Buenos Aires / Argentina

The main and most populous city of Argentina is located on the southeastern coast of South America. The city is situated on the western shore of the Río de la Plata estuary, and its name translates to "good winds"—at least that was the intention of its founders in the 16th century.

Buenos Aires is one of the world's leading tourist destinations and is known for its well-preserved Spanish and European colonial architecture, as well as its rich cultural life. The multicultural city is home to many ethnic and religious minorities—over the last 150 years, it has grown by millions of immigrants from around the world, making it one of the most diverse cities in Latin America.

The first European to reach the shores of the Río de la Plata (and was immediately killed by a local tribe) was the Spaniard Solís. The city itself was founded by his successor in 1536, but this attempt at settlement did not last long due to attacks by indigenous people. The beginning of the second—more successful—settlement dates back to 1580. In 1806, the city experienced a British invasion, and just 10 years later, it gained independence from Spanish rule. Since then, it has been a South American symbol of liberalism, free market, and foreign ideas.

In the second half of the 19th century, crowds of immigrants began to flow into the city, and Buenos Aires became a multicultural city that could easily compete with European metropolises. In the 20th century, it began to expand with modern buildings, the tallest in South America, as well as slums around industrial areas.

If you are a lover of interesting architecture, you will find your place in Buenos Aires. Argentina's financial, industrial, and commercial center was heavily influenced by European culture and is sometimes nicknamed the Paris of South America. Besides the French metropolis, you will also find elements reminiscent of Madrid and, thanks to many waves of immigration, colonialism, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, or neo-Gothic style.

The culture could hardly be more diverse and richer. Visit some of the countless famous theaters, go to an exhibition, a museum, or listen to a concert of classical or popular music. If you are a fan of street art, know that Buenos Aires is one of its world centers.

In addition to its skyscrapers, you will encounter more than 250 parks and green spaces in the Argentine metropolis, as well as a very tolerant approach to alternative sexual orientations, including legalized same-sex marriage.

Places worth seeing

Cabildo – Visit the originally colonial government seat, whose foundations were laid as early as 1610.

Teatro Colón – Don't miss one of the performances at the theater, rated as the third-best opera and acoustically one of the five best concert venues in the world.

Kavanagh building – Admire the 120-meter-high building from the 1930s, considered one of Buenos Aires' most stunning architectural works.

Puerto Madero – Enjoy something delicious at one of the restaurants located in the former docks of one of the world's busiest ports.

Parque 3 de Febrero – Relax in the park with a beautiful view of the Argentine capital.

Basilica del Santisimo Sacramento – Marvel at the beautiful architecture of one of the most beautiful churches in Buenos Aires.