Dubbed the 'Queen of the Rio de la Plata' by Argentine author Carlos Romero, Buenos Aires is Argentina's cosmopolitan capital and to Portenos synonymous with Argentina. Easily the most European of all South American capitals, even the phone book holds more last names indicating Italian or German heritage than Spanish. The city experienced a boom in the 19th century, taking its cue from Paris, and since then is often referred to as the Paris of South America.
Based on the original Spanish settlement, old Buenos Aires was laid out around a central plaza, bordered by a fort and armory, the city hall and cathedral. This ensemble became the Plaza de Armas, later redesigned as the Plaza de Mayo. Nouveau Buenos Aires rivaled New York as a port for European trade. Landed gentry with estancias larger than some countries hired Parisian architects to design urban villas for their visits to town. The modern parts of the city feature glass office buildings, often adjacent to those done in ornate French style. One out of every three Argentineans lives in Buenos Aires, finding the city irresistible. The world has few cities that are enjoyed as much as the millions of Porteños enjoy theirs. And they are most eager to share their good fortune with visitors like you. |
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| The ship is scheduled to dock at Puerto Nuevo. The exact pier location will not be available until closer to each call. The city center is about 10 minutes by taxi. Many drivers charge a flat rate to common destinations from the port. |
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| Buenos Aires is a shopping mecca. Leather articles, clothing, gems, knitwear and wines may be of interest. Rodocrosita, or Rose of the Inca, is a semi-precious stone native only to Argentina. In some stores, low-key bargaining may get you a better price on big-ticket items. The pedestrian street Florida features a wide choice of shops, including the modern shopping mall Galerias Pacifico; San Telmo is a good place to look for antiques. Store hours are generally from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 or 8:00 p.m. There is limited shopping on Sundays. The local currency is the peso. |
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| Argentina is known for its excellent beef. Whether in an expensive restaurant or a rustic neighborhood eatery, steak is always a good choice. At a parrillada, a wide selection of meat, chicken and sausages are grilled to perfection on huge racks over an open fire. Try some of the delicious pastries and Argentina’s excellent wines. Most restaurants don’t get busy for dinner until 10:00 p.m. and serve well past midnight. |
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The city is a delight for exploration on foot and by car. Visit the colorful quarter of La Boca or San Telmo district with its artist colony and well-known tango clubs.
Plaza San Martin
This shady square at the beginning of the Florida pedestrian street is a focal point from where to start a shopping spree. The Marriott Plaza Hotel fronts the square.
Plaza de Mayo
This is the major hub of Buenos Aires surrounded by the city's most important historic buildings, such as the Cabildo (Town Hall), the Casa Rosada (the presidential palace) and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Church of San Ignacio de Loyola
Recognized by its two lofty towers, this church was built in 1710 and is the oldest colonial building in Buenos Aires.
Santo Domingo Church
Founded in 1756, the church served as refuge to British soldiers during an attack of the British on Buenos Aires in 1806. When the British capitulated, their regimental colors were preserved in the church.
National Museum of Fine Arts
The museum features a fine collection of European works as well as those of many Argentinean artists.
Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board. |
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