Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stroll along the only avenue in Buenos Aires that offers direct views of the Rio de la Plata?
Welcome to Costanera Norte, a prime destination for expats, digital nomads, and travelers seeking a blend of leisure and exploration in Buenos Aires.
From ExpatPathways, let us guide you through the heart of this vibrant corridor, showcasing its peaceful bike paths, historical monuments, and lively nightspots.
Prepare to be captivated by the avenue’s natural beauty, and discover why Costanera Norte is not just a route, but a destination in itself, full of life and local charm.
Costanera Norte: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting It
What is Costanera Norte?
Costanera Norte is a scenic avenue that stretches along the northern bank of the Río de la Plata, connecting the neighborhoods of Recoleta and Ciudad Universitaria while passing through Palermo.
This unique riverside corridor offers an array of attractions including green spaces, shopping centers, entertainment venues, and recreational and sports facilities. Among the highlights is the Centro Costa Salguero, known for hosting a variety of events such as exhibitions, conventions, shows, and both social and business gatherings.
Nightlife along this strip is particularly vibrant, with some of Buenos Aires’ most sophisticated clubs lined up side by side, where patrons typically dine late and dance even later, usually starting around 2:30 AM.
The avenue also traverses significant landmarks such as Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, Parque Norte Complex, Tierra Santa (a religious theme park), Parque 3 de Febrero, GEBA, River Plate’s Monumental Stadium, and Ciudad Universitaria.
The route offers excellent views of the Río de la Plata and includes a dedicated bike path for safe cycling away from vehicular traffic. Costanera Norte is essential for travelers using Aeroparque Jorge Newbery and is a popular spot for fishing along the riverbanks, where Buenos Aires’ water intakes are also located.
Location and Access to Costanera Norte
Costanera Norte runs along the northern coast of the Río de la Plata within Buenos Aires and is the only city avenue directly facing the riverfront. It was constructed on land reclaimed from the river. The best way to explore Costanera Norte is by bicycle, thanks to dedicated bike lanes that ensure a smooth ride without interference from cars.
For those preferring public transport, bus lines 8, 33, 34, 37, 45, 160, and 166 can drop you at various points along Avenida Costanera Rafael Obligado. Costanera Norte crosses through the neighborhoods of Palermo and Recoleta, nearing Belgrano and Núñez as it approaches the Monumental Stadium.
At the end of Aeroparque, the avenue splits into two paths: Avenida Intendente Cantilo heading south parallel to Avenida Leopoldo Lugones and leading to Avenida General Paz, and Avenida Intendente Güiraldes heading north, skirting Balneario Parque Norte and reaching the Ciudad Universitaria of the University of Buenos Aires, eventually curving to join Avenida Intendente Cantilo.
While trains and subways do not provide close access to Costanera Norte, they can be used in combination with bus services to reach the area.
Why Should You Visit the Costanera Norte?
Costanera Norte is the only avenue in Buenos Aires that offers such direct views of the Río de la Plata. This tranquil avenue provides a stunning backdrop for a daytime stroll, free from the usual city traffic, as it is primarily used for access to and from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery.
Beyond the airport and river, the avenue is lined with restaurants, bars, parks, and sports complexes, including the famous River Plate Stadium.
Don’t miss the unique vantage points from the Club de los Pescadores and the Monument to Christopher Columbus, which offer unforgettable views and photo opportunities.
Main Activities and Attractions on the Costanera Norte
Biking Along the Avenue
The avenue is best enjoyed on a bicycle, utilizing the public bike system (Ecobici) to rent a bike for a scenic ride. Private rental services are also available, providing bikes for a specific time at a reasonable cost.
Aeroparque Jorge Newbery
Halfway through your journey on Costanera Norte, you’ll encounter one of South America’s most modern airports, located just 2 km from downtown.
The sight of airplanes landing and taking off just meters away offers a unique spectacle against the backdrop of the Río de la Plata.
Río de la Plata
Throughout your journey on Costanera Norte, the Río de la Plata will be a constant scenic companion. The stretch between the Club de los Pescadores and the Monument to Christopher Columbus is particularly noteworthy for its views of the river, airport, and the ceaseless activity of airplanes.
Sports Attractions
The area’s vast open spaces have facilitated the creation of various sports complexes and activities over the years.
Along the avenue, you can see fishermen, cycling circuits, football and tennis courts, and extensive sports and nautical complexes.
Parque Costanera Norte
Opened in 2013, this park focuses on extreme sports like skateboarding, longboarding, and mountain biking, featuring Argentina’s first longboard track.
The park regularly hosts international skating events and includes small seating areas along the river, drinking fountains, and over 200 newly planted trees.
Circuito KDT
For those with energy to spare, the KDT cycling circuit in Parque Palermo offers extensive facilities, including a swimming pool, a large bike track, a velodrome, and courts for spedball, volleyball, and skating.
Club de los Pescadores
Make a stop at the Club de los Pescadores, one of the city’s most scenic spots with a rich history, popular among those who enjoy fishing as a sport and recreational activity.
River Plate Stadium
Near Ciudad Universitaria stands the monumental stadium of one of Argentina’s most famous football clubs. On match days, the area can become congested, so it’s advisable to avoid it during these times.
Restaurants
The area boasts some of Buenos Aires’ most classic and renowned restaurants, frequented by celebrities who enjoy the riverside ambiance.
For a unique local experience, try the food carts along the Costanera, offering typical Argentine street food like choripanes and bondiola sandwiches against the backdrop of the world’s widest river.
Green Spaces
Costanera Norte is ideal for outdoor activities, thanks to its open, unobstructed spaces and fresh riverside air. The Parque de los Niños is perfect for family outings, with sandboxes, playgrounds, and picnic tables. Kite flying is a popular activity here, with rentals available on-site.
At both the start and end of the avenue, you’ll find various parks and green spaces perfect for enjoying the sunshine and river views.
Last Considerations
Concluding your plans to visit Costanera Norte? This picturesque avenue is a highlight of any trip to Buenos Aires, perfect for a relaxed weekend morning stroll.
You’ll cover its expanse quickly and with ease, without worrying about parking as you can conveniently stop along Avenida Rafael Obligado. While exploring, remember that while some parks and green areas are freely accessible, others might charge an entry fee.
To enhance your experience, consider joining one of the many group tours available, connecting with fellow travelers and tourists.
ExpatPathways suggests making the most of these communal explorations to fully enjoy the beauty and vibrancy of Costanera Norte.
(Featured Image Source: Marcos Mielniczuk/flickr.com)
