Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that is divided into 48 neighborhoods, or “barrios” as the locals call them. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, history, and attractions that make it worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, food, nightlife, or history, there’s something for everyone in different neighborhoods of Buenos Aires.
Palermo, the largest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It’s known for its beautiful parks, trendy bars and restaurants, and vibrant street art scene. You can spend a day exploring the Botanical Gardens, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden, or check out the local boutiques and galleries in Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood. At night, the neighborhood comes alive with music and dancing at the many clubs and bars.
San Telmo is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, and it’s full of history and charm. You can wander the cobblestone streets and admire the colonial architecture, or visit the famous San Telmo Market, where you can find everything from antiques to artisanal food. On Sundays, the neighborhood hosts a lively street fair, where you can watch tango dancers, listen to live music, and sample local cuisine. Whatever you’re looking for, Buenos Aires’ neighborhoods have something to offer.
Read here: Itinerary for Argentina: A Comprehensive Guide for Planning Your Trip
Belgrano: A Historic and Residential Neighborhood
Belgrano is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Buenos Aires. It is a historic and residential area, named after Manuel Belgrano, one of the most important figures in Argentine history. The neighborhood is divided into four sub-sections: Belgrano C, Belgrano R, Belgrano Chico, and Barrancas de Belgrano.
The Life and Legacy of Manuel Belgrano
Manuel Belgrano was born in Buenos Aires in 1770. He was a lawyer, journalist, and military leader who played a crucial role in the Argentine War of Independence. Belgrano is best known for creating the Argentine flag, which he first raised on February 27, 1812, during the Battle of Rosario. He is also remembered for his contributions to the development of education in Argentina.
Things to do in Belgrano
Belgrano R is a wealthy residential area with lovely ivy-strewn mansions. You can take a stroll down the tree-lined streets and admire the architecture. You can also visit the Museo Histórico Sarmiento, which is located in a beautiful 19th-century mansion. The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a politician, writer, and educator who was also the seventh President of Argentina.
Belgrano C is the commercial district of the neighborhood. It has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can find everything from high-end boutiques to small street vendors. You can also visit the Mercado de Belgrano, a traditional market where you can buy fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
If you are looking for hidden gems in Belgrano, you can visit Barrancas de Belgrano. It is a beautiful park with a French-style plaza, a rose garden, and a lake. You can take a walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Overall, Belgrano is a neighborhood with a rich history and a lot to offer. Whether you want to explore the architecture, go shopping, or enjoy the outdoors, you are sure to find something to do in this charming area.
Palermo: A Vibrant and Trendy District
If you’re looking for a neighborhood that captures the essence of Buenos Aires’ vibrant culture and creative spirit, look no further than Palermo. As the largest, greenest and wealthiest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, Palermo is a patchwork of city blocks that offers something for everyone. From art lovers and foodies to nature enthusiasts and nightlife seekers, Palermo has it all.
Palermo Hollywood
Palermo Hollywood is a sub-neighborhood located in the northern part of Palermo. It is known for its lively nightlife scene, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. If you’re a foodie, you’ll also find plenty to love in Palermo Hollywood. The neighborhood is home to many excellent restaurants that serve up a diverse range of cuisines.
Palermo Soho
Palermo Soho is another sub-neighborhood located in the heart of Palermo. It is known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and cultural centers. If you’re interested in the arts, you’ll find plenty of galleries and museums to explore in Palermo Soho. And if you’re a tango enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that the neighborhood is home to many tango schools and clubs.
Palermo Chico
Palermo Chico is a more upscale sub-neighborhood located in the northeastern part of Palermo. It is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, as well as its stunning architecture. If you’re interested in history and culture, you’ll find plenty to explore in Palermo Chico. The neighborhood is home to many museums and cultural centers, as well as some of the most beautiful buildings in Buenos Aires.
Palermo Viejo
Palermo Viejo, also known as Old Palermo, is the oldest sub-neighborhood in Palermo. It is known for its charming cobblestone streets and colorful houses. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Palermo Viejo is the place to be. The neighborhood is home to many quaint cafes and restaurants, as well as some of the best street art in Buenos Aires.
Things to do in Palermo
Whether you’re interested in art, food, music, or nightlife, Palermo has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the top things to do in Palermo:
- Visit the Botanical Gardens and explore the many different plant species on display.
- Check out the street art in Palermo Viejo and take some photos of the colorful murals.
- Visit the MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires) and explore the many different exhibitions on display.
- Go shopping in Palermo Soho and browse the many trendy boutiques and shops.
- Have a drink at one of the many bars or clubs in Palermo Hollywood and experience the vibrant nightlife scene.
Recoleta
If you want to experience the most upscale neighborhood in Buenos Aires, Recoleta is the place to be. Its architecture, aristocratic character, and splendid gardens and squares make it stand out from the rest of the city. Recoleta is a traditional upper-class and conservative neighborhood with some of the priciest real estate in the city.
Recoleta Cemetery: A Resting Place of Legends
One of the most famous attractions in Recoleta is the Recoleta Cemetery. The cemetery is the final resting place of many of Argentina’s most prominent figures, including Eva Perón, the former First Lady of Argentina. The cemetery is known for its ornate tombs and mausoleums, which are designed in a variety of architectural styles.
Exploring the Art and Architecture of Recoleta
Recoleta is also home to some of the most impressive art and architecture in Buenos Aires. Avenida Alvear is one of the most beautiful streets in the city, featuring Paris-style townhouses and lavish former palaces. The National Museum of Fine Arts, located in Recoleta, is one of the most important art museums in Latin America, featuring works by notable artists such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
Avenida de Mayo
Things to do in Recoleta
Aside from exploring the cemetery and admiring the architecture, there are plenty of things to do in Recoleta. You can visit the Buenos Aires Design Center, a shopping mall that specializes in home furnishings and design. The Recoleta Cultural Center is another popular attraction, featuring exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events.
In summary, Recoleta is a must-visit neighborhood in Buenos Aires. With its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens and squares, and rich cultural offerings, it is easy to see why it is considered one of the most elegant neighborhoods in the city.
San Telmo: The Bohemian Enclave
If you are looking for a neighborhood in Buenos Aires that exudes bohemian charm, San Telmo is the perfect destination. This barrio, which is the oldest in the city, is known for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and lively tango scene.
San Telmo’s Tango Heritage
San Telmo is often called the birthplace of tango, and it’s easy to see why. The neighborhood is home to many tango clubs and milongas where you can watch locals dance the night away. You can also visit the Museo Casa Carlos Gardel, which is dedicated to the famous tango singer.
Exploring the Cobbled Streets of San Telmo
One of the best ways to experience San Telmo is by wandering its streets. The neighborhood is filled with antique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Be sure to check out the Feria de San Telmo, a weekly market that takes place on Sundays and features local artisans and street performers.
San Telmo is also home to the Chacarita Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many famous Argentinians, including tango singer Carlos Gardel and former president Juan Domingo Perón.
Things to Do in San Telmo
If you’re looking for things to do in San Telmo, there is no shortage of options. Here are a few suggestions:
- Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires, which features works by Argentine and international artists.
- Check out the street art in the neighborhood, which includes murals by local and international artists.
- Enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine at one of San Telmo’s many cafes and bars.
- Take a tango lesson at one of the neighborhood’s many dance studios.
- Walk around Plaza Dorrego shopping for antiques.
Overall, San Telmo is a must-visit neighborhood for anyone looking to experience the bohemian side of Buenos Aires.
Microcentro: The Business and Historic Center
If you’re looking for the bustling heart of Buenos Aires, look no further than Microcentro. This neighborhood is the city’s financial center and is home to many of its most important historic landmarks.
Avenida 9 de Julio
One of the most famous landmarks in Buenos Aires is Avenida 9 de Julio, which runs through the heart of Microcentro. This wide boulevard is named after Argentina’s Independence Day, which falls on July 9th. It is home to some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Obelisk and the Teatro Colón.
Plaza de Mayo: The Political Heart of Buenos Aires
Another important landmark in Microcentro is the Plaza de Mayo, which is located just a few blocks from Avenida 9 de Julio. This square has been the site of many of Argentina’s most important political events, including the May Revolution of 1810 and the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo protests in the 1970s.
Things to do in Microcentro
In addition to its historic landmarks, Microcentro is also home to some of Buenos Aires’ best shopping and dining options. Calle Florida is a pedestrian street that is lined with shops and cafes, while Galerías Pacífico is a beautiful shopping mall that is housed in a historic building.
If you’re looking for a taste of Buenos Aires’ vibrant culture, be sure to visit Microcentro. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or dining, this neighborhood has something for everyone.
San Nicolás: The Downtown District
San Nicolás is the central business district of Buenos Aires, also referred to as “El Centro”. It is one of the first barrios in Buenos Aires and is home to most of the governmental buildings. The district is shared with neighboring Montserrat and is known for its financial sector.
What to Do in San Nicolás
Plaza San Martín is one of the most popular attractions in San Nicolás. The park is located at the northern end of Avenida Santa Fe and is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Kavanagh Building, which was once the tallest skyscraper in Latin America.
San Nicolás is also known for its architectural gems, including the Teatro Colón, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. The building is a beautiful example of the Italian Renaissance style and is known for its excellent acoustics.
If you’re looking for a place to grab a coffee or a bite to eat, Café Tortoni is a must-visit. The café has been a Buenos Aires institution since 1858 and is known for its beautiful architecture, live tango shows, and delicious coffee and pastries.
Overall, San Nicolás is a great district to explore if you’re interested in history, architecture, and the financial sector of Buenos Aires.
Villa Crespo
Located in the geographical center of Buenos Aires, Villa Crespo is a middle-class neighborhood that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. This neighborhood has become a popular alternative for those seeking a more authentic and affordable experience away from the tourist crowds.
Villa Crespo was formed in the late 1800s when housing was built for people who worked in the large shoe factory that was located there. It’s named after Antonio Crespo, a Buenos Aires Mayor who served for a very short time between 1887 and 1888. It has traditionally been a middle-class Buenos Aires barrio with a notable population of Jewish immigrants.
If you’re looking for something to do in Villa Crespo, you can explore the local theatre scene. The neighborhood has its own small but thriving underground scene centring on the unassuming little street Juan Ramírez de Velasco, where there are two theatres on one block: Nün Teatro Bar and El Arenal. You can enjoy a drink and a show at Nün Teatro Bar, which is known for its innovative performances, or catch a play at El Arenal, which is a more traditional theatre.
In addition to the theatre scene, Villa Crespo also offers a variety of trendy cafes and restaurants. You can try traditional Argentine cuisine at El Desnivel or have a coffee at Lattente, which is known for its excellent coffee and pastries. If you’re looking for something sweet, you can head to La Crespo for their famous churros.
Overall, Villa Crespo is a great neighborhood to explore for those looking for an authentic Buenos Aires experience. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, you’re sure to find something that interests you.