Buenos Aires’ wide main street is a fantastic introduction to the city, with bars and restaurants, theatres, historic architecture and tree-lined public spaces.
One of the widest streets in the world, 9 de Julio Avenue is constantly buzzing with locals and visitors enjoying the tree-lined plazas, theatres, cafés and restaurants. Historic mansions, statues and gardens make this one of Buenos Aires’ most picturesque streets.
You can easily spend a few hours exploring the features of this street. It is 7 kilometres (4 miles) long and as wide as a city block. Wander along in the company of the locals or hop between attractions on one of the public buses that run down the long street.
Start your 9 de Julio Avenue adventure at the northern end, at the picturesque Plazoleta Carlos Pellegrini square. Here you’ll find a statue of Carlos Pellegrini, president of Argentina in the 1890s. See impressive mansions and the Belle Epoque-style French Embassy building.
Head south along the street to the historic Teatro Colón theatre and opera house, renowned for its amazing acoustics. Take a guided tour to hear about its more than 100 years of history. Book a ticket to see ballet, opera or classical music in the evening.
Walk across the boulevard on the marked crossings. Once you get to the other side you can relax with a treatment at the Hotel Panamericano’s spa. Located on the 23rd floor, the spa has panoramic views across Buenos Aires. Ask at reception about occasional guided tours to the observation deck.
Central to the avenue is the El Obelisco (The Obelisk), a historic icon that has been the point of navigation here since the 1930s. Explore the Plaza de la República, a public square that fills with drum-playing, flag-waving sports fans when Argentina has had an international sporting win. Corrientes Avenue, home to the theatre district, crosses 9 de Julio Avenue at the El Obelisco.
Rest your feet at one of the many cafés and restaurants along the avenue. Try some Argentinian cuisine as you enjoy people-watching on the avenue from the café tables along the sidewalk. Escape the bustle in the historic atmosphere of a gorgeous art nouveau restaurant.
