Best Buenos Aires Bars

Reset your internal clock to Buenos Aires time. Argentina's party capital doesn't seem to sleep, but merely rests up during siestas. From day drinking to all-night party, use this guide to discover Buenos Aires legendary nightlife.

1)      Ocho7Ocho: Away from the sprawling Palermo district, on the edge of the up-and-coming Villa Crespo, this former speakeasy is easy to find by its street number 878. However, other than the number, only the doormen give away this secretive bar. The exposed brick interior contrasts with the sparkling back-lit bar that offers a number of whiskeys.

2)      Milion: Recoleta is one of the city's most affluent areas. If you care for a taste of the highlife, head to this romantic, converted mansion. The grand, marble staircase will make you feel like a movie star as you swoop on the crowd with a cocktail in hand. This bar draws a crowd throughout the afternoon and early evening, with happy hour running until 9pm.

3)      Congo: Tucked beside railway track, this venue is distinguishable only by the line and the plain, brown door. In true Buenos Aires style, the modest façade leads to an expansive interior and enormous outdoor space. The old tree protruding through the roof gives this Palermo bar its character.

4)      Carnal: Arrive early to this popular street-level bar. During the summer, the bar's rooftop terrace is packed with trendy locals. Intimacy is unavoidable in the crowd so you're bound to make some local friends. If you decide Carnal isn't your style, go across the street to Niceto nightclub.

5)      Niceto: This Buenos Aires discotheque has the monopoly on hipster parties. Niceto features many visiting bands like Battles and Eek-A-Mouse, and you won't hear the standard BA soundtrack over the speakers.

6)      La Cigale: The "it" spot for weekday parties; La Cigale has a laid back vibe. You'll find the dance floor packed with crowds of locals, expats, and travelers dancing to the local DJs and live bands. French night on Tuesday is renowned, so prepare yourself to wait in line.

7)      Bar Seddon: A good daytime stop for a beer or a glass of wine, stop here after exploring San Telmo's popular antique markets. Or if you're in need of a hangover cure before browsing the antiques, order a submarine (a chocolate baton stirred into a tall glass of warm milk).

8)      Miloca: Party all night and watch the sunrise from the rooftop bar. Miloca in Palermo is a great place to experience happy hour favorites like pisco and whiskey. The high ceilings, hip furniture, and backyard bar will make you feel as cool as the locals.

9)      Los Cardones: The welcoming bar encourages patrons to help themselves to a collection of instruments kept behind the bar and burst into song. No night will end the same. On some occasions the bar is filled with little groups, quietly strumming guitars to themselves, while other times a talented performer dominates the whole room. Either way, a campfire singalong in the middle of a bustling metropolis is a rare find.

10)   Acabar: This large bar is lined with rows upon rows of kitschy decorated tables and is very popular on the weekends. The bar has an excellent social vibe and you can play one of the board games of the bookcase with a group of strangers. Unique touches include bathroom sinks standing on old sewing machines and a menu presented on colorful cue cards.