Obelisco de Buenos Aires
Argentina's iconic national monument, the Obelisco de Buenos Aires, stands tall in the heart of the city. A must-see landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Obelisco de Buenos Aires
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Argentina's iconic national monument, the Obelisco de Buenos Aires, stands tall in the heart of the city. A must-see landmark.
"It is a national historic monument and icon of Buenos Aires. Located in the Plaza de la República."
📸 Capture the Icon
Get your iconic photo with the Obelisco! Try different angles from Avenida 9 de Julio for the best shots.
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the plaza and avenues. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Obelisco Itself
Plaza de la República
Argentina's iconic national monument, a towering symbol of Buenos Aires. A must-see for any visitor.
Avenida 9 de Julio Views
Surrounding the Obelisco
Experience one of the world's widest avenues stretching out from this central point. Great for photos!
Nighttime Illumination
Plaza de la República
Witness the Obelisco beautifully lit up after dark, creating a magical atmosphere and stunning photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Obelisco
Getting Around the Obelisco
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Icon
Get your iconic photo with the Obelisco! Try different angles from Avenida 9 de Julio for the best shots.
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the plaza and avenues. Comfortable footwear is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection
Buenos Aires can get sunny. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially during warmer months.
🌃 Evening Sparkle
The Obelisco is stunning when illuminated at night. A perfect spot for evening strolls and photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Icon
Get your iconic photo with the Obelisco! Try different angles from Avenida 9 de Julio for the best shots.
👟 Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the plaza and avenues. Comfortable footwear is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection
Buenos Aires can get sunny. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially during warmer months.
🌃 Evening Sparkle
The Obelisco is stunning when illuminated at night. A perfect spot for evening strolls and photos.
⬆️ Ascend for Views
Consider visiting a nearby rooftop bar for panoramic views of the Obelisco and the city. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Obelisco is a universally recognized icon of Buenos Aires, praised for its impressive presence and central location. Visitors love its striking appearance, especially when illuminated at night, and its significance as a national symbol. Some find the surrounding area very crowded, and the inability to enter the monument is a minor point of disappointment for a few.
"The view is great both during day and night time. We were lucky to be able to see it form the balcony of our hotel."
s k
"(Visited in Aug. 2022) | It's an iconic landmark and probably the most famous icon of Argentina, so I had to see it in person, and I'm glad I did! was such a fun visit, and at night, the lights around it make it look especially beautiful :)"
Leandro Firmino
"It is a national historic monument and icon of Buenos Aires. Located in the Plaza de la República. Erected in 1936 to commemorate the quadricentennial of the first foundation of the city. Its height is 67.5 metres (221 ft), and 63 metres (207 ft) of these are up to the initiation of the apex, which is 3.5 by 3.5 meters (11 by 11 ft). It can be seen from far away in the city. Very crowded level terrain, lots of walking though. Cafes and restaurants available. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen."
s vivekananda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Obelisco is centrally located on Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the city's main arteries. Numerous bus lines stop nearby, making it easily accessible via public transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. +1
Yes, the Obelisco is a prominent landmark and can be seen from many parts of the city. It's situated in the Plaza de la República, a major intersection.
Many visitors start their exploration of Buenos Aires from the Obelisco. Walking along Avenida 9 de Julio and exploring nearby avenues like Corrientes is highly recommended.
Driving is possible, but parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. Public transport or taxis are generally more convenient options.
The plaza surrounding the Obelisco is generally level, but navigating busy streets and sidewalks might require assistance. Public transport accessibility can vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Obelisco itself is an outdoor monument and you can view it from the Plaza de la República without any tickets.
Generally, you cannot go inside the Obelisco. It's primarily an exterior monument. However, there are occasional special events or tours that might offer access.
As an outdoor monument, the Obelisco is accessible 24/7. The surrounding plaza and avenues are always open to the public.
There is no entrance fee to see the Obelisco from the outside. It's a public monument.
While there aren't official tours inside the Obelisco, many city tours of Buenos Aires include a stop at this landmark.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful natural light for photography. At night, the Obelisco is illuminated, providing a dramatic backdrop.
For classic shots, stand on Avenida 9 de Julio or within the Plaza de la República. Consider elevated viewpoints from nearby buildings or rooftop bars for a unique perspective. +1
While tempting, crossing Avenida 9 de Julio can be dangerous due to heavy traffic. Use designated crosswalks and be mindful of your surroundings.
Drone regulations can be strict in urban areas. It's advisable to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full height of the Obelisco and its surroundings. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around the Obelisco is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and pizzerias. You can find a wide range of dining options to suit any taste and budget.
Don't miss trying a classic 'pizza porteña' (Buenos Aires-style pizza) or enjoying some traditional Argentine empanadas.
Absolutely! Cielo Sky Bar at the Grand Brizo Hotel offers fantastic views of the Obelisco and the city skyline, especially at sunset.
Prices can vary, but you can find affordable options like pizza by the slice or empanadas. Sit-down restaurants will naturally be more expensive.
Yes, there are numerous cafes and small shops where you can grab coffee, pastries, or quick snacks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby, you can find plenty of cafes and casual eateries for quick snacks or meals. Consider combining your visit with a walk along Avenida 9 de Julio or exploring other family-friendly attractions in Buenos Aires, like parks or museums, which are often a short taxi or bus ride away.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the Obelisco at night when it's illuminated. The contrast of the lights against the dark sky is spectacular. Experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of traffic and the city's glow.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, opt for local pizzerias or empanada shops in the vicinity. Utilize Buenos Aires' extensive public bus system to reach the Obelisco, which is much cheaper than taxis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Obelisco: A Symbol of Buenos Aires
Its location at the intersection of Avenida 9 de Julio (one of the widest avenues in the world) and Avenida Corrientes (known for its theaters and nightlife) places it at the heart of the city's activity. This central position makes it a natural meeting point and a focal point for celebrations and public gatherings. The sheer scale of Avenida 9 de Julio surrounding it emphasizes the monument's significance and the city's grandeur.
While you can't typically go inside the Obelisco, its presence is felt throughout the city. It serves as a navigational landmark and a constant reminder of Buenos Aires' rich history and cultural heritage. Many visitors consider a photo with the Obelisco a quintessential Buenos Aires experience.
Experiencing the Obelisco: Views and Vibes
Many visitors recommend experiencing the Obelisco at different times of the day. During daylight hours, you can appreciate its architectural details and the surrounding urban landscape. As dusk settles, the monument is beautifully illuminated, casting a warm glow and creating a magical ambiance. This is a prime time for photography and enjoying a leisurely stroll.
For unparalleled views, consider visiting a nearby rooftop bar or a hotel with a viewing deck. Places like Cielo Sky Bar offer panoramic vistas of the Obelisco, Avenida 9 de Julio, and the sprawling cityscape, especially stunning during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit