Free Things to do in Buenos Aires

A few suggestions of things to do without spending so much as a peso…

Walking Tours
There is no better way to get to know a city than to hear about it from the local people. BA Tours are led by enthusiastic, young Argentines everyday at 11am and 5pm for free! The two and a half hour tours begin in Plaza de Congress and take in the cities main attractions, before winding up in Recoleta Square.

Recoleta Cemetery
Even if you are tempted to think it a bit gaudy, you will struggle not to be intrigued by this final resting place for the city’s great and good. Huge maseulums incarcerate whole families, and get grander and grander as you walk around; peer inside and you’ll see huge marble sarcophagi and impressive statues, as well as the dusty coffins!

Free Museums
Buenos Aires is a city most famous for its tango, cafes and football. However, the city’s flourishing arts scene is yet another feather to add to its hat. The Museo Nacional de Belles Artes holds over 12,000 pieces including work by Goya and Van Gough, whilst the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) is free to students, teachers and seniors every Wednesday and exhibits a wide variety of Latin American masterpieces.

Street Art
Those seeking a more ‘raw’ artistic experience can simply take in the street art that has transformed Buenos Aires into a living art gallery, where the exhibits change constantly. Start at Post Street Bar on Thames, Palermo whose walls display 1,800 pieces of work by local street artists. Whether you consider graffiti to be an artistic addition to the local architecture or simply an eyesore, you cannot fail to find it impressive.
 

San Telmo Market
Although I can’t promise that you won’t be tempted into spending some pesos here, San Telmo market is a fantastic place to wander around whilst soaking in the barrio’s old, cobbled streets and faded grandeur. Every Sunday, hundreds of stalls pop up selling everything from unique antiques to old junk.

Tango for free in Belgrano!
If you would like to dip your toe into the most famous Argentine tradition, but don’t want to commit to paying for lessons, head to Belgrano on a Saturday or Sunday evening. In the fabulous setting of La Glorieta bandstand, join in for a free lesson, before watching the experts show you how it is done!

Escape the city: Reserva Ecologica Costanera Sur
When the hustle and bustle of the city gets too much, Reserva Ecologica Costanera Sur is the perfect place to escape to. Stroll, cycle or picnic in this 365 hectare national park, which is home to hundreds of different species of birds, animals and plants, or simply take in Buenos Aires’ fantastic skyline.