Buenos Aires: Private City Tour with Local Guide & Pickup

Summary

Explore buenos aires by car with a local guide and flexible stops

You’ll wander Buenos Aires’ neighborhoods by private car with a local guide, exploring places like Plaza de Mayo and La Boca at your own pace. Expect stories about daily life, spontaneous stops for photos or coffee, and time to linger at spots like Recoleta Cemetery or Teatro Colón — moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Is it weird that the first thing I noticed in Buenos Aires was the way the air smelled near Plaza de Mayo? Kind of sweet, with a hint of diesel and something baking — maybe from that little bakery our guide, Lucía, pointed out as we stepped out of the car. She told us this square is basically where Argentina’s big political dramas have played out for centuries. I tried to imagine all the protests and parades she described, but honestly I was distracted by the pigeons fighting over crumbs at my feet.

We zigzagged through the city in this comfy van (air conditioning was a blessing — it gets sticky here), stopping wherever we felt like. At La Boca, Lucía laughed at my attempt to pronounce “Caminito” — I definitely butchered it. The colors there are wild, like someone spilled paint everywhere on purpose. There were tango dancers on the street, not performing for us exactly, just doing their thing while locals watched from doorways. I didn’t expect to feel so much energy in one block.

The private city tour of Buenos Aires kept surprising me. We passed Puerto Madero’s glassy towers (so new compared to Recoleta’s old French mansions), then wandered into Recoleta Cemetery. It’s strange how quiet it gets inside — almost cold even though it was warm outside. Lucía showed us Evita Perón’s tomb; people had left fresh flowers and little notes tucked into cracks. I still think about that silence, actually.

I liked that we could ask anything — about politics, football rivalries (Boca vs River is no joke), or why everyone seems to drink mate all day long. Lucía answered everything without making it feel rehearsed. The whole day felt more like hanging out with a friend who really knows her city than ticking off sights from a list. We ended up skipping some places because we wanted more time at Teatro Colón — she said it’s considered one of the best opera houses in the world, and after peeking inside, I get why.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Buenos Aires City Highlights

• Visit Plaza de Mayo
• See Casa Rosada
• Explore La Boca
• Visit Metropolitan Cathedral
• Pass by Puerto Madero
• Pass by Puerto Madero Bridge
• Pass by Obelisk
• Pass by Avenida 9 de Julio
• Pass by Colon Theatre
• Pass by Recoleta
• Tour Recoleta Cemetery

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Buenos Aires city tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within Buenos Aires are included.

How long does the private city tour last?

The duration isn’t specified but can be customized based on your preferences.

Are entrance fees to Recoleta Cemetery included?

No, tickets for Recoleta Cemetery are not included; they cost U$D 4 per person at the entrance.

Can cruise ship passengers book this tour?

Yes, cruise ship passengers can book; provide ship details when booking.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels since transportation is by car or van.

Will we have a local guide during the tour?

Yes, an expert local guide accompanies you throughout the private city tour.

Can we customize which attractions we visit?

Yes, you can customize stops before or during your private tour of Buenos Aires.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Buenos Aires city limits, plus an expert local guide throughout your journey. Fuel surcharges and parking fees are covered too—just bring some cash if you want to enter Recoleta Cemetery or grab snacks along the way.