33 Captivating Reasons to Fall in Love with Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires was our top destination in 2012, and we've shared must-see highlights before. But what truly enchanted us about Argentina's vibrant capital? In this edition of our 'Things We Love' series, we reveal 33 standout features—from universal favorites to personal gems—that make Buenos Aires unforgettable for every visitor.
33 Things We Love About Buenos Aires
1. Tree-Lined Streets
Ornate European-style architecture and broad, leafy avenues evoke Paris, transporting you far from South America.
2. World-Class Ice Cream
A haven for ice cream enthusiasts, where even the smallest order features generous double scoops. Locals opt for 1/2 kg or full kg (over 2 pounds). Favorites include chains like Freddo and Volta, plus hidden gems like Dieci on Avenida Santa Fe offering heaping scoops for just $3.
3. Vibrant Street Art
Far from illicit graffiti, Buenos Aires celebrates street art as a cultural staple, creating an open-air gallery. We've raved about it here.
4. Iconic Dog Walkers
Porteños adore their dogs despite urban living. A law mandates outdoor time, leading to professional walkers herding 10+ leashed pups in harmonious packs—a delightful sight.
5. Palermo's Café Culture
Sidewalk-spilling indie coffee shops in Palermo are perfect for caffeine fixes, people-watching, remote work, and savoring Argentine alfajores.
6. San Telmo Sunday Market
One of the world's best flea markets, transformed into a lively street festival on La Defensa with performers, tango dancers, buskers, and Brazilian drummers amid packed bars.
7. Stunning Architecture
Initially mistaken for Europe, the city's grandeur stems from 19th-century ships delivering building materials to the elite, as learned on our free walking tour.
8. Exceptional Pizza
Buenos Aires pizza rivals the best worldwide—a true obsession.
9. Everywhere Tango
Unlike fading folk dances elsewhere, tango thrives: from San Telmo markets and La Boca spots to intimate local milongas.
10. Charming Argentine Accent
The melodic 'll' and 'y' sounds ('playa' as 'plaisha', 'yo' as 'sho'), paired with Italian rhythms and expressive gestures, quickly won us over during our six-week stay.
11. Fragrant Flower Stalls
Ubiquitous vendors perfume the streets, offering easy access to fresh blooms that cleverly mask occasional urban odors.
12. Fitness-Conscious Porteños
Despite indulgent eats and smoking, gyms abound. Mornings see yoga mats en route to parks, runners along Puerto Madero, and group boot camps.
13. Perfect Blend of Old and New
Antique-filled San Telmo meets trendy Palermo Hollywood. Enjoy vegan fare then classic medialunas in retro cafes. Weekdays buzz; weekends linger over asados and park days.
14. Irresistible Medialunas
Flaky, sweet croissants shine in cafe deals: coffee with milk and three medialunas—a Buenos Aires breakfast ritual.
15. Avenida 9 de Julio
This 16-lane behemoth (spanning 2-3 light cycles to cross) boasts shops, eateries, the Obelisk, and Teatro Colón.
16. Puerto Madero Sunsets
Mesmerizing views over the revitalized waterfront harbor.
17. Nonchalant Protests
Over 30 weekly, yet locals shrug them off. Massive rallies nearby barely disrupt packed pizzerias—a uniquely Argentine nonchalance.
18. Thriving Expat Scene
Relaxed visas and startup vibes draw a dynamic, informed international community.
19. Timeless Local Moments
In cozy cafes, locals linger over newspapers and coffee, evoking a slower era amid global hustle.
20. Lush Parks
Expansive green oases, some like mini-forests, offer serene escapes amid the urban sprawl.
21. Elegant Recoleta
Parisian facades house the famed cemetery with Eva Perón's tomb—a must-visit enclave.
22. Electric Tension
Protests, inflation, and distrust infuse an exhilarating urgency: live fully now.
23. Sculptural Atlantes
Strong figures 'holding' historic facades add mythic charm.
24. Multicultural Tapestry
Spanish, Italian, Jewish, Polish, English, and Arab influences enrich the city.
25. Progressive LGBT Rights
First in South America for marriage equality; seamless integration defies stereotypes.
26. Mate Devotion
This herbal infusion fuels porteños everywhere—parks, offices, streets.
27. Majestic Cemeteries
Recoleta's famous; Chacarita's vast mausoleum 'streets' stun with grandeur.
28. Ornate Kiosks
Art Nouveau newsstands echo Paris, enhancing romantic allure.
29. El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Former theater reborn as a legendary bookstore—read on stage with coffee.
30. Abundant Veggie Options
Beyond steak and pizza, healthy, meat-free dining thrives.
31. Milka Chocolate Havens
Dedicated stores delighted after months without this German favorite.
32. Efficient Public Transit
Affordable buses (50¢) and subte ($1.25) navigate via interactive maps, despite quirks.
33. Botanical Gardens Cats
Dozens of playful felines roam, creating a feline paradise—perfect for cat lovers.
Have you visited Buenos Aires? What do you love most about it?
