Recoleta is Buenos Aires at its most refined - a neighbourhood of Parisian-style streets, grand hotels, and cultural gems that feel both historic and timeless.
We list 7 fun things to do in Recoleta, from afternoon tea in a Belle Époque setting to unwinding at a palace spa and sipping sunset cocktails overlooking the city.
7 Best Things to Do in Recoleta
1. Treat yourself to afternoon tea at L’Orangerie
Afternoon tea at L'Orangerie
The setting feels straight out of Belle Époque Paris, with towering windows, white tablecloths, and waiters in red jackets gliding between tables.
We lingered with friends over delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and their specially blended house tea. It was such a decadent way to slow down the afternoon.
2. Admire Recoleta’s architecture and visit El Ateneo Grand Splendid
One of our favourite ways to experience Recoleta is by strolling its tree-lined streets and admiring the Belle Époque mansions, Parisian façades, and ornate balconies that give the neighbourhood its timeless charm.
As you explore, be sure to step inside El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a former 1919 theatre transformed into one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.
The space still has its original red stage curtain, sweeping balconies, and a painted dome overhead, giving you the surreal feeling of browsing books inside an opera house.
Grab a coffee at the stage-turned-cafe and take a moment to sit back and admire the hall.
Browse highly-rated walking tours in Buenos Aires with a local guide.3. Dine at Argentina’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant, Aramburu
Tucked away on a quiet street in Recoleta, Aramburu completely wowed us.
The 18-course tasting menu felt both inventive and approachable, with each dish transforming familiar Argentine ingredients into something unexpected. The wine pairings were spot on and made the whole evening flow beautifully.
In 2023, Aramburu became the only restaurant in Argentina to earn two Michelin stars.
If you’re looking for a special night out in Recoleta, this is the ultimate place to experience Argentine cuisine at its highest level.
4. Unwind in luxury at Palacio Duhau’s spa
Our private spa suite at Palacio Duhau
You don’t need to be a guest to enjoy its world-class Ahim Wellness & Spa. We tried the Afflora Ritual, which included a private spa suite with a jacuzzi and a 75-minute aromatherapy massage - one of the best I’ve ever had.
Booking was easy (we arranged everything over WhatsApp), and from start to finish, the experience was seamless, indulgent, and deeply relaxing.
Treating yourself to this spa is one of the best ways to experience the neighbourhood’s luxurious side.
View the spa menu.
5. Shop for handmade tango shoes at Comme Il Faut
If you’re planning a tango night in Buenos Aires, make time for a stop at Comme Il Faut, a hidden gem tucked away in Recoleta.
This little boutique, founded and designed by tango dancer Alicia Muñiz, is famous for its dazzling selection of handmade Argentine tango shoes.
They are crafted for the dance floor but stylish enough to wear out to dinner.
What makes the experience special is the one-on-one service. They’ll bring out pairs to suit your size and style until you find the perfect fit.
6. Sip sunset cocktails at Alvear Roof Bar
Alvear rooftop bar for sunset drinks
The terrace felt effortlessly chic, with wicker chairs, black-and-white striped couches, marble-topped tables, and sweeping views over the neighbourhood’s Parisian-style streets.
We ordered cocktails and took our time as the sun set, watching the rooftops turn golden. It’s perfect for people-watching, and the drinks are as polished as the setting.
7. Shop timeless heritage leather at Rossi & Caruso
Founded in 1868, Rossi & Caruso is a Buenos Aires institution and one of the city’s most prestigious leather houses.
Their coats, handbags, and shoes are refined yet built to last. Ari picked up a leather puffer jacket that he just loves.
We hope you enjoyed these unique things to see in Recoleta!
Don't miss our 1 Week Argentina itinerary and our list of 23 unique things to do in Buenos Aires.
Also check out our list of 9 fun things to do in Palermo, Buenos Aires' bohemian neighbourhood.
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 fun things to do in Recoleta, Buenos Aires for later:
