Buenos Aires, known as the “Paris of the South,” boasts a vibrant mix of culture and history, world-class cuisine, electric nightlife, mesmerizing architecture, and warm, friendly people. The many intriguing neighborhoods of this Argentinian capital city mix European style and South American flair. Here are 5 reasons to visit Buenos Aires.
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The Porteños
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Buenos Aires is to get to know the locals (Porteños). Buenos Aires is a true melting pot of cultures. The native American and colonial Spanish roots of Argentina were influenced by vast immigration from around the globe. The city and its people are a wonderful mix of influences from Italy, France, the UK, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The architecture, food, music, and culture of the city all reflect this beautiful diversity of influences.
The Porteños are a warm and friendly people. Feeling a little lost in an unfamiliar city? Just ask a local. They will go out of their way to assist you. Don’t be alarmed if they join you on your walk rather than just pointing the way. It is not uncommon for them to walk with you. And expect to engage in a lively conversation the entire a way! If meeting someone for a second time, you will be greeting with a hug and kiss, no matter how brief the acquaintance.
Want to get to know a few locals? Check out a football (soccer) game. Buenos Aires lives and breathes football and it is easy to bond when you both root for the local team. Football fan or not, the Porteños of Buenos Aires will welcome you with open arms, great conversation, and a helping hand when you need it.
Arts and Culture
Buenos Aires is brimming with theaters, museums, and other venues that will leave you breathless. Outstanding architecture, stunningly beautiful interiors, and phenomenal acoustics make the Teatro Colon one of the best opera houses in the world. With over 150 museums, Buenos Aires is a thriving location for those wishing to learn about the art, history, and culture of the city.
The city boasts nearly 400 bookstores and what is hands-down the most beautiful bookstore in the world. The Ateneo Grand Splendid brings book lovers to the theatre – literally. Check out this jaw dropping literary wonder housed in a former theatre which hosted ballet, opera, and other cultural performances in its heyday.
The art and culture of Buenos Aires is not restricted to museums, galleries and cultural centers. Keep your eyes open for fabulous murals and street art when walking the streets and neighborhoods throughout the city. Be sure to pay a visit to the La Boca neighborhood to find painters, sculptors, and photographers who fill the streets with fabulous souvenirs depicting tango dancers and port life as a great reminder of your visit to Buenos Aires.
Shop till You Drop
Buenos Aires leads the fashion and design industries in Latin America and is the best place to visit when looking for something new or unique. Don’t miss the trendy boutiques and designer shops filled with amazing deals for the savvy shopper. Each neighborhood is crammed with great opportunities for a little retail therapy.
Looking for something special and unique? Buy some of the top-quality leather goods Argentina is best known for. In addition, you will also find amazing antiques and native handicrafts to delight the most discerning of shoppers.
Shop till you drop at outlets ranging from local markets and fairs to modern malls and boutiques. You will also find talented designers and artists selling pieces straight from their studios.
World Class Cuisine & Amazing Nightlife
Thanks to the diverse influences of the city, you can enjoy authentic foods from almost any region of the world. Andean, French, Italian, or Latin food? Your tastebuds will be happy no matter what you crave. Plus, Argentineans put their abundance of creative energy to good use when creating amazing culinary experiences.
Buenos Aires is every carnivore’s dream. Parrillas (steakhouses) are all over the city and offer choice cuts of the world’s best Argentinian beef. But you don’t have to opt for a traditional steakhouse to enjoy that world famous Argentinian beef.
Buenos Aires is filled with amazing nightlife ranging from neighborhood hangouts to big clubs, and even a few underground hideouts to keep you entertained when you visit. Not looking for a traditional pub or club? There are also a host of artsy cafes, wine bars, and other venues to choose from. Not a night person? You soon will be. Argentina runs on its own clock.
Tango ’til Dawn
While there is a myriad of places to spend an evening in Buenos Aires, you simply must check out a Tango club or Tango show during your visit. Tango is an important part of the Argentinian culture. Tango dancers spend a lifetime perfecting their art and can be seen dancing socially at a milonga (tango dance club) or professionally in a show.
For an authentic experience, immerse yourself at one of the many milongas across the city. Better yet, take a lesson or two to learn the basics. Then you will truly appreciate the amazing moves you will see at a professional tango performance. These wonderful Tango dinner shows will amaze you with live orchestras, eye-popping costumes, and spectacular choreography.
What is your top reason to visit Buenos Aires?
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