12 Famous Landmarks in Argentina for Your Bucket List

Argentina’s famous landmarks are as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from natural wonders to iconic historical buildings. Imagine standing at the edge of Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, or strolling through the colorful streets of Caminito, where tango dancers and murals bring history to life.

Known for its mate tea, world-champion soccer team, and gorgeous nature, Argentina is also home to some of South America’s best landmarks, from the streets of Buenos Aires to the rugged peaks of the Andes. Oh, and let’s not forget about the steak—here, it’s a national treasure, while chicken is a vegetable in Argentina.

The country receives over seven million international tourists a year. Within its 1.1 million square miles (2.8 million square kilometers) of land are hundreds of incredible destinations. You’ll see striking waterfalls, towering mountains, and selfie-worthy historical buildings.

To curate this list, we researched widely recognized landmarks known for their cultural, historical, and natural significance. Factors like popularity among travelers, accessibility, and the unique experiences each location offers were considered. As someone who has called Argentina home for the last two years, I’ve included my favorites to reflect the beauty and charm I’ve experienced firsthand.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

Planning an escape to Argentina? Which iconic spot would you selfie at first?

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Reasons Why I love Buenos Aires_The History_Recoleta Cemetery

Recoleta Cemetery, BA 1/5

12 Famous Landmarks in Argentina Teatro Colon, Buenos Aires

Teatro Colon, BA 2/5

12 Famous Landmarks in Argentina Aconcagua

Aconcagua, Men. 3/5

12 Famous Landmarks in Argentina Iguazu Falls, Missiones Province

Iguazu Falls, Mis. 4/5

12 Famous Landmarks in Argentina Caminito, Buenos Aires

Caminito, BA 5/5

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Recoleta Cemetery, BA

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Teatro Colon, BA

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Aconcagua, Men.

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Iguazu Falls, Mis.

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Caminito, BA

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Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires

Recoleta Cemetery is one of Argentina’s most visited landmarks and a must-see destination for any history lover. You’ll walk into a historical cemetery with ornate vaults and gravesites of historical figures.

You’ll walk through a maze of alleys that feel like a city of the dead. Find the grave site of Argentina’s most famous figure, Eva Peron. Follow the map to the burial places of former generals, presidents, and sports figures like Luis Ángel Firpo.

Visit the cemetery in the morning to beat the summer heat. Set aside a few hours and bring your camera. This landmark in Buenos Aires was voted one of the world’s best cemeteries by news outlets such as the BBC and CNN.

Travel Tips

Pick Up a Map: Grab a map at the entrance to help navigate the maze of alleys and find notable graves like Eva Perón’s.
Join a Guided Tour: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history, architecture, and stories of the prominent figures buried there.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid large crowds and for better photos, visit early or late.

Teatro Colon, Buenos Aires

Teatro Colon is a must-see landmark in Buenos Aires and one of South America’s most beloved theaters. It was built in 1908 by renowned architects Francesco Tamburini, Victor Meano, and Jules Dormal.

The theater hosts world-renowned ballets and operas, with world-famous set design and music ensembles. It has almost 2,500 seats with an ornate ceiling and stage. If you love theater or architecture, this experience can’t be beat.

Book a show in advance because the theater fills up quickly. Also, don’t miss the chance to go on a guided tour of the theater. The expert guides will show you hidden places and tell you lesser-known tales of the theater’s history.

Travel Tips

Book Your Tickets Online: Reserve tickets in advance for guided tours or shows, especially during peak season.
Tour Options: Join a 50-minute English, Spanish, and Portuguese guided tour. Tours run every 15 minutes from 10 AM to 4:45 PM.
Check the Schedule for Performances: If you want to attend a show, check the schedule ahead of time to plan your visit around performances.

Casa Rosada, Buenos Aires

The Casa Rosada is the Argentine presidential palace and a must-see monument in the city. It’s where Eva Perón and her husband greeted the public. It’s also where the country’s largest protests and violent coupes took place.

Tour the historic building and learn about the country’s presidents and their impact on its culture. You’ll also see original furniture from the country’s independence from Spain and photos from major historical moments.

The house was built on top of a 16th-century Spanish fort. Don’t miss walking around the nearby Plaza del Mayo when you visit. Check the news for protests ahead of time.

Travel Tips

Book Your Guided Tour in Advance: Reserve your spot for free weekend tours, as they fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
Bring Identification: Don’t forget a valid ID for entry to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Explore Plaza de Mayo: Walk around this historic square before or after your visit, and discover nearby landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Cabildo.

Aconcagua

Aconcagua is the tallest mountain in South America and a must-see landmark in Argentina’s Mendoza Province. The snowcapped mountain is 22,838 ft (6,961 m) tall and towers over the other Andes peaks.

Visit Mendoza, the capital of Argentina’s wine industry. Rent a car or take a tour to the base of the mountain. You’ll stare up at the epic peak as you drive in.

Hike to the Mirador Del Cerro Aconcagua observation deck to see incredible views of the mountain. If you want, you can continue hiking and camp at the mountain’s base camp. If you’re an expert hiker, you can climb to the top for the adventure of a lifetime.

Travel Tips

Before Climbing: Spend a few days at lower altitudes to help your body adjust. This reduces the risk of altitude sickness and makes the climb easier.
Stay Hydrated: The dry air at high altitudes can cause dehydration. Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated and healthy.
Pack Essential Gear: Bring warm clothing, sturdy boots, and sunscreen. Weather can change quickly, so proper gear is crucial.

Caminito, Buenos Aires

Caminito is a street in Buenos Aires’ La Boca neighborhood with colorful buildings and tango shows. You’ll see boutique shops, restaurants, and historical bars. Stay for live dancing and musical performances, and you’ll have endless fun.

The neighborhood of La Boca is the historical port entrance to the country. This is where immigrants from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East arrived during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

This blend of cultures and traditions blended to create Argentine art forms such as tango. In Caminito, you’ll learn about the history of the city while enjoying endless music, food, and entertainment.

Travel Tips

Visit Early in the Day: Arrive early to enjoy the beautiful colors and take photos without large crowds.
Be Cautious Nearby: While Caminito is safe, the surrounding La Boca neighborhood can be sketchy. Stick to the main areas and avoid wandering off the path, especially after dark.
Bring Small Change: Street performers and artists may ask for tips, so have small change on hand to support local talent.

Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy Province

Quebrada de Humahuaca is a natural landmark featuring red rock formations and beautiful valleys in the deserts of Jujuy Province, one of the most remote corners of Argentina.

Take a tour from Jujuy City to the valley. You’ll travel between mountain villages and experience rural desert life. You’ll be surrounded by striking red rocks and desert landscapes when you reach the valley.

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You can drive through the valley and visit indigenous villages on the way. Stop at vineyards and sample the region’s famous wine. This part of Argentina is one of the driest in the world, so don’t forget to bring plenty of water.

Travel Tips

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Start Early for Best Views: Arrive at sunrise to capture the vibrant colors of the rock formations in the best light.
Visit Local Villages: Explore Purmamarca and Tilcara for local crafts and authentic food.
Dress in Layers: The weather can change quickly, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

San Ignacio Miní, Missiones Province

San Ignacio Miní is a former Jesuit Mission built in the 17th century. It was abandoned and destroyed in the 18th century. Today, it’s one of Argentina’s must-see UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The site is one of the most well-preserved Jesuit sites in Argentina. Visit the town of San Ignacio in Missiones Province. Tour the ruins and learn about the history of the Jesuits who lived in the area for almost a century.

Check out the Museum Jesuiticas Reductions and take a guided tour. Afterward, try the local cuisine at a local restaurant. Order mate tea and the region’s famous chipa cheese bread.

Travel Tips

Visit During the Week: Explore San Ignacio Miní on weekdays for fewer tourists.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The ruins have uneven terrain, so wear sturdy shoes.
Bring a Camera: Capture the beautiful ruins and nature with your camera.

Cathedral of Córdoba, Córdoba

The Cathedral of Córdoba is a fantastic landmark in the fascinating city of Córdoba. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, it’s the oldest church in Argentina and one of the country’s most historical sights.

Visit during the day and tour the fascinating structure. Admire the towers and arches from the outside before entering. You’ll see ornate decorations and original Spanish colonial furniture and art.

Take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn lesser-known facts about its history. After your visit, walk around Plaza San Martin and visit other historical sights. Grab a Córdoban asado barbecue at a local restaurant and try the local wine.

Travel Tipsa

Take a Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s history, from its origins as a Visigothic church to its transformation into a mosque and then a cathedral.
Visit During Mass: Attend a mass service to see it as an active place of worship.
Explore the Area: After the visit, wander around Plaza San Martín, where you’ll find historical buildings, cafes, and shops.

La Bombonera, Buenos Aires

La Bombonera is more than a soccer stadium; it’s ground zero for one of the world’s most influential soccer teams. The Boca Juniors Football Club is famous for its passion and ruthlessness on the field. It was home to famous players such as Diego Maradona and other world champions.

Visit the stadium’s museum and tour the collection of art, photos, and jerseys. You’ll see endless memorabilia and learn about the club’s impact on the sport. After touring the museum, you can enter the stadium and see the iconic blue and gold seats.

After visiting, grab a choripan sandwich at the nearby Don Carlos restaurant. The Buenos Aires Tourist Bus takes you to the stadium and other monuments. Be careful walking around the neighborhood outside of the monuments, and avoid visiting at night.

Travel Tips

Check Tour Availability: La Bombonera stadium has been closed for renovation since February 2022, and you can only visit the museum for now. Verify tour status before visiting or joining a city tour with other football sites.
Explore the Neighborhood: Walk through vibrant La Boca after your visit. Enjoy the colorful Caminito street, street art, and live performances.
Try Local Food: Don’t miss choripán, a popular street food. Stop by local spots like Don Carlos.

The Perito Moreno Glacier, Santa Cruz Province

The Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia is one of the most impressive glaciers in South America. It looms over the border of Chile, stretching across the waters of Lago Argentino. It runs close to 19 miles up the canyon, surrounded by mountains and lakes.

You can visit the glacier from the Argentine side and get up close and personal. You’ll take stunning photos of the ice and the surrounding landscape.

When you visit, take a break at the Restó del Glaciar Perito Moreno restaurant for delicious food and views. After seeing the glacier, stop along the way for more breathtaking viewpoints. When you return to the city of El Calafate, enjoy amazing cuisine and laid-back vibes.

Travel Tips

Arrive Early: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting on the glacier for better photos.
Wear Proper Footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes for the trails and boardwalks.
Bring Snacks and Water: Pack your own food and water to save money, especially if you plan to hike or explore the area.

Palacio Barolo, Buenos Aires

Palacio Barolo is an architectural landmark in Buenos Aires that was once the city’s tallest building. It features 22 floors of intricate architecture designed by Italian architect Mario Palanti, who based the building on Dante’s famous masterpiece, Divine Comedy.

Visit the building and see the viewpoint from the top. You’ll get amazing views of the surrounding buildings. After admiring the architecture nearby, walk through the hallways and enjoy the vivid art decorating the halls.

Book your tour in advance in the summer because this place fills up quickly. After touring the Palacio, check out other monuments nearby, such as the Plaza del Congreso.

Travel Tips

Book Your Tour in Advance: Reserve your spot online due to its popularity, especially during summer.
Consider Themed Tours: Look for literary-themed tours focusing on Dante’s Divine Comedy or Jorge Luis Borges.

Visit the Café on the 16th Floor: After your tour, relax at Salón 1923 for coffee or wine while enjoying panoramic views of Buenos Aires. No tour ticket required to access the café.

Iguazu Falls, Missiones Province

Iguazu Falls is located in the northern province of Missiones and is the largest waterfall system in the world. Over 275 waterfalls cascade over the cliffs of the Iguazu River, creating a breathtaking sight.

The river separates Brazil from Argentina and you can visit the landmark on both sides. While the Brazilian side is beautiful, you’ll experience more time near the falls on the Argentinian side.

Enter the park and walk along the trails and platforms over the falls. You’ll see the water crash below you as tropical birds fly overhead. Hike to the end to see the famous Devil’s Throat, the most impressive fall.

Travel Tips

Visit the Argentine Side: For closer views and more trails, the Argentine side gives better access to the falls, including the iconic Devil’s Throat.
Arrive Early: Get there early to avoid crowds, enjoy the falls in the soft morning light, and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
Bring Rain Gear: The mist near the falls can be intense, so wear waterproof clothing and quick-drying shoes.