Buenos Aires blends distinctly European heritage and fiery Latin charm with cosmopolitan class. As the country’s political and cultural heart, Buenos Aires offers an introduction to Argentina’s many delights—this is the place to sample yerba mate tea at a local cafe, learn to tango, tuck into juicy asado (barbecued steak), and party until dawn. Visitors can find a good introduction to the city at Casa Rosada, a backdrop for much of the nation’s history, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, Pope Francis’ former cathedral. From there, heading south brings travelers to the lively street markets and atmospheric tango shows of San Telmo, and the colorful houses of La Boca neighborhood, home to La Bombonera soccer stadium. Smart travelers heading to La Boca use either caution or take a guided tour, as it can be unsafe to walk around alone. To the north of the city’s heart, the chic Palermo zone holds leisurely lunches and the opportunity to stroll through Bosques de Palermo, while nearby Recoleta is a popular stop on walking tours for those who wish to leave flowers at the grave of Eva Perón. Along the coast, the modern skyscrapers of Puerto Madero mark the city’s financial center, but for a ground-level look at the city, bike tours run through the adjacent ecological park. For a taste of the calmer surrounding area, escape to Tigre to cruise around its scenic delta, or ride a ferry over the Río de la Plata to Uruguay to explore the laid-back capital of Montevideo.