The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Caballito Buenos Aires

Caballito, a neighbourhood located in the geographical center of Buenos Aires, is a bundle of delightful contradictions. Historically, it was a weekend escape for the wealthy denizens of the city, whose glorious mansions still stand. Today, it’s also the site of the University of Buenos Aires’ Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, the students injecting liveliness to the neighborhood. Caballito, often overlooked, has much to offer; read on for ten of the best things to do and see there.

Explore Parque Centenario

Park

Constructed in 1910, this large urban park fell into neglect in the mid to late 20th century, a Juan Perón-built amphitheatre destroyed by arson in 1959, a Perlotti sculpture stolen in 1989, and the entire park suffering from decay. Fortunately, the park was restored several years ago, ending in 2009, and it has been restored to its original glory. Take some time out of a busy day to relax by the swan lake or check out the new amphitheatre, which has seen performances by the City Tango Orchestra. Parque Centenario | © Matias Garabedian/WikiCommons

Check out the market at Parque Rivadavia

Park

Another beautiful urban green space in Caballito, Parque Rivadavia plays host to a market where keen collectors can find vintage records, old books, and more. On Sundays, the amphitheatre puts on free shows for children, who also have the option of taking a spin on the carousel. All shopped out? Don’t leave the park before getting a glimpse of the impressive white marble monument to Simon Bolivar, which stands eleven meters tall and twenty-two wide.

Admire the English District

Caballito’s historic mansions, primarily built in Fin de Siècle style, remain impeccably preserved to this day. Take a stroll along the verdant streets of the barrio to get a good look at the gorgeous architecture. One particularly notable home is the mansion of wine baron Ambrosio Plácido de Lezica, on Avenida Rivadavia.

Catch a match at Locos por el Fútbol

Bar

This sports-themed resto-bar on Caballito’s main thoroughfare is the prime location to take in a big football match; things get lively, and when the match is over, the bar transforms into a popular disco. Seem incongruous? Perhaps. But it’s fun.

Learn about history at the Historical Tramway Museum

Museum

Historically, trams were the primary form of public transportation in Buenos Aires, and this fascinating museum delves into this now out-of-use system. The museum, which is fun and educative for all ages, also features tram rides on Sundays. All aboard!

Have a beer at The Oldest

Pub

Whilst most likely not actually the oldest pub in the city, The Oldest has been around for a while. With good food, beer on tap as well as a selection of cocktails, and a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere, this is a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

Do a food shop at Mercado del Progreso

Market, Market, Shop

A walk through this indoor market feels like a blast from the past; originally built in 1889 as an open-air market, it was given art deco-style roofing in the 1930s but otherwise has not changed a bit. Many of the stands hawking produce and meat have been family-owned since the market’s inception. The market is such a draw that it brings in shoppers from all corners of the city who are keen to snag fresh and tasty groceries.

Opening times: Monday-Saturday 7.30 am-2 pm and 5 pm-8.30 pm, closed Sundays. Mercado del Progreso | © Protoplasmakid/WikiCommons

Get cultured at Cobra Libros

More than just a bookshop, Cobra Libros does indeed offer a well-curated selection of local and independent books which can be bought or even rented, but it also serves as an art space, offering everything from exhibits to workshops to film screenings and concerts. In the summertime, they even offer a bike rental service.

Opening times: Monday-Saturday 2 pm-8 pm, Sundays 4 pm-8 pm

Grab a bite to eat at Panaderia Franck Dauffouis

Bakery

The owner of this small corner bakery was born and raised in France, and his creations fuse his heritage with that of his adopted country’s. For a break from typical Argentine cuisine, stop by to pick up a homemade croissant, scone, or one of his renowned pain au chocolats to takeaway.

Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday 7.30 am-7.30 pm Medialunas | © David/Flickr

Learn about science at the Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales

Museum

Head over to the western edge of Parque Centenario to visit this museum, open since 1937, which houses exhibits on various species of plants and animals that currently and historically have lived in Argentina— but the highlight, of course, are the dinosaurs. Schedule in advance to book an English guided tour.

Opening times: 2 pm-7 pm Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales | © Pablo Origlia/WikiCommonsBy Madeleine Bazil

About the author

Madeleine Bazil

Maddy is in her second year reading English at the University of St Andrews. Born and bred in Washington, DC, she retains an affinity for political intrigue, urban green space, and Ethiopian cuisine despite newly appreciating the British traditions of queueing, apologising, and Wimbledon. Maddy's freelance writing has been published in media such as Matador Network and Thistle Magazine as well as in St Andrews-based publications. She'll travel anywhere, just give her a moment to lace up her Adidas.