Spend a day enjoying the stylish architecture, pretty parks, markets and shopping streets of Belgrano. This leafy neighborhood takes its name from the creator of the Argentine flag. Once an independent city, Belgrano served briefly as the nation’s capital in 1880 and became part of the city in 1887. Today it’s one of Buenos Aires’s most elegant areas and one often overlooked by tourists.

Bustling Avenida Cabildo cuts through the heart of the neighborhood. Come here to shop at independent boutiques and the outlets of Argentine fashion labels. Head to Barrio Chino to peruse Asian supermarkets and knickknack shops and dine at noodle bars. Find organic fruit and vegetable traders, wine shops and street food stands at Mercado de Belgrano.

Take some time out at the attractive Plaza Manuel Belgrano, where an arts and crafts market is held on weekends. Inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, the impressive circular-shaped Parish of the Immaculate Conception (aka La Redonda) looms over the plaza. Browse five centuries of art at the Enrique Larreta Museum of Spanish Art. The Museo Historico Sarmiento celebrates the life of former Argentine president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento.

Locals flock to the sloping lawns of Barrancas de Belgrano park to picnic, sunbathe, stroll amid trees and walk dogs. Browse statues, including a copy of the Statue of Liberty. Watch couples dance tango and attend free concerts at the park’s La Glorieta bandstand.

Experience Argentina’s world-famous passion for soccer by attending a match at El Monumental. This is the home stadium of River Plate club and a venue for international fixtures. Go on an interactive journey through the history of the club at the River Plate Museum. The stadium is also an arena for concerts by big-name acts such as AC/DC and Coldplay.

Belgrano is a neighborhood located toward the northern corner of Buenos Aires. Buses, trains and the metro provide convenient transportation connections throughout the city. Extend your time here by visiting the Costanera Norte, a riverfront area home to parks, food stands and the Costanera Norte Ecological Reserve.