Buenos Aires Retiro

Once the retreat, or retiro, of a hermit, monks, and, later, a Spanish governor, Retiro has become one of Buenos Aires’ wealthiest and most beautiful barrios. At the beginning of the 20th century, the city’s most influential, richest families began building lavish, Parisian-style palaces here, several of which are open to the public. Today, these grand edifices rub shoulders with ritzy hotels, upscale apartment buildings, and expensive restaurants, most of which are around the lovely Plaza San Martín, located just a few blocks north of Microcentro. Nearby are the decaying Estación Retiro, the city’s main train station, and the main bus terminal, Terminal de Omnibus. Though the neighborhood’s relaxing squares and grand architecture make it a great place for aimless wandering, the area north of the stations has long held a dangerous shantytown that is best avoided.

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