24 hours in Buenos Aires | A Tango & Taste Adventure

I have a pretty busy life, so sometimes, all I have are 24 hours and I´ve made it my mission to get the most out of every single one of my quick trips. This Buenos Aires guide is part of a whole section in my profile, so if you feel any resemblance to me, this is just for you!

Because I understand everyone is different and has different budgets, I´m putting more than one option for every meal (including a vegan one), so you can decide what fits best for you. 

Good morning Buenos Aires

Cementerio de la Recoleta

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Start your day in Recoleta, a neighborhood rich in history. Visit the Recoleta Cemetery, a labyrinth of ornate mausoleums, and the resting place of Argentine icons like Eva Perón.

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Plaza Francia

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The Plaza Francia is an excellent spot for a morning stroll among the lush gardens, with a stunning view of the grand Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar.

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Breakfast 

Budget friendly: 

Lattente

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A local favorite for artisanal coffee, Lattente offers quality brews and fresh pastries at affordable prices. Its laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to grab a quick bite and fuel up for the day ahead. Don't miss their medialunas (Argentinian croissants).

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Medium budget: 

La Biela

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This iconic café, located just across from the Recoleta Cemetery, has been a meeting spot for intellectuals and locals for decades. Enjoy a traditional Argentine breakfast of tostadas, jam, butter, and café con leche in the outdoor seating area shaded by a massive rubber tree.

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High-end: 

L' Orangerie Alvear Palace Hotel

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For a luxurious breakfast, visit the renowned Alvear Palace Hotel. Their L'Orangerie restaurant serves a decadent breakfast buffet, including freshly baked pastries, cold cuts, fresh fruit, and gourmet coffee. It’s an elegant start to the day, fit for royalty.

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Vegan: 

MUDRÁ Plant-Based by Matthew Kenney

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Mudrá is a modern, plant-based café offering wholesome vegan breakfasts. Try their smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and house-made almond lattes in a chic, minimalist environment. Perfect for a health-conscious, animal-friendly start to your day.

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To see more breakfast and brunch options see this other FREE guide: 

Valentina Vanegas

Brunch adicts: this is your map for Buenos Aires

Welcome once again to the Latin American city that never sleeps. We all know that there’s always something to do at night, but those who wake up early have one of the most special rewards: a delicious breakfast. This is the holy grail of the best places to get a tasty cup of coffee and and eat something yummy to start the day. Let me show you!

Backpacker • Couples • Digital Nomads • LGBTQ+ • Female Solo • Vegan • Vegetarian • Coffee • Foodie • Slow Travel • Romantic

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Time to wander 

Caminito

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Head to La Boca, one of Buenos Aires' most colorful and lively neighborhoods. The Caminito Street Museum is a vibrant outdoor art gallery lined with colorful houses and street performers showcasing the city's tango culture. You’ll find local artisans selling crafts, and the energy here is magnetic. Caminito's colorful streets offer an authentic snapshot of Buenos Aires' immigrant roots, blending culture, art, and tradition.

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Lunch 

Budget friendly: 

El Banco Rojo

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A hidden gem in San Telmo, this casual eatery serves some of the best empanadas and choripán (grilled sausage sandwiches) in the city. The portions are generous, and the prices are ideal for budget travelers looking for an authentic Argentine meal.

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Medium budget: 

Café San Juan

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Known for its homestyle cooking, Café San Juan serves hearty dishes inspired by Argentine and Spanish traditions. From seafood paella to steak sandwiches, the menu is rich and varied, offering a true taste of the local culture.

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High-end: 

Trashumante by El Baqueano

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For a refined lunch experience, El Baqueano offers contemporary Argentine cuisine with a focus on indigenous ingredients. Their tasting menu is a journey through local flavors, featuring exotic meats like llama and yacaré (alligator), prepared with a modern twist.

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Vegan: 

Sacro

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Located in the trendy Palermo neighborhood, Sacro offers a high-end vegan menu that focuses on global flavors with an Argentine touch. The grilled mushroom steak and avocado ceviche are must-tries, beautifully presented in a chic, zen-like setting.

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Belly full let´s go 

Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires

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Dive into Buenos Aires' artistic soul at the MALBA. This contemporary museum features works by some of Latin America's most prominent artists, including Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. The museum’s sleek, modern design makes it a great contrast to the more traditional parts of the city.

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Dinner 

Budget friendly: 

Parrilla Peña

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For a classic Argentine steakhouse experience that won't break the bank, Parrilla Peña offers top-notch beef cuts like bife de chorizo and vacío (flank steak). The portions are large, and the prices are reasonable, making it a favorite among locals.

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Medium budget: 

Don Julio

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Frequently ranked as one of the best parrillas in Buenos Aires, Don Julio is a must-visit for meat lovers. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and the steaks are cooked to perfection. Pair your meal with a Malbec for a quintessential Argentine experience.

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High-end: 

Chila

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Located in the upscale Puerto Madero district, Chila is one of the city's top fine dining restaurants. The tasting menu, crafted by chef Pedro Bargero, highlights Argentine ingredients in innovative, artistic ways. The wine pairings and riverfront views elevate the dining experience to a new level of sophistication.

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Vegan: 

Casa Munay

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This vegan-friendly spot offers an intimate, homey dining experience with a menu full of seasonal, organic ingredients. Casa Munay focuses on holistic, health-conscious meals, offering dishes like roasted vegetable bowls, lentil patties, and cashew-based sauces.

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Before you go 

La Ventana - Barrio de Tango

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Cap off your night with a tango show at La Ventana, one of the most traditional venues in Buenos Aires. Set in the historic San Telmo neighborhood, this venue offers live music, tango dancers, and even a gaucho performance, giving you a full taste of Argentina's artistic heritage. Tango is the heart and soul of Buenos Aires, and seeing a live performance is an unforgettable experience. The intimacy of the venue makes you feel like you’re stepping into a different era.

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Tips and tricks 

1. Siesta Time: many shops close for siesta in the afternoon (around 1-4 PM), so plan your shopping before or after these hours.

2. Cash Is King: while many places accept cards, smaller shops and taxis often prefer cash. Make sure you have some pesos on hand.

3. Street Art Tours: Buenos Aires is famous for its street art. Take a walking tour through neighborhoods like Palermo or Colegiales to see the best murals.

4. Public Transport: the Subte (subway) is the easiest way to get around the city. Buy a rechargeable SUBE card for convenient travel.