Looking for the best things to do in Buenos Aires? Whether you’re here for a few days or planning to stay for a while, the city offers endless options to explore. From tango nights and street markets to hidden cafés and cultural gems, Buenos Aires is a city that never sleeps—literally. At Wanderlust, we love helping our students make the most of their time here, and this guide is filled with the plans we actually recommend to our own friends. Let’s dive in!
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Explore San Telmo’s vintage vibes & street art
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San Telmo is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and bohemian atmosphere make it the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Every Sunday, Plaza Dorrego hosts a famous street fair where you’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to tango performances in the open air. Wander around with a coffee in hand, take a million photos of the colorful murals, and don’t forget to try a choripán at one of the street food stands. If you’re into street art, San Telmo is basically an open-air gallery—you’ll spot giant murals that mix politics, poetry, and pop culture. The mix of history, color, and vibe makes this barrio one of our top things to do in Buenos Aires.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Walk or picnic in Palermo Parks
Need a break from the urban buzz? Head to Palermo, the greenest barrio in the city. The parks here are perfect for long walks, weekend picnics, or even a nap under the shade of a huge tree. Start at the Bosques de Palermo, where you can rent a pedal boat on the lake, check out the rose garden, or just people-watch. If you’re more into bikes or running, there’s plenty of space to move. On weekends, you’ll usually find food trucks, live music, and local artisans selling handmade goodies. This is definitely one of the most chill things to do in Buenos Aires if you need a little reset and want to experience the slower side of city life.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Try an asado the local way
If you want to understand Argentine culture, you have to experience an asado. It’s not just about the food—it’s about gathering, sharing stories, and slowing down. Whether you’re invited to a local’s home or find one of the many parrillas (steakhouses) that feel like home, the asado experience is full-on. Expect to spend several hours enjoying different cuts of meat, provoleta (grilled cheese), chimichurri, and a glass (or three) of Malbec. Pro tip: if you hear about a social asado at a park or public space—go! It’s a great way to meet people and blend into the rhythm of local life. Add this to your list of things to do in Buenos Aires if you’re craving connection and culture.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Discover local markets & ferias
Buenos Aires has markets for every vibe. Feria de Mataderos offers a deep dive into Argentine folklore, with traditional music, dancing, and food from different regions. It’s a bit further out but totally worth the trip. For a more modern spin, check out Feria Buenos Aires Market, which happens in different parts of the city and focuses on organic, vegan, and gourmet products. You’ll also find artisan crafts, indie designers, and loads of samples to try. These markets are a feast for the senses and one of the most authentic things to do in Buenos Aires if you want to connect with local culture beyond the obvious spots.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: dance tango where it was born
Tango isn’t just a dance—it’s a whole world. Whether you’re a dancer or just curious, you can’t leave the city without experiencing a real milonga (tango dance night). There are plenty of tourist shows, but we recommend going where locals go. Places like La Catedral or El Beso offer a more laid-back, authentic atmosphere where you can watch or even take a quick class before hitting the dancefloor. And don’t stress—no one cares if you’re a beginner. Just feel the music and go with the flow. This is one of those things to do in Buenos Aires that you’ll remember long after the trip ends.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Visit a café not just for coffee
Buenos Aires is full of cafés that are way more than just coffee spots. Some double as bookstores, art galleries, or coworking spaces. If you’re looking for a place to read, write, or study, spots like Lattente, Libros del Pasaje, or Cuervo are ideal. The café culture here is strong: people can sit for hours with one coffee and not be rushed out. Locals even do meetings and long catch-ups in cafés—it’s a whole lifestyle. And honestly? That’s one of our favorite things to do in Buenos Aires—just sit, sip, and watch the city move at its own pace.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Catch a local gig or cultural show
The music and theater scene in Buenos Aires is fire. From underground bars with live indie bands to small theaters putting on experimental plays, there’s always something happening. Check out venues like Niceto Club, CC Konex, or Teatro Colón (if you want to go fancy). Want something more spontaneous? Head to Plaza Francia on a weekend—there are often live bands and jam sessions that pop up out of nowhere. Seeing how locals create and express themselves is one of the coolest things to do in Buenos Aires and a window into the city’s creative heart.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Ride the subte and wander off the path
Weird recommendation? Maybe. But riding the Subte (metro) can actually be a fun way to see how locals move around. Each line has its own character, and some stations like Facultad de Derecho or San José de Flores have cool murals or architecture. Get off a few stops early and wander the neighborhood—you might stumble upon a hidden café, bookstore, or little plaza where dogs outnumber humans. Turning everyday experiences into mini adventures is one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires if you like to travel slow and with curiosity.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Visit La Boca (Beyond Caminito)
Yes, Caminito is touristy, but La Boca has more to offer. Walk beyond the main strip and you’ll see the real barrio—colorful, loud, full of fútbol culture and street life. The Fundación PROA is an awesome contemporary art museum, and the nearby walk along the Riachuelo gives a different view of the city. Just go during the daytime and stay aware of your surroundings. If you’re into soccer, try to catch a game at La Bombonera. It’s one of those things to do in Buenos Aires that’ll make your heart race and your voice hoarse from cheering.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Take a day trip to Tigre
If you have a free day, hop on a train to Tigre. It’s a small town just an hour from Buenos Aires that feels like another world. You can take a boat ride through the delta, visit the fruit market, or just chill by the river with some snacks and mates. It’s especially great in spring or summer when you need a nature break. Bonus: it’s super budget-friendly and gives you a chance to slow down. It’s one of the most refreshing things to do in Buenos Aires, and it’ll balance out all the late nights in the city.
Things to do in Buenos Aires: Learn some lunfardo
Lunfardo is the local slang of Buenos Aires, and it’s full of quirky, playful words you won’t find in regular Spanish classes. Learning even a few words—like “laburo” (work), “bondi” (bus), or “guita” (money)—can help you connect more deeply with locals. Plus, it’s fun to show off a little porteño vocab when you go back home. Embracing the local language is one of the most fulfilling things to do in Buenos Aires, especially if you’re here to learn Spanish. And we’re here to help you along the way—just ask your teacher for their fave lunfardo word.
Buenos Aires is a city of layers. The more time you spend here, the more you’ll uncover its rhythm, humor, and contradictions. Whether you’re into music, nature, food, or just wandering aimlessly, there are endless things to do in Buenos Aires that will make you feel right at home. Want to explore the city with us? Come say hi at Wanderlust—we’re always down for sharing our favorite spots (and maybe a café con leche too ☕).
