Top 10 Attractions in Buenos Aires for First-Time Visitors

10 must visit attractions in Buenos Aires

1. El Caminito

El Caminito, meaning “little walkway” in Spanish, is one of the most famous places in Buenos Aires. Located in La Boca, this colorful street inspired the famous tango song of the same name.

The brightly painted houses resemble those of the Italian Riviera. Built by Genoese immigrants, the area has humble origins but has become one of the most photographed spots in the city.

It’s the perfect place to watch tango in Buenos Aires or enjoy live music in a nearby café. Football fans should visit the famous balcony of Cachafaz, where a life-sized figure of Messi stands.

–> Join Caminito & La Boca Private Walking Tour
–> Book Private Caminito & La Boca Walking Tour

2. Obelisco

The Obelisco is one of the most famous landmarks in Buenos Aires. Built in 1936 to celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary, it stands 63 meters tall and is made of white stone from Córdoba.

It sits at the intersection of Avenida Corrientes and Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the widest avenues in the world with 16 lanes. Although it faced criticism when it was first built, it is now a beloved symbol of Buenos Aires.

In 1939, just three years after it was built, city authorities proposed its demolition. But luckily, the decision was vetoed by then-mayor Mariano de Vedia y Mitre, saving the structure.

Over the years, the Obelisco has witnessed countless celebrations, protests, and artistic interventions. It’s where Argentinians gather to celebrate major football victories or national events. 

The monument also features a hidden entrance and staircase inside, leading to the top, where four small windows provide a panoramic view of the city. Unfortunately, this area is not open to the public.

3. Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón is one of the most important cultural 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 includes gold leaf, red velvet, and crystal chandeliers.

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.

4. El Ateneo Grand Splendid

If you love classical beauty, books, and theaters, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a must-visit in Buenos Aires. 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 charm, with stunning frescoes, elegant balconies, and a stage now used as a 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. It is also the perfect spot to connect with the local cultural heritage.

5. Recoleta Cemetery

No Buenos Aires travel guide is complete without a visit to the impressive Recoleta Cemetery. Located in the upscale Recoleta neighborhood, next to Nuestra Señora de Pilar, it has become one of the top attractions in Buenos Aires due to its remarkable art and architecture.

With over 4,800 vaults and mausoleums, Recoleta was Buenos Aires’ first public cemetery. It ranks among the world’s top three cemeteries, alongside Père Lachaise in Paris and Staglieno in Genoa.

Passing through its elegant neoclassical portico, you enter an open-air museum. The mausoleums showcase Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Gothic Revival styles. Many were designed by renowned architects, with unique sculptures crafted by celebrated artists.

The cemetery is the final resting place of 20 presidents, 25 city mayors, 40 governors, Nobel Prize winners, writers, and engineers. However, the most visited tomb is that of María Eva Duarte de Perón, or “Evita,” an iconic figure in Argentinian history.

• Buy your admission ticket for Recoleta Cemetery
• Join a group walking tour in English (entrance fee not included)
• Book a private tour in English (with entrance fee included)

6. Congreso de la Nación Argentina

One of the top attractions in Buenos Aires is the stunning Congreso de la Nación Argentina. Located in Plaza del Congreso, this building is an architectural masterpiece and one of the city’s most iconic places in Buenos Aires.

Designed by Italian architect Vittorio Meano and completed by Argentinian Julio Dormal, construction took nearly 50 years. When you see its size and details, it’s easy to understand why.

The building also marks Kilometer Zero for Argentina’s national highways, with a milestone in the Congressional Plaza.

The exterior is impressive, but the interior is even more stunning. Italian and Spanish marble, German flooring, and Belgian granite make up its lavish design. Stained glass, statues, and chandeliers make it feel like you’ve stepped into a European royal palace.  

Free guided tours in English and Spanish are available from Monday to Friday at 1 pm and 3 pm. While walk-ins are allowed, it’s best to register online to secure a spot.

7. Plaza de Mayo

Plaza de Mayo is one of Buenos Aires’ most important landmarks, known for its architecture, culture, and history. It has been the site of Argentina’s most significant events, from independence celebrations to political demonstrations.

The square is home to top attractions like the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s pink presidential palace. Inside, a museum displays artifacts, murals, and artwork reflecting the nation’s history.

Nearby, the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a Neoclassical masterpiece. Once the seat of Pope Francis, it holds great spiritual and historical significance. Inside, you’ll find stunning interiors and the tomb of General José de San Martín, a key figure in Argentine history.

Another highlight is the Museo Nacional del Cabildo, housed in a former colonial government building. Its exhibits offer insight into Argentina’s colonial past through heritage items and historical documents.

8. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is one of the top attractions in Buenos Aires for art lovers. Located in Recoleta, just minutes from the cemetery, it has been a must-visit cultural site since opening in 1896.

The museum boasts over 13,000 artworks, including masterpieces by El Greco, Paul Klee, and Niccolò Pisano. It also features works by Argentine artists like Lucio Fontana, Emilio Pettoruti, and Alfredo Guttero.

Women artists, including Diana Dowek, Raquel Forner, and Noemi Di Benedetto, are also represented.

One of the best things about the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is that it’s a free attraction in Buenos Aires. You simply have to add this museum to your Buenos Aires itinerary.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 7.30 pm and on the weekend from 10 am to 7.30 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

9. Torre Monumental

The Torre Monumental, formerly known as the Tower of the English, is one of the most Iconic places in Buenos Aires. Located in Retiro, near the capital’s main train station, it was a gift from the British community in 1916 to commemorate Argentina’s independence from Spain.

The tower has a complex history, particularly due to Argentina’s tensions with the UK during the Falklands War. In 1982, its name was officially changed, and it has since been a site of political significance. Despite this, it remains a notable part of Buenos Aires’ cultural heritage.

While I didn’t feel unsafe around the tower, locals sometimes advise caution when carrying valuables like cameras. For a quieter photo spot, head to Plaza San Martín Park nearby.

The tower is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, with an admission fee of 5000 ARS. It offers great panoramic views of the surrounding architecture and the park.

10. Palacio Barolo

Palacio Barolo is one of the most famous spots in Buenos Aires due to its architectural beauty. The palace stands proud in the Avenida de Mayo, another famous Buenos Aires landmark you can’t miss.

Inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, the palace is divided into three sections: Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. A guided tour is required to access the upper floors, where you can explore these symbolic spaces.

The tour starts in the Passage, which corresponds to the “Hell”, then moves by elevator to a balcony in “Purgatory”. From there, you climb one floor on foot to reach the Tower. The final ascent consists of six additional floors of stairs, leading to “Paradise”.

Keep in mind that while this is a top Buenos Aires attraction, it is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes are recommended. If the tour isn’t for you, you can still admire the building from the street.