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| Home > City Guide - Buenos Aires - Sightseeing | ||
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Sightseeing Sightseeing Overview Initially most visitors are steadfastly determined not to fall into the tourist trap in Buenos Aires and solemnly vow not have anything to do with anything remotely connected to Eva Perón, tango or football. Very few succeed in their goal, for once in the city the visitor becomes engrossed in efforts to experience one, if not more, of the three elements that the capital is traditionally famed for. Nevertheless, Buenos Aires is littered with museums and magnificent mansions and buildings. After sightseeing and shopping, there are fantastic parks to relax in and bars and cafés for sampling the excellent local cuisine. Although initially confusing, the city is based on a grid system and is soon easy to master. The main point of orientation is the Avenida 9 de Julio, the world’s widest avenue, running from Plaza Constitucion to Avenida de Libertador. Most places of interest are contained in the five main barrios (neighbourhoods) within the microcentro so the attractions are easily accessible by foot. The main square, Plaza de Mayo, is situated in the city’s southeastern section and it is here that the Casa Rosada is found. Visitors will undoubtedly come here and to La Recoleta Cemetery, Evita’s final resting place. Also in the centre are La City, the financial district, and Calle Florida and Lavalle – the pedestrianised shopping areas. South of the central area are the oldest parts of Buenos Aires – San Telmo and La Boca – while to the north lie the wealthier barrios of Retiro, Recoleta, Palermo and Belgrano. The Obelisco never fails to catch the eye, for this 67m (220ft) white, concrete monument has, along with the avenue, become an overriding symbol of the city when it features on any television programme around the world. Tourist Information Centro de Información Turística (Tourist Information Centre) Avenida Diagonal Roque Sáenz Peña and Calle Florida Tel: (011) 4311 0528 or 4114 5794 (information line). E-mail: turismo@buenosaires.gov.ar Website: www.buenosaires.gov.ar Opening hours: Mon-Fri 1000-1300 and 1400-1800, Sat 1000-1600. Other tourist information offices are located at: Dock 4, Avenida Alicia Moreau De Justo 200, Puerto Madero; Terminal De Ómnibus, Avenida Antártida Argentina and Calle 10, Retiro; Quintana and Ortiz, Recoleta; Avenida Pedro De Mendoza 1821, La Boca; Shopping Abasto, Avenida Corrientes 3247. Secretaría de Turismo de la Nación (National Tourism Office) Avenida Santa Fe 883 Tel: (011) 4312 5550 or 2232. E-mail: info@turismo.gov.ar Website: www.turismo.gov.ar There are also National Tourism Information stands at the international and domestic airports. Passes There are no tourist passes available. |
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