Looking for a perfect blend of nature and culture in Buenos Aires? Plaza Francia, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces, is an ideal destination for digital nomads, travelers, and expats alike.
Nestled in the vibrant Recoleta neighborhood, this charming park offers more than just picturesque views with its pure air, sprawling lawns, and beautiful sculptures.
Plaza Francia is a place to live and enjoy like a local, surrounded by notable landmarks such as the UBA Law School, the National Library, Recoleta Cemetery, and the Floralis Genérica.
Dive into the complete guide to Plaza Francia, brought to you by ExpatPathways, and make the most of your visit to this iconic spot.
Plaza Francia (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is Plaza Francia in Buenos Aires?
Plaza Francia is a public green space in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Popularly, people often confuse it with the nearby Plaza Intendente Alvear.
Plaza Francia was created by Municipal Ordinance on October 19, 1909, as part of urban changes introduced for the Centenary of the May Revolution (1910). It was designed by the French landscape architect Charles Thays and is part of a broader ensemble of plazas.
The central monument, named “France to Argentina,” was crafted by French sculptor Émile Peynot and inaugurated in 1910. The sculpture, made in Carrara marble and polished red granite, symbolizes the ties between France and Argentina.
The monument features allegorical figures representing France and Argentina, historical events like the Storming of the Bastille, and scenes from Argentina’s history such as the First Government Junta and the Crossing of the Andes.
Plaza Francia Fair
At this fair, you will find artisans integrating the identity of indigenous peoples. The Artesanal Plaza Intendente Alvear Fair, known as Plaza Francia Fair, is one of the oldest cultural expressions in the public space, declared a Cultural and Tourist Landmark by the Buenos Aires Legislature.
Here, you will be amazed by pieces of glass and silver, textiles, metal, and leather crafts. The artisans offer high-quality pieces and are always willing to share the stories behind the materials and techniques used, all set against the spectacular backdrop of Plaza Francia and its natural slopes.
Activities
Plaza Francia is a popular spot for young people to gather in the afternoons to share an Argentine mate or chat. During summer and spring, it’s an ideal place to sunbathe and enjoy fresh air.
The proximity of Plaza Francia to other green spaces in the area often leads to confusion about where one plaza ends and another begins. By simply crossing a street or avenue, you can move between the different green spaces.
It’s a safe area with good police presence, and the surrounding cafes, restaurants, and tourist spots, along with the nearby UBA Law School and public transport, make Recoleta, the neighborhood that houses Plaza Francia, an ideal location.
Where is Plaza Francia located in Buenos Aires?
Plaza Francia is located at the intersection of Avenida del Libertador and Avenida Pueyrredón in the Recoleta neighborhood.
Nearby, you will find museums like the Museum of Fine Arts, significant buildings like the UBA Law School and the Mariano Moreno National Library, and the world-famous Recoleta Cemetery.
In addition, it is not the only green space in the area. Nearby are Parque Thays, Plaza República de Chile, Plaza República Federativa del Brasil, and Plaza San Martín de Tours.
In summary, Plaza Francia is situated in an area with many tourist attractions and, above all, a safe environment to explore.
How can I get to Plaza Francia?
Reaching Plaza Francia is very easy due to its central location and excellent transport links:
Subway
The most direct and fastest option is the subway. The H line running north-south allows you to reach the UBA Law School, from where only Avenida del Libertador separates you from Plaza Francia.
You can also use subway combinations, such as traveling on lines D, B, or A and transferring to line H at one of its stations.
Bus
Several bus lines serve the area, including lines 61, 62, 67, 92, 93, 124, and 130. These buses can drop you off near Plaza Francia.
Private Vehicles and Bicycles
The area is also accessible by private vehicles and bicycles, the latter through protected bike lanes or exclusive lanes. For private vehicles, be aware that the area can be congested on weekdays, especially during rush hours (17:00 to 20:00).
Activities and things to see in Plaza Francia
Plaza Francia Fair
One of the most spectacular fairs you’ll see in Buenos Aires. As you walk through it, you’ll feel like you’re in a corridor of artisans. The quality of the products and the friendliness of the vendors make it a delightful experience.
Contemplate the Monument of France to Argentina
In Plaza Francia, there is a monument celebrating the relationship between France and Argentina. It was a gift from the French community to Argentina on the occasion of the Centenary of the May Revolution in 1910.
The monument features allegorical figures of Science, Industry, Agriculture, and the Arts, and it also commemorates significant events in the history of both countries and notable French personalities.
Explore the Surroundings
Plaza Francia is in a privileged tourist location. To the north, you’ll find the National Museum of Fine Arts, the UBA Law School building, the facilities of Argentine Public Television, and the Floralis Genérica.
To the south, you can reach the Recoleta Cemetery, one of the most important in the world. To the west, you’ll find Parque Mitre, the British Embassy, Plaza Evita, and the Mariano Moreno National Library building.
Gastronomy and Bars
Mainly to the east of Plaza Francia, you’ll find many places to eat, drink, or enjoy a coffee. This area boasts highly-rated restaurants, specialty cafes, and bars.
If you’re looking for something quicker like a burger, the Recoleta Urban Mall is a shopping center a few blocks from Plaza Francia, full of both gastronomic and coffee options.
(Featured Image Source: Danny Foster/flickr.com)
