Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina and the country's largest city. Stretching south to north along the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires has been the gateway to Argentina for many centuries. As a result, this city is now a modern and dynamic capital that proudly showcases the European architecture of its founders, whilst fully embracing the passion of its people; the Portenos (people of the port).

The Portenos have a cultural identity that's as rich and varied as the city itself. European heritage and roots are valued, and the lifestyle and architecture in Buenos Aires are therefore markedly more European than any other city in South America.

Taking to your feet for a walk around the city is one of the best ways to soak up everything this lively location has to offer. Indeed, the main downtown area is small enough to walk from one end to the other in a relatively short period of time, so you can take in quite a few sights from ambling around for a few hours.

The physical make-up of Buenos Aires is as varied as everything else. There is no real central focal point but instead the city comprises of many small areas and neighbourhoods that are highly individual, each with its own characteristic, colour, shape and spirit.

Take a trip to the San Telmo district, the oldest neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, where multinational heritage is embodied in the eclectic architecture; Spanish Colonial design fuses with intricate Italian detailing and charming French Classicism. Cafes, tango parlours and antique shops line the cobblestone streets, which are usually bustling with artists and dancers. Therefore, whether you feel like a having caffeine fix or breaking into a barrida, everything is catered for.

La Boca is another interesting neighbourhood where you can marvel at the pressed tin houses painted in a myriad of colours, which turn the district's side-streets into avenues of rainbow colours.

If you fancy absorbing yourself in some local culture then visit the weekly Mataderos Fair, where regional food and crafts are featured alongside horse races and other attractions. If you fancy a spot of horse riding yourself then you could visit one of the many local horse riding stables and gallop off into the Argentinean sunset for a perfect ending to your day.

What's more, if visiting the theatre and opera are of more interest to you then the Teatro Colon should be on your to-do list. One of the world's finest opera houses, the riverside location only adds to the overall effect and this makes a special spot to visit during your time in Buenos Aires.

Once you arrive in the city you will find you're spoilt for choices with things to do; therefore, it can prove beneficial to plan in advance that all important itinerary when you arrive from your flights to Buenos Aires. That way, you can be sure to enjoy as much of the city as possible during your visit.

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