Last year, I had the chance to visit Argentina for the first time, and our trip started in Buenos Aires. My partner, who hadn’t been back to his home country in eight years, and I flew from Auckland, with a layover in Santiago, before arriving in this famous city. What an experience it turned out to be.
We stayed downtown in a hotel, using it as our base to explore the city mainly on foot and sometimes by Uber. On the drive from the airport to our accommodation, I noticed a striking contrast: large buildings on the outskirts that looked almost like ruins, yet people still lived in them. It was a stark introduction to the economic hardships faced by many Argentinians. However, as we got closer to the city centre, everything changed—beautiful architecture, bustling streets, and a vibrant, safe-feeling atmosphere welcomed us.
Buenos Aires has a charm that immediately pulls you in. The city centre reminded me a lot of Paris, with its grand old buildings, wide boulevards, and lively street life. It was nice to finally see some historical, charming buildings again after spending some time in New Zealand. We heard that the city is full of cameras, which probably contributes to the feeling of safety we experienced during our stay.
We made it our mission to try as much local food as possible. One highlight was having an authentic asado in La Boca, complete with wine and accompanied by traditional music—an unforgettable dining experience. We actually spend the whole afternoon here, the place was so accommodating and cosy that it invited to stay. We also explored different neighbourhoods:
- San Telmo for its antique shops and bohemian vibe
- Recoleta to see the famous cemetery and elegant streets
- Palermo for its trendy cafes, parks, and street art
Another relaxing spot we visited was the Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays). Located in Palermo, it offered a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. Walking through the beautifully maintained gardens, surrounded by diverse plant species and sculptures, was a perfect way to slow down and appreciate the greener side of Buenos Aires. I was actually surprised how big this park was, it even includes a zoo showcasing many animals including an elephant house and flamingos. And the best, the entry is for free! So definitely a must do when visiting Buenos Aires, I enjoyed spending time in the garden, away from the noise and business of the city.
One of the absolute highlights of the trip was attending a tango show in Puerto Madero. It was a full evening event, including a three-course meal and lots of wine, while watching an incredible live performance that perfectly captured the passion of Argentina.
We also visited the Japanese Garden, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and enjoyed a rooftop bar where we soaked in stunning views of Buenos Aires.
Throughout our stay, we met friendly, welcoming people. It’s clear that Buenos Aires is a popular tourist destination, but it’s also evident that it’s an expensive city for locals. One older taxi driver shared with us how hard it is for him to afford his medication due to inflation—a sobering reminder of the economic reality behind the vibrant facade. Even though already retired, he has to work to be able to afford a life in Buenos Aires!
Overall, I would absolutely recommend Buenos Aires for a holiday. The city is full of life, culture, good food, and history. It’s a place where you can spend your days exploring charming streets, dining in authentic restaurants, and absorbing a unique blend of European and Latin American influences. I’m grateful for the memories and can’t wait to return one day.
Have you visited Buenos Aires? If so, what were your highlights and your impressions?