Buenos Aires is one of those cities that sneaks up on you. At first glance, it’s a bustling metropolis with grand boulevards and historic architecture, but spend a little time wandering and you’ll discover vibrant street art, charming neighborhoods, passionate soccer fans, and family-friendly surprises at every turn.
We visited Buenos Aires twice, once by plane and once by ferry from Uruguay, and both times we left wanting more. Whether you’re coming for the tango, the food, or the energy of South America’s “Paris of the South,” Buenos Aires is a city worth exploring as a family.
Getting to Buenos Aires
By Air
Most international travelers arrive at Ezeiza International Airport, just outside the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi, private transfer, or shuttle into central Buenos Aires.
By Ferry from Uruguay
On our second trip, we arrived by ferry from Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay: a charming UNESCO World Heritage town just across the Río de la Plata. Spending a few hours in Colonia is highly recommended: cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and relaxed cafés make it the perfect contrast to bustling Buenos Aires.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Buenos Aires is a city of neighborhoods (“barrios”), each with its own personality. For families, these are our top picks:
Palermo
Trendy and creative, full of street art, hip coffee shops, and leafy plazas. Palermo is ideal for families who want to combine sightseeing with relaxed afternoons. This is where we stayed during the first visit and loved it so much.
Check out places to stay in Palermo here.
San Telmo
Known for its vintage markets, colonial charm, and bohemian vibe. It’s lively on weekends when the San Telmo Market spills into the streets.
Check out places to stay in San Telmo here.
Recoleta
Upscale and elegant, home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery and many of the city’s cultural landmarks. We stayed here during the second visit and loved the urban feel.
Check out places to stay in Recoleta here.
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Things to Do in Buenos Aires with Kids
1. Explore Palermo’s Street Art and Cafés
We joined a graffiti tour in Palermo and were blown away by the creativity splashed across building walls. Afterward, we stopped into Cuervo Café, one of the many stylish coffee shops that make this neighborhood feel effortlessly cool.
2. Visit Barrio Chino (Chinatown)
A short trip by train or taxi, Buenos Aires’ Chinatown is small but lively. It’s a fun place to grab snacks, try bubble tea, and browse quirky shops with the kids.
3. San Telmo Market and Atis Bar*
San Telmo’s vintage market is a maze of antiques, crafts, and street performers. When hunger struck, we ducked into Atis Bar, a restaurant inside an old convent with soaring ceilings and a moody vibe that parents will love as much as the food.
4. Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum)
This interactive museum is designed like a mini city where kids can role-play as bakers, shopkeepers, and doctors. Ours spent hours here—it’s one of the most family-friendly spots in the city.
5. Ecoparque
A former zoo turned ecological park, Ecoparque lets animals roam more freely while visitors wander shaded pathways. Admission is free, making it an easy stop for families.
6. Soccer Game Experience
Soccer is a religion in Argentina, and attending a game is unforgettable. The atmosphere is electric… chants, drums, and endless cheering. Even if you’re not a huge fan, it’s an incredible cultural experience.
7. Caminito in La Boca
This colorful street in the La Boca neighborhood is where tango comes alive. Dancers perform on the sidewalks, artists sell paintings, and bright facades make it one of the most photogenic parts of Buenos Aires.
8. Tango Show
For a more polished version of tango, we booked a family-friendly tango show. The girls were mesmerized by the costumes, live music, and energy.
9. Recoleta Cemetery
It may sound unusual, but this cemetery is a must-visit. It’s more like a city of ornate mausoleums, including the resting place of Eva Perón. Wandering the maze of statues and crypts feels like stepping back in time.
10. El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, El Ateneo is housed in a former theater. The balconies are lined with books, and the stage now serves as a café.
Where to Eat in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a food lover’s paradise, and the kids were just as happy as we were trying new flavors. Some of our favorites included:
Nino Gordo
An eclectic, high-end fusion restaurant that topped our “must-try” list.
La Alacena
Known for its handmade pasta and even Michelin recognition.
Pizza Guerrin
A classic Buenos Aires pizzeria with deep, cheesy slices served at lightning speed.
Las Flores – A Brunch Favorite
If you’re looking for a cozy, aesthetic place for brunch in Buenos Aires, Las Flores is the spot. The café is filled with natural light, greenery, and an airy vibe that makes it a beautiful pause in the middle of sightseeing. The menu leans fresh and seasonal — think colorful plates, fresh juices, and pastries that are almost too pretty to eat. It’s a perfect choice if you want something lighter and healthier in between all the pizza, steak, and empanadas.
La Biela
An iconic café in Recoleta with a perfect outdoor setting.
Atis Bar
A restaurant and cocktail bar in an atmospheric former convent.
Cuervo Café
Specialty coffee in Palermo with a design-forward vibe.
Chori
If you are coming to Argentina you HAVE to try one of the simple sandwiches called chorion. It’s a simple sandwich with sausage and usually some sort of sauce. We tried quite a few on our visit and my girls loved them. And Chori was by far our favorite place to grab them!
Rapanui – The Chocolate & Ice Cream Dream
This Patagonia-born chocolate and ice cream shop is a family favorite you absolutely can’t miss. From melt-in-your-mouth truffles to decadent hot chocolate (perfect on a chilly evening), it’s a sweet break for kids and adults alike. The gelato flavors are unique, creamy, and some come infused with dulce de leche, Argentina’s true culinary pride.
Authentic Chinese Food in Barrio Chino
If your family craves variety, head to Buenos Aires’ very own Chinatown. Beyond the Asian markets and quirky shops, you’ll find authentic Chinese food that feels like a departure from empanadas and steak. It’s a great way to break up your eating routine — and kids often love the noodles and dumplings here.
The Secret Wine Window in Mercado San Telmo
Inside Mercado San Telmo, you’ll find something that feels like a little secret: a ventanita de vino (wine window). It’s a tiny opening where you can order a glass of wine to sip as you stroll. Definitely not for the kids, but for parents, it’s a quirky detail that makes the market feel like an adventure.
Foods Kids Should Try in Buenos Aires
One of the best ways for kids to experience Argentina is through food! Here are some must-tries:
- Empanadas – handheld perfection, easy for even picky eaters.
- Dulce de leche everything – from pastries to ice cream, kids won’t forget it.
- Milanesa – Argentina’s version of schnitzel, often served with fries.
- Choripán – grilled sausage on bread, sold at food stands everywhere.
- Pizza – Buenos Aires has its own style, thick and cheesy (try Guerrín for the classic).
Family Travel Tips for Buenos Aires
Get all of our Buenos Aires packing tips here!
Getting Around
Buenos Aires is big, but taxis and rideshare apps like Uber are affordable and easy. Walking works well in neighborhoods like Palermo, San Telmo, and Recoleta. Just keep in mind that it’s a huge city so walking from neighborhood to neighborhood might be a lot for little legs. We found the city to be very stroller friendly.
Pace Yourself
The city runs late. Dinners often start at 9 p.m. or later. Families may want to adjust by having a late afternoon snack before heading out for dinner.
Safety
Like any large city, keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas. We felt comfortable exploring most neighborhoods with the kids.
Weather
Buenos Aires has mild winters and hot, humid summers. Spring (September–November) and fall (March–May) are ideal for visiting.
Learn more of our tips and what to expect when traveling to Buenos Aires as a family here.
Final Thoughts: Buenos Aires with Kids
Buenos Aires is one of those cities that has something for everyone: history, art, food, sports, and culture. For families, it’s a chance to introduce kids to a city that’s both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in tradition.
If Machu Picchu is the big “bucket list” destination in South America, Buenos Aires is the city that makes you want to linger. And with its mix of kid-friendly attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and unforgettable food, it’s a place we’d return to again and again.
