Buenos Aires on a Budget

Filed in archive Budget South America on March 13, 2008

While the airfare to Buenos Aires might be expensive, the city itself is a budget traveler's dream! But affordable meals, shopping and lodging are not the only reasons to visit Buenos Aires. This unique city presents the best of both European and South American cultures. Be sure to visit the Recoleta Cemetery. If possible, visit on a weekend, when a fantastic local crafts fair takes place outside the cemetery.

The Recoleta Cemetery is also the "resting place" for some of the most famous leaders in Argentina's history, such as Eva Peron. Each "grave" is actually the size of a small home. Speaking of Eva Peron, be sure to visit the Evita Museum, located at 2988 Lafinur Street in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Here, you can explore rare footage of her speeches, as well as photographs and displays of her fashionable wardrobe. As long as you're in the Palermo neighborhood, why not pay a visit to Palermo Park? Here, you will find a Japanese garden, a zoo and a planetarium.

To get a sense of a quintessential Buenos Aires neighborhood, plan a day in La Boca. From the colorful houses, the murals and the tango dancers on the street, a visit to La Boca lets you know that you are truly in South America.

Where to Stay

The Art Hotel is located in the Recoleta section of Buenos Aires. This quaint boutique hotel is set in a 100-year old town house. On the ground floor, you will find an art gallery, as well as a small café where breakfast, which is included in your room rate, is served. Breakfast consists of a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, yogurts and breads. Each room is decorated with the art work and sculpture of an Argentinian artists.