The Pope's itinerary in Buenos Aires: what to do at each stop

On Sunday, November 8, Pope Leo XIV will arrive in Buenos Aires at 4:30pm at Jorge Newbery Airport. His first official day will include a visit to the monument honoring General San Martín in Plaza San Martín at 5pm; the welcome ceremony at Casa Rosada at 5:20pm; a meeting with the President of Argentina at 5:50pm; and a gathering with government officials, representatives of civil society and members of the diplomatic corps at Palacio Libertad at 6:30pm.

If you're in Retiro, take the opportunity to visit Rolf Art, a gallery specializing in Latin American contemporary photography and visual arts, or head to Galerías Pacífico, where the magnificent murals decorating its central dome are well worth admiring. For a food break, Confitería La Ideal is a Buenos Aires classic, combining coffee, pastries and impressive period architecture. It's the perfect place to experience one of the city's grand historic cafés.

Around Casa Rosada and Palacio Libertad, there are also plenty of places to extend your visit. Almacén & Restaurante Suipacha offers traditional Buenos Aires cuisine, while Tanta, by chef Gastón Acurio, brings Peruvian flavors to a location just a few blocks from the route.

Insider tip: If you'd rather end the day with panoramic views, Trade Sky Bar, located in the Comega Building, offers a different perspective of downtown Buenos Aires from above.

Where: General San Martín Monument, Plaza San Martín; Balcarce 78, Casa Rosada; Sarmiento 151, Palacio Libertad.

On Monday, November 9, Pope Leo XIV will begin his day at 9:15am in Claypole, visiting the staff and residents of Pequeño Cottolengo Don Orione. At 11:30am, he will celebrate Mass at the Monumento de los Españoles in Palermo. In the afternoon, at 4:10pm, he will meet with representatives of the labor sector at the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) in Puerto Madero, followed by a meeting at 5:30pm with leaders of Christian communities and religious traditions at Palacio San Martín. At 6:45pm, he will celebrate Vespers at the Metropolitan Cathedral, and at 7:45pm, he will have dinner with the bishops at the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires.

If you're in Palermo, take the opportunity to stroll through Parque Tres de Febrero, discover the Galileo Galilei Planetarium or visit the Japanese Garden, a Japanese-inspired oasis featuring landscaped gardens, bridges and dining options. For a break, Lharmonie and Bella Italia Bakery are both worth considering, while Mishiguene offers a dining experience rooted in Jewish culinary traditions. If you're looking for a cultural outing, the neighborhood's green spaces and the surroundings of the Monumento de los Españoles are also worth exploring.

In Puerto Madero, near UCA, you can walk along the docks, visit the ARA Presidente Sarmiento Frigate Museum Ship, or stop by the Faena Art Center to check out its current exhibitions and events. For something to eat, OL'DAYS Coffee & Kitchen is a great option for brunch, coffee or lunch, while Lobo Café Puerto Madero is another good spot for a break.

Later, in the historic city center, London City, one of Buenos Aires' officially recognized historic cafés, is ideal for enjoying a coffee near the Metropolitan Cathedral. You can also choose D'Oro Italian Bar for an Italian-inspired meal or Furaibo if you're in the mood for Japanese cuisine.

Insider tip: Explore Puerto Madero on foot, enjoy the views of the docks and cross the famous Puente de la Mujer, one of Buenos Aires' most iconic architectural landmarks.

Where: Av. Lacaze 3963, Claypole, Pequeño Cottolengo Argentino Don Orione; Avenida del Libertador and Av. Sarmiento, Buenos Aires, Monumento de los Españoles; Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1300, UCA; Arenales 761, Palacio San Martín; San Martín 27, Metropolitan Cathedral; Av. Rivadavia 415, Archdiocese of Buenos Aires.

On Tuesday, November 10, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Córdoba to celebrate Mass at 10am on the grounds of the Military Aviation School. In the afternoon, at 3:15pm, he will meet with bishops, priests, deacons, members of religious orders, seminarians and pastoral workers at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. At 4:55pm, he will depart for Buenos Aires, arriving at Jorge Newbery Airport at 6:10pm. Later that evening, at 8:15pm, he will take part in a youth vigil at the Monumento de los Españoles in Palermo.

If you're traveling to Córdoba city, make the most of the time between events by exploring its historic center. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Plaza San Martín and the Cabildo of Córdoba form an ideal walking route for discovering the city's architecture and history.

For lunch, El Solar de Tejeda, La Impronta – Bodegón Parrillero and El Ruedo are three places worth considering. You can also visit the Monument to the Father of the Aeronautical Industry and Sol de Córdoba, two additional points of interest to include in your itinerary.

Insider tip: A coffee break can be the perfect way to wrap up your visit. Honesto and Morfeta are two great options for anyone looking to grab a drink before heading back.

Where: Av. Fuerza Aérea Argentina 5011, Military Aviation School, Córdoba; Independencia 80, Córdoba, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption; Avenida del Libertador and Av. Sarmiento, Buenos Aires, Monumento de los Españoles.

On Wednesday, November 11, Pope Leo XIV will begin his day with a visit to the Buenos Aires Federal Penitentiary Complex at 8am. At 10am, he will celebrate Mass in the square outside the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján, and at noon, he will head to Ministro Pistarini International Airport, where a farewell ceremony will take place before his departure for Lima at 2pm.

If you're traveling to Luján for the Mass, take the opportunity to explore the square surrounding the basilica and the banks of the Luján River. For lunch, La Catalina Parrilla & Resto and Restó de la Paz are two options worth considering. If you're craving something sweet, stop by Iceland Helados on Mitre Street, or check out Sapori Divini and Briking, two more places to add to your food itinerary.

To round off your visit, the Museo Casa Ameghino offers a cultural experience connected to local history. You can also relax at Recreo Luján park and organize an outdoor picnic, a great alternative for anyone who wants to spend a few extra hours in the city beyond visiting the basilica.

If you're heading to Ezeiza Airport to see the Pope off, you can make the most of your waiting time by grabbing a bite at Outback or stopping for coffee at Havanna. If you're still in the city center before heading to the airport, Florida Garden and Le Pain Quotidien are two other options for breakfast, lunch or a quick bite.

Insider tip: Looking for a truly Argentine souvenir? At airports across Argentina, Open Nativo offers a selection of souvenirs and locally made products, perfect for taking a little piece of the country home in your suitcase.

Where: Basilica of Our Lady of Luján, Buenos Aires.