Recently updated on February 22nd, 2021 at 02:51 pm
Experiencing tango in Buenos Aires is a bucket list experience if you’re in Argentina’s capital city. Buenos Aires is not only the birthplace of tango, the culture and history of the city are also deeply connected to the dance form.
Tango was historically performed in cabarets, restaurants and social clubs across the city. Today, you can witness it in dance halls (also called milongas), restaurants over a traditional Argentinian meal, or even at the local market by talented street performers.
Below, we’ve rounded up 9 places, from tango halls to restaurants to markets, to experience tango in Buenos Aires today. When visiting Buenos Aires on a Trafalgar tour, you’ll have free time in the country’s capital — the perfect opportunity to check one of these places out.
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Rojo Tango
Rojo Tango is a well-known, award-winning venue to watch tango in Buenos Aires. Expect an intimate, lavish theatre where professional dancers demonstrate tango through the ages. At Rojo Tango, there is an option to book a pre-show dinner where you can indulge in gourmet Argentinian food and drink before the show.
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Piazzolla Tango
For a lively theatrical tango performance, visit the Astro Theatro Piazzolla Tango. Set in the historic classic theatre of Galería Güemes, which was built in 1915, you’ll be transported back in time for an unforgettable evening of dancing and live music. The show is named after famous tango composer, Astor Piazzolla, and the performances are inspired by his work.
La Viruta Tango Club
In addition to hosting unforgettable tango shows, La Viruta offers dance classes for all levels. If you’re looking to take your love of tango to the next level and learn how to dance from the professionals, this is the place to do it. It’s a unique, not to mention fun, way to experience tango and make memories that will last for years to come.
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El Beso
El Beso is one of the most popular venues to watch tango in Buenos Aires, and for good reason. This establishment is known to have a high standard of dancers and is also home to one of the best tango schools. They host a range of events throughout the week, but their Tuesday night milonga is a favourite.
Bar Los Laureles
For a tango show that’s a little more off-the-beaten path, check out Bar Los Laureles. This venue will make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. It features original decor that gives it an authentic Argentinian feel. Open from Thursday to Sunday, it’s a great spot to enjoy a meal and a tango performance alongside the locals.
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San Telmo
While wandering the popular San Telmo street market, you might be lucky enough to catch an impromptu tango performance. Professional tango dancers and musicians are known to frequent the market, so keep an eye out for crowds gathering around them. Fun fact: San Telmo is the neighbourhood of Buenes Aires that tango originally hails from.
Maldita Milonga
Located in the heart of San Telma, Maldita Milonga is the place to experience tango on a Wednesday night. Like traditional milongas, maldita doesn’t heat up until 11pm or midnight. It has a dark, romantic feel that creates the perfect atmosphere to experience this sensual dance form in.
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Café de los Angelitos
There’s no better way to experience tango in Buenos Aires than by filling up on some delicious steak and local red wine, followed by a show. Every night of the week, an ensemble of 21 dancers and musicians take the stage to deliver an impressive tango performance.
International Tango Festival and World Cup
If you happen to be in Argentina’s capital in August, check out this tango extravaganza. It’s an annual festival that hosts a plethora of free events, from concerts to milongas to classes. It’s also home to the Mundial de Tango, a major tango championship in which some of the best dancers from across the globe compete.
Have you seen tango in Buenos Aires? Let us know where you went in the comments.