Buenos Aires, Argentina

The capital of Argentina is usually associated with the name Evita, tango, or football. "Port of Our Lady Saint Mary of the Good Winds" is the historical name of Buenos Aires. It is a true city of contrasts-next to modern skyscrapers, old Spanish quarters have been preserved, while numerous poor neighborhoods and slums contrast with the upscale areas of the city center and suburbs. The old part of the city simultaneously resembles Paris, London, and Madrid, while the new districts of Buenos Aires feature a modern city with high-rise buildings and skyscrapers that house business centers and offices of major companies. However, the overall architecture of the capital retains characteristics from the colonial period-main squares facing the sea and a straightforward street layout. The city is rich in greenery, parks, and boulevards, with many monuments and memorials scattered throughout the central area. **Climate** Buenos Aires is a realm of tropical climate, but its relative proximity to Antarctica affects the climate more noticeably than one might think. Summer (from December to March) is humid and hot, with daytime temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures around 20 degrees. Winter (from June to September) is dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures from 5 to 10 degrees. The last time it snowed in Buenos Aires was in 2007. ## About the Port of Buenos Aires, Argentina Buenos Aires, Argentina is a popular cruise departure port, providing access to incredible destinations. ## Main Attractions A visit to Buenos Aires logically begins at the site of its founding with a stroll through the "Lesama" park. It is said that in 1536, the conquistador Pedro de Mendoza ordered the construction of the first wooden settlement here, laying the foundation for the Argentine capital. From here, there is a view of the Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, which was built with funds from Russian monarchs. The Argentinians themselves are Catholics. And although an Orthodox icon of the Vladimir Mother of God hangs right at the entrance of the Buenos Aires Cathedral, the Catholic fervor of the locals is striking. This has intensified since the election of Argentine Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) as Pope. It is rumored that he has become even more popular in the country than Maradona. The cathedral is worth a visit to see the mausoleum containing the remains of Argentina's national hero, José de San Martín. The architecture of the capital delights with a variety of styles. For example, the Palace of the National Congress in the square of the same name was built in the model of the Capitol in Washington in 1906. The Pink House (Casa Rosada, Presidential Palace) in Plaza de Mayo is designed in the Italian style. Art objects are exhibited in the main city museum of the capital-the National Museum of Fine Arts (entry is free). You can see industrial architecture from the early 20th century at the cultural center Usina del Arte. It is located in a former power station and is renowned for its excellent acoustics. In the center's symphonic hall, tango, rock, jazz, and classical operas are performed. On the widest street in the world-Avenida 9 de Julio-you should stop by the "Colón" Theatre. Tickets for performances sell out six months in advance, but tours in English and Spanish of the theatre building are conducted every day. And they are worth it. The theatre was recently renovated for 100 million USD. The Colón Opera House is the pride of Buenos Aires. It is the main opera stage in all of South America, a center for classical music. It is worth seeing, even if you are not an opera lover. Both the building of the Colón Theatre, designed in the Renaissance style, and its interior decoration are interesting. In the very center of Buenos Aires stands a huge Obelisk-a symbol of the Argentine capital. To be precise, it is located at the Plaza de la República, where Avenida 9 de Julio intersects with Corrientes Street. Interestingly, the Obelisk is installed exactly where the Argentine flag was first raised. ## What to See **La Casa Rosada** La Casa Rosada (“The Pink House”), officially known as Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), is the residence of the government of Argentina. It is located in Plaza de Mayo, which has often been a silent witness to the emotional and dramatic events in Argentina's history. **San Telmo Quarter** San Telmo is a colorful, semi-bohemian neighborhood with antique shops, colonial architecture, and numerous old churches (such as the San Pedro Telmo church). Some streets here are still paved with cobblestones. The best time to visit San Telmo is on Sundays, when Plaza Dorrego, the heart of the neighborhood, transforms into a flea market, and the streets fill with jugglers and tango dancers. Tango enthusiasts should definitely visit the famous tango cafés in San Telmo, such as El Viejo Almacén, Michelangelo, La Casa Blanca, and La Casa Rosada. **La Boca** The La Boca district in Buenos Aires is considered one of the main tourist attractions. It has everything travelers love-dancing, singing, painting, and a multitude of cafés and restaurants. ## Popular Excursions **Palermo Woods of Buenos Aires** The Palermo Woods are one of the largest parks in Buenos Aires. It covers an area of 400 hectares. As the name suggests, it is located in the Palermo district. Its official name is the Park of February Third. ## Cruise Lines from Buenos Aires, Argentina Several cruise lines offer departures from this port with various itinerary options: - MSC Cruises - Costa Cruises - Royal Caribbean - Norwegian Cruise Line - Celebrity Cruises ## Best Time for a Cruise Plan your cruise from Buenos Aires, Argentina during the optimal season for your chosen destinations. ## How to Get to the Port Information on transportation and logistics for the cruise port of Buenos Aires, Argentina. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Which cruise lines depart from Buenos Aires, Argentina? Several major companies operate from the port, including MSC, Costa, and Royal Caribbean. ### How to get to the cruise port in Buenos Aires, Argentina? The port is accessible by car, taxi, and public transport. ### Can excursions be booked in advance? Yes, we recommend booking popular excursions in advance.