5 Essential Experiences For First-Time Buenos Aires Visitors

21.03.2024 - 15:43 / forbes.com

First established in 1536, the sprawling Argentine city of Buenos Aires has earned worldwide acclaim for its stunning architecture—but there’s far more to this storied settlement than just beautiful buildings. For newcomers to the city, there’s a wealth of fascinating museums, vibrant neighborhoods and high-end drinking and dining destinations to explore, with no shortage of gorgeous landmarks to discover along the way. As you plan your first trip to Argentina’s capital city, don’t miss out on these captivating activities and attractions.

For a brief introduction to the city’s history and overall layout, there’s no beating an outdoor excursion with Bike Tours. Available in both English and Spanish, these curated routes highlight multiple can’t-miss districts across the capital, with options spanning from A Different Buenos Aires—a leisurely cruise that showcases famous landmarks like the Torre Monumental and the Puente de la Mujer—to the Argentine Women Bike Tour, an itinerary dedicated to the nation’s most influential female activists and artists. And for those who prefer to explore outside city limits, the Tigre & Delta Tour offers a deep dive into the idyllic beauty of Tigre, a famous settlement in the northern reaches of the province.

In addition to dazzling architecture and a thriving dining scene, Buenos Aires is also home to a wide array of world-class museums, with the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes serving as one of its most renowned institutions. Established in 1896, this storied space is home to more than 12,000 pieces of artwork, with creations by Monet, Rembrandt and Van Gogh all on display. Further west, the Bernardino Rivadavia Museum of Natural Science is an essential destination for nature lovers thanks to its impressive collection of perfectly-preserved wildlife, with creatures like the towering Megatherium and Arctotherium both gracing the museum’s halls.

A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, the upscale district of Palermo is brimming with high-end bars and restaurants for visitors to explore. While Argentina is renowned for its top-quality beef, plant-based diners can sample kimchi dumplings, watermelon tiradito and a wealth of other vegan dishes at Sacro, while Backroom serves as a can’t-miss attraction for spirits aficionados thanks to their vast selection of artisanal cocktails. Meanwhile, those hoping to gain some insight into the culture and history of Palermo can explore the neighborhood with Sherpa Food Tours, with flavorful local fare and free-flowing wine included in their carefully-curated itinerary.

While Buenos Aires proper is home to roughly three million residents, it’s not just humans that call this sprawling city home. In the eastern reaches of