20 Free Things to Do in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a city that never fails to impress. With its bustling streets, lively neighborhoods, and rich cultural heritage, the city has a lot to offer. But what if you’re on a budget and want to explore the city without breaking the bank? Here are twenty free things to do in Buenos Aires that will help you make the most of your experience.

Whether you prefer to learn about the history of the city at a museum or learn to tango at a community dance, this list of free things to do in Buenos Aires will allow you to stretch your budget in this incredible city.

A note from me: My camera got wet on our last day in Buenos Aires on a day trip, and I lost hundreds of photos, so many of these photos are purchased stock photos.

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Learn more about Argentina

Explore the Vibrant Neighborhoods

Buenos Aires is a city that is full of life and energy, and one of the best ways to experience this is by exploring its vibrant neighborhoods. Each area has its unique charm, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to check out:

Wander around Palermo

Packed with green spaces, trendy bars, and delicious restaurants, Palermo is one of Buenos Aires’ most vibrant neighborhoods. Take a stroll around the leafy streets, and you’ll discover a wealth of street art, quirky cafes, and independent boutiques. The neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s best museums, including the Museo Evita, where you can learn about the life and legacy of Argentina’s most famous first lady.

But Palermo is more than just a trendy hotspot. It’s a neighborhood with a rich history and culture. The area was once home to some of Buenos Aires’ wealthiest families, and you can still see the grand mansions that they built in the 19th century. 

Discover the colorful Caminito in La Boca

If you’re looking for a neighborhood that is full of color and culture, then La Boca is the place to be. The Caminito is a lively street museum that showcases the colorful architecture and rich cultural heritage of the area. Take a walk around the cobblestone streets, and you’ll come across houses painted in bright colors, tango performances, and street vendors selling artisanal crafts. The Caminito is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Argentine culture.

But La Boca is more than just the Caminito. It’s a neighborhood with a fascinating history and a strong sense of community. The area was once home to Italian immigrants who came to Buenos Aires in search of a better life. Today, you can still see the influence of Italian culture in the neighborhood’s food, music, and architecture. La Boca is also home to the famous Boca Juniors football club, which has a passionate following and a stadium that is known for its electric atmosphere.

Caminito in La Boca is one of the best free things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Caminito in La Boca

Stroll through San Telmo’s cobblestone streets

San Telmo is one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods, and it’s full of history and charm. Take a walk around the cobblestone streets, and you’ll come across colonial buildings, antique shops, and quaint cafes. The neighborhood is also a hub for Argentine art, with numerous galleries and street performers showcasing local talent.

Beyond its beauty, it’s a place with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. The area was once home to some of Buenos Aires’ wealthiest families, but it fell into decline in the 20th century. Today, the neighborhood is experiencing a renaissance, with young artists and entrepreneurs moving in and breathing new life into the area.

San Telmo is also home to the famous Feria de San Telmo, a weekly market where you can find everything from antiques to handmade crafts. On Sundays, the market runs from 10 am to 4 pm. Over 20,000 people visit the market, so if you’re looking to buy anything then be sure to get there early. However, there are street performances, live music, and tango displays that can be found in the market for free. 

Just by wandering around Buenos Aires, you’ll find hidden gems and be enamored by its charming personality – without spending a dime! 

Read More: Best Things to do in Buenos Aires

Immerse Yourself in Argentine Culture

Argentina is a country rich in culture and traditions, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in its vibrant and diverse heritage without breaking the bak. 

Visit a Museum

Argentina has a rich history and a vibrant art scene, and there are many museums and galleries to explore. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is home to an impressive collection of Argentine and international art. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes offers free tours (in English) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 1 pm. The Quinquela Martín Museum features the work of the artist Benito Quinquela Martin during the 20th century. Admission is free!

Take a Walking Tour

One of my favorite ways to get my bearings in a new city is to take a walking tour. I love exploring on my own (and getting lost), but a walking tour can tell me about the buildings and the history of the city. 

Free Walks has two options in Buenos Aires. One takes you through Recoleta cemetery and stops at parks, monuments, and palaces (some of which are on this list) the other is more focused on the city center of Buenos Aires. While there is no cost to join the walking tour, it is asked that you give your guide a tip!

Buenos Aires skyline
Buenos Aires from Above

Watch a Football Match

Football (or soccer) is a national obsession in Argentina, and attending a match is a thrilling experience. The atmosphere in the stadium is electric, with passionate fans cheering on their favorite teams. If you can’t get tickets to a match, you can still soak up the football culture by visiting any bar during a match. You may have to buy a drink or two, but it will be an intoxicating environment! 

Learn about Cowboy Culture

Gauchos, Argentine cowboys, are an impressive sight. If you can’t make a day trip from Buenos Aires to see them at a ranch, don’t fret! Head to Feria de Mataderos on Sunday to watch them as they come into the city. 

You’ll see the gauchos perform horseback demonstrations – a tradition dating back to the 1800’s. They show their skills with rope too! At the Feria you’ll find mouthwatering foods including stews, choripan, and of course, empanadas! What’s not to love?

Read More: Day Trips from Buenos Aires

Enjoy the City’s Green Spaces

Buenos Aires is a city that offers a unique combination of urban life and nature. The city is home to many beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for relaxation, exercise, and exploration. Here are some of the most popular green spaces in Buenos Aires.

Relax in the Rose Garden (El Rosedal)

El Rosedal is a serene park located in the Palermo neighborhood, and it’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind. With its beautiful rose gardens, lakes, and fountains, the park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The park is open year-round and admission is free, making it a great destination for budget travelers.

In addition to its natural beauty, El Rosedal also offers many activities for visitors. You can rent a bike or a paddleboat to explore the park’s lake, or simply take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the fragrance of the roses. The park also hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances so check their calendar of events.

Bike (or walk) through the Bosques de Palermo

Bosques de Palermo is a vast park in the heart of the city, and it’s an excellent place to bike, jog, or simply take a walk. The park features lagoons, picnic areas, and numerous paths that are perfect for outdoor activities. The park is also home to several attractions, such as the Planetarium, the Japanese Garden, and the Rose Garden.

Biking through the Bosques de Palermo is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops located near the park, or bring your own bike and explore the park at your own pace. The park is especially beautiful in the fall when the trees turn golden and red.

The three-acre park is home to over 18,000 flowers, so slow down and smell the flowers!! 

Palermo is one of the best free things to do in Buenos Aires
The Planetarium in Bosques de Palermo

Take in the views at Parque de la Memoria

Parque de la Memoria is a park located on the banks of the Rio de la Plata, and it’s a tribute to the victims of Argentina’s military dictatorship. The park features sculptures, memorials, and a beautiful view of the river, providing a peaceful and poignant space for reflection and remembrance.

The park was inaugurated in 2007, and it has become a symbol of the country’s struggle for democracy and human rights. The park’s main feature is the Wall of Memory, a long concrete wall that bears the names of the victims of the dictatorship. The park also has a museum, a library, and a cultural center that hosts events related to human rights and social justice.

Visiting Parque de la Memoria is a powerful and emotional experience. The park’s location, overlooking the river, adds to the sense of tranquility and contemplation. The park is open to the public every day, and admission is free.

Visit Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur

This reserve is an idyllic escape from the city located close to Puerto Madero. In the distance, you’ll see the skyscrapers of the city. It’s a haven for birds, with over 300 species spotted in the reserve. If you want to walk the entire length, it’s about an hour-long walk not including photo breaks! 

Puerto Madero is one of the best free things in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Discover Buenos Aires’ Rich History

Buenos Aires is a city with a rich and fascinating history, and there are many ways to explore it. From iconic landmarks to museums and cemeteries, there’s something for everyone.

Tour the Iconic Casa Rosada

The Casa Rosada is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Buenos Aires. This presidential palace has played a significant role in Argentina’s history, and it’s an iconic landmark of the city. The palace offers free guided tours that take visitors through its historical and cultural significance. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous “balcony of Evita,” where Eva Perón addressed the crowds gathered in the Plaza de Mayo.

As you explore the palace, you’ll learn about the many important events that have taken place here, from political speeches to protests and demonstrations. You’ll also see the beautiful architecture and artwork that make the Casa Rosada such a unique and impressive building.

Casa Rosada is one of the best free things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Casa Rosada in Buenos Aires

Visit the Historic Recoleta Cemetery

The Recoleta Cemetery is another must-visit attraction in Buenos Aires. I’m not a fan of cemetary’s but I made an exception for this one, as my mom is a huge fan of Eva Peron. Eva is buried in this cemetery, so we went to pay our respects. There are over 6400 mausoleums over 14 acres, so to say this is a large cemetery is an understatement. 

This stunning cemetery is located in the Recoleta neighborhood, and it’s the final resting place of many of Argentina’s most famous citizens. With its elaborate tombs and statues, the cemetery is like an open-air museum of Argentine history and culture. You’ll also see beautiful sculptures and artwork that reflect the cultural and artistic heritage of Argentina.

Recoleta Cemetary is one of the best free things to do in Buenos Aires

Explore The National Historic Museum

This museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays and is free to enter. The museum opened in 1880 with the intent of unifying the Argentine nation after half a century of civil wars. 

The museum pays tribute to the May Revolution of 1810 and the Argentine War of Independence with hundreds of paintings, sculptures, weapons, and more. You can learn all about how Argentina became the wonderful country it is today. 

Read More: Best Things to do in Ushuaia, Argentina

Experience the Local Art Scene

When it comes to art in Buenos Aires, there’s no shortage of places to explore. From the colorful street art in Palermo to the contemporary exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art (MAMBA), the city is a haven for art lovers. Here are a few more ways to experience the local art scene:

Admire the Street Art

Buenos Aires is a colorful city – from the houses and buildings down to the street art. In fact, Buenos Aires has recently become one of the world’s capitals of street art & graffiti! There is no restriction on where you can paint, it just depends on the building owner. Over 100 well-known artists have work in Buenos Aires – with art ranging from multi-story murals to smaller hidden gens that you have to look out for.

If you want to dive deeper into the world of street art in Buenos Aires, consider taking a tour with a local guide. There are several companies that offer walking tours of different neighborhoods, each with its own unique style of street art. Not only will you get to see some incredible artwork, but you’ll also learn about the history and culture behind it. If you can’t take a tour, check out one of these routes to follow to experience the street art of Buenos Aires – free of charge! 

Admiring the Street Art in Buenos Aires is one of the best free things to do.
A mural of Madonna in Buenos Aires.

Explore the Artisan Markets

Buenos Aires is famous for its artisan markets, where you can find everything from handmade jewelry to leather goods to paintings and sculptures. The Feria de Mataderos is a popular market that takes place on Sundays in the Mataderos neighborhood, and it’s a great place to browse local crafts and artwork. You can also check out the Feria de San Telmo, which takes place every Sunday in the historic San Telmo neighborhood.

Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts (MNBA) is located in the Recoleta neighborhood and is home to an impressive collection of Argentine and international art. The museum features works by famous artists such as Frida Kahlo, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh, as well as many lesser-known artists. Best of all, admission is free!

Attend a Street Fair

Throughout the year, Buenos Aires hosts a variety of street fairs that showcase local artists and artisans. One of the most popular is the Feria de Mataderos, which we mentioned earlier, but there are many others to choose from. The Feria de Mataderos is a great place to sample traditional Argentine food and watch folk dances, while the Feria de Mataderos focuses more on arts and crafts.

With so many options for exploring the local art scene, you could easily spend weeks in Buenos Aires without running out of things to do. Whether you prefer contemporary art or traditional crafts, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and creative city.

A couple dancing the tango in Buenos Aires

Learn to Tango – for free! 

Yep, you read that right! A trip to Buenos Aires isn’t complete without at least attempting this intimate dance. While there are plenty of tango lessons that you can pay for, there is an option to learn for free! 

On Sunday nights in Barrancas de Belgrano park, you can take part in the ‘La Glorieta’ milonga (An Argentine social dance class). It’s a great opportunity to hang with locals and learn the dance! 

Final Thoughts

The saying that the best things in life are free is said for a reason. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to see Buenos Aires and learn about its culture and history. 

Read More about Argentina

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Free Things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Free Things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Free Things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina

2 thoughts on “20 Free Things to Do in Buenos Aires, Argentina”

  1. I took a private all-day walking tour in Buenos Aires as I only had 1 day to sightsee before my conference began. I never regretted the expense. There is so much to see in this gorgeous city.

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