Things To Do
in El Palomar
El Palomar is a leafy suburb in the Greater Buenos Aires area, known for its residential charm and proximity to Buenos Aires city. It sits west of the capital and offers quick access to trains and major roads. The neighborhood is anchored by historic sites and a legacy of aviation at the former El Palomar Airport, which adds a distinctive character to the area.
Visitors can enjoy quiet streets, local cafés, and markets that showcase the region's simple, hearty Argentine hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by settling into a traditional guesthouse near the historic train station. Sample freshly baked medialunas at the neighborhood café while enjoying a smooth cortado. Chat with friendly locals as you soak in the morning energy of this residential suburb.
Take a leisurely stroll down Calle José Hernández, admiring colonial facades and wrought-iron balconies. Pop into family-run shops to sample artisanal alfajores and Dulce de Leche. Learn about the town's evolution from a ranching outpost to a modern commuter hub.
Dine at a nearby parrilla where the aroma of asado fills the air. Watch neighbors gather in the plaza sharing mate under the trees. Return to your guesthouse lulled by the rhythmic hum of passing trains.
Visit the century-old El Palomar railway station with its ornate ironwork and wooden beams. Chat with retired conductors who share tales of the golden age of travel. Capture photos of vintage locomotives parked under the high glass canopy.
Join a guided tour through the old rail workshops, admiring restored carriages and mechanical relics. Try your hand at a basic signal-box demonstration to learn how trains were coordinated. Visit a small exhibit on the station’s role during Argentina’s immigration boom.
Enjoy dinner in a converted railway carriage turned bistro serving homemade empanadas. Listen to live folk music echoing across the platform. Take a leisurely walk back under the station’s warm lantern light.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly) | $120-250 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $1.5-2.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Buenos Aires with easy access by train and road
- Quiet, residential atmosphere with historic charm and markets
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to the city
- Public transport coverage can be less frequent on Sundays and late evenings
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in El Palomar
Visit one of these nice places.
Symmetrical runways and distant aircraft create strong geometric compositions as the light grows.
Historic buildings, fountains, and tree-lined avenues provide classic urban photography opportunities.
Colorful colonial or early-20th-century façades offer texture and character for detail shots.
Sunset reflections and soft water lines make for evocative landscape and portrait shots.
Food in El Palomar
El Palomar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Breaded beef cutlet topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese; widely available at parrillas and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Assorted grilled meats served with chimichurri and a selection of sides; best enjoyed at a traditional parrilla.
Empanadas rellenas with carne, pollo, or jamón y queso; easy to find at bakeries and street stalls.
Grilled provolone cheese with oregano and olive oil, a classic starter at grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat street foods like empanadas and choripán.
Street food options and casual bites as you wander the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or two cheek kisses among close acquaintances; address people formally unless invited to use first names.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be served before starting; share plates in a family-style manner.
Casual approach to time; being a few minutes late is generally acceptable but better to be respectful for reservations.
Safety
Tipping in El Palomar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Small tips for bar staff and porters are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards are common in most establishments. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with afternoon thunderstorms possible; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.
Milder temperatures with colorful foliage; great for street photography and outdoor strolls.
Cool to mild temperatures; sunny days are common but air can be crisp. Layers are essential.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for walking tours and market visits.
El Palomar at Night
Hiking in El Palomar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, scenic walks along the river with urban greenspace and birdlife.
Short, well-marked trails through municipal parks suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach El Palomar by plane.
City-center airport with domestic and regional flights; approximately 15-25 miles from El Palomar depending on route.
Main international airport serving Buenos Aires; about 40-50 miles from El Palomar.
Historic local airport near El Palomar, used for regional and charter flights; check current operations and accessibility.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Often commuting to Buenos Aires city for work; many live in El Palomar for affordable housing.
Residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and local markets.
Some long-term residents who appreciate the quieter pace of the suburbs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local games and social leagues widely played across neighborhoods.
A growing presence in the region with local clubs and youth programs.
Common in schools and community centers; often played in urban parks and gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Palomar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-forward dishes or can adapt grilled vegetables, salads, and pasta. When in doubt, request 'sin carne' (without meat) and ask for vinaigrette or olive oil on salads.