How to Spend A Weekend in Buenos Aires, Argentina?
Buenos Aires is a city that effortlessly blends European elegance with Latin American passion. My wife and I recently spent a weekend exploring Argentina’s vibrant capital, and it was an experience filled with incredible food, rich history, and stunning architecture. Here’s how we made the most of our short but unforgettable trip.
Where We Stayed
We booked our stay at Broadway Hotel in the city center, which gave us easy access to many of the city’s main attractions. While it was convenient, if we were to return, we would recommend staying in the Palermo or Recoleta neighborhoods. These areas are not only charming and walkable but also filled with great restaurants, bars, and cultural hotspots. We ended up spending most of our time in these neighborhoods.
Exploring Buenos Aires
We kicked off our trip by exploring some of Buenos Aires’ most iconic neighborhoods.
- La Boca & San Telmo – La Boca is famous for its colorful buildings and tango performances on the streets, while San Telmo is known for its bohemian atmosphere and antique markets. Both areas are a must-visit to experience the city’s artistic and historical roots.
- El Ateneo Grand Splendid – This former theater turned bookstore is easily the most beautiful library we’ve ever seen. The ornate balconies, grand stage, and rich history make it a dream destination for book lovers.
- Japanese Garden – A peaceful retreat in the city, though we were surprised to find that entry was not free as advertised online. The entrance fee was 2,500 ARS per person.
- Recoleta Cemetery – One of the most famous cemeteries in the world, home to the tomb of Eva Perón and other notable figures. Like the Japanese Garden, we were caught off guard by an entry fee of 8,500 ARS per person, despite previously reading that it was free.
Where We Ate: Steak & Beyond
Argentina is known for its steak, and we made sure to indulge in some of the best parrillas in Buenos Aires.
- La Cabrera – One of the most well-known steakhouses in Buenos Aires, serving high-quality cuts of beef with generous portions and a variety of delicious sides.
- La Carnicería – A modern take on the classic Argentine steakhouse, offering perfectly cooked meats with creative presentations.
We also had an unforgettable dining experience at Reliquia, a Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant. This was a highlight of our trip, offering a refined tasting menu that showcased Argentina’s culinary artistry. Some of the standout dishes we had included:
- Brioche bun with smoked butter
- Patagonian oysters
- Duck in a demi-glaze sauce
- Sage butter pasta with pine nuts
Breakfast & Cafés
One of our favorite spots was Oli Café, where we had some of the best pastries and coffee in Buenos Aires. We loved it so much that we went back for a second visit! The relaxed atmosphere and high-quality ingredients made it a perfect morning stop.
Wine Bars & Nightlife
Buenos Aires is home to an incredible wine scene, and we made sure to check out some cool spots. Vico Wine Bar stood out as a unique experience where you can sample a variety of high-quality Argentinean wines at affordable prices. The tasting system allows you to explore different regions and styles at your own pace, making it a great stop for wine lovers.
Final Thoughts
Buenos Aires is a city that captivates with its rich culture, incredible food, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re strolling through historic neighborhoods, indulging in world-class steak, or sipping Malbec at a local wine bar, every moment feels special. Our weekend was packed with unforgettable experiences, and we can’t wait to return for more!
