Buenos Aires in One Day

What to Do in Buenos Aires in One Day: A Guide to Fall in Love with the City

Only have one day to discover Buenos Aires? Don’t worry — this city offers the perfect blend of history, culture, art, and passion, and you can experience its essence in just 24 hours. We’ve designed the ideal itinerary to make the most of your day: start your morning in Retiro and Recoleta, spend the afternoon exploring Downtown Buenos Aires, and finish with an unforgettable tango night.

Morning: Elegance and Culture in Retiro and Recoleta

A Porteño Breakfast in Retiro

Start your day with energy at one of Retiro’s traditional cafés, like Petit Colón, one of Buenos Aires’ Bares Notables. Enjoy a classic Argentine breakfast: café con leche, medialunas (croissants), and fresh orange juice.

Then take a stroll through the Gardens of Plaza San Martín, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. From there, you can admire the Monument to General San Martín and, if you appreciate architecture, take in the elegant French-style buildings surrounding the square.

Heading to Recoleta: Art, History, and Architecture

From Retiro, a short walk brings you to Recoleta, a neighborhood that symbolizes Buenos Aires’ refinement. Along Avenida Santa Fe, you’ll reach Plaza San Martín, where you can soak in the city’s history and admire the grand palaces and historic buildings. Continue along Arroyo Street, lined with architectural gems that are works of art in themselves.

Your next stop should be the Recoleta Cemetery, an architectural jewel where many of Argentina’s most notable figures rest — including Eva Perón. If you’d like to explore the area with a local guide who can share its stories, join our Free Tour Retiro & Recoleta.

Pilar Church

Nearby Highlights

Just steps away, you can visit:

• Basílica del Pilar, one of Buenos Aires’ oldest churches.

• Centro Cultural Recoleta, featuring contemporary exhibitions and cultural events.

• National Museum of Fine Arts, home to works by Van Gogh, Goya, and Argentine artists.

At lunchtime, enjoy a meal at La Biela, another of the city’s iconic cafés. Alternatively, there’s a shopping mall near the cemetery with many dining options.

Afternoon: The Heart of Buenos Aires — History and Urban Rhythm

In the afternoon, head to Downtown Buenos Aires, where the city’s pulse beats strongest. Start along Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, and take a photo in front of the Obelisk, the unmistakable symbol of the capital.

Palacio Barolo

Walk around Av de Mayo and then walk toward Plaza de Mayo, the historic heart of Buenos Aires. Don’t miss these three landmarks:

• Casa Rosada, the presidential palace.

• Metropolitan Cathedral, in neoclassical style.

• Cabildo of Buenos Aires, a vestige of colonial times.

If you’re into shopping or architecture, visit Galería Güemes, a stunning Art Nouveau building with an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city. Another great option is Café Tortoni, the city’s oldest and most famous café, where time seems to stand still.

To explore this part of town in depth, join our Free Walking Tour of Historic Downtown, starting at 3 p.m.

Evening: Dinner and Tango — An Unmissable Experience

After a full day, it’s time to surrender to the magic of tango, the music that defines the soul of Buenos Aires. Enjoy dinner and a show at one of the city’s most renowned venues:

• Secreto Tango Society: Located in Palermo, this immersive experience features live music and dancers performing just meters from your table. Learn more and book here.

• Teatro Piazzolla: In the city center, offering shows with or without dinner.

• Café Tortoni: The same historic café also hosts intimate tango performances.

Savor a typical Argentine dinner — empanadas, bife de chorizo, and a glass of Malbec — while experiencing a performance that blends passion, music, and culture. For more options, check out our article on Where to See Tango in Buenos Aires.

Practical Tips for Your Day in Buenos Aires

• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll be walking a lot between neighborhoods.

• Use taxis or public transport to save time.

• Carry cash or a card: not all places accept digital payments.

• Plan your schedule: most museums close at 6 p.m.

Buenos Aires is a city that captures hearts at first sight. In just one day, you can explore its most iconic neighborhoods, admire its unique architecture, and end your day with the art of tango. This itinerary blends the classic and the modern, the elegant and the popular — giving you the full porteño experience.

If you have the chance to stay longer, check out our multi-day itineraries for Buenos Aires.