Originally founded back in 1536, Buenos Aires – which means “fresh air” in Spanish – is a stunning city that more than 12 million people call home today. As the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires has served as the location of many of that country’s most important historical events through the years. Although the Spanish were the first and primary people to colonize Buenos Aires, the city is a true melting pot of several different cultures – especially Italian. Between its mile upon mile of lush green parks, its stunning architecture, its delectable culinary traditions and its friendly, exuberant and welcoming people, Buenos Aires is one port of call that you absolutely won’t want to miss.
Sightseeing & Things To Do
The vibrancy and excitement of Buenos Aires has made it a prime location for vacation travelers for years. You can find out what all of the fuss is about for yourself by getting off your ship when it docks at Buenos Aires. Whether you decide to take in a tango performance, stroll around an ornate old cemetery or sample a bit of the out-of-this-world asada, you’re sure to understand why this massive Argentine city is such a hit with so many people from around the world.
Buenos Aires is positively packed to its gills with great things to see and do. Whether you’re up for a night on the town, or would prefer to engage in more sedate types of sightseeing, you can take your pick from several choices in this eclectic city. For example:
Tango
For many people, tango and Buenos Aires truly go hand in hand. All over the city, small bars and other places feature frequent tango shows. Even if your ship will only be stopped in Buenos Aires for a limited amount of time, you should have no problem finding a place to take in a tango show. If you’d prefer to see a larger production, head over to La Ventana, which is one of the best-known tango establishments in Buenos Aires.
Cementerio de la Recoleta
Like many cities, Buenos Aires has a cemetery in which many of its most prominent, famous, well-known – and wealthiest – citizens have been laid to rest. The Cementario de la Recoleta is a prime place to check out amazingly ornate tombs and stunning grounds. The main highlight is the grave of Eva Peron, which is unquestionably the most-visited one in the entire cemetery. If you get a chance, be sure to stop by and check it out.
Museum Of Fine Arts
Buenos Aires has several excellent museums, but one of the most popular is the Museum of Fine Arts. The collections here mostly feature Argentine and European artists, although some other regions of the world are represented as well. Highlights include works by Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and Rodin.
Plaza de Mayo
If you want to experience what many consider to be the center of all of the action in Buenos Aires, head on over to the Plaza de Mayo. This is a very historic section of the city, and one of the main highlights is the Casa Rosada, which is where Eva Peron often addressed the crowds below from a balcony.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping in Buenos Aires, you have a couple of very attractive options. Pedestrian-only shopping is available on Florida Street and Lavalle Street, making these two thoroughfares very popular with locals and tourists alike. Along the length of each, you can find an assortment of souvenirs and locally produced goods that will help you remember your visit here. Street performers also frequent this area, making it entertaining.
Best Souvenir To Bring Back To the Cruise Ship
There are several great options when it comes to selecting a souvenir to bring home from Buenos Aires. Hollowed out gourds that are used to drink a popular herbal beverage called mate make for unique and memorable gifts or mementos.
Eating – Sample the Local Cuisine
Buenos Aires, and Argentina in general, is famous for its amazing meat. If your cruise ship stops here, be sure to track down a parnilla. Parnillas are restaurants that specialize in serving meat, which is known as asada. In order to enjoy the most authentic Argentine asada experience, you absolutely must stop in at a parnilla and order a complete course – look for bifo de lomo - you will not regret it!
When, Where, and How
When To Go
Springtime is arguably the best time to be in Buenos Aires. In this part of the world, spring occurs between September and November. This is when the air is warm but not too hot, and humidity is quite low. Otherwise, March through May – which is the fall in Buenos Aires – is another optimal time to be here.
Where You’re Docked
Cruise ships dock approximately half a mile from downtown Buenos Aires. Making things even more convenient is the fact that cabs stop by with regularity, making it easy to hail one and get over to where the action is that much more quickly.
Which Cruise Ships Go Here?
Many of the major cruise lines have itineraries that include stops at Buenos Aires. A few of the most popular cruise lines that stop in Buenos Aires are Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, and Holland America. However, there are many other options available in terms of dates, ships, days at sea and in port when it comes to Buenos Aires.