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How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: Food, Culture & Hidden Gems

Spending 3 days in Buenos Aires is just enough to fall under the city’s spell, though I promise you’ll be wishing for more. This is a place where every corner hums with life: tango melodies floating out of old cafés, leafy plazas filled with chatter, and grand avenues that feel straight out of Paris (no wonder Buenos Aires has been nicknamed Paris of South America).

It’s a city of passion, elegance, and a little chaos, all blended together in a way that only Buenos Aires can be. With just a few days, you can wander through colorful barrios, taste the best empanadas of your life, and watch the sun set over the Río de la Plata. Three days may not seem long, but in Buenos Aires, it’s enough to create memories that stay with you forever.

This year, I visited Buenos Aires for the 6th or 7th time…I can’t even remember how many trips I took to the capital of Argentina. I’ve been to the same places multiple times, so many, that it almost seems like I’ve known it forever. With all my tips and knowledge (as well as relatives, who live there), I’ve put together a perfect itinerary and guide on what to see and do in 3 days in Buenos Aires. I hope you enjoy it.

3 days in Buenos Aires

3 days in Buenos Aires: a complete guide and itinerary

Argentina has so much to offer and from my experience, most people go all the way there to see the natural wonders that this country owns. Buenos Aires is often a quick stopover only. Surely, you can easily spend a week in the city and still do not see everything, but if you only have 3 days in Buenos Aires, I have you covered.

Top things to do in 3 days in Buenos Aires

I’ve gathered all my top things to do in Buenos Aires and they are doable in just 3 days, but since the attractions never end, I added a few more activities that I think you’ll love if you have more time. To help with your planning, I divided the top things the way that make sense logistically and saves you time.

Day 1: historic Buenos Aires

Your first day in Buenos Aires is all about stepping back in time. From grand colonial squares to faded cafés where history lingers in every detail, this is where the city reveals its roots. The mix of European elegance and Latin spirit comes alive as you wander through its most iconic corners.

Plaza de Mayo and Casa Rosada

Start at the city’s political heart, Plaza de Mayo. At the very heart of Buenos Aires lies Plaza de Mayo, the city’s oldest square and the stage for Argentina’s most defining moments. Surrounded by grand buildings, the square has witnessed revolutions, protests, and celebrations for over two centuries. It’s here that the famous Madres de Plaza de Mayo still march every Thursday, reminding the world of the city’s turbulent past and the strength of its people.

On the eastern side of the square stands the Casa Rosada, the iconic pink presidential palace whose balconies have seen some of the most powerful speeches in Argentine history (including the legendary addresses of Eva Perón). While you can admire its striking façade from the plaza, it’s worth stepping inside for a free guided tour if your visit falls on a weekend, when parts of the palace are open to the public.

On the square, pay attention to a beautiful white building called Cabildo. Entry is free, and it’s often overlooked by visitors rushing through the square. The small museum inside gives context to Argentina’s independence story, and the balconies are great for photos of Plaza de Mayo.

Metropolitan Cathedral and Avenida de Mayo

The Cathedral is also located on Plaza de Mayo, where Pope Francis once gave mass .Step inside the Cathedral not just for the architecture but also to see the tomb of General San Martín, Argentina’s national hero.

Walk along Avenida de Mayo, with its Belle Époque buildings, cafés, and the elegant Palacio Barolo, inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy.

San Telmo

Spend the afternoon wandering San Telmo, one of the oldest neighborhoods. Its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and San Telmo Market (great for empanadas and choripán) give a taste of old Buenos Aires. Make sure to have some time in San Telmo food market, whre you can have lunch or just a drink. It’s a crowded and lively place with many food stalls to choose from. My favourite one though is Choripanería (the one in the very centre not at the entrance) that sells some of the best choripanes (Argentinian version of a hot dog sandwich).

On Sundays, the San Telmo Fair fills the streets with stalls, tango dancers, and local artists. This is the perfect place to hunt for unique souvenirs and gifts. This time, I did not buy anything, but in the past, I got for myself handmade silver jewellery that I still wear till today.

Puerto Madero

If you want to see a completely different face of Buenos Aires, head to Puerto Madero, the city’s  modern waterfront district. Once a rundown dock area, it has been transformed into a place of glass towers, chic restaurants, and wide boardwalks that are perfect for an evening stroll.

Walking along the docks, you’ll spot the striking Puente de la Mujer, an elegant footbridge designed by Santiago Calatrava that has become one of the city’s icons. While Puerto Madero doesn’t have the old-world charm of San Telmo or Recoleta, it’s a great spot to enjoy the river breeze, stop for dinner with skyline views, or simply watch the city glow at night. It’s also right next to the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur, where you can escape the urban buzz for a walk among wetlands, birds, and hidden lagoons.

See the best tango show in Buenos Aires

You probably already know that Buenos Aires is the capital of tango, so it’s only obvious to see a tango show here and not anywhere else. There are many places in the city to watch a tango show, but truthfully, some of them are typical tourist traps. I watched various tango shows during my several visits to Buenos Aires and can recommend you these two as my favourites:

  • El Viejo Almacén has the oldest tango performance in Buenos Aires and it is truly spectacular. It starts at 10 pm and you can choose a dinner option as well or just drinks (which are typically included in the ticket price). The show is amazing with some crazy tango moves (a bit more than a classical tango)  and typical Argentinian boleadoras performance- South American Indian weapon of stones used for hunting in the past. It lasts around 1 hours 15 minutes (even though they say it’s longer).
  • Cafe Tortoni offers two to three performances a day, but they are more classic tango shows in a theatrical way. You have an option to order food and drinks before the show as well. This show lasts just under an hour.

It is said that tango in Cafe Tortoni is danced more on the floor, whilst the one in El Viejo Almacén has a lot of acrobatics and lifting. I loved both. Cafe Los Angelitos also has a tango option and is a very popular one, but I liked it the least.

See also: Best tango shows in Buenos Aires: My Favorite experiences

Day 2: Art, Culture and la boca

La Boca

In the morning, head south to La Boca, the colorful, working-class neighborhood known for its vividly painted houses. Explore Caminito Street, filled with tango dancers and art stalls. Visit La Bombonera, Boca Juniors’ iconic stadium, if you’re into football. I suggest that you prebook your entry ticket as the waiting line we saw was huge.

La Boca is easy to visit independently; we took a bus there, but had to walk for around 10 minutes through not too friendly part (just because we were in large group and most of us have been there multiple times). If you are unsure, take an Uber or taxi to Caminito or join a guided tour (this one is cheap and has amazing reviews).

Once there, you can have a quick lunch in one of the small street food stalls or famous Banchero: a place for pizza and cutlets.

Quick tip: La Boca is not the safest place in Buenos Aires, and even during the day do not venture beyond the touristic spots. Do not stay there after sunset as aggressive behaviour, assaults and robberies are common.

Obelsico

No landmark captures the spirit of Buenos Aires quite like the Obelisco. Rising 67 meters above the bustling Avenida 9 de Julio (one of the widest avenues in the world) this sharp, elegant monument has been the backdrop for everything from massive football celebrations to political rallies. Built in 1936 to mark the city’s 400th anniversary, it has become Buenos Aires’ most recognizable symbol, and no visit feels complete without standing at its base and watching the chaos of the city swirl around you.

Top tip: The best time to photograph the Obelisco is early in the morning before traffic fills Avenida 9 de Julio. For a completely different vibe, come back at night when the monument is beautifully lit and the surrounding billboards glow like a mini Times Square. If you’re visiting during a major football match or national celebration, expect the Obelisco to be the city’s ultimate gathering point; it’s chaotic, but unforgettable.

Teatro Colon

If there’s one place in Buenos Aires that embodies pure elegance, it’s the Teatro Colón. Often ranked among the world’s best opera houses, this jewel has hosted legends like Pavarotti, Callas, and even tango maestro Carlos Gardel. Opened in 1908, the theater’s Italian marble, French stained glass, and golden balconies feel more like a palace than a performance hall. But it’s not only beautiful, its acoustics are considered some of the finest anywhere, making every note resonate with breathtaking clarity.

Even if you don’t have tickets for a show, you can still experience the magic. Guided tours run daily and take you through the grand foyer, rehearsal rooms, and the spectacular main auditorium. Standing beneath the chandelier and gazing up at the painted dome is one of those “wow” moments you’ll remember long after leaving Buenos Aires.

Avenida Corrientes

Known as the street that never sleeps, Avenida Corrientes is the cultural heartbeat of Buenos Aires. Stretching through the city center, it’s lined with historic theaters, independent cinemas, and bookshops that stay open late into the night (you can spend hours browsing through the books). This is where porteños come for tango shows, live music, or a night at the theater; it’s often compared to Broadway, but with a distinctly Argentine flair.

Food is just as much a part of the experience. You’ll find traditional pizzerías like Guerrín  (although I would not recommend it now, it was disappointing during this trip while in the past I loved it) and Las Cuartetas, where slices are thick, cheesy, and best eaten standing at the counter.

After a show, locals crowd into cafés for late-night coffee or ice cream, making Corrientes one of the best places to feel the city’s nocturnal rhythm.

Now, Corrientes has a designated part of the road just for pedestrians and it is really nice to walk there in the evening. The vibe is an attraction in itself.

Enjoy submarino and medialunas in one of traditional coffee places

When the winter chill hits Buenos Aires, locals have a simple but irresistible way to warm up: the submarino (Argentinian version of hot chocolate). This cozy drink is exactly what it sounds like – a thick, rich chocolate bar “submarined” into a cup of steaming hot milk, slowly melting into a  sweet treat. Unlike instant cocoa, a submarino is indulgent and comforting, perfect for sipping in one of the city’s traditional cafés while watching the world go by.

Many cafés serve them with a touch of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, and it’s common to pair a submarino with an alfajor or pastry. Some spots, like Café Tortoni or Café La Biela, add their own local flair, making it not just a drink, but a moment to slow down and soak in Buenos Aires’ café culture. I had my favourite and tastiest submarine in Cafe Los Galgos.

Best traditional coffee places in Buenos Aires

Day 3: Palermo and the Green Heart of Buenos Aires

Day three is all about slowing down and exploring the leafy, artistic side of Buenos Aires. Palermo, the city’s trendiest neighborhood, is perfect for wandering, cycling, or simply soaking in local life among cafés, boutiques, and street art. Its expansive green spaces, elegant gardens, and cultural spots make this day feel like a breath of fresh air after the bustling city center. If you prefer, join a guided bike tour to Palermo and Recoleta- it’s fun.

Palermo and Bosques de Palermo

Start your day in Bosques de Palermo, a vast network of parks, lakes, and tree-lined paths. It’s the ideal place for a morning stroll or renting a bike to explore hidden corners. Locals come here to jog, walk their dogs, or just enjoy the shade – it’s a peaceful way to experience everyday life in Buenos Aires.

El Rosedal

Within the Bosques, you’ll find El Rosedal, a rose garden with over 18,000 roses arranged in romantic patterns. It’s especially beautiful in spring when the flowers bloom in full color. Stop on one of the little bridges or benches, take in the scent, and watch the swans glide across the pond; it’s a serene moment that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle.

Planetario

Next, visit the Planetario Galileo Galilei, an iconic planetarium in Palermo. The modernist building is striking, and the shows, often available in Spanish and English, offer a fascinating glimpse into astronomy. Even if you skip the presentation, the exterior and surrounding park are perfect for photos or a quiet pause on the grass.

Japanese Garden

A short walk from the Planetario is the Japanese Garden, one of the largest outside Japan. Its koi ponds, stone lanterns, and bonsai trees create a calm oasis. It’s an ideal spot to slow down, meditate, or enjoy a cup of green tea at the café tucked inside the garden.

Malba

If you love art, MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires) is a must. This museum showcases Latin American modern and contemporary art, from Frida Kahlo to Argentine icons like Antonio Berni.

Malba Museum, Buenos Aires

Law Faculty building

As you wander back through Palermo, don’t miss the striking Law Faculty building with its neoclassical columns and grand halls — an unexpected architectural gem in the neighborhood. Nearby, you’ll spot La Flor, a modern sculpture that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery, a reminder of Palermo’s artistic pulse blending with nature.

By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced Buenos Aires’ leafy parks, serene gardens, and creative energy — a perfect counterbalance to the city’s historic and bustling first two days. Palermo’s mix of culture, art, and nature makes it a restorative finale for your three-day journey.

Recoleta Cemetery and museums

In Buenos Aires, you cannot miss Recoleta, one of the cities’ most elegant neighborhoods. After visiting the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón rests, take a stroll along the refined streets and soak in the architecture. Stop by Café La Biela, one of my favorite traditional coffee spots, for a coffee or a light snack. Just outside the café, you’ll notice a massive, centuries-old tree, a local landmark and perfect for a quiet pause before continuing your exploration of the area.

El Ateneo- library and a coffee place in a theatre

I love El Ateneo and it was the first place I revisited during my (probably) 6th visit to Buenos Aires after 8 years. If you love books, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is an absolute must-visit.

Housed in a stunning former theater, the bookshop has preserved its ornate balconies, frescoed ceiling, and grand stage, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a palace than a shop. As you wander between the shelves, you’ll find everything from classic literature to contemporary novels, plus a cozy café on the stage where you can sit and soak in the surroundings. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, stepping inside feels like a small cultural pilgrimage – it’s one of those places where you can lose track of time, marveling at the blend of history, architecture, and literary charm.

Top tip: Visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds, and be sure to stop at the café on the former stage: it’s the perfect spot for people-watching with a coffee.

See also: 10 best traditional coffee shops in Buenos Aires according to the locals

Santa Fe street

Santa Fe Street is one of Buenos Aires’ liveliest arteries, stretching through Palermo, Recoleta, and the city center. It’s the perfect place to experience the everyday rhythm of Porteño life: bustling cafés, trendy boutiques, and international brand stores line the avenue, while locals hurry by with shopping bags in hand. Beyond the shopping, Santa Fe is a great street for strolling, spotting street performers, or popping into a small bookstore or bakery along the way. It’s a vibrant mix of commerce and culture, giving you a real taste of city life while you explore the heart of Buenos Aires.


If you have 5 days in Buenos Aires

With five days in Buenos Aires, you can dive deeper into the city’s rhythm, balancing iconic sights with hidden corners and local experiences. You’ll have time to explore both the bustling streets and quiet neighborhoods, savor its rich food culture, soak up the arts, and wander through parks and plazas at a slower pace. Five days gives you the freedom to feel the city’s personality, from its energetic pulse to its relaxed, lingering moments, making your trip both memorable and immersive.

Spend a day in a countryside (campo)

One of the most typical things to do (that locals love, too) is a day at a camp gaucho style. There are many campos, called estancias, near Buenos Aires to choose from. Some have asado only option (Argentinian barbeque), but others also offer horse riding, tango shows etc. For a family day out, we chose Posta del Camino Real (Carlos Keen) an hour away from Buenos Aires. This place did not offer any shows, but that was ok with us. We had unlimited food (amazing quality meats, salads and more), had a walk around the camp and enjoyed sunset there. All at a good price.

3 days in Buenos Aires

We originally planned a package with horses and shows, but the payment options at many estancias were unclear and we sensed some tourist scams. Some people in our group were Argentinians and they were asked to pay much less that non-Argentinians. But when I asked for a price in English, they asked me to pay at least triple what everyone else was asked (nearly 200$). Therefore, in the end, we chose a place that was clear and straightforward with prices, that’s why I’m recommending Posta del Camino Real.

Take a boat to Colonia de Sacramento In Uruguay

One of the easiest and most enchanting escapes from Buenos Aires is just across the river: Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay’s prettiest little town. A short ferry ride (about an hour with Buquebus or Colonia Express) takes you across the Río de la Plata, and suddenly you’re wandering cobbled lanes lined with  pastel houses, and vintage cars parked like they’ve never heard of time.

Colonia is small enough to explore in a single day. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for sweeping views of the river, get lost in the Barrio Histórico (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or simply sip a coffee at a leafy plaza while watching the world go by. There are tiny museums to dip into, artisan shops tucked behind ivy-covered doors, and plenty of riverside spots for long, lazy lunches.

What makes Colonia so special is the contrast. After the energy and non-stop rhythm of Buenos Aires, this sleepy little town feels like stepping into a different century. And when the sun begins to set over the river, you’ll understand why so many travelers say it’s one of the most beautiful day trips they’ve ever taken.

Costanera Sur Nature Reserve

The Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur is a vast wetland and nature reserve that stretches along the Río de la Plata. With more than 350 bird species, shady trails, and hidden lagoons, it’s hard to believe you’re still in the heart of the city. Locals come here for weekend walks, jogs, or bike rides, but it never feels crowded.

The reserve is free to enter, and you can spend an hour or a whole afternoon wandering along the leafy paths, spotting herons, turtles, and butterflies. If you have Puerto Madero in your plans for today, Costanera Sur is not too far from there. Unfortunately, we did not have as much time there as I would have wished for, but I managed to spot a few lovely birds on the walk (like the crested caracara on the photo below).

On hot summer days, it’s also the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the river breeze. I visited in winter, but it was still quite pleasant.

And if you come hungry, don’t miss the food stalls just outside the entrance, where you can grab a choripán (grilled sausage sandwich) -as authentic and satisfying as it gets.

Tigre

If you want to escape from the city for a few hours, it is a nice idea to take tren de la costa  (local train) from Olivos and ride all the way up to Tigre. Do not take a direct bus from Buenos Aires centre as it takes very long (over an hour and a half) and there’s only one bus. Instead, check the timetable for many bus lines that go to Olivosa and from there take a train. This plan will cut the travel time in half.

In Tigre you can experience Delta del Río Paraná (Parana river), where you can kayak, do a little boat ride, walk along the river or even rent a bike.

It’s a charming town, but it’s not big, so half a day might be enough. To enjoy a local food along the river, choose one of many restaurant with terraces. I loved our lunch in Chapaleo restaurant as it did not seem to be a touristy as other places and had this beautiful view you can see on the photo below.

Go to La Rural if you’re visiting in July

La Rural is one of most unique things to do in Buenos Aires, but maybe not a priority if you have only 3 days. Once a grand fairground in the elegant Palermo district, La Rural feels like stepping into Buenos Aires’ soulful ode to the countryside. Every July, over a century of tradition unfolds across six historic pavilions and expansive open-air spaces, showcasing over 4,500 animals, agricultural innovations, and farm-to-table flavors under one roof. So if you are visiting Buenos Aires in July, try to find some time to visit La Rural.


Where to eat in Buenos Aires: my top picks

Buenos Aires is a city that truly celebrates food, and exploring it is half the fun. From juicy Argentine steaks to street-side empanadas, there’s something for every craving. Surely, there will be a separate post with all the best restaurants we tried in Buenos Aires, but here are some of my top picks:

See also: 15 best restaurants to eat in Buenos Aires according to locals

Where to stay in 3 days in Buenos Aires

If you only have 3 days in Buenos Aires, you better choose the right location, especially if it is your first time. For first-time visitors, areas like Palermo, Recoleta, and San Telmo are charming, safe, and have easy access to the city’s highlights.

Palermo is trendy and full of life, with leafy streets, cafés, and nightlife. Recoleta is elegant and full of history history, ideal if you enjoy quiet walks and classic architecture. San Telmo, with its cobblestone streets and bohemian feel, is great if you love markets and vintage finds.

Palermo

Recoleta

San Telmo

  • Lemon Apartments. Self-catering and centrally located, offering a home-away-from-home feel. Rating: 9.2.

How to get to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is well connected with many major cities in Europe and South America and North America. There are direct flights from Madrid, London, Paris, Sao Paulo, Santiago de Chile, New York and many others. To find the best routes, it’s worth searching via Skyscanner. 

One thing to consider when booking your flights to Buenos Aires is that there are two airports in Buenos Aires:

Ezeiza airport

Ezeiza is located around an hour drive from Buenos Aires and it doesn’t have good public transportation connection with the city. It means that the best and easiest way to get to the city is by arranging an airport pick up. Booking.com pick up have been so far for me the cheapest, so you can check it out.

The fastest and most convenient choice to get to Buenos Aires is an official airport taxi; just head to the designated counter in the arrivals area and pre-pay; expect a 40–60 minute ride to the city center depending on traffic. Uber also works there, but you might need to wait a bit longer.

A popular mid-priced option is the Tienda León shuttle, departing about every hour and delivering you to Retiro or Madero in roughly 50–60 minutes.

Aeroparque Jorge Newbery

Aeroparque (Jorge Newbery) located right in the city, but it might not have as many international connections with places far away. I’ve been also told, that it’s not uncommon to have your flights delayed to or from that airport. Nonetheless, I would always prefer Aeroparque over Ezeiza as it is much more convenient.

The best way to get to your accommodation from Aeroparque, is by taxi or Uber. When we arrived late, I prebooked a taxi with Booking.com for convenience and it was at that time the cheapest prebooking option ( we paid around 20$). However, it is very easy to book Uber from this airport. If you do not use the app, there are official taxis available outside.

Taking an official taxi from the airport is a bit tricky. When you go outside to the waiting taxi line, you most likely will see a taxi agent, who will ask you to scan a QR code (or there will be a QR code to scan), for which you’ll need WIFI connection. This code is supposed to prevent taxi drivers to scam tourists. The way it works is that, after scanning the code, you put the address of your destination, which will generate the price you should pay for the taxi. You should screenshot it and show it to the driver. He won’t be allowed to charge you any higher than that.

You can obviously pay for the taxi in cash. However, if you prefer to pay by card, ask the driver beforehand if he he has the machine to charge cards. Not all of them do. Another, a very important thing to keep in mind, is that, if you pay the taxi using your credit card, you will be charged 20% extra for tax or whatever compulsory fee it is. First, I thought it was a trick, but it turned out to be a legit rule.

How to move around Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a very walkable city, but it is also large. We walked 20 km daily since we love walking, but sometimes we needed transportation. It is very easy and cheap to use buses in Buenos Aires, but you will need a SUBE card. You can get it in small kiosks with the SUBE sign outside. You will have two options of getting the card:

  • by registering your details and pay less for each ride.
  • not registering your details and pay slightly more for each ride.

SUBE is a rechargeable, contactless card accepted on buses (colectivos), trains, and the Subte metro system.

Uber is another good option to move around Buenos Aires. We took multiple Ubers during our 3-week stay and never had any issues. If you prefer, you can hail an official taxi (black and yellow), but make sure that you ask the driver to put the taximeter on to avoid any surprises. Again, if you pay by card, you will be charged more.

Buenos Aires also has a metro, but I never used it- it was never necessary since we walked everywhere or took buses most of the time.

See also:


Please note that this post included affiliate links, when you decide to purchase anything through these links I get a small commission at NO extra cost to you, it helps me to keep running this blog! I only promote products and services I use or would use myself. All images are the property of Postcards from the World and cannot be used without permission.


Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

  • Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
  • AirHelp helps to get compensation for cancelled or delayed flights.
  • Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
  • Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
  • Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
  • World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
  • WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
  • Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
  • Trip Advisor amazing for good quality recommendations.
  • Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
  • Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.

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