We have visited this city multiple times and loved it. If you are looking for the perfect Buenos Aires itinerary, this article has you covered.

In just two days, we’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of this vibrant city, exploring its distinct neighbourhoods and indulging in delicious local cuisine.

We are called Very Hungry Nomads for a reason.

How Many Days Do You Need in Buenos Aires? 

We have visited Buenos Aires a few times, and we think two days in Buenos Aires is the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the city.

Of course, we’ve spent more time here over the years, but this 2 days in Buenos Aires itinerary highlights the best parts of the city and includes some fantastic activities to do.

2 Days in Buenos Aires Itinerary – Overview:

This Buenos Aires Itinerary includes:

• Recoleta: Recoleta Cemetery, Nuestra Senora del Pilar Church and El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookshop
• Palermo Soho
• Tango Show
• San Telmo
• La Boca
• Food Tour in Palermo Soho

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart

Morning: Recoleta

Begin your day in the upscale neighbourhood of Recoleta, known for its elegant architecture and the iconic Recoleta Cemetery. Stroll through the narrow pathways lined with elaborate mausoleums, including the final resting place of Eva Perón.

The cemetery is open to the public, and while most visitors come to see Eva Peron’s resting place, you can also find presidents and military generals. You can also book a very affordable guided tour of the cemetery.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church next to the cemetery. It is one of the oldest churches in Buenos Aires.

We have also visited the stunning bookshop El Ateneo Grand Splendid. In 2019, it was named the most beautiful bookshop in the world as it is set inside a gorgeous theatre. It’s only about a 15-minute walk from the cemetery, and we recommend it a must-see, hence why we include it in our 2 days in Buenos Aires itinerary. 

Lunch: EL Mirasol

Head to a traditional parrilla (steakhouse) for lunch to savour Argentina’s famous beef.

Enjoy a perfectly grilled steak with chimichurri sauce, an Argentine classic. And maybe a glass of Malbec. When in Argentina…

Afternoon: Palermo Soho

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the trendy atmosphere of Palermo Soho. Wander through the colourful streets adorned with street art, visit boutique shops, and relax in one of the many stylish cafés (We loved the coffee at Lattente Cafe)

This area is a hub of creativity and a perfect spot to experience the local art scene. If you’re feeling a little peckish, I suggest trying the famous Choripan sausage at this popular fast food place, Chori.

Evening: Tango Show

As the sun sets, make your way to a historic tango venue for a captivating evening of dance and music. You might want to freshen up and take an Uber to get to the show; we found this an easy and affordable way to get around in Buenos Aires.

While there are a number of different Tango performances in Buenos Aires offered, I recommend this Tango Show at Mansion as it starts at a reasonable hour (many shows start very late), and this show offers an included pickup.

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Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Culinary Delights

Morning: San Telmo

Start your second day in Buenos Aires in the bohemian neighbourhood of San Telmo. You can start with a delicious brunch or breakfast. 

But as San Telmo is very near Plaza de Mayo, we suggest you stop here first to see Casa Rosada, the Parliament House, and the Cathedral. This is known as the El Centro or the heart of the city.

From here, you can then move on to San Telmo, a short walk.

Explore the cobblestone streets filled with antique shops, art galleries, and street performers. Don’t miss the bustling San Telmo Market, a treasure chest of local crafts, fresh produce, and eclectic souvenirs.

Lunch: Empanadas and More

For lunch, indulge in traditional Argentine empanadas.

Try different fillings like beef, cheese, and ham. San Telmo is a great place to find them; try EL Hornero de San Telmo or El Gauchito.

Afternoon: La Boca

We could not write a 2 days in Buenos Itinerary and not include La Boca. The photo of El Caminito is the postcard picture of Buenos Aires.

So in the afternoon, venture to La Boca, a neighbourhood known for its colourful houses and the iconic Caminito street.

Explore the vibrant arts scene, visit the Proa Foundation for contemporary art, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this unique district.

Evening: Food Tour 

Cap off your Buenos Aires adventure with this Food Tour of Palermo. Sample local dishes, from empanadas and steak to local wine and cheese.

We enjoyed this food tour, met some friendly travellers, and learned more about the city and its people. What we loved about the food tour was the positive energy of our guide and that each place was set and ready to receive us with a dedicated table.

Night: Nightlife

If you have the energy for your final night, dive into Buenos Aires’ lively nightlife scene. The city comes alive after dark, from hidden Speakeasy bars to energetic clubs. 

Getting Around Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires offers a reliable and affordable public transportation system. Use the subway, buses, or hail a taxi to navigate the city efficiently. The city is also really walkable, and UBER can be very helpful if you struggle with speaking Spanish.

Another option is to book a ticket for the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus to explore the city’s best sites.

Changing Money in Argentina 

You might have heard that Argentina is a very affordable destination, and yes, when it comes to food and experience, you will pay half of what you do in, say, Barcelona or Spain. You can also get some gorgeous hotels for a lot less than in Europe or North America, so it is time to treat yourself.

Changing cash at the Blue Dollar Rate is the key to getting the most Argentine pesos for your money. All foreigners can exchange money at exchange offices and get a different rate from the official rate.

In January 2024, this rate was:

1 USD = 950 ARS (Blue Dollar Rate)

1 USD = 350 ARS ( Official Rate)

Please note foreign cards should also be using this rate, I suggest making a small purchase first and see if this is the case. Your bank statement should show you the exchange rate within 24 hours.

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Where to Stay in Buenos Aires – Which Neighbourhood?

There are a few neighbourhoods to stay when visiting Buenos Aires, each offers a slightly different feel.

Here are four neighbourhoods you may consider staying in when visiting Buenos Aires:

Palermo: 

Palermo is divided into Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood.

Palermo Soho is known for its trendy atmosphere. This area is filled with boutique shops, cafes, and lively nightlife. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy artsy and bohemian vibes.

Palermo Hollywood: Similar to Palermo Soho but with a stronger emphasis on gastronomy and nightlife. It’s a hub for restaurants, bars, and film studios, making it a popular spot for foodies and those seeking a lively atmosphere. So if you like to go out in the evening, this might be a great choice.

Recoleta:

Famous for its grandiose architecture, Recoleta is an upscale neighbourhood with beautiful architecture, green spaces, and cultural attractions. It’s a more formal and elegant area, home to museums, art galleries, and the iconic Recoleta Cemetery.

You can find some of the best hotels here, so it is an excellent pick for those wanting to stay somewhere nice. There are a few great restaurants here, and you are only a stroll away from the Recoleta Cemetery.

During our last visit to Buenos Aires, we stayed at the Sofitel Recoleta. We can personally recommend this hotel for a very comfortable stay in BA.

San Telmo:

Historic Charm: San Telmo is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and antique markets.

It’s a bohemian neighbourhood with a rich history, and you can find tango clubs, street performances, and art galleries here. But it does feel different to Palermo. 

Puerto Madero:

Modern Waterfront: Once an industrial port, Puerto Madero transformed into a modern and upscale district with sleek skyscrapers, upscale restaurants, and waterfront promenades.

This really is a new area to consider, but we loved the feel of it. It offers a more contemporary feel compared to other traditional neighbourhoods.

Best Time To Visit Buenos Aires?

The best time to visit Buenos Aires, Argentina, largely depends on your temperature preferences. 

Spring (September to November) offers mild and comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideal for outdoor activities amidst blooming flowers. We loved the Jacaranda Trees, which were in full bloom everywhere.

Summer (December to February) can be hot and humid, with temperatures from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it suitable for those who enjoy vibrant nightlife and outdoor events. 

Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with changing leaves creating a picturesque atmosphere. 

Winter (June to August) is mild, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F), providing a less crowded experience for exploring cultural attractions. 

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
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Best Day Tours in BA

If you prefer to join a tour or share the experience with other travellers in Buenos Aires, I recommend the following activities and day tours.

• Small-Group City Tour – Squeeze all of Buenos Aires’ most visited sights into one small-group city tour, including hotel pickup and drop-off. 
• Premium Day Trip to Colonia– Visit the town of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay on this day trip from Buenos Aires.
• Gaucho Day Tour Ranch – Discover the wild Argentinian pampas and experience ‘gaucho’ (cowboy) life on a traditional ranch on this full-day tour from Buenos Aires, including lunch. I highly recommend it.
• Argentine Experience: Immersive 6-Course Menu + Wine Tasting – Enjoy Argentina’s local cuisine with this interactive dining experience in Buenos Aires.
• Bike Tour: Half-Day City Highlights – Admire the Argentinian capital’s architectural highlights on this half-day bike tour.

Final Thoughts on the Buenos Aires Itinerary

Buenos Aires will leave you enchanted with its tango rhythms, savoury flavours, and diverse neighbourhoods in just two days.

This Buenos Aires itinerary is just a glimpse into this incredible city, so feel free to wander off the beaten path and discover your own hidden gems in this captivating Argentine capital.

Plan to travel more in Argentina? We highly recommend visiting Perito Moreno Glacier, what a place!

We wrote this Comprehensive Guide to explore Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate to help you plan the ultimate trip.

And if you plan to explore more of Latin America, don’t miss these 15 Best Places to Visit in South America.

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