How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires

With three days in Buenos Aires, there’s plenty of time to take in important sights such as Plaza de Mayo, explore colorful neighborhoods with time for cafes and restaurants, and spend a day in the countryside at a traditional ranch. Here are some ways to experience Buenos Aires in three days.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

Joining a guided sightseeing tour or taking the hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to get your bearings. Stop at Plaza de Mayo to see Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral, and then head to Avenue 9 de Julio, home to the Obelisk and Teatro Colón. Enjoy a coffee at the oldest cafe in the city, Cafe Tortoni, before visiting Evita’s grave at Recoleta Cemetery.

In the afternoon, stroll around the cobbled streets of San Telmo, where the historic buildings are home to artisan boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. Further south, explore the waterfront district of La Boca, known for its brightly painted houses, and browse the shops for handicrafts and souvenirs.

At night, book a table at one of Buenos Aires’ best grill houses (parrillas) to sample Argentina’s world-famous steak. La Carnicería and Don Julio are located in the lively Palermo Soho area. Stay to experience the nightlife—the area’s bars and clubs are crammed with locals and stay open late. 

Day 2: Take a Day Trip

For a uniquely Argentine experience, head out into the pampas for a day at a traditional ranch (estancia). Meet the cowboys (gauchos), watch their horsemanship skills, and perhaps take a horseback ride. Finish with a tasty barbecue and a gaucho-style fiesta. 

Alternatively, visit the provincial town of Tigre, an hour by train from Buenos Aires. As the city lies along the scenic Tigre Delta, a highlight is a scenic cruise around the islands and stilted houses of the delta. 

It’s also possible to cross the border and visit Uruguay on a day tour—regular ferries run across the Rio de la Plata to the colonial town of Colonia del Sacramento. For value, choose a tour that includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and lunch.

Day 3: Experience Argentine Culture

Explore the northern district of Palermo by bike to experience the parks and bustling plazas. Cycle around Palermo Woods and visit the Japanese Gardens, stop to browse the shops, grab a coffee on Plaza Italia or Plaza Serrano, or admire Latin American art at the renowned MALBA museum. 

Spend the afternoon soaking up more Argentine culture. Perhaps take a cooking class and learn to make local specialties such as empanadas and alfajores, sample Malbec during a guided wine tasting, or learn to tango with a lesson led by a professional instructor. If you’re in the city on a game day, plan to attend a soccer (futbol) match at Bombonera Stadium.

In the evening, book a tango dinner show to experience an integral part of the city’s culture.