1. Recoleta cemetery
The resting place of many a famous Argentine dignitary and celebrity. Argentina’s cherished Evita, or Eva Peron, is buried here under her maiden name Duarte. Near the entrance is a map to locate any specific names you might have. Even if you aren’t familiar with any of the dead, the cemetery is worth a look for the amount of design and detail that goes into the headstones and graves.
The cemetery is so large you will absolutely get lost
2. Caminito, La Boca
It’s free to walk around and photograph one of the most historical and eclectic neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. Though the area currently has a bad reputation for robberies we had no troubles wandering around this place for an hour (though don’t stray from the Caminito if you can help it.) Legend has it the former residents of these brightly coloured homes didn’t have much money for paint, so they would adorn their homes in whatever paints and colours they could find. The result is fascinating. On sunnier days there are markets and craft fairs. La Boca is also home to one of Argentina’s most succesful football teams of all time, Boca Juniors. The museum and stadium (La Bombonera) are not free however.
Take #29 or #86 from Plaza de Mayo, or #53 from Constitucion. Keep an eye on your bag at all times.
See what I mean about different colours?
3. Free tango
Okay, I’m stretching the truth here a little bit. We had lunch at La Vieja Rotiseria, an atmospheric restaurant with loads of sporting paraphenelia, a cosy environment (much needed while it rained outside), and to our pleasant surprise, a free tango show on the balcony. And if you’re feeling brave after a couple of Malbecs, the dancers invite you up to join them.
La Vieja Rotiseria
Magallanes 864
La Boca
Free tango for the price of a modest lunch
4. Plaza de Mayo
Plaza de Mayo’s history is plain to see. Holes can still be seen in surrounding buildings when the military bombed it’s own. Every Thursday at 3.30pm it is the site of the march by Madres del Plaza de Mayo, mothers of children who disappeared during the military dictatorship, demanding to know what happened to their children. Guarding the plaza is Casa Rosada, a pink palace housing the President’s offices and site of many a famous speech by Juan and Eva Peron. Free tours are available here Saturday and Sunday from 10am.
