Buenos Aires is one of those cities that gets under your skin—in the best way possible. I know this firsthand because I’ve visited multiple times, spending weeks in Buenos Aires each time, thanks to my Argentinian husband, who knows the city inside and out.
That’s why we co-wrote this post—to give you both an insider’s perspective and the must-see highlights.
With its mix of European elegance and Latin American soul, Buenos Aires is full of contrasts. One minute, you’re admiring grand architecture that feels straight out of Paris; the next, you’re savoring a juicy steak in a buzzing parrilla or strolling through the colorful streets of La Boca.
From the elegant avenues of Recoleta to the lively downtown, every neighborhood has its own personality and rhythm. Ideally, you’d have a few days (or weeks!) to take it all in. There are so many things to do in Buenos Aires!
But if you only have one day in Buenos Aires (maybe this is just a stop before a cruise?), don’t worry—I’ve put together the perfect itinerary, blending must-see spots with local favorites. Let’s make the most of your 24 hours in Buenos Aires!
If you want to make things easier on your day in Buenos Aires, you can join this Immersive Buenos Aires Day: Boca, San Telmo, Cemetery & More.
It’s the perfect tour for first-timers, especially those with limited time in the city, as it offers a great way to learn about the history and attractions. The major neighborhoods and landmarks are covered, and introduced by a professional guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
I went on this tour and loved it even if I already knew most places on the itinerary. You can then add the few attractions missing from this itinerary.
If joining a guided tour is not your thing, follow the steps below for an epic DIY walking tour of Buenos Aires. Try to start as early as possible to make the most of your day!
Walk Down Avenida Alvear
Avenida Alvear is one of the prettiest streets in the city, and it’s a testament to its European influence, which shaped the architecture of Buenos Aires.
Starting at the French Embassy, you can take a stroll down the avenue, lined with French-style buildings and jacaranda trees that, in the spring, bloom with the most stunning purple flowers.
It almost feels like you’re in Paris as you walk past the elegant facades. It’s the perfect way to start your day in Buenos Aires, gaining a glimpse of its atmosphere and heritage.
Have a Coffee at La Biela
If you’re like me, you probably need caffeine to properly start the day. And we want you to be on full alert as you explore this magnificent city, so I recommend making a coffee stop at La Biela.
Established in the 19th century, this famous cafe has been a meeting spot for intellectuals, writers, and artists for centuries. Nowadays, it serves great coffee with medialunas or pastries to locals and curious wanderers, setting off your trip to Argentina in the most delicious way.
It’s a great location to people-watch and get a feel of the lively Recoleta neighborhood as it comes to life. Once caffeinated, it’s time to move on to the next stop: the Recoleta Cemetery.
Explore the Recoleta Cemetery
Following suit with its Parisian influence, Buenos Aires is home to one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. Recoleta Cemetery is one of the most visited attractions in the city for its historical and architectural value; you could go as far as to say it feels like an open-air museum.
The narrow alleys within the cemetery will take you past astounding mausoleums, sculptures, and intricate tombs, mostly all of them dating back to the 1800s.
The most famous tomb, yet one of the most unassuming ones, is Evita Peron’s. There are many other celebrated writers, politicians, and Nobel Prize winners buried at the famous Recoleta Cemetery.
Make sure to appreciate the ornate designs and careful craftsmanship of the artworks, because they’re exquisite.
Take Colorful Photos at La Boca
La Boca is one of the most colorful, vibrant districts in Buenos Aires, and your next stop after Recoleta. You’ll need to take an Uber to get there.
La Boca was once a bustling port, but its quirkiness and picturesque architecture are its main attractions. The star of the district is Caminito, a charming street lined by colorful buildings, artisan stalls, and street art.
It’s very common to see tango dancers performing on the street, or some sort of live music or entertainment. You can try the traditional choripan dish at Parrilla a Leña Argento.
La Boca is also home to La Bombonera, the most famous soccer team’s stadium.
⚠️ When visiting, stick to the tourist areas and don’t go wandering from this touristy street. La Boca is a working class neighborhood and unfortunately, robberies are common.
Walk Around San Telmo & San Telmo Market
For safety reasons, you need to take an Uber to San Telmo, one of the oldest parts of town. It features enchanting cobblestone streets, historic buildings and an eclectic atmosphere that will make you fall in love with it.
San Telmo is a cultural hub, home to an interesting contemporary art museum, MACBA, and a few galleries. One of the city’s major landmarks is the San Telmo Market, which has been selling fresh produce to locals since the 19th century.
Nowadays, it also boasts souvenir and antique stalls, an incredible specialty coffee corner, and traditional food. Empanadas are always a good idea, and I recommend the ones from El Hornero for lunch.
After exploring it, make your way to Plaza Dorrego, a beautiful square in the heart of San Telmo, and take a photo with the statue of Mafalda, Argentina’s most beloved comic character.
Check Out the Buenos Aires Downtown Area
The downtown area of Buenos Aires is not far from San Telmo, so you could walk to Plaza de Mayo, the city’s most important square. You’ll find that some of the most important buildings, including the country’s oldest church and former city hall, surround it.
The most iconic landmark, however, is La Casa Rosada, Argentina’s pink presidential palace. There’s an interesting free museum behind it that history lovers will appreciate.
But don’t stay for too long, because the time is ticking! From Plaza Mayor it’s a short walk to Obelisco (the obelisk), the symbol of Buenos Aires found in Plaza de la Republica.
Make a stop at Teatro Colon, the city’s renowned opera theater, to admire its gorgeous architecture and design.
Visit the El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore
Don’t get put off by the word bookstore if you’re not a bookworm. El Ateneo Grand Splendid is much more than that!
This bookshop is located inside a former theater that retains most of its original features. From stylish balconies to intricate columns and ceilings, reading nooks, and a majestic staircase, El Ateneo looks just as magical as Beauty and the Beast’s library…or even better!
There’s a coffee shop on site where you can have a cafe con leche while people-watching, and the largest selection of book genres in the city. If you are a book lover, you’ll be over the moon (and probably won’t want to leave… speaking from personal experience!)
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a 20-minute walk from Teatro Colón, but you can also take an Uber to get there quicker.
Choose Between a Steak Dinner or The Argentine Experience
The hardest choice you’ll make on your one-day itinerary might just revolve around dinner. Argentinian cuisine is world-renowned for a reason, and there are many amazing dining options to choose from.
One of the most traditional experiences is having a steak dinner, and the best places to do so are Don Julio and La Carniceria.
➤ Don Julio recently received its first Michelin star, and it’s famed for its high-quality steaks and asado dishes, serving perfectly grilled cuts of Argentina’s finest beef alongside an extensive wine list that highlights the country’s best vintages.
It’s at number 10 in the list of the top 50 restaurants in the world! Reservations are required, usually weeks in advance, so plan your one day in Buenos Aires carefully!
➤ La Carniceria is another highly-rated steakhouse that offers a more contemporary take on asado, blending classic techniques with inventive dishes like smoked meats. Reservations are essential as well.
➤ A very unique alternative is the Argentine Experience: Immersive 6-Course Menu with Wine Tasting. This awesome culinary adventure takes you on a journey through the country’s most traditional dishes, and you’ll even get to make some!
You’ll learn how to make empanadas and alfajores with dulce de leche, and drink mate, the region’s most iconic beverage. Then, relish a 6-course dinner featuring all the typical dishes paired with traditional Argentinian wines. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
I personally loved the experience and it’s one of my favorite dinner experiences slash cooking classes in Buenos Aires, as it offers a taste of the city like no other!
Have Cocktails at a Top-Rated Bar
Buenos Aires prides itself on having some of the best bars in the world, so what better way to end your day in the city than with a cocktail in hand?
Depending on where you have dinner, you can go to Tres Monos or Cochinchina. They’re both in the Palermo Soho area, and among the top 50 bars in the world.
If you’d rather spice up the evening with a themed bar, Uptown or The Hole Bar are great options. Uptown is designed like a New York subway station, while The Hole Bar takes you into Alcatraz prison.
You could alternatively watch a live tango show, one of the richest travel experiences for a cultural immersion.
Make sure to take an Uber back to your accommodation at the end of the night. The central neighborhoods are safe during the day but it’s better not to walk home at night.
Travel Tips for Buenos Aires
- Take Uber instead of taxis. Sadly, taxis in Buenos Aires scam tourists on a regular basis, so you could end up taking very overpriced taxi rides.
- Public transportation is not recommended if you only have one day in Buenos Aires. Even with multiple days, it’s not very straightforward, especially if you don’t understand the language, and in terms of safety, I think taking an Uber is worth the extra expense.
- Be street-smart and follow the standard safety tips. Be aware of your surroundings, and try to keep your valuables, such as your camera and phone, out of sight when walking around the city. This is especially important in La Boca and Downtown Area, because pickpocketing and robbery are not uncommon.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Even if you take an Uber between districts, you’ll still be doing a lot of walking around. Buenos Aires is a big city!
- Don’t go walking around Buenos Aires at night, unless you’re sticking to the safe neighborhoods, like Palermo Soho, Palermo Hollywood, and Recoleta. Places like the downtown area, San Telmo, and La Boca should be avoided for a night out.
- If you can, consider staying for longer! Buenos Aires is one of the world’s most eclectic, fascinating cities and well worth the extra time. You won’t be able to see everything the city has to offer or visit nearby attractions (like Tigre or the Iguazu Falls) if you’re there for a single day.
