Since we began following the concept of an RTW trip, Harry and I have always thought, “We don’t care how many beds you’ve slept in, how much came out of YOUR personal wallet spent a month, what your general opinion is of a particular city, etc.” We always wished people would share their secrets. Like you know what would be more meaningful? DETAILS! If you found some places that are a great value for the dollar, share them with others! Did you stay in a great apartment? Where?! You did a great tour that was worth the money? With who?! Did you find a fun attraction that didn’t break the bank? Do tell!
As budget-savvy travelers, we want to highlight to other travelers places that don’t eat up all of your travel funds. We want to share……our secrets!
The following Buenos Aires attractions are all at no cost or minimal cost (as indicated). We walked or took the Metro to all locations. (Our studio apartment was located in Palermo Hollywood). We also don’t rank them. Think of different strokes for different folks. See what may interest you!
BUENOS AIRES BUDGET-SAVVY ATTRACTIONS – MAINLY SELF-GUIDED UNLESS YOU FEEL THE URGE TO SPLURGE ON A GUIDE
Recoleta Cemetery
*Walking tour of Recoleta Cemetery & Basilica Nuestra Señora (the second oldest church in Buenos Aires. It’s next door to the Cemetery)
*Walking tour of Plaza de Mayo, Catedral Metropolitana, and Casa Rosada
Parque Tres de Febrero
*Walking tour of Parque Tres de Febrero and El Rosedal – A big park and rose garden with walking paths, paddle boating, sunbathing, etc. Grab two tasty fresh sausage sandwiches at the street vendor in the park for a picnic which cost ~$4.00 USD
*Hipodromo de Palermo – Palermo Horse Race Track & Casino. Bring a picnic lunch, snacks, and drinks to enjoy races in the stands. Otherwise, you cannot view the track from most of the restaurants or cafes on the premises.
NASA photo of the Río de la Plata looking from northwest to southeast. Buenos Aires is visible on the right side near the Paraná River delta. River sediments turn the water brown to the vicinity of Montevideo, visible on the left coast.
*Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve – Walk for miles in an ecological reserve with bird viewing, areas for picnicking, and even exercise equipment. One of the few places we got to see glimpses of the Rio de la Plata.
*Museo Nacional De Bellas Artes – When are art museums ever free? We spent the afternoon with Rembrandt, Gauguin, Van Gogh & Monet. Stop by the Floralis Generica (large flower sculpture, a symbol of the city) which is located behind the museum
The Japanese Gardens – A peaceful getaway for the afternoon
*Walking Tour of Av. 9 de Julio/Obelisco – Celebrated as the widest street in the world with sights of Obelisco, the monument and symbol of Buenos Aires. Think, the Times Square of Buenos Aires.
*San Telmo Sunday Market – Lots of street performers, crafters, and souvenir shopping. Stop by to see the Casa Minima, which is one of the tiniest houses in the city at only just 8 ft wide.
GREAT ATTRACTIONS FOR THE DOLLAR
La Catedral – Great underground tango experience! Lessons are given on Tuesday nights with paid entrance. We paid ~$17 USD for 2 admissions, 2 empanadas, and 2 bottles of wine.
Bonaventura Trips– We took El Tigre Delta River boat tour. Great and engaging guide. Includes FULL DAY tour, snacks, and transport
Buenos Aires City Bus Tour – Although touristy, we paid ~$23 USD to ride the double-decker bus all day. Cheaper than a taxi, it takes you to all the major tourist points spanning the city. It lasts 24 hours (so if you purchase at 1 pm, it is valid until 1 pm the following day).
Fuerza Bruta – Our vote for the best nighttime activity! High energy and great artistic performance. We paid $23 USD for two tickets. Tip! Go to the ticket booth near the Hard Rock Cafe to avoid any extra processing fees.
- If you purchase outgoing tickets directly at the Retiro Bus Station, it is cheaper than buying them online.
*Prices are based on current blue rate
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