Chasing Goals: Soccer Adventures in Buenos Aires

A Soccer Fan's Ultimate Guide to Buenos Aires, Argentina

SOUTH AMERICA

Julie Cruz

1/12/20254 min read

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a dream destination for soccer enthusiasts. With its rich football history, passionate fans, and iconic stadiums, the city offers an unforgettable experience for any soccer fan. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your soccer-themed trip to Buenos Aires.

Stadium Tours

La Bombonera (Boca Juniors Stadium): Known for its unique shape and electric atmosphere, La Bombonera is a must-visit.  Take a guided tour to explore the museum, locker rooms, and even step onto the pitch. 

El Monumental (River Plate Stadium): The largest stadium in Argentina, El Monumental is home to River Plate.  This tour includes access to the museum, trophy room, and a walk through the stadium. 

Estadio Libertadores de America (Independiente Stadium):  Another iconic stadium offering tours that delve into the history of one of Argentina's most successful clubs.

Classic Games to See

Superclásico (Boca Juniors vs. River Plate): The most intense and famous derby in Argentina, and arguably the world.

Racing Club vs. Independiente: Known as the Avellaneda derby, this match s another fierce rivalry worth experiencing.

San Lorenzo vs. Huracán: A classic neighborhood rivalry that showcases the passion of Argentine soccer.

Best Time to Travel

The soccer season in Buenos Aires runs from late January to early December, with a break in June and July for the Copa America. The best times to visit are during the fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and you can catch key matches.

Tips for Team or Family Travel

Safety First: Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Book in Advance: Secure your match tickets and stadium tours well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Family-Friendly Activities: Buenos Aires offers plenty of parks, museums, and cultural activities that are perfect for families.

Top 3 Neighborhoods to Visit

Palermo: Known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and parks.

Recoleta: Famous for its architecture, museums, and the historic Recoleta Cemetary.

San Telmo: A historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, antique shops, and vibrant street markets.

Top 3 Sports Fan Restaurants

El Alamo:  A popular sports bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for watching games.

Chicken Bros:  Known for its American-style wings and sports screenings.

Gibralter:  An English pub in San Telmo that streams various sports, including soccer.

Top 3 Hotels in Downtown

Hilton Buenos Aires: Located in Puerto Madero, offering luxury and convenience.

Alvear Palace Hotel: A historic and luxurious option in Recoleta.

Mio Buenos Aires: A boutique hotel in Recoleta with excellent amenities.

Top 3 City Tours

Buenos Aires City Private Tour: A comprehensive tour covering major attractions.

Tigre Delta Tour: Explore the scenic Tigre Delta with a private guide

Recoleta and Palermo Bike Tour: Discover these neighborhoods on a guided bike tour.

Street Foods for Soccer Fans

Choripan: Grilled chorizo sausage in a crusty bread roll, often found at street stalls near stadiums.

Empanadas: Delicious pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, available at many street vendors.

Bondiola: Pork shoulder sandwiches, a popular choice among locals.

Best Places to Buy Soccer Memorabilia

Club Stores: Official stores at Boca Juniors, River Plate, and other clubs.

San Telmo Market: A great place to find vintage soccer jerseys and memorabilia.

Galerías Pacífico: A shopping mall with several sports stores offering a variety of soccer merchandise.

Buenos Aires is a city that lives and breathes soccer. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, this guide will help you make the most of your trip and immerse yourself in the passionate world of Argentine football. Enjoy your visit and ¡Vamos Argentina!

Staying Connected

Traveling internationally can be an exhilarating adventure, but staying connected with loved ones and navigating unfamiliar territories can sometimes be a challenge. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to maintain seamless communication is by using an eSIM card. This digital SIM allows you to stay connected without the hassle of exorbitant roaming fees or unreliable public Wi-Fi. Not only does it provide you with a local phone number, making it easier to stay in touch with friends, family, and fellow travelers, but it also grants you access to local data services. This means you can effortlessly share your travel experiences on social media, use maps to explore new cities, and access travel apps to make your journey smoother.

Private Driver Tours

Driving in Buenos Aires can be tricky. I know from personal experience. Why not let a local show you the sights? You can easily book one here and let someone else do the driving!