About a year ago, a dream trip to Buenos Aires with my friend Bahar Akıncı finally came true. We spent two weeks soaking up the magic of this enchanting city and its surroundings. Every corner held a story, every street echoed with music. With its colonial architecture and European-style elegance, Buenos Aires transports you to a different world.
From the moment you arrive, the city’s energy embraces you. The birthplace of tango, the home of football passion, and a paradise for food lovers. Buenos Aires is a place to not just see, but to truly feel.
Situated in the Southern Hemisphere, Buenos Aires has seasons opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. The peak tourist season is summer (December to February), with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. The city comes alive with colorful festivals and vibrant street life.
If you prefer a quieter visit, spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Winter (June to August) tends to be colder and quieter, but the city buzzes again during the Buenos Aires Tango Festival in late August.
There are no direct flights from Istanbul to Buenos Aires, but Turkish Airlines offers flights with a layover in São Paulo, taking about 18 hours in total. Other airlines like KLM, Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa also offer connecting flights, with travel times ranging between 18 and 27 hours.
For accommodation, we chose to rent an Airbnb in the Recoleta neighborhood for a more local experience. Recoleta is one of the safest, most elegant, and centrally located areas, full of historic buildings, art galleries, and fine dining options. Palermo Soho is perfect if you’re looking for a youthful, dynamic vibe with trendy bars and boutiques. If you prefer modern city life with waterfront views, Puerto Madero is the place to stay.
The best way to discover Buenos Aires is on foot. Many attractions are within walking distance, making strolling through the streets a pleasure. The subway system, called “Subte,” provides quick and affordable transport across the city.
Uber is widespread and very affordable here, offering a comfortable and safe option especially during evenings.
Regarding safety, basic precautions are enough: keep your phone and bag in front of you and avoid certain areas at night. La Boca is beautiful to visit during the day but best avoided after dark.
Argentina is famous for its meat, and Buenos Aires’ parrillas (grill restaurants) are a carnivore’s dream.
Don Julio: A beloved restaurant combining traditional Argentine barbecue with a modern touch. Book well in advance.
La Cabrera: Located in Palermo, this spot offers a fantastic meat feast in a lively atmosphere.
La Brigada: A classic parrilla in San Telmo, perfect for soaking in the city’s culture while enjoying great food.
For coffee and sweets:
Cafe Tortoni: Established in 1858, this historic café has been a hub for artists and intellectuals for generations. Don’t miss the dulce de leche churros with your coffee.
Cafe de los Angelitos: Another iconic café steeped in tango history, perfect for a cozy break.
Recoleta: Elegant streets reminiscent of Paris and Barcelona, luxury cafes, boutiques, and the famous Recoleta Cemetery, home to stunning mausoleums and notable graves.
Palermo: The city’s largest and most vibrant neighborhood, filled with art galleries, unique shops, bars, and restaurants. Palermo Soho is especially buzzing with energy.
La Boca: The birthplace of tango and home to the colorful Caminito Street, alive with street performers and vibrant culture. Best visited during the day.
San Telmo: Known for antique shops, markets, and live music, especially on Sundays at the San Telmo Market.
Puerto Madero: A modern waterfront area with impressive architecture, perfect for evening strolls and upscale dining.
Montserrat: Home to historic landmarks like Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Museo Evita: A deep dive into the life of Eva Perón with personal belongings, photos, and memorabilia.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: A haven for art lovers featuring major Argentine and international works.
Malba: The Latin American Art Museum showcasing modern and contemporary art from across the region.
Teatro Colón: One of the world’s most famous opera houses, boasting stunning architecture and a rich history. Catch a show if you can!
El Ateneo Grand Splendid: A breathtaking bookstore housed in a converted theater, ideal for coffee and browsing in a fairy-tale setting.
For authentic souvenirs, mate gourds and yerba mate tea are iconic gifts. Argentine wines, dulce de leche treats, traditional Gaucho knives, and tango shoes also make wonderful presents. San Telmo Market is a treasure trove for handmade crafts, leather goods, paintings, and antiques.
Tigre: Just 30 km from the city, explore the Paraná Delta’s natural beauty with a relaxing boat tour.
Mendoza: A bit further away, Mendoza is Argentina’s premier wine region with breathtaking vineyards and tasting tours.
Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay): A short ferry ride takes you to this UNESCO World Heritage town with cobblestone streets and colonial charm.
Iguazu Falls: No trip to Argentina is complete without seeing these spectacular waterfalls on the border with Brazil and Paraguay. A 2-hour flight from Buenos Aires brings you to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights.
