Buenos Aires

Learn about this province’s intriguing Italian immigration, relax at coffee shops in its cosmopolitan capital and venture on trips to its coastal villages.

The province of Buenos Aires has quaint coastal villages and its world-famous namesake capital. With large Italian and Spanish settlements, the city is among South America’s most European cities. Explore the capital city and take a trip to the beaches on the coast.

Among the highlights of the capital city is the neighborhood of La Boca with its fascinating Caminito Street Museum showing how the port looked when Italian immigrants arrived. Explore the nearby San Telmoarea with its elegant architecture and tango dancing on Plaza Dorrego, which holds a street market on Sundays.

Watch a performance or book a guided tour at the historic Teatro Colon. Walk along the river in Puerto Madero, where you can see the iconic Women’s Bridge.

A little to the northwest is the trendy neighborhood of Palermo. Purchase clothes from the fashionable outlets in Palermo Soho and try Argentina’s famous steak from a parrilla in Palermo Hollywood, so-called for the many television studios here.

Ride the picturesque Tren de la Costa that stops at affluent suburban neighborhoods, such as San Isidro. The light rail line terminates at the Venice of South America: Tigre. Embark on a boat ride through the maze of canals in this town. Peruse the exhibits in the Tigre Art Museum and bring the kids to the swimming pool, slides and roller coasters of the Parque de la Costa.

Take a bus southeast for about 5 hours to reach the sandy havens of Pinamar, Cariló and Villa Gesel Beach. Wander through the dense forests and rent a buggy to ride on the sand dunes. Purchase treats from the chocolate shops in these quaint villages.

Expect scorching summers from December through March, cold winters and unpredictable rainy seasons in between. Try the traditional hot beverage of mate and the chocolate treats called alfajores.

Arrive at Buenos Aires’ international or domestic airports and get a taxi or bus to the city center. The province is on the armpit-like opening of the Plata River that separates eastern Argentina from Uruguay.

With excellent shopping options, affluent neighborhoods and historic buildings, Buenos Aires is a enticing blend of European and South American cultures.