La Plata guide: what to do and see in the city

Paseo del Bosque is located between streets 50 and 60, 1 and 122, and is a natural refuge year-round. With shaded paths facilitated by its poplars, oaks, willows, ombú trees, and eucalyptus spread across more than 60 hectares, it’s a green area to spend the day walking, biking, watching cycling races, practicing other sports, or simply enjoying a picnic.

The Bosque also hosts other attractions, making every visit a different adventure: the Astronomical Observatory, the Natural Sciences Museum, the Grotto (a magical cave that attracts both children and adults), the Martín Fierro Amphitheater, the Bosque Lake, the Juan Carmelo Zerillo Stadium (Gimnasia y Esgrima Club), and the Jorge Luis Hirschi Stadium (Estudiantes Club).

Where: Av Iraola.

This is a space inspired by Japanese culture located in Colonia Urquiza, just a few kilometers from La Plata. The garden-farm was created in 1967 by a Japanese family to promote mini rural tourism and offer an ideal outdoor space for nature activities and relaxation.

Its traditional red bridges, lily pond (water plants with floating flowers), and oriental structure and ambiance create a peaceful, contemplative environment—a small escape with elements of Japanese culture in the middle of the city.

Additionally, at Mizujo you can visit the biopark and interact with farm animals, buy flowers and plants at the nursery, and purchase fruits, vegetables, and ingredients for Asian cooking at their greengrocer.

Where: Ruta Provincial 36, Abasto.

Located opposite the Bosque, it was founded in 1997 to exhibit and preserve the only work in Latin America designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. The house was built between 1949 and 1953 at the request of surgeon Pedro Curutchet and has a unique feature: its design combines modern elements with traditional Argentine architecture.

For this reason, Casa Curutchet is a landmark in Argentine architecture and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. Guided tours allow visitors to explore Le Corbusier’s avant-garde style, and throughout the year, architecture exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

Where: Av. 53 N° 320.

One of the largest and most traditional green spaces in the city. Located exactly in the center of La Plata’s grid layout, facing the Cathedral and the City Hall.

It covers 8 hectares and was the site where the city was founded in 1882. Visitors can explore a sculpture and history garden. For example, the bronze statue of Mariano Moreno created by the local sculptor Ricardo Dalla Lasta in 1999 is there. It is a popular meeting place for the student community living in La Plata.

Where: Streets 12 and 54.

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a local icon and one of the most extraordinary churches in the world. It was inspired by the Amiens Cathedral in France and the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.

But what sets it apart? To start, its neo-Gothic architecture. It houses a unique collection of stained-glass windows narrating significant local and religious history; tall spires, pointed arches, and decorative details created over more than a century of construction give it a singular and majestic character. Besides its impressive size—one of the largest churches globally—it is located in the geographic center of the city, facing Plaza Moreno. The Cathedral is a landmark for the La Plata community and features a museum open for visits during the week.

Where: Street 14 between Av. 51 and Av. 53.

Around 1885, a group of locals had an idea: to create a prominent theater. They succeeded, securing a city block at streets 9 and 10 and avenues 51 and 53. Italian architect Leopoldo Rocchi designed a Renaissance-style building, and after three years, in 1890, the first play was staged, followed by many years of cultural and artistic activity.

However, in 1997 a fire destroyed the Renaissance-style hall, and the building was demolished and rebuilt starting in 1980. Today, the Argentine Theater does not reflect Rocchi’s style but has independent halls, workshops for set design, costume areas, rehearsal spaces, and offers countless free activities year-round!

The program includes rooftop musical performances, experimental plays, opera, concerts, ballet, and festivals.

Where: Av. 51 n° 702.

Part of La Plata’s history is housed in the Bosque, as with the La Plata Museum. Inspired by important European museums such as the Glyptothek in Munich and the National Gallery in London, it features neoclassical architecture and Pre-Columbian American decoration.

Founded in 1888 by Francisco Pascasio Moreno to contribute to knowledge about nature and culture, it offers exhibits, educational activities, and tours year-round.

Where: Paseo del Bosque s/n.

A corner, an old yellow iron door, a blue-and-white striped awning, and a freshly painted white facade. That’s all Pedro and Olga need to run their kitchen workshop in Berisso, a town 6 km from La Plata.

Just peeking through the entrance window puts you in a state of indecision: every product made at Pedro y Olga is incredible—both in looks and taste.

Our highlights? Homemade breads, creole pastries, fruit tarts, sponge cakes, and "bolas de fraile" (fried dough balls) filled with custard and dulce de leche.

Note: On weekends, they open the sidewalk seating, and you can eat and drink outside until midnight.

Where: Street 10 corner 160, Berisso.

Interested in learning about musical instruments? In La Plata, you can visit the Azzarini Museum in the city center, just a block from Plaza Italia. Since 1985, this museum has stood out nationally for its unique theme, founded thanks to a collection of about 800 instruments donated by Dr. Emilio Azzarini to the National University of La Plata.

What to do at the museum? Discover sheet music, instruments, historical documents, and objects representing musical expressions from many world regions. Participate in restoration workshops, book exhibits, and live music performances for children and the general public.

Where: Street 45 No. 582.

There is a place in La Plata unlike any other: Bandera Blanca Bar. Two friends, Julio and Joa, achieved a longtime dream: opening a small restaurant (now relocated and no longer small) where they could prepare dishes they love, paired with personally selected wines.

At BBB, every ingredient—vegetables, dairy, meats, spices, legumes—is carefully chosen, often sourced from different parts of the country and small to medium producers. Bandera Blanca Bar specializes in food pairing, a global culinary trend combining complementary flavors to enhance the gastronomic experience. What do you usually find at BBB? Seasonal vegetables and fruits prioritized according to availability.

Where: Street 47 No. 997.

One of the city’s iconic theaters! Designed in an Italian style, it was founded in 1886 and passed through various owners. Although abandoned for ten years, in 1981 the municipality of La Plata decided to restore it.

In its horseshoe-shaped 19th-century hall, lyrical concerts, jazz, rock, pop, indie music performances take place. It also hosts theater plays for all audiences, including children. To learn about part of the city’s history, visiting Coliseo Podestá is a must.

Where: Street 10 No. 733.

Welcome to the most modern stadium in Latin America! Located between avenues 32 and 526, 25 and street 21, it opens its doors to much more than sports: provincial government festivals like FINDE, concerts, school visits, large events, and of course men’s and women’s soccer matches.

A fun fact: The Diego Armando Maradona Unique Stadium Foundation is equally represented by Estudiantes de La Plata and Gimnasia y Esgrima de La Plata clubs—historic city rivals.

Where: Avenues 25 and 32.

If there is a standout figure in La Plata’s green facet, it is undoubtedly the Pereyra Iraola Biosphere Reserve. A 15-minute drive (or a 50-minute bike ride for the sporty), the reserve sits on the border of La Plata, Ensenada, Berazategui, and Florencio Varela, and is one of the most important natural reserves in the province and country.

It is a protected area in constant contact with its flora, fauna, forests, lagoons, fungi, birds, and hundreds of species of mushrooms. Definitely a real nature encounter and a paradise for wildlife observers.

Where: Camino Gral. Belgrano, Km 40.

The National University of La Plata Planetarium was inaugurated in June 2013 and, besides scientific outreach, functions as a space for interaction with other university disciplines. It is one of the most modern planetariums in Latin America, ideal for enjoying high-resolution 4K digital projections and immersive experiences, featuring a main hall and a large terrace.

A plus for the planetarium: its projection room is suitable for people with hearing impairments as it includes a magnetic induction loop!

Where: Paseo del Bosque (Av Iraola and street 118).

The restaurant that is almost as old as the city! Founded in 1894, twelve years after La Plata’s inauguration, it follows a tradition: peanut shells are thrown on the floor. Yes, every day the floor of La Modelo is covered with shells that are collected after closing. Located at 5 and 54 in the city center, it is part tavern, part family restaurant.

Originally, it was a place favored by poker players who drank “imperial” or “cívico” (two beer measures at the time), accompanied by a ham sandwich. Today, the menu is very broad.

Note: 30 years ago they started making their own panettone for the holidays, but for the public, December was not enough. So for a few years now, panettone is available year-round.

Where: Street 54 No. 496.

A hidden beach among the trees, just 7 km from La Plata. A wide 150-meter coast with sand, a fishing pier, and plenty of trees. Ideal for hanging out, fishing, and hiking. Access is free, and the municipality provides lifeguards during the day. At night, the best show: a sky full of stars.

Where: Av. Palo Blanco, Berisso.

This is a culinary experience right on the edge of the playing field. León Bistró is part of the UNO stadium of the Estudiantes de La Plata Club, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas located along the side of the soccer field.

The decor features football memorabilia from the club, there is a bar serving signature cocktails, and the menu includes traditional and gourmet dishes.

Where: Av. 1 and Street 56.

Giulietta is one of the newest artisan ice cream shops to open in the city. It also operates as a café and offers exquisite pastries. The gelato is Italian-style, very creamy with an unforgettable texture. Must-try flavors include zabaglione, tiramisu, Oreo cream, water chocolate, key lime pie, and mandarin.

Where: Street 18 No. 657.

The perfect place for a weekend getaway. Punta Indio is a small town with dirt roads, located 90 minutes from La Plata, between the Río de la Plata and Río Samborombón.

On the coastal side of Punta Indio is the Southern Coastal Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It covers 30,000 hectares where irregularly shaped trees such as talas grow, dispersing as you move away from the coast. Inside the town, the landscape is typical of the Pampas plain, with animals and birds.

Why does Punta Indio attract residents of La Plata and Buenos Aires? Because its streets lead to forests and streams, like the interpretive trail of Arroyo Villoldo, for its tranquil nature, green camping areas, and river and sandy beaches.

Where: Provincial Route 11, Southern Coastal Park.

Founded in 1951, the Republic of the Children combines medieval, European, and Islamic styles (as well as modern ones), inspired by classic children’s tales from authors like Hans C. Andersen, the Brothers Grimm, and the legends of Mallory and Tennyson.

La Repu is surrounded by a natural forest of over 50 hectares and was created for community well-being through recreational activities, sports, education, and sociocultural diversity.

Fun fact: It is the country’s most important educational theme park and is considered the largest children’s project in Latin America and the first theme park in the Americas.

Where: Camino Gral. Manuel Belgrano, no number, Gonnet.

París Confectionery, closed during the pandemic, reopened under new ownership aiming to attract a more diverse audience. Its image and menu have changed, but the location remains the same: the historic corner of 7 and 49. What to try at París? All day long: toasted sandwiches, yogurt with granola, scrambled eggs, and coffee service. There are also great lunch options.

Where: Av. 7 No. 849.

A train that has been circling the city’s main plaza for over 50 years. A timeless option for little ones, available afternoons and evenings on weekdays and weekends.

The train runs through the plaza wrapped in colorful lights and children’s music. Before or after the ride, carts sell sweets, caramel-coated apples, popcorn, and soft drinks. It’s a beloved tradition for all children growing up in La Plata.

Where: Plaza Moreno (streets 12 and 54).

A gastronomic market offering culinary options from diverse cultures and places, located opposite Plaza San Martín in the city center. Founded as a meeting point and tourist destination, it’s open every day.

At Baxar you can enjoy grilled meats (La Cabrera), Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta (Paesano), craft beer (Amsterdam, Baum, Veza), Peruvian dishes like chaufa rice or causa limeña (La Chimbotana), breakfast and snacks (Tostado, Bagel & Bagel), or Spanish dishes (Mola), to name a few.

Where: Street 50 No. 534.

Eucalyptus, sagittaria, bulrushes, poplars, palm trees, pines, reeds, plane trees, talas, and acacias. Herons, capybaras, hares, ovenbirds, ducks, aquatic turtles, and tegu lizards. These are just some of the flora and fauna species found in the Ecological Park, one of La Plata’s largest green spaces. Forty hectares of wild vegetation separated by the Martín Creek.

Located on Camino Centenario in Villa Elisa, 15 minutes from the city. Free entry. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, picnic, and do physical activities. It also has a playground and a paved path for biking and rollerblading, which leads to an old house housing a restaurant.

Where: Camino Parque Centenario, Villa Elisa.

One of the city’s first inaugurated plazas. It features a landmark structure, the Monumento Alla Fratellanza, an imposing column inaugurated in 1900 by architect A. Vacellio.

Plaza Italia gathers the community especially on weekends, when a food and craft market is held and folk dancing with live music takes place.

Where: Av. 7 and Av. 44.

A restaurant located in the heart of the Meridiano Quinto sports club, attracting families and friends all year round.

What to drink? We recommend craft beers.

What to eat? Definitely homemade pasta, especially pork shoulder with roasted sweet potatoes.

Where: Street 67 No. 1080.

Where the city’s train station used to operate, with its classic French style, a yard over 1,000 square meters, 3 platforms, and a huge garden, today stands the Provincial Station Cultural Center. It’s a restoration project led by neighborhood residents who bring the space to life.

Today it’s a meeting place hosting cultural activities, car exhibitions, circus shows, workshops and dance performances, open-air film screenings, and concerts.

Where: Streets 17 and 71.

It started like many hobbies: in the tiny kitchen of an apartment during the COVID pandemic. Today, Augusto and Agustina have opened two locations of the country’s first focacceria. The apartment couldn’t keep up, so the project moved to a small shop on Street 10. After three years, Lebrel operates in a large venue opposite Cervecería Modelo, an iconic city corner.

So, what to eat at Lebrel? Arancini, focaccias by the slice (roquefort and pear, tomato and pesto, smoked bacon and tybo cheese, among many others), focaccia sandwiches (mortadella with pistachio, cured ham and cheese, crispy chicken breast, vitel toné).

Where: Street 54 No. 495.

What began as a family story is now a foundation for environmental research and education. Estancia El Destino was purchased in 1928 by a couple—he an engineer, she a specialist in plants and birds—and today it’s managed as an ecological sanctuary open year-round with an affordable entrance fee.

It is located in the Magdalena district, 45 minutes from La Plata. The gardens were designed by its original owners, and the buildings evoke architectures from both New England and the Río de la Plata region.

The reserve houses many worlds: a central park with cypress trees and flower beds attracting white-throated hummingbirds; a forest of oaks, cedars, and walnut trees surrounding it; and an old greenhouse that used to function and is still intact.

Where: Provincial Route 11, Magdalena.

This tasting-menu restaurant offers carefully and meticulously prepared dishes. Founded by two friends with the aim of opening a place serving tasting menus using regional products. It has a family atmosphere that makes you feel at home, where you can try dishes with familiar ingredients but with a creative twist.

Where: Av. 13 No. 406.

Located in Ensenada, on the outskirts of La Plata, this restaurant is part of the Náutico Club and has access to the river coast. Best dishes include pork shoulder with mashed potatoes, breaded cutlets with fries, stuffed potato omelet, and, of course, fresh-caught fish with sides.

Where: San Martín 1125, Ensenada.

Born with the motto: “The neighborhood is made by all of us.” Its creators are a family from La Plata who wanted to open a place to grab a drink and keep going or stay toasting late into the night. A sidewalk and cozy atmosphere with warm lights, and a bar set up in the garage of their home. Barrio is a nearby gastronomic spot to Club Platense.

Where: Street 21 No. 965.

Getting to Paulino Island in Berisso, a town 7 km from La Plata, is very easy: just take the catamaran and sail along the Santiago River for 20 minutes.

You can spend the day or the weekend on the island. Ideal for those wanting contact with the coastal forest, enjoy the Río de la Plata beach, vegetable farms, and a great variety of fruits.

Where: Boat access from Street 8, Berisso.