Buenos Aires Travel Guide: Museums

Museo de Bellas Artes, Avenida del Libertador 1473, - entrance $ - Tel: +54 (11) 4803 – 1040, (www.mnba.org.ar)

Housing close to 700 major works in its permanent collection and 12,000 minor works in potteries, sketches and more, this museum is considered one of the most important art collections in all of Latin America. Displaying an excellent anthology of 19th and 20th century Argentine sculptures, wooden carvings and paintings, the museum also features a great selection of European art, in particular post-impressionist pieces.

Museo de Arte Popular - José Hernández, Avenida Libertador, - entrance $1 - Tel: +54 (11) 2373-1425. (http://www.museohernandez.org.ar/)

Featuring the most extensive collection of Argentine indigenous art, this quaint museum situated in the Palermo Chico neighborhood of Buenos Aires is named after the Argentine poet and journalist who captured the life of a gaucho (cowboy) in his epic poem “Martin Fierro”. Accordingly so, the museums houses crafts, textiles and costumes belonging to the country’s Creole and native traditions and communities, such as the gaucho.

Casa Museo Carlos Gardel, (Jean Jaurés 735, - entrance $ - Tel: +54 (11) 4516-0943 (http://www.museocasacarlosgardel.buenosaires.gov.ar/)

For a chance to learn about the life of Buenos Aires’ legendary Tango master Carlos Gardel, visitors should not miss this museum located in the very house where the dancer spent his life. Restored to have the casa look exactly as it did when Cardel and his mother lived there, it features tours that go through all rooms of Gardel’s childhood home and displays interesting paraphernalia. The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs so guests can remember their visit to the location that bred this Tango icon.

Museo Evita, Lafinur 2988, - entrance $ - Tel: +54 (11) 4807 9433, 4809 3168 (http://www.museoevita.org/)

Situated in the upscale district of Palermo is this museum dedicated to the life of Argentina’s most famous female political figure, Eva Perón. This international icon was well-known for her support of labor right rights, women’s suffrage and increasing the benefits of the working class during the country’s military dictatorship. The museum features detailed tours of the three-story building that houses Eva’s clothing, pictures, even props from the films she starred in. The museum is a fascinating way to take a glimpse into the life of this world-recognized leader.

Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires(MALBA), 3415 Avenida Pres. Figueroa Alcorta, - entrance $ - Tel: +54 (11) 4808 6500 (http://www.malba.org.ar/web/home.php)

Founded by Argentine businessman Eduardo F. Costantini, this not-for-profit museum houses contemporary Latin American art beginning from the 20th century to the present. Very chic and modern, the museum’s sole mission is to collect, preserve, and research and promote the region’s newest art movements. There is an extensive gift shop and excellent café, as well.

Museo de Arte Hispanoamericano Isaac Fernández Blanco, Suipacha 1422, - entrance $ - Tel: +54 (11) 4327-0272, 4327-0228 (http://www.museofernandezblanco.buenosaires.gov.ar/)

This Neocolonial style home-turned-museum was originally the home of Isaac Fernández Blanco who acquired pieces that would eventually be showcased here. Colonial-era paintings, a collection of Guarnerius and Stradivarius Violinas, and silverware and porcelain pieces can be viewed during a guided tour. The lush garden out back is used as a stage or theatrical performances and tango lessons given throughout the week.