Top 10 San Isidro Highlights and Tips

When exploring the northern suburbs, it is helpful to have a focused itinerary. These picks combine culture, nature, and history for a well-rounded experience. Here are our top San Isidro cathedral visiting tips for travelers to ensure a great visit.

• Best overall: San Isidro Cathedral
• Best for nature lovers: Mirador de los Tres Ombúes
• Best for history: Quinta Los Ombúes
• Best for families: Tren de la Costa ride

1. Name: San Isidro Cathedral
   Type: sight
   Why go: Marvel at the stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and 68-meter high tower.
   Best for: Architecture buffs and photographers.
   Where: Plaza Mitre.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Free (donations welcome).
   Getting there: Walk from San Isidro station.
   Tip: Visit during the golden hour for the best external photos of the brickwork.
2. Name: Plaza Mitre
   Type: neighborhood/market
   Why go: This is the heart of the village featuring a tiered park and a weekend crafts fair.
   Best for: People watching and souvenir shopping.
   Where: In front of the cathedral.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Located at the top of the bluff.
   Tip: Visit on Sunday to see the local artists and flower sellers.
3. Name: Quinta Los Ombúes
   Type: museum
   Why go: A colonial-style house that served as a meeting place for historical figures.
   Best for: History enthusiasts.
   Where: Adrián Beccar Varela 774.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Low entry fee.
   Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
   Tip: The gardens offer a peaceful view of the river below.
4. Name: Villa Ocampo
   Type: museum/indoor
   Why go: Once the home of writer Victoria Ocampo, it hosted legends like Stravinsky and Camus.
   Best for: Literature fans and garden lovers.
   Where: Elortondo 1837, Beccar.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate entry fee.
   Getting there: Short taxi ride from San Isidro center.
   Tip: Have tea at the café on the veranda for a truly local experience.
5. Name: Mirador de los Tres Ombúes
   Type: viewpoint/nature
   Why go: This balcony overlooking the river provides one of the best views in the region.
   Best for: Sunset views and fresh air.
   Where: Intersection of Beccar Varela and Libertador.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Walkable from the historic center.
   Tip: Bring a mate set to enjoy like a local.
6. Name: Museo Pueyrredón
   Type: museum
   Why go: This 18th-century ranch house is a National Historic Monument with beautiful grounds.
   Best for: Learning about Argentine independence.
   Where: Rivera Indarte 48.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Free or low donation.
   Getting there: Reachable via a scenic walk down the hill.
   Tip: Check for temporary art exhibitions in the old stable buildings.
7. Name: El Bajo de San Isidro
   Type: neighborhood/market
   Why go: A bohemian area by the train tracks filled with ateliers and small bistros.
   Best for: Lunch and unique local crafts.
   Where: Area near the riverbank.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Varies by restaurant.
   Getting there: Walk down the stairs from Plaza Mitre.
   Tip: Look for the "Paseo de los Tres Ombúes" stairs for a scenic descent.
8. Name: Tigre Delta
   Type: day trip
   Why go: A vast network of islands and rivers perfect for boat tours.
   Best for: Nature and relaxation.
   Where: 15 minutes north of San Isidro.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Moderate for boat tickets.
   Getting there: Take the Mitre train or Tren de la Costa.
   Tip: Visit the Tigre Delta early to beat the crowds from the city.
9. Name: Puerto de Frutos
   Type: day trip
   Why go: A massive open-air market selling wicker furniture, fruits, and home decor.
   Best for: Serious shoppers.
   Where: Tigre riverfront.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Free to browse.
   Getting there: Train from San Isidro to Tigre.
   Tip: Buy wooden crafts as they are a local specialty.
10. Name: San Isidro Hipódromo
    Type: unique local experience
    Why go: One of the most important horse racing tracks in South America.
    Best for: Sporting fans and grandeur.
    Where: Av. Márquez 504.
    Time: 2-3 hours.
    Cost: Entry fees vary.
    Getting there: Short bus or taxi ride from the cathedral.
    Tip: It also hosts the Lollapalooza festival every year.

Essential Planning for San Isidro

Getting to this district is part of the fun. Most travelers choose the Mitre Line train from Retiro station in the city. It is affordable and takes about 45 minutes to arrive at San Isidro station.

For a more scenic route, try the Tren de la Costa. It runs along the river and offers beautiful views of the coastal suburbs. You can find more best things to do in San Isidro by hopping off at different stations.

The area is generally very safe for walking during the day. However, always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded markets. If you plan to visit multiple spots, a top attractions near Buenos Aires guide can help you group your visits efficiently.