Things to do in Pampas

The Obelisco stands tall in the center of Buenos Aires. It is perhaps the city’s most recognizable icon. The large stone pillar surrounded by lights and electric screens draws comparisons with New York’s Times Square. The column itself resembles the Washington Monument.

Known for its glitz and glamour, Palermo is also one of the most attractive neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Boutiques, restaurants and cafés are housed in quaint buildings along tree-lined streets and cobblestone alleyways.

La Recoleta is famous for being the final resting place of Buenos Aires’ wealthiest and most recognized figures. The paved streets of this mini city are lined with towering mausoleums, statues, and row upon row of tombs. Atmospheric and somewhat eerie, the cemetery is one of ‘the city’s most visited tourist attractions. It is also known for its range of architecture, with examples of art deco, neo-Gothic and baroque styles.

Surrounded by historical monuments and the site of political demonstrations and national celebrations, Plaza de Mayo reflects the interesting history of Buenos Aires and Argentina. It was mapped out in 1580 by Juan de Garay during the foundation of the city. Today the square is widely considered to be the most important in Argentina.

Florida Street is the most prominent shopping boulevard in the city. It is a traffic-free zone full of many different types of stores. Travelers often visit the street to pick up souvenirs of their trip. Find many leather shops, vendors and street performers. You can usually pay in dollars here to get a better rate than the official peso. With the street’s central location and eclectic range of shops, it has become a principal destination for Buenos Aires visitors.

The pink façade and palace-like architecture of the Casa Rosada (Pink House) make it one of Argentina’s most recognizable and photographed buildings. The nation’s equivalent of the White House, the casa has been the home of the presidential offices since the 1860s. Walk in the footsteps of Argentina’s presidents and learn about the country’s political history.

The Teatro Colón is a major Buenos Aires landmark and a world-renowned venue for opera and ballet. It is also the home of the Buenos Aires Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts classical music concerts. Opened in 1908 with a performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida, the theater has since welcomed some of the biggest names in opera and ballet, including Feodor Chaliapin, Igor Stravinsky and Luciano Pavarotti.

Pocitos Beach (Playa Pocitos) is one of Montevideo’s most-loved beaches, offering a blend of recreation, relaxation and sightseeing. It curves gently around a picturesque bay that borders the Rio de la Plata. At Pocitos Beach, participate in watersports, swim, soak up the sunshine or visit a naval museum. Favored by a young crowd and the well-heeled residents of the Pocitos barrio (neighborhood), the beach has a chic and lively atmosphere.