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We think the best way to get to know a city is with your feet on the ground – which is exactly why we created this Free Walking Tour of Buenos Aires, Argentina! The route of our Buenos Aires Walking Tour includes the top highlights and must-see sights in the city’s best districts.
Our Buenos Aires city tour is organized as an easy-to-follow trek through BA. So lace up your shoes and hit the pavement with our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Buenos Aires!
Free Walking Tours Buenos Aires, Argentina
Most Buenos Aires Free Walking Tours are not actually free. The name is a bit of a misnomer – as the guides of the free BA tours expect to be tipped. However, our free walking tour is absolutely free!
Free Buenos Aires Self Guided Walking Tour Details
Our free tour of Buenos Aires covers 6.5 miles (10km) and provides an excellent introduction to the city. Ambitious travelers can complete the route in a single day. Those staying in the city for a few days, might find that it is better to complete the walk over two days.
To aid in your sightseeing, we include information about each attraction and a pin-drop for every sight so that you can easily find your way. Additionally, we include a useful Buenos Aires map that is marked with all of the sights on the tour at the end of the post. This article outlines everything you need to complete a self-guided walking tour in Buenos Aires.
Only have 1 day in the city? Use the detailed tips in our One Day Buenos Aires Itinerary for trip planning advice!
What You Will Need to Tour Buenos Aires
Before you set off on our Buenos Aires free walking tour, make sure you are prepared for the adventure. You won’t need much, but the following items are recommended.
Walking Shoes
A comfortable pair of city trekking shoes are essential for exploring Buenos Aires sights on foot. Kris likes these shoes my Merrell and I prefer these by Columbia.
Water and Snacks
Bring a water bottle and snacks. While there are plenty of places to buy food and drinks along the way, it’s better to already have some with you.
Travel Camera and Day Bag
Capture the iconic sights of Buenos Aires with an actual travel camera! We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens for high-quality photos.
Protection from the Elements
In the summertime, make sure to slather on the sunscreen and bring a wide-brimmed travel hat for shade. In other seasons, make sure to have a travel umbrella and a packable rain coat.
Day Bag and Money Belt
A good travel day bag is essential on Self Guided Walking Tours of Buenos Aires. It is best to use a day pack that has multiple zippered compartments – and if you opt to use a small backpack, it is best to wear it on your chest in crowded spaces.
Additionally, wear a slim money belt concealed beneath your clothes. BA is notorious for pickpockets, so make sure you keep your cash and personal items secure. In addition to the money belt, I have used a convenient bra stash.
Internet Connection
In order to use the map links provided while touring Buenos Aires, travelers will need an internet connection. We use Pocket Wifi to stay connected wherever we are in the world!
Argentina Travel Insurance
Basic travel insurance may come in handy at the worst times – like if you require emergency medical attention, the airline loses your luggage or are the victim of theft.
23 Buenos Aires Walking Tour Sights
Now that we covered the basic, need-to-know info, it’s time to get started! Our BA free tour begins in historic San Telmo, passes by Puerto Madero, winds through Centro, weaves through Recoleta and ends in fashionable Palermo. Alright, we’re off! We begin the tour of Buenos Aires at Plaza Dorrego.
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#1 Plaza Dorrego
MAP. At the heart of the San Telmo District is Plaza Dorrego, the second-oldest square in the city – and the perfect place to start a day of Buenos Aires sightseeing. The square is ringed with cafes and bars that spill into the open space.
On Sundays, Plaza Dorrego is filled with vendors of the famous antique market, Feria de San Telmo. Street musicians and tango dancers often perform in the square, as well. Start your day with a beverage from Bar Plaza Dorrego, a traditional café that celebrates the history of Buenos Aires…and is also a great spot for Buenos Aires people watching!
#2 Mercado San Telmo
MAP. A Buenos Aires landmark and national monument, the Mercado San Telmo building dates to 1897. Constructed with iron, metal and glass, the structure is as impressive as the vendors’ displays.
Produce stands, butchers and bakeries share the space with small restaurants and antique shops. Wander through the beautiful market space – and maybe pick up some snacks for your Buenos Aires walk.
#3 Defensa Street, Buenos Aires
MAP. Strolling the length of Calle Defensa is most popular on Sundays when it is filled with the overflow of vendors from the Plaza Dorrego Flea Market.
Visitors on other days of the week, however, can wander north along the cobblestone street and admire the architecture. Travelers may also want to visit El Zanjon, a archaeological museum featuring tunnels and artifacts from the first settlement in 1536.
#4 San Ignacio de Loyola Church
MAP. Iglesia Saint Ignatius is the oldest church in Buenos Aires. Completed in 1722, the façade and south tower date to 1686 and are among the oldest structures in all of BA. This Roman Catholic Church is preserved as a National Historic Monument.
#5 Manzana de las Luces (Block of Enlightenment)
MAP. Both Iglesia St. Ignatius and the building complex directly to the west comprise the Manzana de las Luces – or Block of Enlightenment – which is a historical culture center. The colonial building was constructed in the late 1600s as part of the Jesuit compound and features an arcade courtyard. Inside, there are antique shops and a restaurant.
#6 Puerto Madero Waterfront Walk
MAP. In the late 1800s, the Rio Darsena Sur served as the main docks of Buenos Aires. However, shortly after the then state-of-the-art docks were built, bigger cargo ships started arriving and the New Port (Puerto Nuevo) was built. The warehouses and riverside fell to disuse and became a blight on the city.
In the 1990s, the urban area was revitalized – turning old warehouses into upscale accommodations and office space. The now trendy area, which still features elements of a port, is one of the most sought-after areas to live in Buenos Aires. High-rises stand on the eastern bank and house corporate headquarters, posh condos and high-end hotels.
#7 Plaza de Mayo
MAP. Plaza de Mayo is the central square of Buenos Aires and the heart of Argentina’s politics. The square is named for the successful May Revolution of 1810 when the colony fought for its independence from Spain. Throughout history, Plaza de Mayo has been the site of numerous political demonstrations and is surrounded by some of Buenos Aires’ most famous landmarks.
Monuments on Plaza de Mayo
In addition to the buildings that ring the square, there are two important Plaza de Mayo monuments: The May Pyramid and the Belgrano Monument.
The May Pyramid – or Piramide de Mayo – sits in the center of the square and ranks as the first (and oldest) monument in Buenos Aires. The 61-foot-tall slender pyramid was erected in 1811 in celebration of the one-year anniversary of the May Revolution.
The equestrian statue of General Manuel Belgrano stands at the east end of the square in front of Casa Rosada. A military leader, Belgrano is recognized as one of Argentina’s liberators – or Libertadores. The statue shows Belgrano hoisting the Argentinian flag, which he is credited with designing.
#8 Casa Rosada Buenos Aires
MAP. The Pink House on the east end of the square, Casa Rosada, is the office of the president of Argentina. The official name of the building is Casa de Gobierno, or Government House, and it is a National Historic Monument of Argentina. The current structure evolved from a fort that dates to 1594. Inside, there is a historical museum that displays presidential memorabilia.
#9 Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires
MAP. The columned, neoclassical Catedral Metropolitana resembles a stoic government building more than a church. After being rebuilt numerous times due to faulty plans, the cathedral that now stands was completed in 1791. The façade, however, would take another 90 years to be decorated. The interior of the church has 3 aisles, numerous side chapels and is adorned in art.
The Metropolitan Cathedral is the home church of Pope Francis. On the right aisle is the Mausoleum of General Jose de San Martin. The General is a national hero and is credited for liberating South America from the Spanish. The black tomb is surrounded by three statues, which represent Argentina, Chile and Peru.
In addition to General San Martin, the remains of two other generals and those of the Unknown Soldier of the Independence are housed at the grave site. The mausoleum is protected by two soldiers and you may even witness the Changing of the Guards.
#10 Florida Street
MAP. A must-visit on walking tours of Buenos Aires, Florida Street is the city’s famous pedestrian zone. Marking the heart of the commercial district, Calle Florida is lined with shops and restaurants. The throughfare has a long history, but was only closed to car traffic in 1971. Today, the walkable area attracts locals, tourists, street performers and money exchangers.
#11 Avenida 9 de Julio and The Obelisk
MAP. Named in honor of the Argentina Day of Independence (July 9, 1816), the wide 9 de Julio Avenue in Buenos Aires carries seven lanes of traffic in each direction. The width of the street is equal to an entire city block – and it’s often claimed to be the widest street in the world. Crossing the street requires a few minutes, because pedestrians are made to stop at several points while attempting to get from one side to the other.
The Obelisco de Buenos Aires that stands in the center of Plaza de la Republic at the intersection of 9 de Julio and Corrientes is a city icon. The 235-foot-tall monument was built in 1936 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the city.
#12 Teatro Colon on Plaza Lavalle
MAP. Plaza Lavalle is a green park that stretches three city blocks. Although the park is not of major importance, there are several significant buildings that border the park.
The most important buildings that overlook the park are the Teatro Colon Opera House, the Federal Courthouse (housing the Supreme Court), Escuela Presidente Roca (a public school) and Teatro Nacional Cervantes (an ornately decorated theater).
Teatro Colon first opened in 1857, but the present building dates to 1908. The world-famous theater is consistently ranked as one of the top opera houses in the world and has notably superb acoustics. Visitors who cannot attend a performance can take one of the guided tours.
#13 El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookstore
MAP. Perhaps the World’s Most Beautiful Bookstore, the El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookshop resides inside a historic theater. Bookshelves occupy the space where there were once theater seats and rows of books line the upper balconies. The red velvet curtain still frames the stage, where visitors can sit and sip coffee from the on-site café.
#14 Buller Brew Pub
MAP. One of the pioneers of craft beer in Buenos Aires, Buller has been brewing since 1999. The brew pub offers a range of beers, a full menu and a rooftop view. Located across the street from the Recoleta Cemetery, it’s a good spot for lunch and maybe even a sampler platter of beer before continuing on your walking tour of Buenos Aires.
#15 Recoleta Cemetery
MAP. The Recoleta District is considered to be one of the wealthiest areas of Buenos Aires. Known for its Beaux-Arts architecture, Recoleta is home to luxurious shops, art galleries, museums and mansions. However, the most notable destination in the district is the famous Recoleta Cemetery.
Comprised of nearly 7,000 above-ground tombs, the Recoleta Cemetery is the final resting place for the city’s upper-class citizens, military heroes, presidents and – most famously – Eva Peron.
The land is rumored to be the most expensive real estate in Buenos Aires. Graves range from elaborate and intricate to dilapidated and derelict, but even the ones that were almost falling down have a sense of beauty.
Like other renowned cemeteries (for instance Pere Lachaise in Paris and Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv), wandering the paths at Recoleta Cemetery is like walking through an open-air museum of sculptures.
Free Walking Tour Recoleta Cemetery
There are free, English-speaking Recoleta Buenos Aires cemetery tours. One was beginning as we wandered in, so we joined the Recoleta Cemetery Tour to listen to the stories. We learned about the architecture, the famous (and not-so-famous) people buried at the cemetery and how they arrived at their tombs.
Tales of ghosts (like that of Rufina Cambaceres, who was buried alive) and superstitions (like rubbing the nose of a dog statue for good luck) were entertaining anecdotes. Most informative was the story of Eva Peron and how it took 20 years after her death before she – or what is believed to be her – was buried with her family at Recoleta Cemetery.
#16 Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
MAP. The stark white Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar – or Iglesia de Nuestra Senora del Pilar – ranks as the second-oldest Buenos Aires church. Built in 1732 for the Franciscan monastery, the church has a richly decorated interior that glitters with gold accents.
#17 Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
MAP. One of the best art museums in Buenos Aires, the Bellas Artes museum features international and Argentinian art. Housing one of the largest collections of art in Latin America (including masterpieces by Monet, Rodin and Van Gogh), the museum occupies a former pumping station. Most of the exhibits are free to visit.
#18 Floralis Generica
MAP. The steel flower sculpture, Floralis Generica, sits at the center of Parque Naciones Unidas surrounded by water from a small pond. The petals open in the morning and close again each day at sunset. The 75-foot-tall sculpture was a gift to Buenos Aires in 2002 by late Argentinian artist Eduardo Catalano.
Note: The distance between these two sights is 1.5 miles. Hop on a bus or grab an Uber if you need a break from walking.
#19 Monument to the Carta Magna and Four Regions
MAP. The 80-foot-tall brass and marble Monument to the Carta Magna and Four Regions of Argentina is one of the most emblematic tributes to Argentina’s independence. It stands in the center of a roundabout at the intersection of Libertador and General Sarmiento Avenues.
Often referred to by the nickname, “Monument of the Spanish,” the statue was gifted to the city in 1910 by Spanish residents living in Argentina to celebrate 100 years since the May Revolution. Due to several delays (the designer passing away, supplies sinking in the ocean and other interruptions), the monument was not completed until 1927.
The Monument to the Carta Magna and Four Regions of Argentina – or Monumento a La Carta Magna y las Cuatro Regiones Argentinas – is symbolic of ‘The Republic’ and the four regions: El Plata, Pampa, Andes and Chaco. Phrases from the constitution are etched on the base.
#20 Paseo El Rosedal Garden
MAP. The largest district in Buenos Aires, Palermo is home to sprawling parks, fashion boutiques and lively nightlife. Palermo is ideal for leisurely window shopping and roaming in the park.
Almost 1,000 acres of gardens surround the Spaniards Monument. Formally called the February 3 Park – or Parque Tres de Febrero – it is often simply referred to as the Palermo Woods. The land was personal property of dictator Juan Manuel de Rosas. However, the estate was confiscated when he was overthrown in 1852 and transformed into a public park.
The planned parks include botanical gardens, rose gardens and the Japanese gardens. The walking paths (which are popular with dog walkers) lead to ponds and through woods. Also on site are the planetarium, the city zoo and museums.
#21 Plaza Italia Buenos Aires
MAP. A hub of transportation, Plaza Italia is dominated by the central equestrian statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi. On the northwest side of the plaza, there is a 2,000-year-old Roman column. The pillar was given to Buenos Aires by the city of Rome and ranks as one of the oldest monuments in the city.
#22 Palermo SoHo
MAP. The tree-lined streets of Palermo SoHo – one of the many sub-districts within Palermo – beckon visitors to wander and explore….and shop and eat. Designers and fashionistas hang out in hip Palermo SoHo – and they do so alongside foodies and travelers. At the heart of the trendy district is Plaza Serrano (formally called Plazoteta Julio Cortazar) – an area that is packed with cafes, restaurants and bars.
#23 Food and Drinks in Palermo
Like all good free walking tours in Buenos Aires, we are ending this walking tour with food and beverages. One of the top things to do in Palermo Buenos Aires is to dine out – so you are in the right place! Numerous traditional grill restaurants – or parrillas – are found in Palermo Soho, most notably La Cabrera.
However, we headed straight to Burger Joint (map). The aptly-named restaurant serves incredible burgers at good prices. We recommend ordering the La Bleu, which is a grass-fed burger that is piled high with Roquefort cheese, spinach, roasted peppers, sautéed onions and mushrooms. For craft beer, check out Antares (map), one of our favorite mountain Breweries in Bariloche.
Buenos Aires Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map to locate the sights on our Free Buenos Aires Walking Tour route. Each sight, listed above, has step-by-step directions from the previous sight, as well as a link to help get you from sight-to-sight.
Tips for Walking in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Buenos Aires, Argentina covers some ground! While our walking tour is manageable for people who love to walk, there are lengthy stretches between the districts of Centro, Recoleta and Palermo.
Visitors with 2 Days in Buenos Aires
Visitors with at least two days in Buenos Aires can split the walk into two separate days of sightseeing: City center sights one day, then Recoleta and Palermo sights the following day. This will eliminate the long stretch between Centro and Recoleta. Breaking the walk up into two days also allows additional time to enjoy the sights along the way, like the museums and parks.
Getting around Buenos Aires
To cut down on the length of the walk, visitors can hop on public transport. We used the Subte (subway) to arrive at the starting point of our outlined tour of Buenos Aires. After that, the subway is not very useful for our sightseeing route. However, buses are frequent and Uber is also available in Buenos Aires.
More Buenos Aires Tours
If our detailed Self-Guided Buenos Aires Walk has got your wanting to see more, perhaps add one of these tours in Buenos Aires to your itinerary!
Hop On Hop Off Buenos Aires
Not free – and not a walking tour – a Buenos Aires bus tour is more suitable to visitors who would rather ride than walk. A quite popular tour in Buenos Aires is the Hop On Hop Off Bus.
Bike Tour Buenos Aires
For an alternate way to see the city, join a biking tour in Buenos Aires. Most of the BA Biking Tours receive rave reviews from fellow travelers. Check it out!
Wine Tour Buenos Aires
More interested in sampling regional wine than seeing city sights? We’re not judging! Join an expert sommelier for a 2-hour tasting of local Argentinian wines. The small-group tasting includes snacks, too. Find out more!
Street Art Tour Buenos Aires
Some call it graffiti…we call it street art! Check out the latest and best BA street art murals on a guided mini-bus tour. Venture into lesser-visited neighborhoods and learn about the street art scene in Buenos Aires. Get the details!
Jewish Tour Buenos Aires
Did you know BA has one of the largest Jewish communities in the world? We certainly didn’t. Learn about the history of Jews on one of the Jewish Buenos Aires guided tours. Get more info!
Private Tour Buenos Aires
Want a guide to customize a tour for you? Book one of the Buenos Aires private tours and let a guide lead you to the sights that interest you most! Read the rave reviews!
More Things To Do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Walking tours in Buenos Aires are a great way to get acquainted with the city – but there are more ways to experience the area. We feature some of the best things to do in our One-Day in Buenos Aires Itinerary – but we are sharing a few more tips below.
Tango in BA
Watching tango is a must! Take in a tango show (with optional dinner upgrade) in the historic San Telmo district. Book this popular performance-and-dinner combo! For a unique experience, take Tango lessons with a professional dancer!
Buenos Aires Museums
There are numerous history, art and cultural museums in Buenos Aires. We mention some of the top museums in Buenos Aires in our walking tour. However, there area few more we want to bring to your attention.
- Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires – Features artwork by Latin American artists, like Frida Kahlo (ticket required)
- Museo Evita – Showcases the life of Eva Peron (ticket required)
- Museo Moderno – Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art housed in old tobacco factory (ticket required)
- Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo – Preserved mansion depicting life in the early 20th century (free)
- Centro Cultural Kirchner (CCK) – Former Post Office renovated into theaters and galleries with rooftop terraces (free)
Day Trips from Buenos Aires
There are also numerous Buenos Aires day trips for travelers who want to explore beyond the capital city and even over to Uruguay! Search for highly-rated BA day tours on Viator.
Top Travel Tips for your Trip To Buenos Aires
We know you’re ready for your trip to Argentina now! We’d like to share just a bit more advice as you make your travel plans for Buenos Aires.
Where To Stay in Buenos Aires
During our trip, we chose to stay in an apartment in Buenos Aires that we found on Airbnb. We have discovered that staying in apartments usually costs less than hotels – yet we often have more space, with the added benefit of a kitchen.
Visitors who want to stay in a Buenos Aires hotel or an inexpensive hostel can find a plethora of options on Booking. First, however, read our tips for Booking the Best Hotels for Cheap!
How To Get To Buenos Aires
We arrived in Buenos Aires via ferry from Montevideo and departed via plane to Bariloche. The main airport in Buenos Aires is the Ministro Pistarini International Airport (often just called the Ezeiza Airport/EZE). Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) is the secondary Buenos Aires airport used mostly for domestic flights to destinations like Mendoza and regional flights to Chile or Brazil.
Use our tips for Finding Cheap Airfare – then start your search for the best flights to Argentina on SkyScanner.
Organize Your Buenos Aires Trip
As you begin to make plans and book reservations, staying on top the your trip details is essential. We recommend using our Travel Planner Printables – to stay organized as you plan your vacation!
Start planning your trip to Argentina! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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