I recently spent a long weekend in Buenos Aires while on a trip through Argentina and Chile. Buenos Aires translates to mean “good air” or “fair winds” and is often considered the Paris of South America. It is Argentina’s largest and capital city known for their steak and for being the founders of the Tango. I never saw any tango or tried the steak, but I can say this is only a small stereotype of what this beautiful city has to offer!
Buenos Aires, Argentina has a dynamic food scene, interesting architectural details, and a bustling nightlife. We left the city at 6am for a flight and party goers were still up roaming the streets as the sun rose. While we didn’t take part in the nightlife, we spent our time enjoying a leisurely weekend of exploring and eating our way through this cosmopolitan city. Whether you visit for a weekend or a whole week, here is your guide for the perfect, laid back time in Buenos Aires, Argentina!
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How to Get to Buenos Aires Argentina
With one of the largest airports in South America, Buenos Aires is easy to reach via their two airports. EZE is the main international airport located about an hour from the heart of Buenos Aires and AEP is the regional airport located along the coast about 20 minutes away. We flew into EZE from ATL aboard Delta and took AEP for our domestic flight to Mendoza wine country.
Argentina reopened for tourism in November 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic. In terms of COVID entry requirements, we were required to:
- present a negative PCR test
- complete an affidavit within 48 hours of our trip
- show medical travel insurance covering covid
- have a complete vaccination (both doses)
- Hint: you also need to complete the affidavit to EXIT the country – this was not clear and caused huge lines at the airport to get boarding passes.
Where to Stay for a Long Weekend in Buenos Aires
There are so many great places to stay in Buenos Aires. We decided most of the things we wanted to see were near the Recoleta area so we chose a hotel that allowed us to walk everywhere. There is a fabulous Park Hyatt that we almost booked, a Four Seasons, and a Ritz, but we chose the famed Alvear Palace Hotel for this visit.
Alvear Palace Hotel
The Alvear Palace hotel is a 5-star luxury property featuring neoclassical architecture and decor that takes you back to the grandness of the 1930’s. The building is incredibly ornate and a favorite among high society and celebs in Argentina. We loved the comfortable rooms, rooftop bar, lounge deck, and spacious fitness center. We could easily walk anywhere we needed which was great since traffic was a nightmare!
The Rooms
The hotel has right under 200 rooms and they are classic, yet modern keeping with the hotels French aesthetic. I loved that there were tons of mirrors and a large bathroom with tub and stand up shower options.
Alvear Rooftop Bar
I may have decided on this hotel mostly for the rooftop bar. I love rooftops for the perspective you are able to get over a new city.
Alvear Café
The café located on the side of the hotel was the perfect spot to grab coffee or tea and breakfast. We loved sitting along the sidewalk for outdoor seating while watching the city wake up.
Fitness Center
I am so glad I was able to take advantage of the gym here. It is large with plenty of cardio machines and free weights. There is even a second room with mats and exercise balls. This is also where the intimate spa is located.
Lounge Deck
We loved this secret deck to enjoy the sun in the lounge chairs. If you head to the pool, you will also find an outdoor bar, then go down the stairs to find this gem of a spot!
Where to Eat and Drink in Buenos Aires
All of my favorite places that we ate in Buenos Aires. Also, read my full restaurant guide.
Casa Cavia
I can’t say enough good things about Casa Cavia so I will let the pictures do the talking. This is a trendy spot with a quaint courtyard featuring a fountain and lush plant walls! It feels like you are in a Parisian garden! We had the fish, zucchini tostada (puff pastry), and kale salad – very vegetarian friendly. Make reservations in advance.
Cucina Paradiso
We found Cucina Paradiso from watching Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix (thanks, Phil!). The food here was fabulous and I loved sitting outside. The pasta is all handmade and you can watch them prepare it inside. We shared the ravioli, focaccia bread (best bread I’ve ever had), mushroom and burrata salad, and veggie baguette with eggplant, zucchini and mozz. They don’t take reservations, but have three locations around the city.
Aramburu
Aramburu features an 18 course tasting menu and should honestly have a michelin star. This was one of the best experiences and the food was incredible. I highly recommend the beverage pairing (go big or go home, right?) – you will have everything from kombucha, cocktails, and wine. They will accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions – we don’t eat land meat and it was not a problem to dine here.
Amazonia Brasas
Amazonia Brasas was a recommendation from a local food blogger that I reached out to. The decor makes you feel more like you are in trendy Tulum! We had the biggest bowl of ceviche and lots of sushi. Be sure to try a pisco sour – famous in South America.
Verdot Wine Bar
On our way to Aramburu, we stopped at Verdot Wine Bar for a glass of vino! This trendy spot had great wines and a cozy outdoor patio perfect for your long weekend in Buenos Aires.
Narda Comedor
We had reservations at Narda Comedor, but unfortunately did not make it. The food looks incredible and is very vegan friendly! Check it out if you have a chance.
Alvear Roof Bar
We had drinks at Alvear Roof Bar and perused the food menu. There were tons of great options and this was a lively space to hang out.
What to Do for a Long Weekend in Buenos Aires Argentina
All the must visit places for your time in Buenos Aires!
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
We walked by and decided to pop into the Museo Nacional de Bella Artes – the fine arts museum! Entry is free and you will be able to view the works of Monet, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and more!
Recoleta Cemetery
An odd place to walk through, but Recoleta Cemetery is incredibly stunning. It sits on 14 acres and is essentially its own mini city. Definitely take a quick stroll through for this beautiful reminder of the importance of family in Argentina.
Take a Stroll
Walk! There is so much to see and stumble upon in this city. Walk through the neighborhoods and see what you find. Make sure to stay in safe areas though.
Enjoy the Parks
I love that Buenos Aires, Argentina has so many parks and green spaces. The city is incredibly well laid out. There were always workout classes happening or people just hanging out with friends. We picked a spot and read for a couple hours one afternoon.
Explore La Boca
La Boca is an outrageously colorful neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Stroll around El Caminito, but make sure to stay in the touristy (safe) parts and go early before it gets crowded!
Try Mate
If you walk past a park, you will absolutely see the locals drinking from a thermos with a metal straw. It’s not filled with alcohol, but a bitter tea infusion called yerba mate. Give it a try!
What to Wear in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Argentina has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. It was quite warm when we visited in March – staying 70F – 80F. I wore dresses and carried a jean jacket with me. Since it is a big city, most people dress pretty chic! Go casual for exploring and dress it up for dinners. I often wore the same dress and swapped tennis shoes for heels at night. Here are a few versatile ideas for your long weekend in Buenos Aires:
Buenos Aires Travel Tips
- Argentina reopened for tourism in November 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic. In terms of COVID entry requirements: we were required to present a negative PCR test, complete an affidavit within 48 hours of our trip, show medical travel insurance, and have a complete vaccination. Click here to learn more.
- Traffic was really bad when we visited so keep that in mind. After the two hour drive in, we refused to take taxis and walked basically everywhere.
- They speak Spanish primarily and not everyone can speak English. Most menus are also not translated so you’ll need to use your phone. Google Translate app really came in handy for us!
- Transportation and food was mostly very cheap (except Aramburu).
- Tipping of 10% is pretty common. There will not be a tip line on your check though so be prepared to leave cash in pesos or dollars. They happily take USD dollars since it is worth more right now.
- I felt very safe in Buenos Aires, but like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings and avoid certain areas.
- You will need an adapter with the three prongs that go straight across. Try this one.
And that is my guide for a low-key, long weekend in Buenos Aires Argentina. Ask any questions in comments below or send me a DM on instagram!
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