Avenida de Mayo, Buenos Aires - A city street lined with tall buildings and trees
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Avenida de Mayo Buenos Aires

4.6
·312 reviews·Buenos Aires, Argentina

A stately avenue showcasing Buenos Aires's Belle Époque grandeur, lined with iconic buildings, historic cafes, and stunning rooftop views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for photos.

CrowdLow
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Avenida de Mayo, Buenos Aires - A city street lined with tall buildings and trees

Avenida de Mayo Buenos Aires

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for photos.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stately avenue showcasing Buenos Aires's Belle Époque grandeur, lined with iconic buildings, historic cafes, and stunning rooftop views.

4.6
(312 reviews)

"Avenida de Mayo is a beautiful place to observe the most emblematic structures of Spanish architecture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Avenue

Explore the grand architecture on foot; it's the best way to soak in the history and beauty.

☕ Sip at Café Tortoni

Experience a piece of history at this iconic cafe. Expect a queue, but it's worth it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palacio Barolo

Palacio Barolo

Avenida de Mayo 1370

An iconic skyscraper inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, offering stunning city views from its lighthouse.

Café Tortoni

Café Tortoni

Avenida de Mayo 825

A legendary, historic cafe, a true Buenos Aires institution with a classic ambiance and delicious pastries.

Dome Rooftop Bar

Dome Rooftop Bar

Avenida de Mayo 1396 (Hotel Tango de Mayo)

Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the city from this chic rooftop bar, perfect for drinks and light bites.

Edificio Cassará

Edificio Cassará

Avenida de Mayo 1170

Discover incredible city vistas from this building's terrace, a lesser-known gem for panoramic views.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Grandeur

Avenida de Mayo is a historic boulevard, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring its grand architecture and lively atmosphere. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.

Navigating Buenos Aires

While taxis and ride-sharing apps are available, Buenos Aires's public transport, including the subway and buses, is efficient and affordable for reaching Avenida de Mayo and beyond. Get a SUBE card for easy travel.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos.
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Magical city views.
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, rooftop bars.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dome rooftop📍Av. de Mayo 1396 #humor #argentina #parati #foryou #foryourpage #buenosaires #reseña #chicadelbrunch #critica #caro #hotel #burguer #hamburguesa #bajon #comida #papas #papasfritas #langostinos #mariscos
@estrellakira4
145.1K likes • 1.2M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Avenue

Explore the grand architecture on foot; it's the best way to soak in the history and beauty. Instagram

☕ Sip at Café Tortoni

Experience a piece of history at this iconic cafe. Expect a queue, but it's worth it! Instagram

3 BODEGONES PARA COMER RICO EN BUENOS AIRES 🐷🍝❤️🍽️ 🏡 Lo de Lucas - Porciones abundantes, casi todas para compartir, precios accesibles y ambiente familiar. La dirección es 📍Avenida de Mayo 997, Escobar. 🏡 Spiagge Di Napoli - Clasico de Boedo, tiene un menú variado pero es especializa en pastas, precios económicos, ricos postres 🍨. La dirección es 📍Avenida Independencia 3527 - Boedo. 🏡 A Raja Ci...
@clubdelbajon
86K likes • 1.4M views
📍 Avenida de Mayo: la avenida más hermosa de Buenos Aires 🏛️✨ Inaugurada en 1894, la Avenida de Mayo fue un símbolo de modernidad y progreso. Inspirada en los boulevards de París y Madrid, conectó la Casa Rosada con el Congreso, creando un eje monumental en la ciudad. 🏛 Sus edificios reflejan la riqueza de la época, con estilos que van del art nouveau al neoclásico. Bajo ella, en 1913, se inaugu...
mirarhaciaarriba.ba
5.7K likes • 65.2K views

📸 Rooftop Views

Don't miss the stunning city panoramas from rooftop bars like Dome or Edificio Cassará. TikTok+1

🚇 Use Public Transport

The subway (Subte) and buses are efficient ways to get around Buenos Aires. Reddit

Buenos Aires en 1925 😱 Tenía 2 millones de habitantes, de los cuales, más de un tercio eran inmigrantes europeos (italianos, españoles sobre todo). La Avenida de Mayo ya era el “boulevard parisino” de la ciudad. Calles empedradas, cafés, bares notables y conventillos en los barrios. El Obelisco todavía no existía (se inauguró en 1936). Había tranvías eléctricos por todas partes, colectivos re...
turistaenbuenosaires
46.3K likes • 1.2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Avenue

Explore the grand architecture on foot; it's the best way to soak in the history and beauty. Instagram

☕ Sip at Café Tortoni

Experience a piece of history at this iconic cafe. Expect a queue, but it's worth it! Instagram

📸 Rooftop Views

Don't miss the stunning city panoramas from rooftop bars like Dome or Edificio Cassará. TikTok+1

🚇 Use Public Transport

The subway (Subte) and buses are efficient ways to get around Buenos Aires. Reddit

💰 Blue Dollar for Exchange

For the best exchange rate, look for the 'blue dollar' when converting USD to pesos. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(312 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Avenida de Mayo for its grand architecture, historic charm, and central location, making it a beautiful and convenient place to explore. While some find it a bit quiet during the day, the evening atmosphere and rooftop views are highly recommended.

"Great location . Near all the amenities ."

Yousuf Chukhoory

"Beautiful place to observe the most emblematic structure of Spanish architecture."

Rolando Leturia

"nice, worth some minutes"

Hillel Kahana

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Historic ambiance
Central location

What People Dislike

Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Avenida de Mayo is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. The Buenos Aires Subte (subway) lines A, D, and E have stations nearby, such as Plaza de Mayo and Perú. Buses also frequently run along the avenue. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Cabify and Uber are also options, though some travelers have reported issues with Cabify. TikTokReddit

Yes, Avenida de Mayo is very walkable and is best explored on foot to appreciate its grand architecture and historic buildings. Comfortable shoes are recommended for strolling along its length. Instagram

The most efficient and affordable ways to get around Buenos Aires are by using the subway (Subte) and buses. You'll need a SUBE card, which can be purchased and recharged at kiosks. TikTokReddit

Indeed! There's a fascinating secret passageway near Avenida de Mayo that leads directly to the subway station, a unique historical quirk from when the avenue was built. TikTok

Yes, Uber and taxis are readily available in Buenos Aires. While some travelers have had issues with Cabify, Uber generally works well. Hailing taxis from designated stands or directly on the street is also common. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along Avenida de Mayo itself is free. However, specific attractions along the avenue, such as the Palacio Barolo or certain rooftop bars, may have admission fees or cover charges. TikTok

Opening hours vary greatly depending on the specific attraction. Historic cafes like Café Tortoni have long hours, while rooftop bars typically open in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the individual hours for any specific site you plan to visit. TikTok

Yes, to visit the interior and ascend to the lighthouse for panoramic views of Buenos Aires, you will need to purchase a ticket for a guided tour of Palacio Barolo. TikTok

Some rooftop bars, like Salón 1923, may have a cover charge, which can often be converted into consumption credit. Others might not have a fee but will have minimum spend requirements. Happy hour deals are common. TikTok+1

While the most famous viewpoints are from paid attractions like Palacio Barolo or rooftop bars, the Edificio Cassará terrace offers incredible views and is a great free alternative for appreciating the city's skyline. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Avenida de Mayo is a photographer's dream! Key spots include the grand architecture of buildings like Palacio Barolo, the charming interior of Café Tortoni, and the panoramic cityscapes from rooftop bars. Don't forget the historic Plaza de Mayo. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful light for photographing the buildings. Sunset from a rooftop bar provides a spectacular backdrop for city shots. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos inside Café Tortoni, but be mindful of other patrons and staff. The vintage decor and ambiance make it a very popular spot for photography. Instagram

Drone usage in Buenos Aires is generally restricted, especially in central areas like Avenida de Mayo due to proximity to government buildings and air traffic. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both the grand architectural details and wider street scenes. A wide-angle lens is useful for the impressive buildings, and a fast prime lens can be good for low-light interiors like Café Tortoni. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Avenida de Mayo boasts historic cafes like Café Tortoni, offering classic Argentine fare. You'll also find numerous restaurants and bars, including rooftop options with food menus. For more local, abundant portions, consider nearby 'bodegones'. TikTokInstagram

While on Avenida de Mayo, try traditional Argentine pastries and coffee at Café Tortoni. For a more substantial meal, look for parrillas (steak houses) or empanadas in the surrounding Monserrat neighborhood. Instagram

Yes, exploring the side streets off Avenida de Mayo can lead you to more affordable 'bodegones' (traditional taverns) that offer generous portions at accessible prices, perfect for sharing. TikTok

The 'blue dollar' refers to the unofficial exchange rate for USD, which is often significantly better than the official rate. While many places accept credit cards, carrying some cash exchanged at a good rate can be beneficial for smaller purchases or places that prefer cash. TikTok

While traditional Argentine cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants on and around Avenida de Mayo are increasingly offering vegetarian options. Cafes might have salads or vegetarian sandwiches, and some restaurants will have pasta or vegetable-based dishes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Avenida de Mayo offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The grand architecture can spark imagination, and a visit to Café Tortoni for a treat can be a memorable outing. Consider a ride on the historic Subte line A, which runs beneath the avenue, for a fun and practical way to travel. Instagram While many rooftop bars are more adult-oriented, some might offer family-friendly hours or spaces. Keep an eye out for street performers, especially near Plaza de Mayo, which can entertain younger visitors. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Avenida de Mayo is surprisingly accessible for budget travelers. Walking the avenue and admiring the architecture is free. For affordable eats, seek out 'bodegones' (traditional taverns) in the surrounding Monserrat neighborhood, known for their generous, shareable portions at lower prices. TikTok Utilizing Buenos Aires's efficient public transport system (Subte and buses) with a SUBE card is very economical for getting around. TikTok Look for happy hour deals at rooftop bars to enjoy the views without a hefty price tag. TikTok

💖 Couples

Avenida de Mayo provides a romantic backdrop for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, admiring the elegant buildings. A sunset visit to a rooftop bar like Dome Rooftop Bar for cocktails offers breathtaking views and an intimate atmosphere. TikTok+1 Sharing a classic experience at Café Tortoni or enjoying a quiet dinner at one of the avenue's many restaurants can create lasting memories. Instagram

🚶 Day-Trippers

If you're on a day trip to Buenos Aires, Avenida de Mayo is a must-see. It's centrally located and easily accessible from major transport hubs. Focus on key highlights like the Palacio Barolo for its views and Café Tortoni for a quintessential Buenos Aires experience. TikTokInstagram Allocate time for a walk along the avenue to appreciate the architecture and its connection to Plaza de Mayo and the Congress. Consider a quick visit to a rooftop bar for a memorable city panorama before heading out. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels of Avenida de Mayo

Avenida de Mayo is a living museum of Buenos Aires's architectural evolution, particularly from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Inaugurated in 1894, it was designed to be the city's grandest boulevard, inspired by European counterparts like Paris and Madrid. Instagram The avenue connects two pivotal points: the Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace) at Plaza de Mayo and the National Congress. This monumental axis is lined with a stunning array of buildings showcasing styles from Neoclassical and Art Nouveau to Art Deco and Eclectic designs. Many of these structures were once prestigious residences, government offices, or commercial hubs, reflecting the city's prosperity during its golden age. Instagram

Key architectural highlights include the Palacio Barolo, an iconic skyscraper designed by Mario Palanti, symbolizing Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy, and the Casa de la Cultura (formerly the central post office), a magnificent example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The Edificio La Inmobiliaria and the Palacio de Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (Cabildo) also contribute to the avenue's stately character. Walking along Avenida de Mayo offers a visual feast, with intricate facades, ornate balconies, and grand domes that tell the story of Buenos Aires's rich past. Instagram

Beyond the grand facades, the avenue is also home to historic cafes and cultural institutions. Café Tortoni, a legendary establishment since 1858, is a must-visit for its preserved Belle Époque ambiance and cultural significance. The avenue's design itself, with its wide sidewalks and central median, was intended to foster a vibrant urban life, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls and soaking in the city's historical essence. Instagram

Rooftop Views and Nightlife

Avenida de Mayo offers some of the most spectacular rooftop experiences in Buenos Aires, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially during sunset. Dome Rooftop Bar, located atop the Hotel Tango de Mayo, is a popular choice, offering cocktails and light bites with an incredible vista. TikTok+1 It's an ideal spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and capture stunning photos of the urban landscape. Many of these rooftop venues also feature happy hours, making them an attractive option for evening drinks. TikTok

Another notable viewpoint is the terrace of the Edificio Cassará, which provides impressive, often less crowded, perspectives over the avenue and surrounding areas. TikTok For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Salón 1923 offers a sophisticated rooftop bar setting, though it may have an entrance fee that can be redeemed for consumption. TikTok These elevated spots transform the city into a glittering spectacle after dark, making them perfect for romantic evenings or lively gatherings with friends. TikTok

These rooftop bars not only offer great views but also contribute to the vibrant nightlife scene along Avenida de Mayo. They are a testament to how historic buildings are being repurposed to offer modern experiences, blending the city's rich past with its contemporary pulse. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink with a view or a place to socialize, the rooftops of Avenida de Mayo deliver an unforgettable experience. TikTok+1

Avenida de Mayo: A Historical and Cultural Hub

Avenida de Mayo is more than just a street; it's a historical artery that has witnessed significant moments in Argentina's past. Inaugurated in 1894, it was conceived as a grand boulevard to connect the seat of government, the Casa Rosada, with the National Congress, symbolizing the nation's progress and modernity. Instagram+1 Its construction and subsequent development attracted significant investment, leading to the erection of magnificent buildings that still stand today, showcasing the architectural styles popular during the Belle Époque. The avenue was a focal point for political demonstrations, social gatherings, and the daily life of Buenos Aires's burgeoning population, many of whom were European immigrants. Instagram

The avenue's cultural significance is deeply intertwined with its iconic establishments. Café Tortoni is perhaps the most famous, a timeless institution that has hosted artists, writers, and politicians for over a century. Its preserved interior offers a glimpse into a bygone era, making it a cultural landmark. Instagram Other historic cafes and bars along the avenue also contribute to its rich tapestry, serving as meeting points and cultural hubs. The Palacio Barolo, with its unique architectural symbolism, adds another layer of cultural depth, representing a philosophical and artistic vision. TikTok

Today, Avenida de Mayo continues to be a vibrant center for both locals and tourists. It remains a place where history is palpable, evident in its grand architecture and enduring institutions. The avenue’s role as a connector between key governmental and cultural sites ensures its continued importance in the city's urban fabric, offering a rich experience for anyone interested in Buenos Aires's history, architecture, and culture. Instagram+1

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