The 5 Best Day Trips in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a city that has so much to offer, with its vibrant culture, bustling streets, and rich history. While exploring the city itself can take days, it’s always a good idea to take a break and explore some of the surrounding areas. Luckily, Buenos Aires has a variety of incredible day trip destinations that are just a short distance away. From charming colonial towns to serene nature reserves and picturesque vineyards, there’s something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore the best day trips in Buenos Aires that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. So get ready to pack your bags and discover the beauty that lies just beyond the city limits.

The 5 Best Day Trips in Buenos Aires

  1. Full Day Tour to Montevideo from Buenos Aires
  2. Buenos Aires Combo Tour Tigre Delta Half Day Trip Plus La Ventana Tango Show With Dinner
  3. Small Group Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires
  4. 2 Day Buenos Aires Combo Trip City Sightseeing Plus Gaucho Experience at Santa Susana Ranch
  5. Premium Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires

The 5 Best Day Trips in Buenos Aires

1. Full Day Tour to Montevideo from Buenos Aires

Discover the alluring charm of Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay during this 9-hour full-day tour. Your day begins with a ferry ride from Buenos Aires across the Rio de la Plata to Uruguay with stunning river views en route. Once arrived, your local guide leads you on a tour through cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, museums, and parks. Listen to engaging commentary from your guide about the city’s culture and history while appreciating the sights of the place. You will have free time to experience lunch (at own expense) at a popular local restaurant before departing back to Buenos Aires via ferry. Roundtrip transportation from Buenos Aires hotels or the cruise port is included, making the journey to and from Montevideo a breeze.

2. Buenos Aires Combo Tour Tigre Delta Half Day Trip Plus La Ventana Tango Show With Dinner

Explore the serene Tigre Delta and experience the thrill of tango with this Buenos Aires combo tour. Discover the provincial towns of San Isidro and Tigre and enjoy a 40-minute catamaran ride around the stilted houses and islands of Tigre Delta. Later, indulge in a three-course dinner at La Ventana Tango while a live band plays and talented performers showcase their tango skills. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, round-trip transportation, and a delightful dinner menu with plenty of options for both starters and main courses. Combining two best-selling tours into one, this option is ideal for first-time visitors or those who are short on time. Don’t miss the chance to make unforgettable memories.

3. Small Group Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires

Cross the legendary Rio de la Plata and spend a day exploring the UNESCO-listed town of Colonia del Sacramento on this full-day tour from Buenos Aires to Uruguay including round-trip transport by express ferry. After a hotel pick-up from centrally located hotels in Buenos Aires (Palermo Recoleta Downtown areas), you’ll be taken to the ferry to embark on a 2-hour ride to Colonia. When you arrive, enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of Colonia’s charming Barrio Historico, admiring the striking Portuguese colonial buildings, flower-filled plazas, and winding cobblestone lanes. Then, have free time to explore the many craft shops and restaurants on your own.

With a small group tour, you can expect personal service and attention from your professional guide. This experience is ideal for families or couples looking for a romantic day trip. You’ll also get to step back in time on a history tour of the city. Included in the tour are ferry tickets, hotel pick-up and drop-off, but food and drinks, as well as gratuities, are at your own expense.

Overall, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover one of Uruguay’s most charming towns and is a must-do when visiting Buenos Aires.

4. 2 Day Buenos Aires Combo Trip City Sightseeing Plus Gaucho Experience at Santa Susana Ranch

Experience the best of both worlds with a 2-day combo tour of Buenos Aires that includes sightseeing and a gaucho experience at Santa Susana Ranch. On the first day, discover the highlights of Buenos Aires, including Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, Recoleta, Palermo and San Telmo neighborhoods. Visit Caminito Street and see the obelisk before heading to the Pampas on day two. Spend the day at Estancia Santa Susana and experience gaucho life with horseback riding (or horse-drawn carriage rides), a traditional BBQ lunch with live folk music, and gaucho demonstrations. Try Argentine specialties like yerba mate, BBQ, and empanadas. With this combo trip, get great value by combining two best-selling tours into one!

5. Premium Day Trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires

Visit the charming colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento on a day trip from Buenos Aires. Begin your day with hotel pickup and transfer to the ferry terminal for a fast ferry ride across the Rio de La Plata. Once in Colonia del Sacramento, go on a leisurely two-hour walking tour of the town’s cobbled streets and learn about its colonial history from your professional guide. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the town on your own before returning to Buenos Aires in the evening. This tour includes round-trip ferry tickets, hotel pickup and drop-off, and does not require any admission fees. Enjoy a personalized experience with a maximum of 15 guests, and don’t worry about additional expenses as gratuities, food, and drinks are all included in the tour. If you’re looking for a relaxed day trip full of history and charm, a visit to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires is a great option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a beautiful city and one of the most popular destinations in South America. Tourists from all over the world come to explore its unique culture, try its delicious food, and admire its stunning architecture. However, before traveling to the Argentine capital, most tourists have questions and doubts about the city. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Buenos Aires.

1. What is the best time to visit Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit the city depends on your preferences and what you want to do. The peak tourist season is from October to March when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city can also be overcrowded and expensive during these months. The low season is from June to August when the weather is cold and dry but the city is less crowded and prices are more reasonable.

2. What is the currency in Buenos Aires?

The official currency of Argentina is the Argentine peso. Visitors can exchange their foreign currency at banks, exchange houses, or ATMs. It is advisable to bring US dollars or Euros, as they are widely accepted and preferred over other currencies. Credit cards are also widely accepted in the city, but it is recommended to carry cash for small purchases and street vendors.

3. Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?

Buenos Aires is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any big city, it has its share of crime and tourists should take basic precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime. Travelers are advised to not leave their belongings unattended, take official taxis or public transportation, and avoid walking alone in the streets late at night. Tourists should also consult their embassy or consulate for the latest safety recommendations before traveling.

4. What is the transportation system like in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that includes buses, the subway, and trains. The subway is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, but it can be overcrowded during peak hours. The bus system is also efficient but can be confusing for foreigners who don’t speak Spanish. Taxis are also a popular transportation option, but it is recommended to take official taxis and agree on the price before getting in.

5. What are some must-visit attractions in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires has many interesting attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • The Recoleta Cemetery – a beautiful cemetery where many famous Argentines are buried, including Eva Peron
  • The Obelisk – Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmark
  • The Teatro Colon – one of the most important opera houses in the world
  • The Plaza de Mayo – the political center of the city and site of many historic events
  • The San Telmo neighborhood – a charming area with many antique stores and tango dancers on the street

6. What is the food like in Buenos Aires?

Argentine cuisine is famous for its meat dishes, especially beef. The city has many excellent restaurants that offer traditional Argentine cuisine, including asado (grilled meat), empanadas (stuffed pastries), and milanesa (breaded meat fillets). There are also many international restaurants that offer cuisine from around the world, including Italian, Spanish, and Japanese.

7. What is the nightlife like in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires is famous for its nightlife and has something to offer for everyone. The city has many bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues that stay open until late at night. The Palermo neighborhood is the center of the city’s nightlife scene and has many bars and nightclubs that cater to different preferences and budgets.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Buenos Aires?

Visitors from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa to visit Argentina for up to 90 days. However, it is recommended to check with the nearest Argentine embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements before traveling.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city in Argentina, known for its European architecture, delicious food, tango music, and passionate people. If you’re planning a trip to South America, Buenos Aires should definitely be on your list of places to visit.To make the most of your time as a tourist in Buenos Aires, consider the following activities:

1. Explore the Historic Neighborhood of San Telmo

San Telmo is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and lively atmosphere. Begin your exploration by visiting Plaza Dorrego, the heart of San Telmo, where you can watch street performers, browse through antique shops, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants.Don’t miss the San Telmo Market, a bustling indoor market where you can find everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. For history buffs, the Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires and the National Historical Museum are located in San Telmo.

2. Admire the Art and Architecture of Recoleta

Recoleta is another historic neighborhood in Buenos Aires, known for its stunning architecture and art scene. Start by visiting the famous Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of many of Argentina’s most prominent figures, including Eva Peron.From there, head to the nearby Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes to admire an impressive collection of Argentine art. Then, take a stroll down Avenida Alvear, a tree-lined boulevard lined with stunning mansions and luxury boutiques.

3. Indulge in Argentine Cuisine

Argentine food is a blend of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous flavors, resulting in a unique culinary style that is not to be missed. Start your food journey with traditional Argentine beef, cooked to perfection on a parrilla (grill) and served with chimichurri sauce.Another must-try dish is empanadas, savory pastry turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Finish off your meal with a scoop (or two) of dulce de leche ice cream, a rich and creamy Argentine specialty.

4. Watch a Tango Show

Tango is the national dance of Argentina, and Buenos Aires is the best place to experience it. Head to a tango show, where you can watch professional dancers perform while enjoying a delicious meal.For a more immersive experience, take a tango class and learn the steps yourself. Many dance schools in Buenos Aires offer group and private lessons for all levels of experience.

5. Visit La Boca

La Boca is a colorful neighborhood located at the mouth of the Riachuelo River, known for its lively street art, tango performances, and soccer stadium. Visit the famous Caminito, a pedestrian street lined with brightly painted buildings, street performers, and souvenir shops.If you’re a soccer fan, check out La Bombonera Stadium, home of the Boca Juniors soccer team. Don’t forget to try a grilled choripán, a popular Argentine street food featuring chorizo sausage in a bread roll.

6. Relax in the Parks

Buenos Aires is home to many beautiful parks and green spaces, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The largest park in the city is Bosques de Palermo, where you can rent a boat, visit a rose garden, or simply soak up the sun.Other parks worth visiting include Parque Centenario, home to the Museum of Natural Sciences, and Parque Tres de Febrero, which features a Japanese garden and planetarium.

Conclusion

Buenos Aires is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or dance, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful Argentinian capital. With so much to explore, your only problem will be fitting it all into your itinerary!

The 5 Best Day Trips in Buenos Aires