Latin America,  Argentina,  Buenos Aires,  Travel

A Guide to the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires

Are you traveling to Buenos Aires and looking to explore Buenos Aires’ street art and graffiti scene?

Then you have come to the right place!

I love exploring street art and hidden gems around the world! And after having called Buenos Aires my home for over seven years, I have hunted down some of the best street art in Buenos Aires!

The post is divided into a neighborhood by neighborhood guide for you to easy find the best street art and Buenos Aires graffiti close to you!

Buenos Aires’s street art scene is evolving all the time with new and exciting murals popping up all over the city.

In this post, I share some of the most well-known and popular Buenos Aires street art murals as well as some less-known hidden gems!

But don’t be afraid to wander and discover your own street art hidden gems or sign up for a guided street art tour to explore more of Buenos Aires fascinating street art!

An Expat’s Guide to the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that at no additional cost to you, Becci Abroad will earn a commission if you purchase through one of those links. This helps to pay the bills and the maintenance of the site.

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

Why Should You Explore Buenos Aires’ Graffiti & Street Art?

In my opinion, street art in Buenos Aires is particular interesting to explore during your trip to Buenos Aires for two reasons:

  1. Street art is completely legal in Buenos Aires
  2. Buenos Aires’ street art tell stories about Argentina’s past

Street art is legal in Buenos Aires

In Buenos Aires, there is the unique situation where street art is completely legal!

As long as the street artist gets the green light from the owner of the property where they wish to paint, they don’t need any additional authorization from any local authorities.

This unique situation has created an active and vibrant street art scene in Buenos Aires fostering many new talented local street artists as well as establishing Buenos Aires as a creative hub for international street artists.

So, local and international artists hit up owners of run-down buildings and shops, giving them a fresh and vibrant makeover. Cool, right?

In Buenos Aires, it has become increasingly popular for bars and shops to hire street artists to decorate their facades. It’s a win-win situation because the street artists get to showcase their work, and the local shop get a notable façade and get a boost in visibility.

Learn about Argentina’s Past Through Street Art

Street art in Buenos Aires is so much more than just graffiti and beautiful colorful murals! Buenos Aires street art is also a testimony to Argentina’s complicated history and political situation.

Many of the street art murals in Buenos Aires have political messages and references to Argentina’s history.

Street Art Murals About Argentina’s Military Dictatorship & Mothers of the May Square

Around Buenos Aires, you might come across murals referencing Argentina’s Military Dictatorship and Dirty War from 1976 to 1983.

During this period, millions of left-wing activists were kidnapped by the dictatorship. Many of these individuals were never seen again, and their families were left with no information about their whereabouts.

In response to these “disappearances,” a group of mothers formed the association of Madres de Plaza de Mayo (Mothers of the May Square). These women wore white scarves over their heads when they demonstrated on Plaza de Mayo.

Today, the white scarf has become a symbol of their fight for justice. The symbol of the white scarf can be found in many of the political murals around Buenos Aires.

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

Street Art Murals for Social Issues

Street art murals in Buenos Aires serves as a medium to raise awareness of pressing social issues. One such mural in Coghlan brings attention to the current problem of child abductions.

The mural is designed to appeal to a child’s sense of wonder and playfulness. It is dedicated to Tania Merlo, a little girl who went missing in 2010.

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

The 26 Best Street Art Murals in Buenos Aires

Let’s explore some of the best street art in Buenos Aires; one neighborhood at a time!

Street Art in Palermo

If you’re planning a trip to Buenos Aires, chances are you’ve heard of Palermo. It’s one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, and for good reason – there’s so much to see and do here!

Did you know that Palermo is the largest neighborhood in Buenos Aires? Within Palermo, you’ll find a variety of smaller sub-neighborhoods, including Palermo Viejo, Palermo Soho, and Palermo Hollywood. However, each of these areas has its own unique vibe and plenty of attractions to explore.

Palermo features some of the best street art in Buenos Aires; from political statements to commercial advertisements.

So, if you’re a fan of street art, Palermo is worth a visit! Explore how to spend one day in Palermo exploring the best the neighborhood has to offer!

Take a stroll through the neighborhoods and see what hidden gems you can find or join a street art tour. You never know what incredible artwork might be just around the corner!

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#1 Kittens and Karl Marx

In Palermo, you’ll find a truly unique mural that has become a social media sensation.

The mural features a group of adorable kittens, surrounded by trash, flowers, and a painting of none other than Karl Marx.

Created by Argentine street artist Ever Siempre, the mural is a comment on modern life’s consumerist lifestyle. Particularly, the endless stream of cat videos on platforms like YouTube.

So if you’re in the Palermo neighborhood, be sure to keep an eye out for this classic mural. You won’t want to miss it!

You can read more about the kitten mural here and an interview with Ever Siempre here.

Location: Serrano 982, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#2 Amy Winehouse Mural

The Amy Winehouse Mural in Palermo was created by the Argentine artist group Campos Jesses. This stunning piece is a great example of a more commercial mural.

The mural depicts the late British singer, Amy Winehouse, in all her glory. You’ll find it on the first floor of La Birreria, a popular bar in Buenos Aires. It’s a fitting tribute to a beloved artist who left us too soon.

Whether you’re a fan of Amy Winehouse or just appreciate great street art, be sure to check out this mural when in Buenos Aires. You won’t be disappointed!

Read more about the Amy Winehouse mural here.

Location: Honduras 5502, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

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#3 Turista en Buenos Aires

Turista en Buenos Aires, or Tourist in Buenos Aires, is the name of an Argentine Instagram account and blog, primarily in Spanish. Over the last couple of years, it has become increasingly popular for tourists and locals to explore Buenos Aires.

And now, there’s even a mural dedicated to the account!

This mural was created by Argentine street artist Josefina Di Nucci. It was done in collaboration with the voice behind Turista en Buenos Aires, Cynthia Martinez Wagner.

The mural features some of Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmarks and a woman with a camera; the tourist in Buenos Aires.

 You can see the development of the mural here.

Location: Malabia 1371, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

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#4 Messi and the World Cup

Football is more than just a game in Argentina – it’s a way of life. When the national team won the World Cup in 2022, more and more murals sprung up celebrating the Argentine victory.

One mural that has garnered particular attention is this portrait of Lionel Messi holding the World Cup trophy.

Painted by Argentine street artist Maxi Bagnasco, the mural captures the excitement and pride that the victory brought to the country.

But this isn’t the first time that Bagnasco has made waves in the world of street art. Just a few months prior, he completed another impressive mural of Argentine football player Diego Maradona.

Read more about the World Cup mural here.

Location: Gorriti 5516, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#5 Art Studio Perlazone

If you’re walking around Palermo and happen to stumble upon this incredible corner house covered in a mural, you’ve just found the art studio of Perlazone.

Perlazone is a graffiti and tattoo artist based in Buenos Aires.

But this mural is not just the work of Perlazone. More than 20 different street artists have contributed to covering the entire house with their own unique motives. The result is a stunning and eclectic mix of art that is sure to catch your eye.

Read more about the Perlazone street art mural here.

Location: Costa Rica 4302, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#6 The Woman and Leopard

While I couldn’t find any background information about this massive mural, I still wanted to shout it out. Covering an entire house and garage, the mural features a woman with elf-like features and a leopard.

The mural is located just a few blocks away from the popular Kittens and Karl Marx mural mentioned earlier.

Despite the lack of information about its origins, the mural’s size, and intricate details make it a standout piece in the neighborhood. So, be sure to add it to your list of must-visit spots in Palermo.

Location: Serrano 1126, Palermo

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#7 Pasaje Russel & Restaurant Cabernet

Pasaje Russel is a must-see destination for street art lovers in Buenos Aires. Located in Palermo, this small passage is filled with vibrant and colorful street art.

As you walk down the block, you’ll be surrounded by an abundance of murals, graffiti, and street art installations. But one particular spot that stands out is the corner of Pasaje Russel and Jorge Luis Borges. Here, you’ll find Cabernet, a restaurant whose entire façade has been covered with an array of colorful flowers and objects.

This stunning mural was created by Argentine street artist Josefina Di Nucci, who is known for her playful and colorful style. The mural features a mix of bright colors and intricate details that will make you want to snap a photo or two.

Get more inspiration for street art in Pasaje Russel.

Location:

  • Pasaje Russel: Russel 4900-5000, Palermo
  • Cabernet: Jorge Luis Borges 1757, Palermo
Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

Street Art in Recoleta

#8 Flower Woman

This mural shows the face of a woman with a crown of flowers and a huge leopard on the garage door below her. The piece covers the whole façade of a building and is made up of multiple layers.

The mural of this flower woman is without any doubt one of my favorite pieces of street art in Buenos Aires.

The piece is made by the Argentine artists group, Campos Jesses. They are the same ones that made the famous Frida Kahlo mural in Palermo (see below).

The Flower Woman is located on the façade of the bar and nightclub, Kuma. And at night it lights up to give an even more spectacular experience.

Location: Presidente José Evaristo Uriburu 1073, Recoleta

Street art that you can't miss when in Buenos Aires

#9 The Street Art Mural of Buenos Aires’ Hospital of the Medical School

On the façade of the Clinical Hospital of the University of Buenos Aires is a massive mural created in memorial for the anniversary of the AMIA attack.

The AMIA attack happened on July 18th, 1994, when a bomb exploded inside the AMIA, Argentine Israelite Mutual Association’s building. More than 300 people were injured, and 85 were killed. It is seen as the biggest attack on Jews outside of Israel since the Second World War. However, the guilt(s) of the attack was never found, and to this day, the case remains unsolved.

The street art mural is a joint effort by Argentine artists Mariano Andedomenico, Martín Ron, and Mariela Ajras. The three murals represent a scene from just after the bombing, a scene from inside the hospital after the attack, and the injustice of the unsolved case. The mural is made in honor of the work of Argentine doctors who treated the more than 300 injured after the attack.

This enormous street art mural was finished in 2019.

These three street art pieces are located it is within walking distance of the mural with the flower woman (#1) – a perfect two-in-one fit!

Pro Tip: you get the best view if you take the subway to Facultad de Medicina on the D-line.

Location: Hospital de Clíncas – Presidente José Evaristo Uriburu between Avenida Córdoba and Paraguay, Recoleta

Street art that you can't miss when in Buenos Aires

Street Art in Colegiales

Colegiales is a quiet and residential neighborhood located to the northwestern of Palermo. The area offers a unique experience of Buenos Aires with its beautiful street art pieces and down-to-earth local vibe.

While it may not be as well-known as Palermo, Colegiales is easily accessible from its neighboring areas. If you’re staying in Palermo, make sure not to miss out on the stunning street art in Colegiales.

Although there are too many murals to count, I’ve handpicked some of the most captivating ones. However, if you prefer to explore the area on your own, there are plenty more to discover.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more guided experience, Graffiti Mundo offers street art tours of Colegiales in English.

I went on one of Graffiti Mundo‘s tours back in 2016 and wasn’t super impressed but the quality of it… But maybe things have changed since then?

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#10 Toy Factory Mural (Fábrica de juguetes)

As you stroll through the streets of Colegiales, it’s hard to miss the vibrant yellow and orange house on a corner.

The entire façade of the house is covered in a stunning mural that combines an eclectic mix of shapes and objects, including animals, robots, and indigenous South American symbols.

This incredible work of street art was created by Argentine artist Gualicho.

Whether you’re a fan of street art in Buenos Aires or simply appreciate bold and imaginative artwork, this mural is a must-see.

Location: Conde 391, Colegiales

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#11 Alice and the Porteño Rabbit

If you’re a fan of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, Alice in Wonderland, then you’ll love this street art mural.

The mural, titled “Alice and the Porteño Rabbit,” is the work of French street artist, Celine Hitier. The vibrant colors and playful imagery bring the beloved story to life on a wall in Buenos Aires.

The mural depicts Alice falling down the rabbit hole with the famous rabbit waiting. But what makes this mural unique is that the rabbit is said to be a porteño. Porteño is a term used to refer to a person from Buenos Aires.

You can read more about the Alice in Wonderland mural here.

Location: Conde 494, Colegiales

#12 The Skin of Mirrors (la piel de los espejos)

Located on a tranquil corner in Colegiales, there is a mural that stands out for its unique and captivating design. This impressive artwork features dolls of traditional Argentine shepherd girls, guachas, alongside traditional Chinese creatures such as dogs or dragons.

What’s interesting about this mural is the contrast between the delicate features of the shepherd girls and the presence of the Chinese dragons.

At the same time, the interplay of blue and grey shadows on the characters creates a mirroring effect on the wall.

You can read more about the ideas behind the mural here (link in Spanish).

Location: Conde 312, Colegiales

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#13 Cartoon House

This impressive street art mural is an impressive collaboration between six different street artists.

It’s considered to be one of the oldest pieces in the area. And it continues to captivate locals and tourists alike.

The mural covers the entire façade of the house, featuring different cartoon-like characters in bright and vibrant colors. These whimsical characters add a pop of color to the surrounding area and bring joy to those who pass by.

Location: Conde 391, Colegiales

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#14 Frida Kahlo

If you’re a fan of Frida Kahlo and street art in Buenos Aires, then you’ve probably heard about the famous mural.

Located on the border of Colegiales and Palermo, this mural is one of the most photographed pieces of street art in Buenos Aires.

The mural depicts Frida Kahlo in modern urban clothes, with flowers in her hair, and smoking a cigarette.

The mural was originally created in 2015 by the street art group Campos Jesses as a commercial project for the club Fridha.

But that’s not all! In 2022, the mural got a new look. A gigantic heart was added to the Frida character, and butterflies were added around her. You can see photos of the updated mural here.

What makes this mural so unique is the style of Campos Jesses. They always make their artworks have more than one dimension. In the case of this mural, Frida’s head and earrings are placed on top of the original wall, creating a 3D effect. You can see another of their brilliant work here.

Location: Avenida Dorrego 1735, Colegiales

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)


Street Art in Almagro

#15 Fileteado porteño and Callejón Gardel

Buenos Aires has its own classic type of street art, called fileteado porteño

You might have seen some beautifully painted signs on the Sunday market in San Telmo. Or some of the classic restaurants with carefully painted decorations on their windows. If so, then you have most likely seen some examples of fileteado.

In the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Almagro takes this classic porteño art to a new level! Here there are two whole houses covered with beautiful fileteado porteño.

On the street Jean Jaures in Almagro, there are two whole blocks of different types of street art; both fileteado porteño and more classic street art; such as a massive painting of tango legend Carlos Gardel.

Here you can also find Carlos Gardel’s childhood home-turned-museum. As well as the alley of Carlos Cardel, Callejón Carlos Gardel, where you can experience some more fileteado porteño.

Almagro in itself is full of a bohemian tango vibe with will give you a more authentic experience than just sticking to the center of Buenos Aires. You can also head out on Avenida Corrientes to take a look at the iconic Buenos Aires landmark, the Abasto Shopping Mall.

Location: Jean Jaures 715, Almagro 


Street Art in Coghlan & Villa Urquiza

If you’re looking to explore some lesser-known neighborhoods in Buenos Aires and see some incredible street art, Coghlan and Villa Urquiza should be at the top of your list.

Although these areas may not have as much to offer tourists in terms of traditional attractions, they are home to some of the most stunning murals and graffiti in the city.

One of the most exciting things about street art here is the range of international artists who have contributed to the scene. For example, Mexican artist Quack Zean and American artist Stacey Williams-Ng have both left their mark on the area. And there are many more international artists to discover.

After exploring the street art in these neighborhoods, you may want to grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. If so, I highly recommend checking out Doho Villa Urquiza, a new gastronomic hotspot in the area.

If you want to explore Coghlan and Villa Urquiza with a guide, Buenos Aires Street Art also offers tours of the area. These tours are a great way to learn more about the artists and their work, as well as the history and culture of these unique neighborhoods. Buenos Aires Street Art is a local organization that supports and promotes street art in Buenos Aires. 

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#16 Martin Ron’s Mural

In Villa Urquiza, there’s a mega mural that stands out from the rest. The mural, finished in 2013, was created by Argentine street artist Martin Ron in collaboration with other local street artists.

The massive mural was once the largest in Buenos Aires. Although it might have been overtaken by newer artworks since then. Nevertheless, it remains an impressive sight and a testament to the talent and creativity of the artists involved.

The project was initiated and organized by Buenos Aires Street Art in collaboration with the Buenos Aires City Government. Read more about the mural here.

The mural also serves as the starting point for the street art walking tours that Buenos Aires Street Art offers.

Location: Dr. Pedro Ignacio Rivera 4210, Villa Urquiza

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#17 Ballerina Couple

In Coghlan, you come across a beautiful street art mural that features a ballerina couple. Created by Italian street artist Alice Pasquini, this mural captures the essence of romance and grace stunningly.

The mural depicts a female ballerina embracing a male ballerina, holding her arms around his neck.

What sets this mural apart is the decision of the artist to incorporate the raw features of the original wall into her artwork. Pasquini purposely left the plants on the wall intact. Today they have become an almost integrated part of the mural, covering part of the male dancer’s face.

This mural was created in 2015, and it was organized and sponsored by Buenos Aires Street Art. Read more about Alice Pasquini’s mural here.

Location: Valderrama 4023, Coghlan

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#18 2012-Cartoon Mural

Villa Urquiza is home to one of Buenos Aires’ oldest murals, dating back to 2012.

The piece showcases a group of cartoonish characters with an urban flair. It is impressive to think about how well this mural has been preserved.

Location: Holmberg 2863, Villa Urquiza

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

#19 The Owl Mural (Mural Búho)

Nestled in the neighborhood of Coghlan is a stunning mural featuring the head of an owl in black and white.

The owl, indigenous to the Americas, is the focal point of this impressive artwork. The mural is a sight to behold, with intricate details bringing the majestic bird to life on the wall.

It was created by American street artist Paul Mericle in 2017. Sponsored by Buenos Aires Street Art, the owl mural has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Read more about the mural here.

Location: Quesada 3841, Coghlan

#20 Mural the Snail (Caracol – Tiempo Parado)

The mural depicts a little boy perched atop a massive snail. His gaze is directed toward the horizon.

This captivating work of art, titled “The Snail – Time Stopped” in Spanish, is a true gem of the neighborhood.

Location: Tomás A. Le Bretón 4200, Coghlan

#21 Mural Galactigaucho

In 2022, a new mural was added to Buenos Aires’ already impressive collection of street art.

Created by Buenos Aires-born street artist Ramón Amorós, the mural is titled Galactigaucho or Galaxy Cowboy.

The mural features a traditional Argentine cowboy or gaucho. The gaucho is portrayed in a robotic style, playing a guitar shaped like a mate cup – a traditional Argentine drink. Furthermore, he is riding a hybrid between a dinosaur and a local bus line 42 in route to Coghlan.

Galactigaucho was organized by Buenos Aires Street Art. Read more about the mural here.

Location: Estomba 2986, Coghlan

#22 Dragonfly Mural (Transformación Libélula)

In 2019, American street artist Stacey Williams-Ng left her mark in Buenos Aires with a stunning mural of a dragonfly.

The large-scale artwork features vibrant colors and intricate details that capture the beauty and grace of this magnificent insect.

Stacey Williams-Ng is known for her captivating murals and unique style. Her Dragonfly mural in Buenos Aires is no exception. Read more about Stacey and the Dragonfly mural here.

Location: Estomba 2925, Coghlan

#23 The Watcher of Dreams (El Velador de Sueños)

This mural from 2018 is by Mexican street artist Quack Zean who has created several murals in the area.

The mural has been sponsored by Buenos Aires Street Art. Read more about the mural here.

#24 Rhino Mural

In 2015, a local family had a unique request for their property: they wanted a rhinoceros painted on their wall. And so, Argentine street artist Ice was brought in to make their wish come true.

The result is a stunning 3D work of art where the rhino appears to walk out of the wall.

Ice’s attention to detail is remarkable, and the rhino looks incredibly realistic with its textured skin and imposing presence.

This project was sponsored by Buenos Aires Street Art. You can read more about the rhino mural and other projects on their website.

Location: Estomba 3184, Coghlan

#25 African Woman

In front of the famous Rhino Mural by Ice, you’ll find another impressive street art mural featuring the face of a young African Woman. It is created by the artist duo, Primo.

The mural is a stunning representation of a woman’s face with intricate details and shading that brings it to life. The woman’s features are striking, and her expression is captivating.

Location: Estomba 3193, Coghlan

#26 ACHE Delugo’s Flower House

One of my favorite street art artists is Argentine Josefina di Nucci. She paints big, colorful and flower-filled murals.

She has multiple murals around Buenos Aires, but one of them is in the new upcoming DoHo Villa Urquiza area. This mural deserves a mention: The whole corner façade of restaurant ACHE Delugo is covered in flowers.

You can see more of Josefina di Nucci’s street artwork on her Instagram.

Location: Donado 1898, Villa Urquiza

DoHo Villa Urquiza

The Best Ways to Explore Street Art in Buenos Aires

The best ways to explore street art and graffiti in Buenos Aires is to sign up for a street art walking tour or explore the neighborhoods on your own!

The guided tours provide a unique opportunity to both learn about Buenos Aires’ street art scene and Argentina’s history.

Here are the most popular street art tours in Buenos Aires:

If you’re interested in a more off-the-beaten-path experience, I can only recommend signing up for a Buenos Aires Street Art’s walking tours of Coghlan and Villa Urquiza!

Complete Guide on Where to Find the Best Street Art in Buenos Aires (Argentina)
The “Gato” street art mural in Buenos Aires features a cartoon-like cat done in a classic graffiti style

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Rebecca is the voice behind Becci Abroad, a travel blog inspiring you to get under the skin of the world. She is a long-term expat with more than 10 year of living abroad from Spain to Argentina, Cuba, and Sweden.

4 Comments

    • Rebecca

      Haha, I couldn’t relate more!! I’m really not into football at all, but Messi fans have some! Thank you for dropping by, Anukrati!

  • A Capone Connection

    This is such a great collection of street art! I love doing self-guided tours, particularly on days when popular tourist destinations are closed. Thanks so much for sharing all of these gems!

    • Rebecca

      Thank you so much for dropping by! Yes, that’s so true! Self-guided tours and outdoor places to visit are the best for slow days or unexpected public holidays 🙂

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