ARGENTINA
2 days in Buenos Aires
With its vibrant neighborhoods, rich culture, and irresistible energy, Buenos Aires is a city that dances to its own rhythm. Whether you’re drawn in by the history, the architecture, or the steak, this guide will help you experience the perfect blend of local flavor and must-see sights all in just 48 hours.
Snapshot 48 hour itinerary
Day 1 – arrival
Arrival and check-in to hotel
Explore some of the key sights in Buenos Aires
- Obelisco
- El Ateneo Grand Splendid
- Recoleta Cemetery
Enjoy dinner at the Argentine Experience
Day 2 – bike tour
Bike tour to visit some of the city’s hot spots
- La Boca and Caminito
- La Bombonera
- Plaza de Mayo
Grab lunch at San Telmo market
Visit Teatro Colon
Enjoy dinner at Fogon Asado
Getting There
Buenos Aires is located on the east coast of Argentina close to Uruguay. The city is one of the largest and busiest South American cities, with a population over 13 million. When traveling to Buenos Aires from neighboring countries further international destinations, you will fly into Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini Airport (EZE). The airport is about 30 km from the city center. After arriving and exiting customs, follow signs outside to taxis and then look for the taxi queue. You’ll want to make sure you get into a black and yellow taxi officially labeled as a taxi. They are quite obvious as they very much look like taxi cabs. A taxi from the airport into the city center are approximately 50 USD.
For those traveling here from within the country, you’ll be flying into Jorge Newbery Airport (AEP) which is close to the city center as it sits on the coast just northwest of the neighborhood of Palermo.
Getting Around
As the city is large, there are a lot of different areas to explore. A mix of walking and taxis is how we managed to get around the city when visiting for two days. If staying central, you’ll be able to walk to many of the notable destinations but may not want to walk all day. Fortunately, taxis are cheap and provide an option to help jump from location to location as needed. Uber is also available in the city if trying to get around easily.
For those keen to explore many of the main points of interest, consider taking a bike tour to help see many of the points of interest.
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1 | Morning
Arriving Buenos Aires
On the first day, for those traveling from further destinations, you’ll likely be flying through EZE airport. Either way, head to your accommodations to drop your things and then get out for a meal.
Head to Confiteria Ideal for brunch where the menu is expansive, atmosphere is unique, and the food is delicious. Consider sharing the appetizer board if you’re visiting with a group, a jamon and cheese toastie, or indulge in a sweet pastry.
Day 1 | Afternoon
Exploring the City
Next you’ll walk by the Obelisco, a tall white monument at the center of la Plaza de la Republica, and Teatro Colon, the opera house. You’re en route to stop in El Ateneo Grand Splendid, the second most beautiful bookstore in the world. It was previously home to one of the most important cinemas in Buenos Aires. After you’ve enjoyed the interior of the bookstore, continue onto visit the Recoleta Cemetery.
If you’re interested in learning a bit during your visit to the Recoleta Cemetery, I’d recommend taking a tour as a guide can show you some of the key mausoleums and learn the stories about people buried there. Once you’ve wrapped up at the cemetery, stop by the Barrel Brewery, just minutes from the exit to enjoy a cold beer.
Day 1 | Evening
Argentinian Dinner
At this point, you’re probably ready for a bit of a break before dinner. Head back to your hotel to clean-up for dinner and then head to the Argentine Experience which is located in the neighborhood of Palermo. You’re in for quite an experience as you’ll get to enjoy multiple courses accompanied by wine. You’ll even learn to make an empanada to enjoy as one of your starters.
After dinner, close out your night and get some rest ahead of another full day tomorrow.
Day 2
Day 2 | Morning
Exploring by bike
Today plan to grab a bite to eat and coffee on the go as you head to take a bike tour which commences in Plaza General San Martin. The bike tour lasts four hours and takes you to many key sights in Buenos Aires including Puerto Madero, Reserva ecologica, La Boca, Caminito, La Bombonera (football stadium), Parqu Lezama, and Plaza de Mayo. Along the tour, you’ll learn about the different areas in the city and sights you visit from your leader, while moving at a comfortable pace
Day 2 | Afternoon
More adventures or some downtime
Once you wrap up the bike tour, it’ll be lunch time. If you’re up for some more exploring, head to San Telmo Market to find some food at the market and explore the area around. If you’re just looking for something quick, you can grab something along your walk back to your accommodations that looks tasty.
Alternatively, head to Petit Colon, near Teatro Colon, and sit in the Argentinian Café to enjoy lunch. Then head to Teatro Colon which offers guided tours daily for purchase.
Day 2 | Evening
Asado experience
If you’re done exploring, just allow some time to relax before another extraordinary dinner this evening. Tonight you’ll head to Fogon Asado for another incredible dining experience, where you’ll be seated at a table where you can watch all your meals being prepared. The experience includes a 9 course tasting menu accompanied by Argentinian wines!