It may seem like an impossible mission, but it isn’t. Buenos Aires still offers plenty of activities, things to do, and cultural experiences without breaking the bank. If you’re on a tight budget for going out, here’s a list of 20 budget-friendly ideas to help you enjoy the city to the fullest. We’ll show you what to do on a budget in Buenos Aires with these 10 affordable plans and activities.
Take a stroll through the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve
Immerse yourself in nature with a walk or bike ride through this green lung of the city. Admission is free and offers spectacular views of the river and the city, as well as the chance to spot birds and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts offers free admission and houses an impressive collection of national and international art. It’s a must-see for art lovers.
Explore Recoleta, Palermo, Villa Crespo, and La Boca to admire the murals and graffiti that decorate the city. It’s a free activity that will let you discover Buenos Aires’ urban art scene. Plus, after Argentina won the 2024 Copa América, there are new murals to discover.
Visit the Galileo Galilei Planetarium
The Planetarium offers free activities and others at very affordable prices. It’s an ideal place to learn about astronomy, watch documentaries, and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits where space and the stars surround you.
If you’re looking for affordable things to do in Buenos Aires, eating is always on the agenda. But where? Enjoy empanadas, choripanes, and local dishes at affordable prices while exploring this historic market. For very little money, you can have a great lunch. And while you’re there, browse the antique stalls. Plus, this market is internationally recognized as one of the best and most beautiful in the world.
Discover Affordable Steakhouses
Places like El Desnivel in San Telmo or Parrilla Don Benito Palermo offer affordable set menus where you can enjoy a delicious asado and grilled cuts of meat. They’re perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner without breaking the bank.
El Desnivel 📍Defensa 855
Parrilla Don Benito 📍Humboldt 1612
Enjoy a snack or breakfast at charming cafés
Enjoy a coffee and a croissant at iconic spots like Café Tortoni or at modern coffee shops like Lattente and Full City Coffee House in Palermo. The menu is incredibly varied, and there are so many options that you don’t need to spend much to feel like you’ve had a great meal. These are ideal if you’re looking for affordable things to do in Buenos Aires that include good coffee and a great atmosphere.
Café Tortoni 📍Av. de Mayo 825
Lattente Coffee 📍Thames 1891
Daily Special at Bodegones Porteños
Traditionalrestaurants like El Imparcial and El Preferido de Palermo offer home-style cooking at very reasonable prices. It’s also worth stopping by Sarkis, an Armenian tavern with incredible prices and huge portions that’s surprisingly affordable (and always packed).
Sarkis 📍Thames 1101
Eat and stroll through Chinatown and Koreatown
Visit Chinatown in Belgrano or Koreatown in Flores to enjoy exotic and affordable meals. There are plenty of spots offering Asian takeout, and you can eat very well at any time of day for much less than what a daily special would cost at an average restaurant.
Take a Craft Brewery Tour
Places like Antares and Cervelar in Palermo offer good beer and appetizers at affordable prices, especially during happy hour. You can also head to the Palermo Racetrack and stop by Rabieta. There are always great deals, and you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy a good beer for a very reasonable price.
If you’re looking for affordable things to do in Buenos Aires without sacrificing culture, you can’t miss Clásica y Moderna. This Buenos Aires classic is a café and bar with years of history, much loved by culture and book lovers: hidden among its tables is a collection of over 6,000 books. Without a doubt, it’s one of those hidden bookstores in Buenos Aires that’s worth discovering.
If you’re looking for an affordable cultural activity to add to your list, every Saturday in June you can enjoy free concerts at the Law School. The 2026 Great Concerts Series, with free admission and access on a first-come, first-served basis, presents chamber and orchestral concerts in the Law School’s main auditorium. Additionally, during the concerts, you can donate non-perishable food items to support the M.A.M.A. shelter. This Saturday, June 20, the lineup features:
