Buenos Aires is not just a city – it’s a way of life. The ‘Paris of South America’ combines neoclassical splendour with Latin American energy and Italian charm. From the elegant boulevards and imposing colonial buildings in Recoleta to the vibrant streets of Palermo, where street art, small cafés and boutiques characterise the cityscape, the metropolis is a mixture of old world and urban trend. Tango beats and the finest steaks, lively markets and breathtaking architecture – Buenos Aires manages to combine the pulse of the times with the flair of days gone by. A weekend here? Far too short, but the perfect introduction to falling in love with this city.
Where to Stay: Casa Lucía
Casa Lucía is the essence of Buenos Aires – an elegant hideaway in the iconic Recoleta neighbourhood, where ‘old soul, new spirit’ come together in a wonderful way. The historic building, once Latin America’s tallest structure, exudes a flair with its restored Argentinian architecture that keeps the spirit of times gone by alive while breathing modern design. With ornate details, high ceilings and light-flooded rooms, Casa Lucía elegantly embodies the magic and essence of Buenos Aires. The rooms combine warm wood with cool marble, creating an oasis of calm – perfect for relaxing after exploring the city. Those who appreciate special views should choose the Tower Suite, which offers private terraces and a magnificent view over the city. But it’s not just in the rooms that you can relax; the spa also invites you to linger with its stylish 16-metre infinity pool. Culinary delights in the hotel’s own cantina are based on Argentinian traditions: Chef Julian del Pino creates real classics from local ingredients, including asado, accompanied by the finest wines. In the stylish Le Club Bacan, guests can enjoy cocktails and small dishes while DJs provide musical accompaniment – Buenos Aires at its best. The location couldn’t be better either.Surrounding the hotel is the characterful Recoleta neighbourhood with its famous cemetery, where legends such as Eva Perón rest, the magnificent Teatro Colón, which is filled with ballet and concerts in the evenings, and chic cocktail bars such as the mysterious Florería Atlántico – perfect for an authentic encounter with the soul of Buenos Aires. In short, if you want to immerse yourself in Buenos Aires for a few days, Casa Lucía is the place to be!
Casa Lucía
Calle Arroyo 841, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Where to Eat and Drink
The best place to start the day is the legendary Café Tortoni, where poets and artists have enjoyed their medialunas and espresso. For a snack in between, La Junta de 1810 offers rustic, homemade empanadas and the classic ‘café con leche’. At lunchtime, there is no way around Don Julio: Here you will find the best steaks in the city (perhaps in the whole of South America) – tender, juicy and revered by connoisseurs. Booking in advance is a must! In the evening, Tegui is a special recommendation: star chef Germán Martitegui combines Argentinian classics with an international twist. For after-dinner drinks, head to Florería Atlántico – a flower shop by day and one of the coolest bars in the city by night. If you want to sample the best Argentinian wines, don’t miss the Vico Wine Bar in Palermo.
What to Do
Buenos Aires is a city full of contrasts and stories. Don’t miss the Cementerio de la Recoleta, where Eva Perón, among others, is buried. Afterwards, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is well worth a visit – admission is free and it has a fantastic collection of Latin American art. Another must-see: the Teatro Colón, an iconic opera house with enchanting architecture. Those who appreciate modern art should visit the MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires) – works by Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and other Latin American greats await.
In the afternoon, head to San Telmo: the San Telmo market comes alive here on Sundays – with antiques, street food and a little nostalgia. Bar Sur is the perfect place for an authentic tango experience. The best dancers in the city can be admired in the dim light of the small bar, without the crowded tourist shows.
