Buenos Aires pulls you in with its mix of European elegance and Latin American edge - where French-style palaces, Belle Époque apartment buildings, and wide boulevards meet smoky asado and the sound of tango in the streets.
Over two trips, we've explored the city through its food, design, music, and local rituals.
From seeing a heated rivalry football match to watching world-class tango in a velvet-lined cabaret, we list 23 unique things to do in Buenos Aires - all drawn from our favourite experiences in the city.
23 Fun Things to Do in Buenos Aires
1. Feel the rush of a rivalry football match
Argentinians live and breathe football. The packed stadiums, booming chants, and diehard fans make it one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Buenos Aires.
But as a tourist, it’s not as simple as buying a ticket online like you would in Europe or North America.
Tickets are usually reserved for locals or club members, so you’ll need to go through a reputable third party that takes care of everything - including getting you to and from the game.
We had seen some intense stories online about football crowds, but we never once felt unsafe.
We booked through LandingPadBA for a River Plate vs. Racing Club classico (rivalry game), and they were great. They sorted out the tickets, picked us up, and brought us right to our seats.
⭐ Read LandingPadBA's reviews.Just make sure to book early, especially if you’re aiming for a rivalry game - they sell out fast!
2. Feast like a local at an Argentinian asado
We were told more than once that asado (Argentinian BBQ) is like a religion - and we definitely got our fill.
Argentinians take their grilling seriously. This traditional barbecue is more than just a meal, it’s a full-day social event.
From steaks and sausages to pork and chicken, the grill starts sizzling in the early afternoon and doesn’t stop until late at night.
For a guaranteed, no-regrets steak in Buenos Aires, head to Don Julio, ranked the 10th best restaurant in the world in 2024. It’s a must when you’re in the city.
You may get lucky walking in at lunch, but dinner calls for a reservation.
The portions are big so if you’re going to lunch and having wine, don’t expect to do much sightseeing afterwards - you’ll likely be in a blissful food coma.
3. Treat yourself to afternoon tea at L’Orangerie
Recoleta’s Parisian-style architecture is one of the neighbourhood’s biggest draws, and a lovely way to take it all in is with afternoon tea at L'Orangerie.
Between the delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and specially-blended house tea, it felt like such a fun, indulgent pause in the day.
See our list of the 7 best things to do in Recoleta.
4. Dine at one of Latin America's Top 50 restaurants
Niño Gordo
Buenos Aires' food scene offers much more than just asado.
We had the chance to dine at these three standout spots from Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants list - and we can’t recommend them enough:
Aramburu
Tucked away in Recoleta, Aramburu offers an 18-course tasting menu that’s both inventive and approachable. Each dish showcases Argentine ingredients in unexpected ways, and the wine pairings are spot on.
In 2023, Aramburu earned two Michelin stars, making it the only restaurant in Argentina with that distinction.
Mishiguene
Mishiguene brings Argentine-Israeli cuisine to the forefront, offering a refreshing change from the typical steakhouse fare.
Its lively, celebratory atmosphere is perfect for groups - expect music, share plates, and a buzz of energy that fills the room. We crafted a delicious meal by combining a hearty main with several veggie sides.
It's also recognized by the Michelin Guide.
Niño Gordo
On our second trip to Buenos Aires, Niño Gordo ended up being our favourite meal.
The space feels part Tokyo night market, part surreal art installation, with red lanterns casting a red glow, and a hip-hop soundtrack that makes it all feel like a party.
We loved the katsu sando, bao with strip loin, and beef tataki with sticky rice. Definitely reserve ahead and book a table in the dining room for the full experience.
Browse more restaurants on the Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants list.
5. Watch tango masters perform at the sultry Rojo show
Buenos Aires is the heart of tango - you’ll find it everywhere, from street corners to late-night milongas.
If you’re not quite ready to jump into a dance class or join the locals on the floor, watch the pros in action at the Rojo Tango show.
It’s held inside the stunning Faena Hotel, a former grain warehouse transformed into a Belle Époque–inspired luxury hotel.The show pairs a three-course dinner with incredible performances by world-class dancers, backed by a live ensemble.
It was one of the highlights of our trip and worth the splurge.
The setting is intimate and dramatic - think red velvet, low lighting, and a touch of old-school glamour.
✔️ Top Tip: Book far in advance and request a table with a clear view of the stage so you don’t miss a moment. The table you get can make a big difference.
💃🏻 You can easily book your Rojo Tango show through Viator or GetYourGuide. They have free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.6. Learn tango, then test your moves at a local milonga
We started with a one-hour lesson, then headed straight to a milonga.
After a glass of wine (or two), we got a crash course on how to navigate the fascinating milonga environment. That little bit of liquid courage helped ease us into the experience!
7. Shop for handmade tango shoes at Comme Il Faut
If you’re planning a tango night, make time for a visit to Comme Il Faut.
The charming little shop tucked away in Recoleta is known for its extravagant selection of handmade Argentine tango shoes.
They're made for dancing, though they would look just as good at dinner.
Their one-on-one service is amazing, and with so many unique styles, it’s hard to walk out empty-handed.
8. Explore the San Telmo Sunday market
San Telmo is Buenos Aires' oldest neighbourhood and the capital of tango. The cobblestoned streets are filled with milongas, bars, antique shops and handmade crafts.
Don't miss the Sunday Market, where you'll see loads of vendor stalls and street performers.
We went back on a Monday, and to our surprise, the streets were dead and the umbrellas were even closed!
9. Enjoy a relaxed brunch in Palermo’s bohemian streets
Palermo is a laidback, bohemian neighbourhood that’s fun to explore, with leafy streets, independent shops, and plenty of great food.
For a healthy, veggie-forward lunch, try Artemisia. Or head to Salvaje Bakery, tucked inside a former garage, for excellent coffee, sourdough breads and creative pastries.
And for a buzzy local favourite, head to Oli Cafe. Even packed on weekdays, the bright, contemporary bistro brings fresh, international flavours to the city's cafe scene. Their salads are excellent - we loved the chicken caesar and the all-in salad with avocado.
All three spots are a bit off the beaten path and perfect for a neighbourhood brunch.
See our list of fun things to do in Palermo.
10. Drink cocktails at Tres Monos, one of the world's best bars
Tres Monos cocktail bar
Tres Monos is a graffiti-splashed cocktail bar with a street-art, punk edge and a purple-and-pink neon glow.
Ranked #7 among the World’s 50 Best Bars, it’s playful and unpretentious, with inventive drinks, friendly bartenders, and a fun rock-leaning playlist. We loved their cheeky cocktail names, like the Chimi Hedrix, Hard Korn and Britney Spritz.
It’s a refreshing change from the polished Art Deco speakeasy styles you find in so many cities.
My favourite cocktail was their Bananita Mona - a silky mix of banana, vanilla, and chocolate.
Pair your cocktail with their mini sausages that come with old-school mustard and BBQ sauce. It was the perfect salty bite!
See more nighttime spots in our list of the best things to do at night in Buenos Aires.
11. Relax poolside in the garden at Home Hotel
12. Take home timeless leather pieces
Shopping for handmade leather pieces in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is one of the best places in the world to buy leather. Argentina is famous for its cattle, so the leather here is of exceptional quality and surprisingly affordable compared to Europe or North America.
From shoes and handbags to coats and belts, the craftsmanship is impeccable, and the designs range from timeless to contemporary. These were our favourite leather boutiques:
Teran: for men's shoes with a contemporary edge
Teran's sleek designs are handcrafted with premium Argentine leather. Ari picked up a pair of formal black dress shoes and a large duffel here.
Calzados Correa: for traditional handcrafted men's shoes
Calzados Correa has been handcrafting men's shoes in Buenos Aires for decades. Their shop has a classic, old-world feel. Ari got a pair of semi-formal lace-ups.
Nimes: for sustainably made leather jackets and handbags
For contemporary leather pieces, Nimes is a local favourite - chic yet practical enough for everyday wear.
They use a natural vegetable tanning process without chemicals. I bought a leather coat here that I’m in love with!
Rossi & Caruso: for heritage luxury
Rossi & Caruso is a Buenos Aires institution dating back to 1868. Their beautifully designed coats, handbags, and shoes are refined but durable. Ari bought a leather puff jacket here.
Best for stylish, leather accessories: Tienda Patron
This boutique brings together pieces from different Argentine designers, with everything from bags to finely crafted jewellery.
I picked up a chic cowhide shoulder bag. If you're looking for gifts to buy, this is the spot to do it.
13. Dance late at La Catedral, a bohemian tango hall with a Berlin-esque edge
La Catedral
Practice tango at La Catedral Club, a one-of-a-kind milonga set inside a former milk factory.
The soaring ceilings, colourful murals, and mismatched furniture give it a gritty charm that feels more like a Berlin nightclub than a traditional tango hall.
What surprised us the most was that it attracts a younger, eclectic crowd, and doesn’t really get going until after 2 am!
From the outside, you’d never guess what’s inside. It feels like one of the city’s coolest secrets - a place to practice tango without the pressure and formality of the traditional milongas.
14. Explore Chacarita and Colegiales' burgeoning culinary scene
Anchoita Panaderia | Anafe
We were tipped off by a local that Chacarita and Colegiales have become the city’s most exciting new food districts.
Young chefs are opening creative restaurants, bakeries, and wine bars here, away from the high rents and hype of Palermo.
Two standout eateries worth checking out:
Anchoíta Panadería
At Anchoíta Panadería, we had the best pastry of our trip - the lominado con asadito, gouda y Dijon. Buttery, flaky, and layered with smoky meat and mustard, it was so good we would go back just for that.
Anafe
Anafe was our favourite place we dined for lunch - we chose it because we were craving something fresh and vegetable-forward, and it ended up being one of the most flavourful meals of our trip. We can see why it has a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation.
Anafe had a funky, Tuxedo Mask 90s-energy, with white tablecloths, a single red rose on each table, and chrome chairs set against unfinished concrete floors and alt-electronic music.
15. Listen to vinyl on a state-of-the-art sound system at Artlab
Artlab is Buenos Aires’ first space dedicated to digital culture, blending art, music, and technology inside a converted warehouse.
The sound here is incredible, with a quadraphonic HiFi room and Altec Lansing speakers that make vinyl sets feel alive.
The crowd was a cool mix of all ages, each with their own distinct style.
On weekends, they typically start with album-listening sessions before DJs take over later in the night.
I was in heaven hearing 90s house legends like Larry Heard and Rick Wade on vinyl, played through their top-of-the-line sound system.
See what events are on.
16. Try a milanesa sandwich and sorrentinos at a classic bodegone
Over 60% of Argentinians have Italian roots, and you see that influence everywhere, from pizza and pasta to local comfort dishes like milanesa and sorrentinos.
At Los Dos Hermanos, a bodegone in the outskirts of Palermo, you’ll find both done right.
This place is as local as it gets, with red tablecloths, a grill and homemade Argentine specialties in generous portions. It was one of our best meals in the city.
The milanesa sandwich is a classic: a thin, breaded cutlet (with beef or veal) layered with ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato, all tucked into crusty bread that barely contains it.
The sorrentinos are a unique Argentine twist on ravioli, larger and round, usually stuffed with ham and cheese, and served with a rich tomato sauce and grated cheese.
17. Listen to traditional live music at El Boliche de Roberto
El Boliche de Roberto has been around since 1893, and stepping inside feels like time hasn’t moved much since.
Local musicians take turns playing traditional songs in an open-mic style, and the crowd has that undone bohemian look. It's a true local spot.
This tiny Almagro bar gets packed, so go early if you want a seat.
18. Unwind in luxury at Palacio Duhau’s spa
Our private spa suite at Palacio Duhau
Even if you’re not staying here, you can still experience its world-class spa, Ahim Wellness & Spa.
We booked the Afflora Ritual, which came with a private spa suite complete with a jacuzzi and a 75-minute aromatherapy massage. It was seriously one of the best massages I’ve ever had.
The whole experience felt seamless and relaxing - we simply booked through WhatsApp and showed up ready to unwind.
19. Hunt for vintage treasures at Mercado de las Pulgas
Located in Colegiales, Mercado de las Pulgas is Buenos Aires’ quirky flea market, filled with antiques, art, and vintage finds.
The market first opened in the 1980s as a base for the city's antique dealers.
We picked up a few small artworks and enjoyed browsing the glassware and furniture. Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun to wander the aisles and see the mix of styles.
20. Join the late-night burger craze in Buenos Aires
What happens when you combine American fast food with Argentina's love for top-quality beef? The best late-night burgers ever!
We couldn’t believe how many burger bars there were in Buenos Aires. It felt like one after another as we walked through Palermo at night.
The city has fully embraced the burger craze over the past decade, and it’s become a staple of the late-night food scene.
Our favourite spot is Pérez H, where you can get your burger dripping with cheese sauce that takes it over the top. I prefer mine without the cheese sauce, but Ari loves it.
Their burgers kind of remind me of a gourmet version of Wendy's, in the best way possible.
21. Splurge on the ultimate steak knives at Casafilo
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, Casafilo makes some of the best steak knives in Buenos Aires.
They’re the company that Don Julio (the world’s top steakhouse) commissioned to create their custom knives.
Each one is beautifully made, with handles in wood, bone, or horn. We picked up a set of steak knives (mixing and matching the handles) and even a carving set for turkey back home.
22. Drink mate like a local
Mate (pronounced Mah-teh) isn’t just a drink in Argentina, it’s a lifestyle.
This caffeine-rich herbal tea is sipped through a metal straw (bombilla) from a hollowed-out gourd, and it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly.
You keep refilling your cup with hot water from a thermos, often sharing it with others. It’s like the opposite of an espresso shot.
Our first taste was a bit intense - the bitter flavour takes some getting used to - but after a few days, we started to enjoy the ritual. The caffeine isn't as jolting as coffee.
23. Sip sunset cocktails over Recoleta at the Alvear Rooftop Bar
Alvear rooftop bar for sunset drinks
Grab a cocktail and take in the sunset views over Recoleta’s Parisian-style streets. It’s great for people-watching, and the drinks are just as polished as the setting.
Book your table at Alvear Roof Bar.
We hope you enjoyed these unique things to do in Buenos Aires!
🎥 See what it was like in our Argentina vlog and don't miss our 1 week Argentina Itinerary.
Get started on booking your trip to Argentina
- 🛏️ Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
- 🤠 Book your tour: browse local highly-rated tours through Viator or GetYourGuide.
- 🛫 Book your flight: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline however).
Don't forget about travel insurance
👩⚕️ For affordable travel insurance: go with SafetyWing - it's budget-friendly and you can even buy it while abroad, but note the max medical coverage is $250,000 USD. 🏥 For comprehensive travel insurance: go with World Nomads - it's more expensive, but the max emergency medical coverage is $5-10 million, depending on the plan.Save and pin these unique things to do in Buenos Aires for later:
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our list of Unique Cultural Experiences to Inspire Your Next Trip.