Downtown

This multi-faceted Buenos Aires district is home to the financial district, a political hub and a shopping precinct. It’s also a popular tourist centre.

Right in the middle of this 'Downtown' area is the Plaza de Mayo, Argentina's political hub, where you'll find grand and historic buildings, excellent shopping and a selection of dining options. The office of the President of Argentina is located in the Casa Rosada - a striking, extravagant pink building. The Plaza de Mayo and the Casa Rosada are of historical significance as they are on the site of the revolution that led to their independence from Spain in 1810.

One of Downtown’s attractions and the perfect spot to stop off and relax after a hard morning’s walking is the San Martin Square. The Square boasts plenty of grassed, open spaces and on a warm day, shade is provided by over 350 trees including beautiful lilac-flowering Jacarandas. As well as relaxing and joining the locals in having a bite to eat on the lawns, you can visit the historic memorial to those lost in the Falklands War, and take a photo underneath the old clock tower or beneath the massive evergreen Ombu tree.

From San Martin Square, wander to the nearby shopping areas. Stroll along tree-lined Florida Street, one of the two large pedestrian shopping streets in the area; the other being Lavelle Street which crosses Florida Street. In this shopping precinct, discover delights in the diverse local boutiques or choose from well-known brands at the international department stores. After sunset, Florida and Lavelle Streets come alive with street performers, tango dancers and local restaurants spilling out onto the footpaths and entertaining locals and visitors alike.

For a perfect end to the day, enjoy with a meal at one of the many restaurants accompanied by a delicious Argentinian Malbec - the country's most famous red wine.

The downtown area and San Martin Square are accessible by public transport. Note that there have been incidences of crime in San Martin Square at night, hence caution is advised when walking through this area.

Explore the best attractions in Downtown

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See artifacts from Argentina´s May Revolution, browse the stands of an artisan market and admire the colonial architecture of this significant building, Buenos Aires’ first city hall.
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Visit one of the world’s finest theaters to watch operas, ballets and concerts or take a guided tour of the salons and auditorium.
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Admire the pink façade of one of Argentina’s most recognizable buildings, take a tour of its halls and galleries and visit a museum displaying political artifacts.
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This giant pillar was built to mark the 400th anniversary of the city’s inception. Now, it stands as the most famous icon in Buenos Aires.
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Spot historical architecture, witness celebrations and demonstrations, watch interesting people and enjoy free music events at Buenos Aires’ most important square.
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Visit this grand cathedral to admire a range of architectural styles, see the tombs of Argentine heroes and enjoy free live music events.
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Marvel at a tower building inspired by the poem Divine Comedy and enjoy unrivaled aerial views of Buenos Aires’ cityscape.
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Soak up the elegance of Buenos Aires’ oldest café: a meeting place of literati, a treasure-trove of art and the host of live tango shows.
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Below the apartments, offices and shops of this art nouveau galleria is a famous basement theater where nightly tango performances have delighted crowds since 1915.