Puerto Madero

In its early days as a port, Buenos Aires was unable to take the increasingly large ships that arrived and ships had to moor off-shore and passengers and merchandise were unloaded using barges and launches. To increase the capacity of the port, work began in 1882 on a new port area, under the supervision of local businessman Eduardo Madero.

Opened in 1897 the port was an engineering wonder, but unfortunately became obsolete in a little over 10 years as the ships just kept on getting bigger. In 1911, work began on el Puerto Nuevo in the Retiro area which continues to be used to this day.
Throughout the 20th Century, Puerto Madero was undeveloped and decaying and successive attempts were made to either redevelop or demolish, although nothing happened until the 1990s when finally it’s rejuvenation began.

The docks area is now a large pedestrian area lined with restaurants and bars, historic ships and avant-garde architecture. Only a short walk from the Casa Rosada, it’s a wonderful place to take a stroll and escape from the noise and dirt of the Microcentro.

Past the docks is the Costanera, now converted into an Ecological Reserve, a perfect place for a stroll, jog or bike ride. Once you’re done excercising you can indulge in a great Porteño tradition and treat yourself to a choripan (sausage sandwich) from the vendors along the pedestrian section.