The best milongas in Buenos Aires to enjoy tango in the city

La Milonga de Lucy is a traditional gathering held on Mondays from 6 PM to 1 AM, with a warm atmosphere that blends music from 1940s and 1950s orchestras, current groups, and special tandas of folklore and rock. There are no exhibitions or pre-classes, and the focus is on the participants, both locals and tourists. Tango codes are respected: circulating on the floor, cabeceo (head nod), and elegant attire with mandatory formal shoes. Gastronomy service is available during the milonga.

Tip: It's a good idea to book in advance to secure your spot. Entrance costs around $4000.

Where: La Rioja 1180, Club Gricel.

Yira Yira Milonga takes place every Friday at the iconic Club Gricel. It starts with a class at 7:30 PM for all levels, followed by the milonga from 9 PM to 3 AM, with music curated by renowned DJ Carlos Moreira. The milonga offers tandas of tango, waltz, milonga, folklore, and rock, along with a show featuring dancers and an orchestra. Locals and tourists create an authentic and friendly tango environment. Comfortable attire is recommended, but proper dancing shoes are important.

Tip: You can enjoy empanadas, pizza, and a drink while you dance—perfect for combining dinner and dance.

Where: La Rioja 1180, Club Gricel.

Muy Martes is an inclusive and accessible milonga held every Tuesday at the corner of Av. Callao and Santa Fe. It offers classes for beginners and advanced dancers from 8:30 PM to 10 PM, followed by social dancing until 4 AM. With a relaxed atmosphere, it invites you to enjoy classic tandas from the 1940s, delicious food, and a cocktail bar. There’s no dress code, but comfortable clothing is recommended. It's a space for building community and enjoying tango in all its forms, with singer and dancer performances every night.

Tip: It offers veggie and gluten-free food options.

Where: Av. Callao 1082.

La Del Centro Milonga takes place every Wednesday from 8:30 PM to 2 AM, offering a unique experience in a historic tango venue. With simultaneous classes for beginners and intermediate/advanced dancers, the night continues with music from renowned DJs, classic tandas, and live orchestra performances.

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It also offers a diverse menu ranging from dinners to cocktails and desserts, available throughout the night. There’s no dress code, and it invites both locals and tourists of all ages to enjoy tango in a friendly space full of history.

Tip: Dance exhibitions are also part of the experience, creating a vibrant and cultural atmosphere.

Where: Maipú 365, Salón Marabú.

La Rosa Milonga, held every Sunday from 2 PM to 8 PM, is a warm, family-friendly space welcoming tango lovers of all ages and nationalities. It begins with classes for all levels taught by renowned instructors, followed by an afternoon of milonga with renowned DJs and a cozy atmosphere. There’s no dress code, and you can comfortably dance in sneakers or appropriate shoes.

The venue offers a variety of food options, including sweet and savory dishes and cocktails, perfect to enjoy between tandas. A classic Buenos Aires milonga where newcomers feel welcome and regulars share their passion for tango.

Tip: There are raffles at La Rosa Milonga. Go and tell us if you win something!

Where: Riobamba 416, Salón El Beso.

Since 1996, the milonga gatherings on Saturdays and Sundays offer an informal and laid-back environment for tango lovers of all ages and levels. Classes begin at 5 PM, followed by the milonga from 6:30 PM to 10 PM, with music primarily from the 1940s and 1950s, along with occasional orchestra performances. It attracts a regular crowd and, during tourist season, visitors from around the world. There’s no strict dress code, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Ideal for experiencing authentic tango in a friendly setting.

Tip: At La Glorieta de Belgrano, you dance outdoors in a gazebo. A must-see!

Where: Plaza de Barrancas de Belgrano, 11 de Septiembre and Echeverría.

Mafalda Milonga is held every Sunday from 3 PM to 7 PM at the Centro Cultural Portal Recoleta. It offers an inclusive and free experience that celebrates tango as a cultural expression. With multilingual classes from 2 PM to 3 PM and occasional guest DJs, this space transforms its lights and sounds to welcome locals and tourists of all ages. There’s no dress code, though proper dancing shoes are essential. With a capacity for 300 people, it fosters community and learning, attracting both beginners and experienced dancers.

Tip: The buffet offers empanadas, pizzetas, and drinks to complement the experience.

Where: Av. Santa Fe 2516.

Champagne Milonga, a matinée held on Mondays at Lo de Celia Tango, offers a tango class from 3 PM to 4 PM, followed by dancing from 4 PM to 9 PM. The music includes tango, waltz, and milonga, organized in tandas with jazz breaks. The event often features raffles. The audience, generally over 50 years old, is a mix of locals and tourists. There’s no dress code, but formal attire and slippery shoes are recommended. The food offering includes snacks like empanadas, sandwiches, and pizza.

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Tip: Live orchestras or dance exhibitions often participate.

Where: Humberto Primo 1783.

La Viruta Tango Club is an iconic Buenos Aires venue, directed by Cecilia Troncoso and Horacio Godoy, dedicated to tango for 30 years. It offers classes, shows, and dancing on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with Fridays being the busiest night. Ideal for dancers of all levels, it blends tradition and modernity. Its space includes a restaurant with simple options like pizzas, milanesa, and wines. La Viruta attracts locals, tourists, and regulars, creating a multicultural encounter where tango comes to life with music and passion.

Tip: The entry fee includes everything for approximately $7000, and reservations are required on Fridays.

Where: Armenia 1366.