The principal avenue of Buenos Aires is a hive of constant activity and home to historical monuments and landmarks, picturesque plazas, bars and restaurants.
The 9 de Julio Avenue is no ordinary street it is one of the widest in the world and cuts through the heart of Buenos Aires’ city centre. Lined with architectural wonders, theatres, historical landmarks and tree-lined plazas, the street plays an important part in the daily activities of Buenos Aires’ citizens and visitors.
Your first sight of 9 de Julio Avenue can be intimidating, for its width spans an entire city block and it stretches for 4 miles (7 kilometres). A stroll along its wide pavements allows you to mingle with locals and get a true appreciation for city life. If you don’t feel like walking, catch one of the many public buses that stop along the street.
A good place to start your visit is at the street’s northern end at Plazoleta Carlos Pellegrini, one of the city's most charming squares. Check out the statue of former president Carlos Pellegrini and admire grand mansions, such as the Belle Epoque-style French embassy building.
Walk 15 minutes south to Teatro Colón, a theatre with some of the world's finest acoustics. Learn about the theatre's history on a guided tour and return in the evening to watch a ballet, opera or classical music performance.
Cross the street to Hotel Panamericano, where the spa and observation deck on the 23rd floor offer excellent views across central Buenos Aires. Treat yourself to a day at the spa and relax while enjoying the views. Alternatively, ask at the reception area for information about occasional guided visits to the deck only.
At almost the geographical centre of the avenue you’ll arrive at El Obelisco, an instantly recognizable landmark. Surrounding the monument is the oval-shaped Plaza de la República, which fills up with flag-waving and drum-playing locals when Argentina´s international sports teams are victorious. Here, 9 de Julio Avenue intersects with Corrientes Avenue, the city’s theatre district.
When you need a break or get hungry, you'll find a host of cafés and restaurants serving drinks, snacks and traditional Argentine fare. Select a terrace table along 9 de Julio Avenue’s sidewalks, and sit back and observe the action.
