Discover Buenos Aires: A 5-Day Budget Adventure

Experience the vibrant culture and savor the sumptuous cuisine of Buenos Aires without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visiting Buenos Aires on a tight budget can be done by staying in budget hotels, avoiding pricey tourist traps, and indulging in the city's affordable street food. Explore the city's historic neighborhoods such as San Telmo, La Boca, and Recoleta which offer free or low-cost sightseeing options. Don't forget to experience the local tango scene with free shows in public squares or check out the city's many museums and galleries with free admission on certain days.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Buenos Aires

  • Check into Hotel Bauen, a historic and budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the city
  • Grab a coffee and breakfast at Café Tortoni, a classic spot with a vibrant atmosphere
  • Walk along Calle Florida and check out the shops and street performers
  • Head to Plaza de Mayo to take in the historic sights, including the Presidential Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral
  • Enjoy an Argentine steak dinner at La Brigada, a typical parrilla with a friendly vibe
Day 2

Exploring Palermo

  • Take a bus or subway to Palermo, one of Buenos Aires’ trendiest neighborhoods
  • Visit the Botanical Garden and enjoy the beautiful flora, fauna, and sculptures
  • Walk around the Palermo Hollywood area and check out the street art murals
  • Visit the MALBA, a modern art museum with an impressive collection
  • Head to Mercado de San Telmo for some tasty street food and local crafts
Day 3

Tango and Teatro Colon

  • Start the day with brunch at Café Las Violetas, a charming cafe with grand architecture
  • Take a tango lesson at a nearby studio like Tango Brujo
  • Visit the iconic Teatro Colon for a tour or performance
  • Walk around the historic San Telmo neighborhood and check out the antique shops and street performances
  • Dine at El Desnivel, a busy and authentic parrilla known for its delicious meat
Day 4

La Boca and Recoleta

  • Take a bus or taxi to La Boca to see the colorful houses and street performers on Caminito
  • Visit the Boca Juniors stadium and museum for some football history
  • Head to Recoleta to spend some time in the beautiful cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried
  • Check out the design shops and cafes in the Palermo Soho area
  • Treat yourself to some fine dining at Tegui, a renowned eatery with creative dishes and impressive wine list
Day 5

Day Trip to Tigre Delta

  • Take the train from Retiro station to Tigre, a charming town on the Paraná River Delta
  • Rent a kayak or boat to explore the waterways and bask in the tranquility
  • Visit the Tigre Art Museum and historic Puerto de Frutos market
  • Sample some mate and local pastries at one of the many cafes
  • Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at El Gato Blanco, a popular local restaurant with rustic charm
  • End of Itinerary. Have a safe journey!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Buenos Aires, Argentina by plane is to fly into Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also known as Ezeiza International Airport. There are many airlines that offer direct flights to Buenos Aires from major cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Buenos Aires is possible but can be challenging due to the long distance and border crossings. The Pan-American Highway connects the city with the rest of South America. Once in Buenos Aires, it's recommended to park your car as traffic can be congested and parking can be difficult.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train services that connect Buenos Aires with other cities outside of Argentina.

Boat

There are no regular boat services that connect Buenos Aires with other cities. However, it is possible to take a cruise ship or ferry from Montevideo, Uruguay to Buenos Aires. The Buenos Aires Cruise Port is located in the Puerto Madero neighborhood.

Bus

The best way to get to Buenos Aires by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Argentina, such as Mendoza or Cordoba, or from neighboring countries such as Uruguay or Chile. The central bus station, known as Terminal de Omnibus de Retiro, is located in the Retiro neighborhood of Buenos Aires.

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