How To Spend 2 Days In Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a city that pulls you in with its energy. From the moment you step onto its wide avenues, lined with European-style buildings, to the first time you hear the soulful sound of tango in the streets, you realize why it’s one of Latin America’s most captivating cities. Known as the “Paris of Latin America,” Buenos Aires offers a mix of history, culture, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat.
I spent two weeks in Argentina as a solo traveler, and Buenos Aires was the perfect place to start my adventure. It’s a lively, walkable city with friendly locals, great public transportation, and plenty to see and do. If you’re short on time, this 2 days in Buenos Aires itinerary will make sure you experience the highlights—from historic landmarks to incredible food and tango shows.
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How to Get to Buenos Aires
Most international travelers arrive at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), about 45 minutes from the city center. If you’re flying in from within Argentina or a nearby country, you may land at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), which is much closer to the city.
Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a huge city with many neighborhoods, each offering a different experience. For a short visit, I recommend staying in Palermo—a trendy, walkable neighborhood packed with great restaurants and cafés. It’s a great area to stay in for first-time visitors.
I stayed at 06 Soho Suites in Palermo Soho, and it was affordable, stylish, and within walking distance of Plaza Cortázar and the best shopping and dining in Palermo. It is an old building and not too fancy, but fit the requirements of what I needed.
Other good areas to stay:
Day 1: History, Food & Tango
Morning: Explore Buenos Aires’ Historic Heart
Start your day in Plaza de Mayo, the city’s most important square. It’s surrounded by some of Buenos Aires’s most famous landmarks:
- Casa Rosada: Argentina’s pink presidential palace, where Eva Perón gave her famous speech from the balcony.
- Metropolitan Cathedral: The former church of Pope Francis and an important religious site.
- The Obelisk: One of Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmarks, located on the massive Avenida 9 de Julio.
Optional: Join a free walking tour to learn more about the city’s history with a local guide. It is a great way to get a quick feeling for your surroundings.
Walk down Avenida de Mayo and stop at Café Tortoni, a historic café that dates back to 1858. Order a café con leche and medialunas (Argentine croissants) to start your day like a local.
Afternoon: Puerto Madero & Food Tour
Head to Puerto Madero, a modern waterfront area with stylish restaurants and scenic bridges. Walk across Puente de la Mujer, a white bridge designed to resemble a couple dancing tango.
For lunch, I highly recommend the Parilla Buenos Aires Food Tour. This experience takes you to 3 different local restaurants, ending at a parrilla (steakhouse) where you’ll try perfectly grilled steak with wonderful wine. It was one of the best meals and experiences I had in Argentina.
Evening: Tango Show at Almacén
Buenos Aires is the birthplace of tango, and seeing a live show is essential. El Viejo Almacén is a great choice for an intimate dinner and tango performance, featuring world-class dancers and live musicians. It was a great experience for me and a way to really see the culture of Argentina.
Day 2: Markets, Cemeteries & Shopping
Morning: San Telmo Market & Recoleta Cemetery
If it’s a Sunday, the San Telmo Market takes over the streets with hundreds of vendors selling antiques, handmade crafts, and local street food. Even if you’re not there on a Sunday, the area is worth exploring for its historic charm.
Next, visit Recoleta Cemetery, one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. The elaborate mausoleums feel like an outdoor museum, and the highlight is Eva Perón’s tomb, which always has flowers from admirers.
Optional: Visit the Evita Museum to learn more about Argentina’s most iconic First Lady.
Afternoon: Palermo & Shopping on Avenida Santa Fe
Palermo is the city’s trendiest neighborhood, filled with street art, boutique shops, and great restaurants. Spend time in Plaza Cortázar, a lively square surrounded by bars and cafés.
For shopping, head to Avenida Santa Fe, where you’ll find a mix of local brands and international stores. If you’re looking for quality Argentine leather goods, this is the place to shop.
Optional: Take a guided Palermo street art tour to see some of the city’s best murals and graffiti.
Evening: Drinks & Dinner in Palermo
End your trip with a relaxed evening in Palermo. Grab a cocktail at Frank’s Bar, a hidden speakeasy, or enjoy one last Argentine steak at Don Julio, one of the best parrillas in the city and one of the Top 50 restaurants in the world.
FAQs About 2 Days in Buenos Aires
Final Thoughts
Buenos Aires is a city that stays with you long after you leave. Buenos Aires was my landing place as well as a midpoint stop when traveling between Patagonia and Iguazu Falls. There’s so much more to see, so make sure you include Mendoza, El Calafate, Ushuaia, and Puerto Madryn – especially if you want to see penguins. If you only have a short time, this 2 Days In Buenos Aires itinerary will give you a taste of what Argentina has to offer. I can’t wait to go back, and I know you’ll love it too.
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