Buenos Aires, Argentina

One of the most iconic sights is La Recoleta Cemetery, an astonishing city of the dead with ornate mausoleums, including the tomb of Eva Perón. It's located about a 15-minute taxi ride from the port.

A visit to the colorful neighborhood of La Boca is a must, specifically the vibrant artist street of Caminito, where tango dancers perform in the streets. This area is about a 20-30 minute drive from the port.

The political heart of the city, Plaza de Mayo, is surrounded by significant landmarks. These include the presidential palace, known as the Casa Rosada, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. The plaza is roughly a 15-minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal.

For lovers of the arts, the world-renowned Teatro Colón opera house is an architectural masterpiece. You can take a guided tour to see its lavish interior, located just a 10-15 minute drive from the port.

A popular day trip is to the town of Tigre, located on the Paraná Delta about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of the city. It's accessible via a scenic 1-hour train ride from the Retiro station. In Tigre, you can enjoy boat tours through the maze of rivers and islands that form the delta.

Another nearby destination is the historic city of San Isidro, an affluent suburb located between Buenos Aires and Tigre. It features a charming historic quarter, a neo-gothic cathedral, and weekend craft fairs. For those with a very long port day or an overnight stay, taking a high-speed ferry across the Río de la Plata to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay is a fantastic option. This UNESCO World Heritage site is about a 1.5-hour ferry ride away.

The cruise port of Buenos Aires, Terminal de Cruceros Benito Quinquela Martín, is located in the Puerto Nuevo (New Port) area of the city. It is situated to the north of the main downtown district.

The terminal is approximately 3 to 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) from the city's historical center, such as Plaza de Mayo. Due to the industrial nature of the port area and the distance, walking to the city center is not recommended or practical. Taxis or cruise-line shuttles are necessary to reach the main tourist areas.

The terminal building itself has basic passenger amenities, but there are very few shops or restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Ships dock directly at the piers, so tendering is not required.

The official currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS). While US dollars might be accepted in some tourist-focused establishments, it's highly recommended to use the local currency for better rates and wider acceptance.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in Buenos Aires. However, it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases, markets, and taxis. ATMs, known as 'cajeros automáticos', are widely available but may have high transaction fees and withdrawal limits. You can also exchange currency at official 'casas de cambio' found in the downtown area.

Buenos Aires is generally as safe as any large metropolis, but tourists should exercise caution, particularly against petty crime. Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas, including public transportation and popular tourist sites like San Telmo and La Boca. It is wise to keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings.

Be cautious of distraction scams, such as someone spilling something on you. It is recommended to use licensed 'radio taxis' or pre-booked car services rather than hailing unmarked cabs on the street. While exploring independently during the day is common, stick to well-trafficked areas and consider taking a taxi back to the ship after dark. It is advisable to explore the tourist area of La Boca during daylight hours and not wander into the surrounding residential neighborhoods.

The primary cruise season for Buenos Aires, from November to March, coincides with the Southern Hemisphere's summer. During this period, the weather is typically warm to hot and humid. Average daily temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

Summer is also the wettest season, and visitors should be prepared for the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms, which are often intense but brief. It is advisable to pack lightweight clothing, such as cottons and linens, along with strong sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A small umbrella or a light rain jacket is also recommended for the occasional downpour.

The most convenient transportation option from the cruise port is a taxi. Licensed 'radio taxis' are readily available and are a reliable way to get to the city's main attractions. It is a short ride to most central sights.

Buenos Aires has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway ('Subte') and buses ('colectivos'). To use this system, you need a rechargeable SUBE card, which may not be practical for a short visit. Ride-sharing apps operate in the city, but taxis often remain the most straightforward choice for tourists arriving at the port.

Buenos Aires offers excellent shopping opportunities, especially for its world-famous leather goods. The main pedestrian shopping street is Calle Florida in the downtown area, home to many shops and the elegant Galerías Pacífico shopping center.

For unique, high-end boutiques and designer stores, the Palermo Soho neighborhood is the place to go. If your visit falls on a Sunday, the famous Feria de San Telmo is a sprawling street market offering antiques, crafts, and souvenirs.

Look for local specialties like leather jackets and bags, silverwork, and items related to mate, the traditional Argentine beverage. Prices are generally fixed in stores, but some light bargaining may be possible at outdoor markets.