Buenos Aires street art guide: the best neighbourhoods for murals and graffiti

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Buenos Aires is one of the best street art cities in the world, and it's my favourite thing to photograph here. Murals cover entire buildings, mosaics climb up house fronts, and even the metal shutters on corner shops get painted. Here's where to look, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.

Why Buenos Aires is a street art capital

Painting on walls is widely accepted here, often with the building owner's permission or even by invitation. That means artists can take their time on huge, detailed pieces instead of rushing, and the results are everywhere.

The best neighbourhoods

Palermo (Soho and Hollywood)

The easiest place to start. Walk the streets around Plaza Serrano and between Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood: big murals, graffiti-covered walls and a constant flow of new pieces. Combine it with cafés and lunch.

Villa Crespo

Right next to Palermo, but more local. Look for murals on side streets and painted shutters on small shops. Come back after closing time to see them. I wrote a whole post about hunting painted shutters.

Colegiales

A quiet, residential barrio with some of the city's most ambitious murals, often covering entire walls. It's great for a slow Sunday walk.

Barracas: Pasaje Lanín

A short street where artist Marino Santa María covered the house fronts in colourful mosaics. It's one of the most unique streets in the city. Go in daylight and combine it with La Boca.

La Boca and San Telmo

Caminito in La Boca is famous for its colourful houses and murals. In San Telmo, look for street art around the Sunday market on Calle Defensa and in the side streets. Visit both during the day.

Painted shutters: the hidden gallery

My favourite discovery: the persianas, or rolling shutters, of kiosks, bakeries and small shops, painted by local artists. You only see them when the shops are closed, so go in the evening, on Sundays or on public holidays. See my favourite ones here.

Photo tips

• Shoot straight on for murals and shutters, and step back to fit the whole piece in.
• Use people for scale and story. A passer-by can make the photo.
• Golden hour and night both work: warm light on the walls, or moody street lights after dark.
• Respect people's homes and businesses. Don't block doorways, and ask before photographing anyone up close.

Should you take a street art tour?

Yes, at least once. A local guide explains who painted what, the political and social stories behind the pieces, and takes you to works you'd never find alone. Then go back on your own to photograph your favourites.

Where to stay for street art lovers

Palermo puts you within walking distance of most murals. Villa Crespo is cheaper and more local. More options are in my where to stay in Buenos Aires guide.

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