Plaza de los Dos Congresos, Buenos Aires - Obelisco monument in buenos aires cityscape
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Plaza de los Dos Congresos Buenos Aires

4.4
·57k reviews·Buenos Aires, Argentina

A grand public square in Buenos Aires, featuring the iconic Congress Palace and significant historical monuments.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny weekends

Vibrant local culture

CrowdMedium
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Plaza de los Dos Congresos, Buenos Aires - Obelisco monument in buenos aires cityscape

Plaza de los Dos Congresos Buenos Aires

Best Time

Sunny weekends

Vibrant local culture

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A grand public square in Buenos Aires, featuring the iconic Congress Palace and significant historical monuments.

4.4
(57k reviews)

"Plaza del Congreso is one of Buenos Aires’ most beautiful and lively squares, perfectly blending history, architecture, and vibrant city life."

Vertical photo
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💰 Cash is King

While credit cards are accepted, always have cash. Western Union is a reliable option for exchange. :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Daytime Exploration

Enjoy the plaza's beauty during the day; some find it feels unsafe at night. :walking:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palace of the Argentine National Congress

Palace of the Argentine National Congress

Dominating the plaza

A stunning architectural marvel with an ornate dome, this palace is the plaza's breathtaking centerpiece.

Monument to the Two Congresses

Monument to the Two Congresses

Central fountain

A magnificent fountain and sculpture ensemble commemorating Argentina's independence, surrounded by Neptunes.

Rodin's 'The Thinker'

Rodin's 'The Thinker'

Near the Monument

A rare original cast of the iconic sculpture, adding an artistic touch to the historic plaza.

Kilometer Zero Marker

Kilometer Zero Marker

Central point of the plaza

The official starting point for all Argentine National Highways, a significant marker for travelers.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Buenos Aires' Currency

Argentina's currency situation can be complex. While credit cards are accepted, having cash is essential. Consider using Western Union for reliable cash exchange, especially on Saturdays, as official branches are less likely to run out of bills. Reddit

Daytime Exploration Recommended

Plaza de los Dos Congresos is a beautiful and historically significant area, best enjoyed during daylight hours. While lively during the day, some visitors report feeling unsafe at night due to the area's 'scratchy' atmosphere. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunny weekends
Why
Vibrant local culture
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Safe and pleasant strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tips de ahorro en Argentina que tienes que conocer 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷 #tesorosargentinos #argentina #tipsdeviaje #tipsdeahorro #buenosaires
@melibardet
73.8K likes • 1.1M views

💰 Cash is King

While credit cards are accepted, always have cash. Western Union is a reliable option for exchange. Reddit :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Daytime Exploration

Enjoy the plaza's beauty during the day; some find it feels unsafe at night. Reddit :walking:

Experiencia y datos en ARGENTINA PARTE 2🇦🇷✈️ #fyp #argentina #tipsargentina #buenosaires #datosbuenosaires #tipsbuenosaires #labombonera #travel #foryou #parati #viajes #caminito #barriolaboca #bocajuniors #laboca
@belaiza.andrade
66.6K likes • 1.2M views
3 #consejos si viajas a #buenosaires #argentina #viaje #turismo #dolarblue #taxfree #transporte #fyp #recomendaciones
@pruebaporelmundo
56K likes • 873.6K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

The Congress Palace and monuments offer fantastic photo ops, especially when quiet. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🏛️ Connect to History

This plaza is a key part of Buenos Aires' historic and political heart. Reddit :classical_building:

Te llevo a caminar por 📍Av. Corrientes 🌎🇦🇷✈️ #argentina #fyp #foryou #travel #viajes #datosargentina #avcorrientes #avenidacorrientes #viajestiktok #parati #tipsargentina
@belaiza.andrade
40.7K likes • 480.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Cash is King

While credit cards are accepted, always have cash. Western Union is a reliable option for exchange. Reddit :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Daytime Exploration

Enjoy the plaza's beauty during the day; some find it feels unsafe at night. Reddit :walking:

📸 Photo Opportunities

The Congress Palace and monuments offer fantastic photo ops, especially when quiet. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🏛️ Connect to History

This plaza is a key part of Buenos Aires' historic and political heart. Reddit :classical_building:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(57k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Plaza de los Dos Congresos is lauded for its stunning architecture, particularly the Congress Palace, and its significant historical monuments like the Monument to the Two Congresses and Rodin's 'The Thinker.' Visitors appreciate its role as a vibrant public space and a key part of Buenos Aires' historic center, offering great photo opportunities. However, some reviews mention concerns about cleanliness and safety at night, suggesting daytime visits are preferable.

"Beautiful place located in the historical center of Buenos Aires, as are many other places located withing the same regions of the city. It could have been a little cleaner. The city center is good to walk during the day, but very scatchy and feels unsafe by night. Therefore, I would strongly suggest walking there only during the day, but not by night."

Andre Lucas Ribeiro

"This is a beautiful palace set at the end of a long park. You can see the obvious impact of all the protests in the last few years with many of the statues protected by heavy fencing and it impedes the view of the palace as can be seen in the pictures. This would once have been a lovely environment and hopefully it will be again.
The palace itself is a really beautiful and significant building, this palace really stands out in the city. It has some unique architectural features and really ornate dome top. You can get some lovely pictures when its quiet, as its set in an open area. Well worth a walk around."

Andy Smith

"Plaza del Congreso is one of Buenos Aires’ most beautiful and lively squares, perfectly blending history, architecture, and vibrant city life. Dominated by the stunning Palace of the Argentine National Congress, the plaza offers breathtaking views and is a fantastic spot for photos, especially with the grand dome as a backdrop. The gardens are well-maintained, and the area is always buzzing with people relaxing, walking, or enjoying local markets, particularly on sunny weekends.
What makes Plaza del Congreso truly special are its impressive monuments and sculptures. The centerpiece is the Monument to the Two Congresses, a magnificent fountain and sculpture ensemble commemorating Argentina’s independence, surrounded by bronze Neptunes and allegorical figures. Nearby, you’ll also find a rare original cast of Rodin’s “The Thinker” and the Kilometer Zero marker from which all Argentine National Highways are measured.
The square is part of a trio of connected plazas, making it an essential stop on any downtown walking tour. Its location at the end of Avenida de Mayo, linking it to Plaza de Mayo, places you right in the heart of Buenos Aires’ historic and political district. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just looking for a pleasant place to stroll and soak up local culture, Plaza del Congreso is a must-visit. Highly recommended for anyone exploring Buenos Aires!"

Dávid Malatinszky

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Historical monuments
Vibrant public space

What People Dislike

Cleanliness concerns
Nighttime safety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plaza de los Dos Congresos is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. Many bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Avenida de Mayo and Plaza de Mayo, placing it in the heart of Buenos Aires' historic district. TikTok

Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Buenos Aires, making it simple to get to and from Plaza de los Dos Congresos. TikTok

Absolutely! It's part of a trio of connected plazas and is located at the end of Avenida de Mayo, linking it to Plaza de Mayo. A walk between these sites is highly recommended. Reddit

Walking is the best way to experience the historic and political district. You can easily connect Plaza de los Dos Congresos with Plaza de Mayo and explore Avenida de Mayo on foot. Reddit

While street parking might be available, it can be challenging. Public parking garages are a more reliable option if you're arriving by car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaza de los Dos Congresos is a public square and is free to enter and explore. Reddit

The plaza is open 24/7, but it's highly recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Reddit

There's no need to book tickets as it's a public space. You can visit anytime. Reddit

While official tours might not be specific to the plaza, it's often included in broader Buenos Aires historical or architectural walking tours. Reddit

Tours of the Palace of the Argentine National Congress are often available, but it's best to check their official website for current schedules and booking information. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the Palace of the Argentine National Congress, the Monument to the Two Congresses, a cast of Rodin's 'The Thinker,' and the Kilometer Zero marker. Reddit

It's generally considered safe during the day. However, some visitors report feeling unsafe at night, so daytime visits are strongly recommended. Reddit

The plaza offers open areas perfect for capturing the palace. Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal, and the surrounding monuments provide great foregrounds. Reddit

Public restrooms are not always readily available directly within the plaza itself. You might need to look for facilities in nearby cafes or shops. TikTok

The plaza is a popular spot for political demonstrations and social gatherings. On sunny weekends, it can be lively with people relaxing and enjoying local markets. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Directly within the plaza, dining options are limited. However, the surrounding streets and nearby Avenida de Mayo offer a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and parrillas. TikTok

You'll find traditional Argentine cuisine, including delicious parrillas (steakhouses), empanadas, and local pastries. TikTok

Yes, look for smaller 'parrillas' or 'bodegones' which often offer more affordable and authentic meals. TikTok

While traditional Argentine food is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's worth checking menus or asking. TikTok

Many establishments accept credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller cafes or street vendors. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The front of the Congress Palace, the Monument to the Two Congresses, and the surrounding fountains and sculptures offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for photographing the palace and monuments. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in the public areas of the plaza. However, be mindful of any temporary event setups or security personnel. Reddit

Yes, the sculpture is accessible and offers a unique artistic element to your photos. Reddit

Stand back in the plaza to get the full facade, or use the surrounding monuments as foreground elements to add depth to your shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza de los Dos Congresos offers a visually stimulating environment for families. The grand Congress Palace and the ornate Monument to the Two Congresses can capture children's imaginations. The open spaces are great for kids to move around, and spotting 'The Thinker' sculpture can be a fun artistic discovery. Reddit

To make the visit more enjoyable, consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities within the plaza are limited. Visiting during the day is essential for safety. You can also combine the visit with a walk down Avenida de Mayo, which often has more accessible cafes and ice cream shops for a family treat. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Plaza de los Dos Congresos is a fantastic free attraction, perfect for budget travelers. You can admire the impressive architecture, historical monuments, and public art without spending a peso. Reddit

For dining, explore the smaller 'bodegones' or 'parrillas' in the surrounding streets for affordable and authentic Argentine meals. Utilizing public transport or walking between nearby attractions like Plaza de Mayo will also save on transportation costs. Remember to leverage tips on currency exchange, like using Western Union, to get the most out of your money. TikTokReddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

This plaza is a must-visit. You'll be captivated by the Palace of the Argentine National Congress, a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. Don't miss the Monument to the Two Congresses, a significant piece of national symbolism, and the rare Rodin sculpture. Reddit

Consider this plaza as part of a larger historical walking tour of Buenos Aires, connecting it to Plaza de Mayo and Avenida de Mayo. Understanding its role as a center for political and social events will enrich your appreciation of its historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Argentina's Currency Exchange

Navigating currency exchange in Argentina can be a significant part of your travel planning. While official exchange rates exist, the 'dolar blue' (parallel market rate) is often more favorable for tourists. Many travelers opt for services like Western Union to exchange USD for Argentine Pesos, as it can offer a better rate than traditional banks and is more reliable than street exchanges. TikTok+1

It's crucial to be aware of the best places and times to exchange money. Some Reddit users have found success using Western Union on Saturdays at official branches, which are less likely to run out of cash compared to other locations, especially in more remote areas like Patagonia. Reddit Planning your cash needs in Buenos Aires before heading to other regions is a common recommendation. Reddit

While credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments, especially in Buenos Aires, having a good amount of cash is essential for smaller purchases, local markets, and in areas where card machines might be unreliable. Always be vigilant and informed about current exchange practices to maximize your budget. TikTok+1

The Historical Significance of Plaza de los Dos Congresos

Plaza de los Dos Congresos, meaning 'Square of the Two Congresses,' is a pivotal location in Buenos Aires, deeply intertwined with the nation's history and political landscape. Opened for the 100th anniversary of the Argentine Revolution, the plaza is dominated by the magnificent Palace of the Argentine National Congress, a symbol of the country's democratic institutions. Reddit

The plaza itself is adorned with significant monuments, most notably the Monument to the Two Congresses, a grand fountain and sculpture ensemble that commemorates Argentina's independence. It also features a rare original cast of Auguste Rodin's 'The Thinker,' adding a touch of world-class art to the public space. The Kilometer Zero marker, from which all national highways are measured, is another important feature, signifying the plaza's central role in the country's geography. Reddit

As a central meeting point, the plaza has historically been a stage for political rallies, social movements, and public celebrations. Its location at the end of Avenida de Mayo, connecting it to the equally historic Plaza de Mayo, places it at the heart of Buenos Aires' civic and governmental district. This makes it an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding Argentina's past and present. Reddit

Experiencing Buenos Aires' Vibrant Street Life

Buenos Aires is a city that thrives on its street life, and Plaza de los Dos Congresos is a microcosm of this energy. During the day, the plaza buzzes with locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the daily rhythm of the city. You'll see people relaxing on benches, street performers adding to the atmosphere, and vendors selling local crafts and snacks. Reddit

While the plaza itself is a focal point, the surrounding areas, particularly Avenida Corrientes, are famous for their vibrant atmosphere. Known as the 'street that never sleeps,' Avenida Corrientes is lined with theaters, cinemas, bookstores, and cafes, offering endless entertainment and a lively ambiance, especially in the evenings. TikTok

It's important to balance the vibrant energy with awareness. While the daytime offers a safe and engaging experience, some visitors have noted that the area can feel 'scratchy' and unsafe at night. Therefore, embracing the city's lively spirit during daylight hours is the most recommended approach for a positive and secure experience. Reddit

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