Just a short trip from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, Tigre offers a peaceful escape filled with nature, adventure, and culture. Known for its picturesque river deltas, beautiful homes, and cultural attractions, Tigre is the perfect destination for both day-trippers and those looking to unwind for a few days. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Tigre, giving you a mix of personal experience and practical advice to make the most of your visit.
1. How to Get to Tigre from Buenos Aires
Getting to Tigre is half the adventure. You can take a relaxing train ride from Retiro Station on the Mitre Line, which offers a scenic route through the Buenos Aires suburbs. The journey only takes around 50 minutes, and for me, it was the perfect way to ease into the tranquil atmosphere of Tigre.
If you’re more adventurous, another option is to take a boat from Puerto Madero. This river trip offers a unique view of the delta as you glide along the Río de la Plata, arriving right in the heart of Tigre. No matter how you arrive, you’ll feel a world away from the busy city.
Learn more on how to get to Tigre, Buenos Aires
2. Explore the Tigre Delta
The highlight of any visit to Tigre is exploring the Tigre Delta, one of the world’s largest natural deltas. I spent the day navigating its maze of rivers and streams aboard a traditional lancha, a small riverboat. As you drift past houses on stilts, local shops, and lush vegetation, you’ll understand why this delta is considered the “Venice of Buenos Aires.”
For those who love the outdoors, I recommend renting a kayak. Paddling through the peaceful channels is a serene way to experience the delta’s wildlife, and it’s easy to spend hours admiring the birdlife and peaceful surroundings.
Pro Tip: Bring a snack or stop at one of the riverside restaurants that can only be accessed by boat. There’s something magical about dining with your feet in the river, surrounded by nature.
3. Visit the Tigre Art Museum (Museo de Arte Tigre)
One of the most striking buildings in Tigre is the Museo de Arte Tigre, housed in a grand French-style mansion that dates back to the early 20th century. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of Argentine art, including pieces from famous painters like Quinquela Martín and Cesáreo Bernaldo de Quirós.
I was particularly struck by the museum’s waterfront setting. The mansion sits along the Luján River, and its gardens offer stunning views of the river and surrounding area. Even if you’re not an art lover, the architecture alone makes it worth the visit. Plus, the museum often hosts special exhibitions, so be sure to check out what’s on display during your visit.
4. Stroll Through Puerto de Frutos
A trip to Tigre isn’t complete without visiting the Puerto de Frutos, a bustling market located near the riverbank. Originally a fruit market, Puerto de Frutos is now a vibrant marketplace where you can buy everything from artisanal goods to home décor and handcrafted furniture.
Wandering through the aisles, I found unique souvenirs and locally made products. Whether you’re after leather goods, textiles, or just a snack from one of the many food stalls, Puerto de Frutos is a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts. The lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it an enjoyable stop, even if you’re just browsing.
5. Parque de la Costa: Fun for the Whole Family
If you’re traveling with kids or just want a day of lighthearted fun, Parque de la Costa is Tigre’s top amusement park. It’s home to roller coasters, water rides, and a variety of other attractions that make for an entertaining day out.
While I didn’t visit the park on this trip, I’ve heard great things from fellow travelers about the park’s family-friendly rides and its riverside setting. It’s especially popular on weekends, so if you’re planning to visit, try to go during the week for smaller crowds.
6. Take a River Cruise
For those wanting a more leisurely way to experience the delta, a river cruise is a great option. There are several operators offering tours ranging from short, one-hour trips to full-day excursions that take you deep into the delta.
I opted for a sunset cruise, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky turned a brilliant mix of orange and pink, reflecting off the river. It was a peaceful and unforgettable way to end the day.
7. What to Do in Tigre at Night
While Tigre is mostly known for its daytime activities, it also has a surprisingly lively nightlife scene. After a long day of exploring, I recommend heading to one of the riverside restaurants or bars for dinner and drinks. The town has a relaxed vibe in the evenings, with locals and tourists mingling over cocktails by the water.
For a more cultural evening, check out the Teatro Niní Marshall, which regularly hosts plays, concerts, and comedy shows. There’s always something going on, so be sure to see what’s playing during your stay.
8. The Tigre Rowing Clubs
Tigre is famous for its rowing culture, and the town is home to several historic rowing clubs. Walking along the riverbank, you’ll see rowers of all ages practicing on the water. If you’re interested, some clubs offer lessons or rowing experiences for visitors. While I didn’t try it myself, watching the rowers glide effortlessly across the river made me tempted to give it a go. Nevertheless here are 3 well known clubs you can try:
Club de Regatas La Marina: Established in 1876, this is one of the oldest rowing clubs in Tigre, with a long tradition in Argentine rowing. It offers both recreational and competitive rowing programs and remains a central part of the rowing scene in Tigre.
Tigre Boat Club (TBC): Founded in 1888, Tigre Boat Club is one of the most prestigious and internationally recognized clubs in the area. It hosts both local and international rowing events and offers top-notch facilities for rowers of all skill levels.
Club de Regatas L’Aviron: Another historic club, L’Aviron, founded in 1905, is known for its charming facilities and emphasis on preserving the traditional aspects of rowing while also nurturing new talent through its training programs.
Rowing in Tigre and Málaga: A Cultural Connection Across Continents
While Tigre offers a serene rowing experience along its beautiful river delta, rowing is also a deeply ingrained tradition in Málaga, Spain. Just as Tigre’s delta attracts rowing enthusiasts, Málaga’s coastal location provides a perfect setting for rowing on the Mediterranean Sea. In both cities, rowing is more than just a sport—it’s a way to connect with nature and the local culture.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the Spanish language and experience these unique rowing traditions, Vamos Academy offers Spanish courses in Buenos Aires and Málaga. Whether you’re paddling through the peaceful waters of Tigre or rowing along Málaga’s sunny coastline, learning the language allows you to engage more deeply with local communities and participate in these activities with confidence.
At Vamos Academy Buenos Aires, you can enhance your understanding of Argentina’s rowing culture while improving your Spanish skills. If your travels take you to Spain, Vamos Academy Málaga provides the perfect opportunity to explore Spain’s rich maritime traditions and coastal sports, including rowing.
Whether you’re rowing in Tigre or Málaga, mastering the local language is key to getting the most out of your experience.
