Buenos Aires has always been a great place to visit but it’s become even more popular as a travel destination thanks to a boon from Antarctica cruises. Viking, for example, has guests fly into the city for a night or two at Hilton Buenos Aires before transferring them to Ushuaia to embark on their ship. Because a stay in Buenos Aires is so different from what travelers get to experience in Antarctica, it’s like being treated to two vacations in one.
Hilton Buenos Aires is an ideal home base for many reasons, starting with its location in trendy Puerto Madero. Convenient to everything, it’s situated along the Rio de la Plata and you may even have a view of the iconic El Puente de La Mujer – the Woman’s Bridge – from your window. Designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava, and open only to pedestrians, the bridge pays homage to the graceful lines of a couple dancing tango and acts as a beautiful backdrop for photos.
The Lobby
Mention you’re staying at Hilton Buenos Aires to locals and they will nod and say, “Ahh, the lobby.” The hotel’s expansive lobby is well-known for its sky-high ceiling, which boasts eye-popping sculptures by renowned artist, Edgardo Madanes, as well as for its welcoming atmosphere. There are comfy chairs and couches to sink into while waiting for your tour guide, private gazebos for quiet conversations and, of course, Alberto’s Lobby Bar.
Let the friendly bartenders whip up an espresso martini or signature Gaucho Spritz and check out the fun Tragos con Personalidad quiz menu that matches a cocktail with your personality.
Dining
You can enjoy tapas and a light meal at Alberto’s Lobby Bar but don’t miss out on the exceptional culinary experience at El Faro, also on the first floor. Argentinian specialties are cooked to perfection and you’ll definitely want to leave room for dessert. In terms of both food and service, El Faro is far superior to what you imagine when you think of hotel restaurants and could easily be a standalone.
The breakfast buffet at El Faro is also worth mentioning because it’s huge and filled with every sweet and savory dish you might want for your morning meal. It’s included in your stay through Viking and makes getting up early for your transfer so much more palatable. Literally.
Another great spot for grabbing breakfast – or snacks or appetizers – is the Executive Lounge, which is available to elite Hilton Honors members and guests staying in rooms on the Executive Floor. Spacious and comfortable, it features an outdoor patio that overlooks the pool and offers wonderful city views.
Themed Kids’ Rooms
If you’re traveling with kids (which means you’re not traveling with Viking), consider booking one of the hotel’s two amazing themed rooms. The La Petite Maison de Madelon Room features its own playhouse where your little ones can sit down to tea, two glamping tents complete with mattresses and pillows, and a closet full of dress-up clothes.
The Playmobil room comes with two ship-shaped beds, life-sized versions of your kids’ favorite figures and dozens of toys to spark their imagination.
These rooms are a child’s dream come true. The only problem? You may not get to see much of Buenos Aires because your kids will never want to leave the hotel.