Buenos Aires, a city that strives to be European but has a personality of it’s own. Rich in culture and full of life, a visit to this South American city can offer more than you might expect. Excellent red wine and shockingly good steak, Buenos Aires should be on every travellers list of places to visit in South America. Here are our highlights of this superb city:

1. La Boca

This area in the south east of the city, near the old port, is best known for its European architecture and brightly coloured houses. The main attraction is Caminito, a pedestrianised street where tango is often performed.

2. Tango Show

Argentina’s national dance is the tango, and there are tango shows all over the capital. Speak to other tourists who have already experienced a show to try to find out which shows are the best and which ones should be avoided.

3. Plaza Francia

Every weekend this square comes to life with an open air craft fair. All sorts of handmade items are on sale and this makes it the perfect place to pick up unusual souvenirs and gifts to take home.

4. Palacio Barolo

This building, which stands on Avenida de Mayo in the city centre, was the city’s tallest when completed. It is an working building with offices and shops, and guided tours are available which take visitors around the building and to the observation decks which provide some of the best views across the city.

5. Football

The Argentinians take their football extremely seriously and it would be a shame to visit the city without joining the locals to watch their team in action. If you can’t get tickets for a game, the stadium where Boca Juniors play is open for guided tours and also has an interesting and informative stadium.

6. Temaiken Park

This huge park to the north west of the city is part theme park, part zoo and makes for an enjoyable day out for all of the family. The areas where you can view the sea creatures from an underwater angle are particularly recommended, but the whole zoo is modern and well laid out.

7. Polo

Some of the best polo players in the world are Argentinian, and as well as taking in one of the regular matches, there are several companies which offer the chance to get onto horseback and experience the thrills of polo for yourself.

Photo by ilkerender