How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: Complete Itinerary

Perfect 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary for first-timers

Day 1 of your 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary 

• Morning: La Boca
• Lunch: El Gran Paraíso or San Telmo Market
• Afternoon: San Telmo
• Dinner: Desnivel or El Querandi

Morning in La Boca: A Colorful Start to Your Buenos Aires Itinerary

Your Buenos Aires itinerary for 3 days starts in La Boca, the city’s most colorful and energetic neighborhood. Keep in mind that most places in Boca open around 9 am, so you can have a slow morning or breakfast somewhere around your hotel.

This historic area was founded by immigrants from Genoa and the rest of Liguria. The immigrants who settled here brought their traditions, building a port and adorning their houses with bright, pastel colors that remind us of Ligurian coastal homes. 

The neighborhood’s name is even said to derive from “Boccadasse,” a charming seaside district in Genoa. After living in Genoa for years, I can confirm that the similarities are tangible!

The neighborhood’s heart is El Caminito, an open-air museum of colorful houses and street art. While La Boca may not have a long list of major attractions due to its humble origins, it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots in Buenos Aires.  

La Boca is also a great place for a coffee break. My favorite cafes are two bar notables: Cafe Bar Roma and La Perla. My recommendation is to stay at La Perla as it is located at the beginning of the Caminito.

Football fans will feel right at home in La Boca. The passion for Boca Juniors, the local team, is visible in every corner. Visiting the legendary Boca Juniors stadium is one of the best experiences in Buenos Aires.

Lunch in Boca or Market of San Telmo

If you want to keep enjoying La Boca, a parrilla lunch is the way to go. El Gran Paraíso is the perfect spo. It’s got the authentic La Boca vibe, with colorful decor and a garden setting. Like their sign says: this is the place! 

If you’re ready to move on, head to the Market of San Telmo. It’s one of the most iconic places in the city and a great place for a casual lunch.

Inside the market, I recommend:

• Hierro Parrilla San Telmo for grilled meat
• La Choripanería for a sausage sandwich
• The Market Burger for a solid burger
• El Hornero de San Telmo for empanadas
• Merci fordelicious pastries

San Telmo Market is a must for your 3 days Buenos Aires sightseeing itinerary, not only for the food. Once you have finished your lunch, don’t miss the other vendors in the market. Here you can find some interesting boutiques, food stalls, antiques, and souvenir shops. 

Afternoon in San Telmo

After the market, it’s time to dive deeper into San Telmo, which is the colonial heart of Buenos Aires. A perfect 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary for first-timers includes a stroll through this historic district, known for its architecture and old-world charm.

Start at Plaza Dorrego, one of the most picturesque squares in the city. From there, walk through cobbled streets and discover highlights like Casa Ezeiza, Casa Minima, Galería Solar de French, and Old Hotel Gallery. These are some of the highlights of San Telmo.

San Telmo is also a great place to find some of the most beautiful bars in Buenos Aires. Two of the best-known bars notables are El Federal and La Poesía. No Buenos Aires itinerary for first-timers is complete without at least one visit. 

A personal favorite of mine is Atis Bar. Don’t let the online reviews put you off – this place is stunning and perfect for a drink (though I wouldn’t recommend it for a meal). Other cool spots include Casa Telma, Valhalla, and Perón Perón.

Street art fans will enjoy San Telmo’s walls, which are full of murals. Keep an eye out for the Messi and Maradona tributes, as well as Mural Del Barrio para el Barrio.

San Telmo also has interesting religious architecture. Don’t miss Parroquia de San Pedro González Telmo, with its grand facade, and the Iglesia Dinamarquesa, a unique church with a Scandinavian design that feels like a piece of Denmark in Argentina.

If your trip to Buenos Aires falls on a Sunday, San Telmo becomes even more vibrant with a huge street market. Hundreds of vendors line the streets, making it a great day to explore this neighborhood during your 3-day Buenos Aires sightseeing itinerary.

A Delicious Evening at Desnivel or El Querandi

If you want to combine food and tango, go to El Querandí. It’s a classic venue for a dinner show and one of the top places to see tango in Buenos Aires. The performance tells the story of tango’s history in an elegant setting.

Prefer something more relaxed? Try Desnivel. It’s casual, cozy, and serves excellent steak. My first visit completely changed how I saw bife de chorizo and lomo. Also try the entraña and provoleta. These simple dishes are packed with flavor.

Day 2 of your 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary

• Morning: Plaza de Mayo, Avenida de Mayo, Congreso Nacional
• Lunch: Pizzería Güerrín or Pizzería Banchero
• Afternoon: Obelisco, Confitería Ideal or El Topo Churros, Teatro Colón
• Dinner: Parrilla Peña or Parrilla El Fortín Monumental

Unlock the History of Plaza de Mayo

Begin the second day of your Buenos Aires itinerary at Plaza de Mayo, a site full of history and national pride. This iconic square has been the backdrop for many of Argentina’s key moments, from independence celebrations to political protests.

At its center is the Casa Rosada, the striking pink building that houses the office of Argentina’s President and a museum. The museum features fascinating artifacts, restored murals, and artwork connected to the country’s past.

Nearby is the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral, a Neoclassical masterpiece with roots dating back to the 17th century. Once the seat of Pope Francis, this cathedral holds both spiritual and historical weight. 

Another notable stop is the Museo Nacional del Cabildo, located in a former colonial government building. The museum offers a look at Argentina’s colonial era through heritage objects, documents, and exhibitions.

If you’re wondering what to see in Buenos Aires for 3 days and you’re a book lover or curious about hidden gems, visit the City Legislature Building library, just a few meters from the square.

Stroll Along Avenida de Mayo

No visit to Buenos Aires is complete without a walk down Avenida de Mayo, often considered the city’s most elegant street. During your Buenos Aires itinerary for 3 days, a stroll here is an absolute must.

Café TortoniOne of the avenue’s crown jewels is Café Tortoni, a famous historic café in Buenos Aires known for its vintage decor and delicious coffee. If the line is too long, head to Los 36 Billares or London City.

Continue along the avenue to admire some of Buenos Aires’ most stunning palaces, including Palacio Barolo and Edificio La Prensa.

Opened in 1923, Palacio Barolo is one of the city’s architectural icons. Inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, it’s full of symbolic design elements. If you decide to visit Palacio Barolo inside, make sure you get your tickets here.

Discover Congreso Nacional

A walk down Avenida de Mayo naturally leads to the Congreso Nacional, a must on any Buenos Aires itinerary for 3 days. This neoclassical landmark is among the city’s most iconic buildings.

Designed by Italian architect Vittorio Meano and completed by Julio Dormal, the building took nearly 50 years to finish. Once you see the scale and detail, you’ll understand why. It’s also the Kilometer Zero for Argentina’s national highways.

While it’s impressive from the outside, the interiors are even more remarkable. Italian and Spanish marble, German flooring, and Belgian granite combine to create a lavish space. Stained glass, intricate sculptures, and massive chandeliers add a European flair.

Free guided tours are available Monday to Friday at 1 pm and 3 pm in both English and Spanish. Walk-ins are possible, but it’s best to register here.

Please note! You won’t be able to visit the interior of Palacio Barolo and Congreso Nacional, so I recommend you pick one option. If you don’t want to visit any of these places, you can sleep in and start your day without an early wake-up call.

Lunch: Pizzería Güerrín or Pizzería Banchero

After a packed morning, it’s time to reward yourself with some carbs. Pizza and focaccia are beloved in Argentina just as much as in Italy. While the styles differ, Argentine pizza and focaccia will win you over, and it is one of the must-try local dishes in Buenos Aires.

Pizzería Güerrín is known all over the world for its tasty pizza. Even if you find a long line, don’t worry! It moves pretty fast. A mid-size pizza here is perfect for two hungry people. Fun fact: Güerrín sells between 1,500 and 2,100 pizzas daily!

Another option is Pizzería Banchero, founded by Genoese immigrants. The style is simpler, but the taste is top-notch. Be sure to try the fainá—a chickpea focaccia from Liguria. (They also have a location in La Boca.)

Obelisco

No complete Buenos Aires itinerary for 3 days is complete without seeing the Obelisco. Just a short walk from your lunch spot, this monument was built in 1936 to mark the city’s 400th anniversary. It stands at the intersection of Avenues Corrientes and 9 de Julio.

Though now a beloved icon, the Obelisco once faced public criticism. In 1939, city officials even proposed tearing it down. Luckily, the mayor at the time vetoed the decision, saving it.

Over the years, it’s become a stage for protests, celebrations, and football triumphs. There’s a staircase inside that leads to four small windows with panoramic views, but unfortunately, it’s not open to the public.

Sweet Treats Near the Obelisco

After seeing the Obelisco, treat yourself to something sweet. Your 72-hour Buenos Aires itinerary gets even better with stops like:

• El Topo Churros: Famous for crispy churros filled with dulce de leche or chocolate. They also serve the best gluten-free churros in Buenos Aires.
• Confitería Ideal: A beautiful, historic café often compared to Café Tortoni. The choco torta and alfajores are must-tries, but their full pastry selection is worth exploring.

Can’t choose? Try both!

Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón is one of the top attractions in Buenos Aires. Opened in 1908, it is considered one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world.

Legends like Luciano Pavarotti, Maria Callas, and Plácido Domingo have performed here. Pavarotti once joked that the acoustics were so perfect they made every mistake audible.

The main hall is a marvel in itself, featuring a horseshoe-shaped design that contributes to its world-renowned acoustics. It can accommodate over 2,400 spectators, and its lavish décor, including gold leaf, red velvet, and crystal chandeliers, makes every visit feel like stepping back into a grand era.

For a deeper experience, take a Teatro Colón tour. These guided visits explore the auditorium, underground rehearsal rooms, and costume and set design workshops.

Since Teatro Colón is a must in every Buenos Aires guide for first-time visitors, booking tickets early is a good idea. This way, you can skip ticket office lines and choose the most convenient time for your visit. Book tickets here.

If you love opera, consider spending an evening at the theater. The program includes opera, ballet, and classical music, featuring top international artists.

Dinner: Parrilla Peña or Parrilla El Fortín Monumental

If you want a classic experience, head to Parrilla Peña. This local favorite is loved by residents and is slowly gaining popularity among travelers. Their bife de chorizo is juicy and unforgettable, and they start you off with complimentary empanadas—some of the best I’ve had. 

For something more casual and budget-friendly, try Parrilla El Fortín, Monumental. Don’t let the price fool you, because the quality is top-notch. The entraña is phenomenal, and the chicken, milanesa, and provoleta are musts.

Day 3 of your 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary

• Morning: Recoleta, El Ateneo Grand Splendid
• Lunch: FAUNA Café y Flora, 1810 Cocina Regional Palermo or El Perón Perón
• Afternoon: Palermo
• Dinner: Don Julio, Terracita, or Boticario

Recoleta

Your final day in Buenos Aires brings you to Recoleta, the city’s most elegant neighborhood. Known for its Parisian-style townhouses, opulent former palaces, and high-end boutiques, Recoleta is where Buenos Aires shows off its refined side.

Start your morning with a coffee and sandwich at Café La Biela, one of Buenos Aires’ iconic bares notables. The walls are covered in racing memorabilia, creating a uniquely nostalgic ambiance you won’t find elsewhere.

From there, cross the park and head to Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a lovely colonial-era church with ornate altars and a small religious art museum. Before reaching the famous Recoleta Cemetery, make a quick stop to admire the striking mural outside the Participatory Science Museum.

The Recoleta Cemetery, built in 1822, is one of the most famous attractions and deserves a spot on your 3-day Buenos Aires itinerary. This city of the dead is full of elaborate mausoleums, including the resting place of Eva Perón.

If cemeteries aren’t your thing, head to the nearby Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. It’s home to one of the largest public art collections in Latin America and is housed in a beautifully converted drainage pumping station. Even better, admission is free.

For those looking to explore Buenos Aires off the beaten path, Recoleta has a couple of hidden gems. Visit the Casa Museo Ricardo Rojas, or the National Library of Teachers, a quiet paradise for library lovers and one of the best free attractions in the city.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid

If you love classical beauty, books, and theaters, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride away from the cemetery. Originally opened as a theater in 1919, it became a symbol of Buenos Aires. It was converted into a bookstore in 2000.

According to The Guardian, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is the second-best bookstore in the world, making it an absolute must among Buenos Aires tourist spots. The venue retains its original theater charm, with stunning frescoes, elegant balconies, and even a stage now used as a cozy café.

Inside, you’ll find intricate design details, an extensive selection of books in various languages, and unique souvenirs. If you want to relax, you can sit down with a book and enjoy a coffee. El Ateneo Grand Splendid is the perfect spot to get in touch with the Argentinian culture.

Craving something sweet along the way? Stop at Rapanui, one of Argentina’s best chocolate and ice cream shops. Their chocolate ice cream, praised by Taste Atlas, is a local favorite.

Lunch Options for Day 3: Explore Unique Flavors

While steak is essential in Buenos Aires, your 3-day itinerary is also a chance to explore other Argentine specialties. Head toward Palermo for a wide selection of restaurants to suit any taste.

FAUNA Café y Flora is a great choice if you’re in the mood for a modern, vegetarian-friendly meal. Known for its specialty coffee and creative vegetarian dishes, it’s perfect for a light and flavorful midday break. Their pastries are excellent, too, and they have outdoor seating for a relaxed vibe.

Curious about Northern Argentine cuisine? 1810 Cocina Regional Palermo offers regional dishes with both meat and vegetarian options. It’s a great way to try authentic Argentine flavors beyond the typical steakhouse.

For something quirky and full of local culture, check out El Perón Perón. This restaurant blends food and politics with a unique atmosphere. Their ossobuco is a standout, but you’ll also find plenty of other traditional dishes.

Palermo

Palermo is one of the largest, most popular, and safest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. It’s full of life, with stylish boutiques, trendy cafes, and lots of green space.

I’d love for you to focus on those green areas. Start with the Japanese Garden, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and in autumn when the leaves turn golden. You’ll find bonsai trees, koi ponds, and traditional torii gates.

Another lovely spot is the Poets’ Garden, a peaceful retreat perfect for a romantic stroll. Don’t miss Patio Andaluz, and if you’re up for more walking, continue through Parque Tres de Febrero until you reach Paseo El Rosedal, one of the prettiest rose gardens in the city.

For a romantic moment on a sunny afternoon, rent a boat on the Lagos de Palermo. It’s one of the best things to do in Buenos Aires in 3 days, especially if you’re with someone special.

If it rains, don’t worry! Palermo still has great indoor options. Planetario Galileo Galilei is ideal for science lovers or those visiting with kids. Since 1967, it’s been hosting engaging astronomy exhibits and planetarium shows.

Art lovers shouldn’t miss Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA). It features works by Frida Kahlo, Fernando Botero, and others, with frequent temporary exhibitions. If you’re into art, MALBA is a must. 

Palermo is also an open-air street art gallery. If your Buenos Aires itinerary includes a passion for urban art, this is the place to explore. Murals and graffiti are everywhere. Consider joining this Palermo Graffiti Tour.

The Perfect Last Night: Don Julio, Terracita, or Boticario

Your final dinner in Buenos Aires should be unforgettable, and I have a few standout recommendations to close your 3 day Buenos Aires itinerary in style.

Don Julio is the most iconic steakhouse in the city and probably doesn’t need an introduction. With one Michelin star, a Green Star, and a place among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, it’s a must for food lovers.

The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, mixed aging methods, and sourcing the highest-quality cuts of beef has made it a cathedral for meat lovers. It’s simply a must for any Buenos Aires steak guide. Reservations are strongly recommended.

If you are looking for a laid-back & local experience, you will love Terracita. It gives you a unique look into Argentinian dining traditions and lets you be a part of the family.

It starts with Argentine empanadas, famous Malbec wine, and a short introduction to local traditions. During dinner, we got to try some of the most iconic asado specialties, including morcilla, choripán, matambre, ojo de bife, and cuadril. 

While the food is the main attraction, the asado experience is also about coming together, making friends, and leaving Buenos Aires with unforgettable memories. Make sure you book the Terracita Asado Experience and thank me later. I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I did!

Still have energy after dinner? Explore the local bar scene! Palermo is packed with bars and speakeasies. My pick is Boticario, a stylish cocktail bar set inside an old-school pharmacy. The drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is just right for your last night in the city.