A pair of tango dancers spin across the floors of a bar in San Telmo. Cherubs and fleur-de-lis decorate the beautiful facades of the terrace houses of Palermo. Dignified waiters in bow-ties weave between tables with a finely balanced tray of aperitvos. Lovers kissing without a care who may be watching… European romance with Latin America flavor. The atmosphere for love is everywhere in Buenos Aires and it has much to offer newly weds on their honeymoon. Here are some of our suggestions…
Dinner
There are dozens of truly fantastic 5-star parrillas in Buenos Aires. And, you should definitely be trying out a few of these classic restaurants to get your fill of that famous Argentine steak and wine. However, we also recommend devoting an evening to one of the more unique dining experiences this city has to offer.
There used to be countless puerto cerrados (closed-door restaurants), offering a secretive and intimate experience of this city’s thriving gastronomy scene. One of the best puerto cerrados of recent times, iLatina is now one of the city’s top restaurants. They offer a modern seven course tasting menu inspired by the flavors of Latin America. With offerings such as Oaxacan mole and and beef cheek marinated in Colombian coffee, you’ll be on a culinary journey from Mexico to Patagonia. And, definitely don’t skip the additional wine pairing curated by their in-house sommelier. Tucked away in a beautiful old house in Villa Crespo, iLatina offers a 5-star dining experience, while retaining the intimacy of its puerto cerrado roots.
With a raw oyster bar supplied by an oyster bed in Patagonia, dim lighting, and soaring loft ceilings, Crizia is one of the sexiest restaurants in Buenos Aires. In addition to the oyster bar, Crizia serves fresh and internationally inspired modern cuisine. Their menu undergoes seasonal transformations, but if it’s available, order the slow cooked Patagonian lamb. The lamb is braised for 4 hours, crispy on the outside, and unbelievably tender on the inside. Located quite centrally in Palermo, a trendy neighborhood known for nightlife, dinner at Crizia can be the perfect jumping off point for a night out. Or if the oysters’ aphrodisiac effects are taking hold…heading straight back to your hotel.
Wine Tasting
Argentina is famed for Malbec from Mendoza, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other great varietals of wine produced in regions all over the country. But where to start, you ask? A personalized wine tasting is the way to go. We suggest Pain y Vin in Palermo Soho, a quaint wine shop located in trendy Palermo Soho, that offers wine tastings from $35 USD (March 2020) that include 4 wines and a cheese and bread platter. The owner and sommelier Eleanora has curated a unique collection of wines, and can both set up a wine tasting to suit your tastes, or help you select the perfect bottle to take home.
Afternoon Cocktails
Porteños eat dinner late, and a nine o’clock dinner reservation would be considered early. To pass the time, enjoy a relaxing cocktail at Sky Bar, the trendy rooftop bar on the 13th floor of the Pulitzer Hotel. The summery white washed décor and soul/bossa nova music creates a chill atmosphere. The perfectly relaxing setting to sip a craft cocktail and watch the sun set over Buenos Aires. In addition to the breathtaking views, The Guardian ranked it amongst the top 10 bars in all of Buenos Aires, so you know you’re getting some high quality cocktails as well.
Tango
A honeymoon in Buenos Aires would not be complete without the most passionate dance in the world (without getting horizontal). Watching a pair of great tango dancers, one could believe in everlasting love and attraction.
You will be spoiled for choices when it comes to tango shows. For one of the most traditional shows in town we recommend Viejo Almacen. Located in a historical building in the crumbling mansion district of San Telmo, Viejo Almacén has been a highlight of the Buenos Aires tango scene for over 45 years. The moody lighting, scattered tables and the close proximity of the stage are perfect for those who seek a more personal tango experience.
Itching to try the sensual dance yourselves after being mesmerized by the professionals? Take a class with Alejandro, who teaches the embrace, posture and joy of tango, and focuses on connection. Both with the music and your partner.
Theater
Like tango, theatre is very much part of the fabric of Buenos Aires culture. The bastion of Argentine theater is undoubtedly the Teatro Colón, with its old-world magnificence, is one of the most beautiful in the world. Reputed to be among the top five worldwide for its acoustics, the Colón regularly hosts ballet companies, operas and orchestras from all over the world. Tickets are very affordable and easy to get. See a show and afterwards, take a ten minute stroll over to Floreria Atlantico, a stylish bar hidden beneath a florist, for the best cocktails in the city.
A day at the spa
If, after a few consecutive days of sight-seeing you’re looking to spend a day relaxing and recharging, look no further than the 5-star Faena Hotel Spa located in the waterfront district of Puerto Madero. Their spa has various offerings including a heart chakra package specifically designed for couples. The 4-5-hour long spa treatment includes a couple’s massage, a Jacuzzi prepared with aphrodisiac essences, a twin hearts meditation, and ends with a high tea service at the elegant library lounge. You’re sure to leave completely rejuvenated and connected with your partner. Do keep in mind that the Faena Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, and their prices reflect their 5-star status.
Rose Garden
Nestled in the center of the Bosques de Palermo you’ll find a charming rose garden consisting of over 18,000 flowers, surrounded by a small lake and acres of parkland. While there are many lush and well-maintained parks throughout Buenos Aires, the rosedal (rose garden) takes the cake for providing the most romantic setting. This is the perfect place to wander, hand-in-hand through the rows of multicolored rose bushes. After you’ve gotten your fill of the florals, escape the crowds by renting a paddle boat for two and exploring the small lake.
Pro Tip: While the rose garden is beautiful year-round, it is especially delightful in the Spring (October-December) when the flowers and Jacaranda trees are in bloom.
Love Hotels
For a little bit of light hearted fun, visit a telo, short-term hire room (often themed) for lovers to meet to engage in a little ‘horizontal tango’. This writer’s personal favorite has to be the ‘Spa’ room at the Valentino. It has an actual, antique 1930s roadster, open-top with leather bench seats, real steering wheel – so you and your beloved can enact fantasies of The Great Gatsby.
For more information on telos, take a look at our guide on Telo recommendations in Buenos Aires.
Boutique Hotels
Speaking of hotels, for our recommendations on actual places to stay for more than a couple of hours, take a look at our boutique hotel recommendations.
Finally, don’t forget to hold hands, whisper sweet nothings and make out in public as often as possible. Happy Honeymoon kids!