to August. Do the drive in a single day if you’re short on time, or take two or three days to do the circuit at a relaxed pace. You can also take a day tour, which takes about five hours, and can arrange to be dropped off for the night and picked up the next day at the same spot. Lodging en route ranges from free camping inns to hotels, and is available in several locations.
Address: Route 234, Bariloche, Argentina
From $ 95
Tigre Art Museum (Museo de Arte Tigre)
Housed in an ornate building on the banks of the Luján River in Tigre, the Tigre Art Museum (Museo de Arte Tigre) is known for its stunning architecture and impressive collection of Argentine paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum was declared a National Historic Monument in 1979.
The Basics
Most visitors to Tigre come on a half- or full-day trip from Buenos Aires, and the Tigre Art Museum is a popular stop on sightseeing tours. Visitors can explore the museum independently or join one of the regular guided tours.
Highlights include works from Juan Carlos Castagnino, Raúl Soldi, Cesáreo Bernaldo de Quirós, and Benito Quinquela Martín, as well as works by less-known local artists depicting life along the river delta. The riverfront museum can also be seen from water and boat cruises around the Tigre Delta.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an entrance fee to visit the museum, and guided tours are available.
- Exhibition information and tours are available in Spanish only.
- Most areas of the museum and grounds are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The museum is located at the northern end of Victoria Avenue in Tigre, along the banks of the Luján River. Trains from Buenos Aires arrive at Tigre station, and it’s a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the museum from there.
When to Get There
The museum is open all day, Wednesday to Friday, as well as weekend afternoons. The museum is less crowded during weekends.
Architecture of the Tigre Art Museum
The museum was originally built in 1912 by French architects Dubois and Pater as the Tiger Club, a social club for the Buenos Aires elite. A fine example of French neoclassical architecture from the belle epoch, the building is adorned with stained glass, marble staircases, gilt-inlaid columns, red oak floors, and bronze chandeliers. The surrounding park and sculpture garden provide an idyllic setting.
Address: Argentina
Admission: Varies
From $ 34
Train to the Clouds
One of the world’s greatest train rides, the Train to the Clouds (Tren a las Nubes), takes visitors on a scenic 269-mile (434-kilometer) journey, ascending 13,842 feet (4,220 meters), passing through 21 tunnels and crossing over 29 bridges and 13 viaducts. The climax of the trip comes as the train crosses La Polvorilla viaduct, which pans a massive desert canyon.
Departing from the city of Salta, the train makes its way through the Cordillera de los Andes, passes through the Valle de Lerma and Quebrada del Toro and finishes in La Puna. Bilingual guides in each car offer insight into the surrounding topography and help with any altitude
sickness.
Along the way, the train makes a stop at the small town of San Antonio de los Cobres, where you can get out, stretch your legs and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs from the indigenous locals.
Practical Info
The round-trip journey on the Train to the Clouds takes 15 hours and departs early, so be prepared for a very long day.
Address: Balcarce 1105, Salta, Argentina
Hours: Departs every Thursday and Saturday from April to November
Admission: Varies
From $ 69
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
The white bell tower and baroque pediment of the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar sits at the heart of the affluent residential enclave of Recoleta.
The baroque interior features a golden statue of the Madonna, ornate altars, lovely cloisters and a small museum of religious artifacts.
The basilica overlooks the Recoleta Cemetery, one of Buenos Aires' more unusual attractions. Follow the crowds to the grave of Eva Peron (Evita).
On weekends, Plaza Francia in front of the basilica comes alive with a large arts and crafts fair.
Practical Info
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is in Recoleta, overlooking Plaza Francia and next door to the Recoleta Cemetery.
The nearest stations are Retiro and Callao, several blocks away.
Address: Junin 1904, Plaza Francia, Buenos Aires CP 1113, Argentina
Hours: Historical Cloisters open daily 10:30am - 6:15pm. Masses held every day
Admission: Free
From $ 35
Wanda Mines
The Wanda Mines, home to some of the best agate, amethyst, quartz and topaz found in Argentina, make for a fascinating visit in the north of Argentina. Located less than 40 miles (60 km) from Puerto Iguazu in the rain forest along the Paraná River, this open pit mine is a delight for the eyes. Wanda, the town where the mines are located, was founded mainly by Polish settlers, and in fact, it was named after a Polish princess who had a fondness for gemstones.
The family-owned mine, where minerals are found near the surface, is especially interesting to enthusiasts of gemstones and collectors. Visitors to the mines learn about the formation of the gemstones, when lava coming from the core of the earth cooled and the trapped gas bubbles formed into crystals with amethysts, agates, topazes and quartz.
Mining companies, which have been operating since the 1950s, have guided tours to show tourists the variety of gemstones found in the area, the different parts of the mines, as well as workshops and showrooms where cut and polished stones are on display.
Practical Info
The Wanda Mines are located on National Route 12 in the Misiones Province, 40 miles (62 kilometers) from Puerto Iguazu.
Address: Ruta Nacional 12, Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
From $ 36
San Ignacio Mini
Iguazu Falls aren't northern Argentina's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. History buffs may be tempted away from the falls by the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis, a cluster of well-preserved ruins of reducciones, or settlements, built here by the Catholic order in the 1600s. There are four of these beautiful walled cities to explore: Sao Miguel das Missoes, in Brazil, and Argentina's Nuestra Señora de Loreto, Santa Maria Mayor, and San Ignacio Mini, the finest of them all.
San Ignacio Mini was originally founded in 1611, and moved to the current location in 1696. Hewn from beautifully carved red sandstone, it was designed to both protect and convert indigenous Guaranis, primarily children, to Catholicism. The remains of a magnificent church, as well as sleeping and living quarters, can all be explored on a guided tour.
After the Spanish Empire evicted the Jesuits in 1767, the recciones were systematically destroyed and forgotten. The ruins, rediscovered in 1897, have been partially restored. A nightly light show spectacular tells the story of Guarani life inside these crumbling walls.
San Ignacio Mini was originally founded in 1611, and moved to the current location in 1696. Hewn from beautifully carved red sandstone, it was designed to both protect and convert indigenous Guaranis, primarily children, to Catholicism. The remains of a magnificent church, as well as sleeping and living quarters, can all be explored on a guided tour.
After the Spanish Empire evicted the Jesuits in 1767, the recciones were systematically destroyed and forgotten. The ruins, rediscovered in 1897, have been partially restored. A nightly light show spectacular tells the story of Guarani life inside these crumbling walls.
Practical Info
The ruins are located about five hours from Puerto Iguazu by bus, not ideal for a day trip. Private tours in faster vans are a better option, and are often combined with the amethyst fields at Wanda Mine. If you aren't on a guided tour, note that these arrive en masse from Iguazu in the early afternoon.
Address: Calle Alberdi, San Ignacio, Argentina
Hours: Open daily 7am - 9:30pm
Admission: US$12
From $ 36
Tigre
With its scenic waterways, riverside fun fair, and lively handicrafts market, the charming provincial town of Tigre offers a welcome change of pace from nearby Buenos Aires. Located on the Tigre Delta at the meeting point of the Paraná River and the Río de la Plata estuary, it’s a popular choice for a day trip from the capital.
The Basics
The highlight of a visit to Tigre is a boat cruise around the Tigre Delta, a scenic expanse of marshlands dotted with islands, traditional stilt houses, and floating markets. The town itself is easy to explore on a walking tour, taking in the harborside market and colonial architecture, or visiting the Parque de la Costa theme park.
Day tours from Buenos Aires often combine a visit to Tigre with the nearby colonial town of San Isidro. For the best value, combine a half-day tour of Tigre with a Buenos Aires city tour, an evening tango show, or a sightseeing cruise along the Rio de la Plata.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The town has a few notable museums, including the Tigre Art Museum and the Mate Museum, devoted to Argentina’s famous tea.
- Water sports like kayaking and wakeboarding are enjoyed along the river during the summer months.
- There are a number of cafés and restaurants located around the marketplace.
How to Get to There
The Argentine town of Tigre lies in the Tigre Delta, about 20 miles (50 kilometers) north of Buenos Aires. It is connected to the capital by regular trains (45 minutes from Buenos Aires’ central station) or by boat from the Puerto Madero docks (summer only).
When to Get There
Weekends can get busy in Tigre, especially during the summer months, but the crowds also add to the atmosphere, particularly at the daily market. Boat cruises run year-round, but activities like kayaking are only available during the summer and the Parque de la Costa theme park is only open on weekends. Sunset cruises around the Delta make for stunning photos.
Cruising the Tigre Delta
The Tigre Delta is one of the world’s largest natural deltas, stretching over 5,400 square miles (14,000 square kilometers), and takes its name from the wild tigers and jaguars that once roamed the area. The islands, forests, and villages of the delta are reachable only by boat, and the canal banks are lined with stilted houses, yacht clubs, and luxury villas, including the house of former Argentina president Sarmiento.
Address: Tigre, Argentina
From $ 23
San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is a village just outside of Salta, Argentina. It is home to some of the region's best hiking spots and beautiful scenery. One exceptional place to hike is el Duende de la Quebrada. Hiking up this mountain is sure to take some effort, but once you're at the top, you'll enjoy the gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape while being almost level with the clouds. San Lorenzo also offers lots of opportunities for horseback riding, renting an ATV or bicycle, or whitewater rafting to enjoy being out in nature.
The village is also known for its unusual subtropical micro climate. This used to be a summer retreat for wealthy families, but many people now come here to enjoy a quick escape from the city. There are also shops selling good handicrafts here.
Practical Info
San Lorenzo is about 7 miles from Salta and can be reached by using bus number 7. Take it to the end of the line.
Address: San Lorenzo, Argentina
From $ 20
Santa Susana Ranch
Located in the pampas of Buenos Aires Province outside the capital city, Estancia Santa Susana (Santa Susana Ranch) is one of the region’s most popular destinations for experiences a taste of traditional gaucho culture. Founded at the end of the last century by an Argentine citizen of Irish decent, the ranch encompasses 2,965 acres (1,200 hectares) of land, originally used for agricultural activities, including cattle ranching.
Visitors to Santa Susana Ranch are greeted with two Argentine specialties, piping hot empanadas and wine. After a tour of the grounds by carriage or on horseback, including a stop at the Spanish-colonial house which now contains a museum, guests are treated to a parrillada, an Argentine-style barbecue that remains a popular weekend tradition even among modern Porteños. Tango dancers and folk singers entertain during the meat-centric lunch.
In the afternoon, visitors to the ranch sit back and watch as a group of gauchos show off their impressive horseback skills.
Practical Info
Santa Susana Ranch is located 48 miles (78 kilometers) from the capital, so plan to spend the entire day enjoying the activities at the ranch.
Address: Los Alamos S/n, Los Cardales, Argentina
From $ 130
The Obelisk
Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmark, the Obelisk, or El Obelisco, towers over the intersection of the city’s two main thoroughfares, Corrientes Avenue and the ‘widest avenue in the world’ -9 de Julio. Erected in 1936 to commemorate the nation’s 400th anniversary, the pencil-like column marks the spot where the nation’s flag was first flown – a striking 220-foot tall monument that has become a memorable feature on the city skyline. Fashioned from 1,360 square meters of Cordoba white stone, the Obelisk was designed by Tucaman architect Alberto Prebisch and features poignant inscriptions on each of its 4 faces, referencing key moments in the city’s history.
Not only an important navigational landmark, the Obelisk also finds itself at the center of city celebrations and rallies, a common backdrop for sporting celebrations, political demonstrations, candlelit vigils and religious congregations. The ever-faithful landmark has even been known to make its own statement - famously donning a giant condom during World AIDS Awareness Day and draped in Argentine and German flags to mark the 150th anniversary of the countries’ bilateral relations.
Unfortunately, the only thing visitors can’t enjoy is the view from the top. The Obelisk features four windows at its pinnacle accessible by 206 interior steps, but sadly the stairwell has never been opened to the public.
Not only an important navigational landmark, the Obelisk also finds itself at the center of city celebrations and rallies, a common backdrop for sporting celebrations, political demonstrations, candlelit vigils and religious congregations. The ever-faithful landmark has even been known to make its own statement - famously donning a giant condom during World AIDS Awareness Day and draped in Argentine and German flags to mark the 150th anniversary of the countries’ bilateral relations.
Unfortunately, the only thing visitors can’t enjoy is the view from the top. The Obelisk features four windows at its pinnacle accessible by 206 interior steps, but sadly the stairwell has never been opened to the public.
Address: Avenida Corrientes 1066, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From $ 15
Tierra del Fuego National Park
When travelers make their way to the far southern reaches of Argentina, chances are they’re heading into Tierra del Fuego National Park. The country’s only coastal national park protects the Andean-Patagonian forest, a land of peat bogs, beech forests, glistening lakes, remote beaches, and snow-capped peaks ideal for outdoor adventures.
The Basics
Sitting close to Ushuaia, the park is a popular destination for a day trip. A typical guided tour of the park might include a ride on the End of the World train, guided hike through the forest, canoe trip on Lapataia Bay, or a 4WD tour of the park’s natural wonders. Multi-day itineraries in the area often include Tierra del Fuego, and a Beagle Channel sightseeing cruise and time to explore the town of Ushuaia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tierra del Fuego is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and photographers.
- Dress in warm layers, as the park can be chilly, even during the South American summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to hike.
- Guided tours from Ushuaia to the national park can last a few to several hours, depending on activities selected.
How to Get There
Most visitors get to the park from the Argentine side, 7 miles (11 kilometers) west of Ushuaia on National Route 3. Buses depart regularly to the park, and most guided tours include round-trip transportation from hotels in Ushuaia.
When to Get There
The Patagonian summer (December to February) brings with it the best weather for exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park, but also the biggest crowds. This is also the best season to observe local wildlife.
Tierra del Fuego Hiking Trails
Despite what the dramatic scenery would have you believe, this national park offers trails suitable for hikers of just about every ability level. There’s a short path from the park entrance to the peat-colored Black Lagoon, and another easy trail, called the Island, that follows the Lapataia and Ovando rivers. For the best views of Lapataia Bay, hike to Lookout Point.
Address: Argentina
Admission: Varies
From $ 32
Uco Valley
Known as the Napa Valley of Argentina, Mendoza is Latin America’s largest wine-making region with more than 800 wineries. Uco Valley in particular is known for its malbecs, cabernet sauvignons, syrahs and ruby red tempranillos, which benefit from 250 sunny days a year, very little rain, fertile soil and a cool micro-climate where the average temperature is 57 degrees F.
An hour’s drive southwest of the city of Mendoza, Uco Valley is a popular destination for travelers on the Argentina Wine Route. As well as producing the highest altitude (900-1,200 meters) wines in the province, the valley is renowned for its beauty. Covering 45 miles by 15 miles on the eastern slopes of the Andes, Uco Valley follows the northern course of the Tunuyan river as it flows down from the surrounding snow-capped peaks. As you visit the valley’s vineyards, looks out for almond trees and orchards too.
Practical Info
If you’d like to stay overnight, the main town in Uco Valley is Tunuyan. To get to the valley, you can either drive from the city of Mendoza (one hour), or alternatively, many Argentina Wine Route tours include stops at Uco Valley’s renowned vineyards.
Address: Mendoza, Argentina
From $ 95
Temaiken Biopark
Temaiken Biopark, located just outside Buenos Aires, is more of a wild animal park than a traditional zoo. More than 7,400 animals representing 300 different species of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish live in large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. Barriers between the animals and human observers are also natural — no bars or cages obstructing the view. About 60 percent of the species living in the park are native, and many of them are endangered.
The biopark also features an aquarium, divided into three environments representing three different Argentine ecosystems: coastal habitat, freshwater rivers and the ocean. At the farm, visitors learn more about the agricultural species of the Argentine countryside through interactive activities like milking cows, feeding poultry or brushing down a goat. Guests of the park also enjoy a 360-degree movie theater, the largest bird house in South America and several animal shows and interactions scheduled throughout the day.
Practical Info
Temaiken Biopark is located 30 minutes outside of Buenos Aires in the district of Belén de Escobar.
Address: Ruta 25 Km 1, B 1625 Belén de Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hours: Summer: Tue-Sun 10am-7pm, Winter Tue-Sun 10am-6pm, Closed Dec 24, 25 & 31 and Jan 1.
Admission: $148.50-$184.50, Children Under 3 Free
From $ 16
San Isidro Cathedral
Presiding over the historic town of San Isidro in the northeast region of Buenos Aires Province, the San Isidro Cathedral is the crown jewel of suburban Buenos Aires. It is a popular pilgrimage site for those taking the famous Train of the Coast (Tren de la Costa) along the Rio de la Plata.
The Basics
Day tours from Buenos Aires often include a visit to San Isidro en route to the nearby town of Tigre, where the highlight is a boat cruise along the Tigre Delta. For the best value, combine a half-day tour of San Isidro and Tigre with a Buenos Aires city tour, an evening tango show, or a sightseeing cruise along the Rio de la Plata.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The San Isidro Artisan Fair, which takes place on the square right outside San Isidro Cathedral, is a popular place to purchase traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
- The church is open to visitors and holds daily services. There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to There
The cathedral is located on Plaza de San Isidro, just across from the central train station. Regular trains run to San Isidro from Buenos Aires; the cathedral is about 40 minutes from Retiro Station.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open daily year-round. The liveliest time to visit is May 15, when the cathedral forms the centerpiece of the annual San Isidro Festival.
Architecture of San Isidro Cathedral
Built on the site of an early 18th-century chapel, the cathedral was designed in 1895 by French architects Dunant and Paquin in an elaborate neo-gothic style. The architectural masterpiece features three naves, decorated with a series of exquisite French stained-glass windows and images of St. Isidro. Highlights include the 226-foot (69-meter) clock tower, an 18th-century statue of Santa Maria de la Cabeza, and a relic of the body of Saint Isidro.
Address: Av. del Libertador 16200, San Isidro, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From $ 89
Walichu Caves
Despite its being toward the ends of the earth, Patagonia has been settled by humans for 15,000 years. Though scant remnants of this era remain, on a tour of the stunning Walichu Caves outside of El Calafate, it’s still possible to find primitive drawings emblazoned on walls of the caves. Believed to represent stories of creation and tales of life in these hills, the drawings sat here forgotten for centuries until Perito Moreno discovered the caves in 1877. Today, while some of the drawings have been defaced, and others are modern replicas, they still tell a tale of primitive peoples who wandered this rugged landscape, where hunting, foraging—and even art—were staples of daily life. Aside from the actual drawings themselves, the setting surrounding Walichu Caves is arguably just as impressive, where rock formations line the shores of crystalline Lake Argentino.
Practical Info
The Walichu caves are set 5 miles from the city of El Calafate. Most tours will bundle the caves with a tour of El Calafate, and since reaching the caves means hiking across some rocky, rugged terrain, be sure to wear closed-toed shoes for making the short stroll out to the caves.
Did You Know? In addition to the drawings, it’s common to find fossils and ancient arrowheads when making the walk to the caves.
Address: El Calafate, Argentina
From $ 51
San Salvador de Jujuy
San Salvador de Jujuy is the capital city of the Jujuy province in Argentina. The city is more culturally indigenous than any other city in Argentina. It is surrounded by mountains and located near the southern end of a gorge called Quebrada de Humahuaca. The city was founded in the late 1500s, and there is a mix of modern and colonial buildings. The city center has many modern hotels, restaurants and cafes, and there are many shops where you can buy local products.
The neighborhoods within the city have their own character which can be seen while wandering through the streets. A few of San Salvador de Jujuy's important sights include the Cathedral, the Cabildo (town hall building) and the French-Baroque hall of flags. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year to celebrate holidays and one in particular that is an annual remembrance of their part in the war of independence.
Practical Info
San Salvador de Jujuy is located approximately 58 miles north of Salta, Argentina. It has its own international airport, but it can also be reached by taking route 9 from Salta.
Address: San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina
From $ 49
San Telmo Market
Each Sunday morning, the historic San Telmo neighborhood of Buenos Aires plays host to the city’s most famous street fair, the San Telmo Market. Locally known as the Feria de San Telmo, the market brings hundreds of vendors to the streets surrounding Plaza Dorrego, most of them dealing in one-of-a-kind antiques. Leather goods, colorful glass soda siphons and antique knives are particularly popular items.
What started as a gathering of 30 or so antique vendors in 1970 when the fair was inaugurated has expanded to nearly 300. Tango dancers, buskers and other entertainers vie for attention of the thousands of shoppers that flood the neighborhood during the weekly event. Hungry shoppers can fuel up on fresh squeezed orange juice and choripan, a sandwich made with spicy chorizo sausage.
Practical Info
Start your market exploration at Plaza Dorrego, where most of the real antiques are located, before taking a stroll down Defensa Street.
Address: Defensa Street, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From $ 16
Tango Porteno
Seeing a tango show is a quintessential Buenos Aires experience. Tango Porteno, housed within a former MGM movie theater, stages one of the best tango shows in town. The art deco-style theater is the perfect place for a trip back to the 1940s, considered the golden age of tango in Argentina. The show mixes clips of old tango footage with a live orchestra and sensual dancers, all complemented by an artistic set worthy of a Broadway production.
Guests at Tango Porteno have the option to add dinner to the tango show experience. The dinner portion is served as a three course menu, with several options for appetizers, entrees and desserts.
Practical Info
Show up early to participate in a free tango lesson. Tango Porteno is located near Teatro Colon.
Address: Cerrito 570, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From $ 22
San Telmo
The central barrio of San Telmo is one of Buenos Aires’ tango haunts. Formerly an upmarket residential area, the area’s “old mansions and faded glory” vibe set the perfect scene for the artists and musicians who now call this enclave home. The streets here are picturesquely cobbled, and the fascinating little shops are well worth a browse.
The Basics
As one of Buenos Aires’ most colorful and quirky neighborhoods, San Telmo features on just about every sightseeing tour, along with La Boca, the Obelisk, La Bombonera soccer stadium, Plaza de Mayo, and Puerto Madero.
San Telmo is also one of the best places in town for dinner and a tango show. For something more casual, stop at one of the cafes surrounding Plaza Dorrego to take in the sights and sounds, including a possible impromptu tango performance right on the street.
Things to Know Before You Go
- San Telmo is a must-visit for tango lovers, shoppers, and all first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Remember to bring cash if you plan to shop at the antiques market.
- Dinner and tango show tours in San Telmo typically last about four hours and often include hotel pickup and drop-off.
How to Get There
San Telmo is six blocks south of Plaza de Mayo and a few streets north of La Boca. The closest metro stations are Independencia and San Juan, a few streets to the west near Avenue 9 de Julio.
When to Get There
If possible, try to visit San Telmo on a Sunday when the Plaza Dorrego antiques market is in full swing and tango buskers are performing for onlookers. The neighborhood has a completely different vibe after dark, so it’s a good idea to plan a couple of visits.
Attractions in San Telmo
While San Telmo is all about soaking up the atmosphere, there are a couple of noteworthy attractions in the neighborhood as well. History buffs shouldn’t miss the National History Museum (Museo Histórico Nacional) that tells the story of Argentina’s independence. The neighborhood is also home to an 18th-century convent, Santo Domingo convent (Convento de Santo Domingo), where Manuel Belgrano, a hero of the independence movement, is entombed.
Address: Plaza Dorrego, Buenos Aires 1064, Argentina
Admission: Free
From $ 15