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Foto: Nico Ferreyra
Foto: Nico Ferreyra

10 Plans to enjoy an empty Buenos Aires

Everything you can take advantage of in January when Buenos Aires empties out.

Romina Goldstein
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In January, Buenos Aires transforms into a peaceful refuge, perfect for enjoying its wonders without the usual crowds. Take the opportunity to visit places like the Ecoparque, where you can connect with nature and observe local wildlife. The city’s plazas, which empty out during this time, become ideal spots for reading, picnicking, or simply relaxing under the sun.

It’s also the perfect moment to enjoy different activities, like nighttime bike tours, which let you discover the city from a magical perspective, or explore the colorful murals and urban art that decorate its streets. If you prefer something more active, try water sports or enjoy boat rides to take in the river and city views from a unique perspective.

Feeling like you're on vacation, but at home, is possible by exploring the quieter corners of Buenos Aires. This summer of 2025, the city invites you to rediscover it and live in its most relaxed and charming version.

1. Night Bike Tour

Bike Tours Buenos Aires invites you to experience the magic of cycling through the city under the night sky, illuminated by stars and vibrant city lights. This nighttime tour will take you through 15 kilometers of iconic streets, from the lively Avenida Corrientes and the impressive Obelisk, to the Teatro Colón, the modern docks of Puerto Madero, and the historic Plaza de Mayo.

For three hours, you will enjoy a relaxed ride, rediscovering Buenos Aires from a unique perspective, full of charm and energy.

Tip: The tour costs U$S100 per person and includes bike, helmet, multilingual guide, a bottle of water, and a stop at a classic Buenos Aires pizzeria.

Where: Plaza San General San Martín, next to the equestrian monument of General San Martín, Retiro.

2. Street Art Tour

Buenos Aires Street Art invites you to explore street art in the neighborhoods of Villa Urquiza, Coghlan, and Saavedra, created by local and international artists. During a 2.5-hour walking tour, you will discover peaceful and safe areas full of urban art that tell unique stories and reflect the city's rich cultural heritage.

Since 2011, this organization has promoted street art, sponsoring large-scale projects and collaborating with prominent artists. The cost is U$S20 per person.

Tip: They have an online gallery where you can purchase works by Latin American artists.

When: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 2:00 pm.

Where: The tour starts in Villa Urquiza.

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3. "Frida and Diego: Transforming Affections" Exhibition at MALBA

In January 2025, MALBA offers a deeper look at the intense relationship between Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Featuring iconic works like Frida's "Self-Portrait with Monkey and Parrot" and Rivera's "Dance in Tehuantepec," the exhibition also includes photographs and posters that reveal their personal and professional connection. Themes such as Mexican identity and the challenges of their joint life are highlighted in this unmissable exhibition, open until August 25, 2025.

Tip: The exhibit includes never-before-seen photographs from Frida and Diego's personal archive, mostly taken by close friends like Tina Modotti and Manuel Álvarez Bravo, offering an intimate view of their everyday and artistic lives.

When: Every day except Tuesdays (the museum is closed), at 12:00 pm.

Where: Av. Figueroa Alcorta 3415, MALBA.

4. Water Sports in San Isidro

Now, let’s take you about 30km outside Buenos Aires. If you enjoy water sports, it's worth the trip. Whether you're looking to relax in the water or challenge yourself with a new activity, the La Playita Nautical School offers a variety of options suitable for all levels of experience. Not only will you stay active, but you’ll also enjoy nature and the outdoors.

Recommended activities: Kayak, Stand Up Paddle (SUP), windsurfing, and kitesurfing. You can rent equipment, take group or private lessons. There are also classes specially designed for kids, where they can learn the basics of water sports in a playful and fun way.

Tip: Activities depend on the weather, so call ahead for information on wind conditions and available options each day.

Where: "La Playita" Nautical School, San Isidro.

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5. Music at the Centro Cultural Recoleta

The "Songs at Sunset" cycle at the Centro Cultural Recoleta offers a series of free outdoor concerts in the beautiful courtyard of the venue. This summer series takes place in the late afternoon, just as the sun begins to set, creating a relaxing and magical atmosphere.

The concerts feature emerging local artists performing a mix of musical genres, from pop to folk and independent music. These performances offer a unique and accessible experience for all audiences in an ideal setting to enjoy music as night falls.

In addition to the concerts, "Songs at Sunset" is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the cultural and artistic ambiance of Recoleta, with outdoor spaces, family-friendly activities, and a variety of cultural offerings throughout January.

Tip: Entrance is free, but it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the sunset with live music.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday in January, starting at 6:30 pm, in the Centro Cultural's courtyard.

Where: Junín 1930.

6. Party Night at Makena

Wednesdays at Makena offer the ideal party to break up the week, with 16 years of history. They feature live music and DJs with a mix of blues, soul, funk, national rock, and rock & roll. The house band is the heart of the event, with three shows at midnight, 2 am, and 3 am, setting the rhythm for the night.

Tickets cost about $7,000, which includes a beer if you arrive before midnight. After that, the price remains the same but without the drink. A unique experience combining great music and vibrant energy.

Tip: Iconic bands include Los Burritos and Jean Bim.

Where: Fitz Roy 1519.

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7. Stargazing at the Planetarium

The Galileo Galilei Planetarium invites you to enjoy a unique experience: stargazing through telescopes. The activity is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of 250 people. It’s the perfect chance to connect with the universe and learn about stars, planets, and constellations. If it’s cloudy or raining, the activity is canceled. Don’t miss this special experience and discover the magic of the night sky up close!

Tip: The Planetarium reopens on January 11 after annual maintenance.

When: Saturdays and Sundays at 8:30 pm.

Where: Intersection of Avenida General Sarmiento and Belisario Roldán.

8. Nighttime Boat Tours

Looking for a unique nighttime outing? Sturla Viajes invites you to experience Full Moon Nights, an unforgettable tour on the Río de la Plata. Departing from Puerto Madero, these tours offer spectacular views of illuminated Buenos Aires, including the Puente de la Mujer, the modern Puerto Madero buildings, and the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur. The city reflected in the water creates a magical atmosphere. The tours also offer dining options: dinner and drinks on board for a truly unique night cruising under the moonlight.

Tip: The next tour is on January 18, so make sure to reserve NOW through this link.

Where: Puerto Madero Fluvial Terminal - Vehicle and pedestrian entrance at Cecilia Grierson 400, corner of Juana Manso, Dársena Norte.

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9. Guided Tour of the Ecopark

The Ecopark offers guided tours throughout January 2025. These tours are designed to bring visitors closer to conservation efforts for fauna and flora, biodiversity, and sustainable waste management. Guides provide detailed information on protected species, native plants, and the Ecopark’s initiatives to preserve the environment. It’s an educational activity ideal for enjoying the outdoors and learning about nature.

Tip: The Sea Museum – GEA Marina will offer immersive virtual reality experiences about marine life, from Wednesday to Sunday at 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

When: Wednesday to Sunday at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

Where: Av. Sarmiento 2601.

10. Summer Activities at the Modern Art Museum

The Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art hosts the program "Glimpses of Another World." It offers workshops and activities for children, teenagers, and families, providing a variety of free creative activities such as painting, intuitive drawing, and inclusive sensory workshops. This is an invitation to explore new forms of artistic expression while reflecting on the relationship between art and society.

Every week, there are different activities for the whole family to learn more about modern art. Workshops, held Thursday through Sunday, include activities like creating recycled mobiles, making artistic clothing inspired by kinetic art, and building fantastic creatures, among others.

Tip: Activities are open to the public and some require prior registration, so it’s a good idea to check the full schedule here.

When: From January 2 to February 16.

Where: Av. San Juan 350, San Telmo.

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