Buenos Aires, Argentina is one of the largest metropolitan centers in South America and the capital of the beautiful country of Argentina. Spending at least two days in Buenos Aires is a must on any Argentina trip or as a part of an Antarctica trip.
Want a guided tour to start out your trip and get acclimated to the city? Then check out Guru Walks for a free guided tour. You can book online to reserve your spot and pay what you wish when you get there. Check out the tours in Buenos Aires here.
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History of Buenos Aires
The area of Buenos Aires was originally inhabited by the Charrua tribe whose living was disrupted by the first Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza in 1536. Pedro de Mendoza first created a settlement in what is now the San Telmo area of Buenos Aires.
This site was later abandoned, and Juan de Garay arrived to form a new settlement. This settlement blossomed into Buenos Aires which depended greatly on trade. Items were heavily taxed due to how long it took them to arrive in Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires later opened for more trade, which caused the city to grow. Throughout the next several hundred years, British forces attacked Buenos Aires several times. Britain ruled for a very brief time until Spain took it back over.
Shortly thereafter, Argentina declared independence and became its own country. Throughout the 1800s, the political status fluctuated generally with a president in charge, but the city continued to grow. The 1900s saw a continuation of conflict in Buenos Aires before the first democratically elected mayor in 1996.
When to Spend Two Days in Buenos Aires
As Buenos Aires and Argentina are located in the Southern Hemisphere, remember the seasons are opposite of the United States. If you visit from November to March, the weather will be much warmer as it is their summertime.
We were in Buenos Aires in December and January and the weather was quite warm. If you prefer the colder weather, opt to visit during their winter from May to September.
Buenos Aires translates to “good air” which means a nice breeze is always blowing through the city, making it pleasant to visit.
How to Get to Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has two major airports: Ezeiza Airport and Aeroparque Jorge Newbury (AEP). All of the international flights arrive at Ezeiza, which is located about 45 minutes to an hour outside of central Buenos Aires. There are many flights to Buenos Aires from all over the world. Flights cost around $1000 from most places within the United States.
If flying domestically, you may be able to fly into AEP, which is located about 10 minutes from central Buenos Aires.
In South American cities, I highly recommend using Welcome Pickups to get to and from the airport. They are great with scheduling your ride and are very reasonably priced.
Another way to get to and from the airport: I recommend either pre-booking a taxi or shuttle or using the Taxi Ezeiza stand at the airport. You can pay by cash or card. You can also try pre-booking with Taxi Ezeiza through Whatsapp for a better rate. Send a message via Whatsapp 24 hours before your trip. It should be around $5300 (ARS) for a small car.
Taxi Ezeiza Whatsapp Number: +54 9 11 4090-8580
Transportation in Buenos Aires
Getting around Buenos Aires is very easy using public transportation. They have an extensive bus and metro system that will take you to the majority of the main sites. To ride on the buses and metros you will need a reloadable SUBE card.
The most difficult part was obtaining the SUBE card. We had to go to the window at the Palmero metro station to get it. Many sites and people told us you could get it at your hotel, the quick markets, or any of the stations but we found that to not be the case.
If you do not want to hassle with public transportation (even if it is easy and cheap once you get your card), you can also take taxis and Uber. If you opt to take a taxi, make sure to get a price prior to leaving to ensure you are not getting ripped off.
If you do not want those options, you could also buy a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off Bus.
Currency in Argentina and Buenos Aires
Argentina uses the Argentine Peso (ARS). While many places do take credit cards, it is a better value to pay in cash due to the Blue Market Dollar. You can read more about what to expect with converting your currency to Argentine Pesos on the Blue Market here.
Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
During my visit to Buenos Aires, I got the chance to stay in a couple of different areas. I found the best area to stay in to be Palmero. It had a ton of restaurants within walking distance, it was centrally located, and close to a metro stop. Several things to do were within walking distance as well.
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Buenos Aires hotels here!
During our stay in Palmero, we stayed at Hotel Costa Rica. This hotel was charming and was more of a guesthouse. It was a great price and a fabulous location. Keep in mind, it is an older hotel, but it worked best for my budget. I would definitely stay there again. We paid about $95/night.
We also stayed at the Empress Hotel as it was included as part of our Antarctica cruise. This was located closer to the train station, which is in between two of the main areas of Buenos Aires. While really nice, it was pricey and I preferred the location of Hotel Costa Rica.
The last hotel we stayed at was Hotel Waldorf. This was in the same area as the Empress Hotel, but closer to Casa Rosada. It was only for a few hours as we got in late from the airport and check-out was at 10am. Hotel Waldorf was fine for the few hours we needed it, but I would not recommend it for longer stays.
You can always try searching Priceline Express Deals for a better price or try to price match a hotel.
What to do During Two Days in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has a ton to explore both within the city and as day trips to other places. The following is the itinerary I recommend if you only have two days in Buenos Aires. If you stay in Palmero, you could also take this Palermo Street Art Tour.
Day 1
Recoleta Cemetery
Cost: $700 ARS
Hours: 8am-5pm
The Recoleta Cemetery is one of the best things to do during two days in Buenos Aires. This cemetery is the location of Eva Peron’s gravesite, as well as many other famous Argentines, such as former presidents or military commanders.
The cemetery was originally built in 1732 on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. It later was redesigned and remodeled into how it looks today. One of the highlights of the cemetery includes the massive mausoleums and statues at the grave sites.
If you want to learn more specifics about the history of the cemetery, opt to take a guided tour.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Cost: Free
Hours: Tues-Fri: 11am-7:30pm, Sat-Sun: 10am-7:30pm, Closed Mondays
Next, head to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. This museum is free and contains the art of many famous and Spanish artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Goya, and more. It originally opened in 1896 as a smaller museum and then was moved to its current location in 1909. The museum now holds 24 exhibit halls.
Floralis Generica
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
During your two days in Buenos Aires, make sure to check out the Floralis Generica. This famous sculpture in Buenos Aires was given to the city by Educardo Catalano. The flower opens and closes depending on the time of the year, but it is only opened 4 times throughout that year. There are several photo spots to take pictures with this popular sculpture.
Biblioteca Nacional
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours (outside)
This is the largest library in Argentina, but it is mostly famous due to its architecture. The area where this building now stands was once the residence of President Juan Peron and Evita. The Biblioteca Natcional is only a short walk from Floralis Generica.
Lunch at El Sanjuanino
Cost: $
Hours: Tues-Sun: 12pm-4pm, 7pm-12am, Closed Mondays
After spending the first morning of two days in Buenos Aires walking around and exploring many areas, stop for a lunch break at El Sanjuanino. Here, they have an endless selection of empanadas. I recommend ordering several different ones to try out various flavors and splitting them! My favorites were the chiclem and the queso cebolla.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Cost: Free
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 9am-12am, Sun: 12pm-10pm
After you have your fill of empanadas for lunch, head to El Ateneo Grand Splendid. This former theater is now home to a bookshop and is on the list of the world’s most beautiful bookshops. On the stage is also a coffee shop in case you need an energy pick-me-up.
Museo Evita
Cost: $
Hours: Tues-Sun: 11am-7pm, Closed Mondays
Next on the agenda for two days in Buenos Aires, head to Museo Evita, a museum about Eva Peron’s life. In the museum, they have a lot of her belongings and displays that go over her life story and contributions to Argentina. Plan to spend at least an hour viewing the exhibits.
La Escondida
Cost: $$
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 12pm-4pm, 8pm–1am, Fri-Sat: 12pm-4pm, 8pm-2am
Tonight, for dinner during your first of two days in Buenos Aires, opt to eat at La Escondida, a grilled meats restaurant. Most of the dishes are made for sharing so it is better to come with a larger group. You can also make reservations ahead of time online. I highly recommend any of the beef options.
Drinks at Verne Club
Cost: $
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 9pm-2:30am, Fri-Sat: 9pm-4am
After dinner, grab drinks at one of the best bars to visit during two days in Buenos Aires: Verne Club. This bar and the cocktails are themed after the author Julies Verne. My favorite cocktails to drink included
Day 2
Plaza de Mayo
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
The Plaza de Mayo is the main square in Buenos Aires and was once the center of the city. This is the best place to stay your second of two days in Buenos Aires. Surrounding the square are important government and religious buildings. Make sure to spend time checking out the various monuments throughout the plaza.
Casa Rosada
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours (outside)
Casa Rosada is the pink presidential palace of Argentina. It is from the balcony of Casa Rosada that drew the inspiration for Evita. If you book far enough in advance, visitors can tour the inside of the palace. Tours are free and offered on various days of the week. There is also a museum open from Wednesday to Sunday.
You can book through Argentina here (if you can get the link to work… it can be temperamental).
Cathedral Metropolitan de Buenos Aires
Cost: Free
Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-7pm, Sat-Sun: 9am-7:30pm
The Cathedral Metropolitan de Buenos Aires is another must see stop during two days in Buenos Aires. This was once the church of Pope Francis I prior to his tenure as pope. Visitors can opt to walk around inside and see the ornate interior.
Go on a Food Tour
Cost: $42/person
Hours: Varies by tour
One of my favorite activities we did during two days in Buenos Aires was going on a food tour.
I originally found Niko through WithLocals, but ended up needing to change my reservation. In the end, I ended up booking directly through Niko, which was way cheaper! You can contact him on WhatsApp at +54 9 11 2253-9797. Feel free to say Francesca referred you.
Note that this will be a private food tour, so the more people you have, the better your price will be. We had 6 people, so we got a pretty good deal on the price.
Throughout the food tour, we stopped at about five different food places, and each of them were delicious. I thought the tour was very well planned out and showcased a variety of Argentinian food. My favorite was the pizza stop and then the empanada stop. We definitely left with our bellies full.
Here are a couple other food tour options: Food Tour or if you want all the meats: Parilla Food Tour.
San Telmo Market
Cost: Free
Hours: 10am-9pm
San Telmo Market is the main shopping spot in Buenos Aires. Here visitors can get food, souvenirs, and a ton of other handicrafts and goods. It is a fun place to explore during two days in Buenos Aires as you can just wander and explore even if you do not want to buy anything. You can also take this San Telmo Market Tour that will give you a good overview of the market.
The Federal Bar
Cost: $
Hours: 8am-2am
The Federal Bar is one of the oldest bars in Buenos Aires. If you can, take a seat at the old bar top and grab a beer. It is a great way to take a break after spending two days in Buenos Aires.
Museo Histórico Nacional
Cost: Free
Hours: Wed-Sun: 11am-6:50pm, Closed Mon-Tues
The Museo Historico Nacional is the history museum of Buenos Aires. Visitors will learn about the history of both Buenos Aires and Argentina. Best of all, admission is free. The museum contains lots of artifacts from the May Revolution and the War for Independence.
Eat at Pizzeria Guerrin
Cost: $$
Hours: 10am-2am
Pizzeria Guerrin is one of the classic Argentinian pizza places. It has been in operation since 1932 and offers some of the best traditional Argentinian pizza in Buenos Aires. If possible, go with a larger group so you can try some of the different flavors and toppings.
The Obelisk
Cost: Free
Hours: 24 hours
The Obelisk is the most popular monument in Buenos Aires. It is located in the Plaza de Republica and commemorates the first foundation of the city. Locals typically come here for any big celebrations, like winning the World Cup.
Happy Hour at Hotel Costa Rica
Cost: $
Hours: 3pm-4pm
If you stay at Hotel Costa Rica, they have a daily happy hour and a gorgeous rooftop overlooking the city. I recommend grabbing drinks there at some point during your two days in Buenos Aires.
Floria Atlantico
Cost: $
Hours: 12pm-12am
Another one of the best bars in Buenos Aires is Floria Atlantico. The entrance to this speakeasy bar is hidden in the back of a flower shop and takes up the basement of the building. They have a ton of fun cocktails and a wide selection of wines as well. They also offer some light bites to eat. You can make reservations online or show up and try to get in if it is not too busy.
More Than Two Days in Buenos Aires
I highly recommend spending more than two days in Buenos Aires so you can see some of the other things the area has to offer. We ended up getting to spend about five days exploring the city.
Day Trip to Colonia, Uruguay
Cost: approximately $100
Hours: Varies by Day
Going on a day trip to Colonia allows you to explore another fabulous country. It is quite easy to get from Buenos Aires to Colonia. You can read more about the deals in the link above.
Visitors can take a ferry to Colonia from the Buenos Aires port. From there, you can explore on your own or book a guided tour of the city. Plan to spend more of the day exploring one of the oldest towns and UNESCO sites in Uruguay.
Take a Cooking Class
Cost: $70/person
Hours: Varies (Schedule with Norma)
If you have more than two days in Buenos Aires, I highly recommend taking a cooking class with Norma. This is a private cooking class done in the home of Norma, who is an Argentinian local.
With the cooking class, you will make 3 different recipes, a starter, empanadas, and then a dessert. Once you cook everything, you will then sit down and share the meal that you cooked! Everything was delicious. Norma also shares the recipes with you after the class.
Taking a cooking class is a fun way to get to know some of the local foods and it was awesome to spend time with Norma. Alternatively, you could book this Empanada Cooking Class.
Total Costs for Buenos Aires
- Air: $2000 total or $1000/person
- Hotel: $190 total or $95/person
- Activities: $200 total or $100/person
- Total: $2390 or $1195/person
Want a More Guided Buenos Aires Experience?
If you want a guide to take you around the various areas of Buenos Aires, make sure to check out these experiences!
Final Tips for Two Days in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a fun and entertaining place to visit in Argentina. Spending two days in Buenos Aires is the perfect amount to get introduced to the city, but you could easily spend a week exploring the area. If you have more time, make sure to visit Uruguay or head to Chile, Peru, Ecuador, or Colombia to see what those countries have to offer.
