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La Plata

La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina

La Plata: Argentina's City of Diagonals Awaits Step off the beaten path and discover La Plata, a city unlike any other in Argentina. Founded in 1882 after Buenos Aires became the nation's capital, La Plata rose from the …

#La Plata#Buenos Aires#Argentina#University City#Cultural Center
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into La Plata.

Top Hotels in La Plata

Top Flights to La Plata

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in La Plata.

Tours

City Tour of La Plata

Explore the architectural and cultural landmarks of La Plata, the capital city of Buenos Aires province.

La Plata Museum Circuit

Visit the collection of museums offering insights into natural history and art.

Culinary Tour of La Plata

Taste the local flavors and culinary delights in La Plata.

Street Art Walking Tour

Explore the vibrant street art scene of La Plata.

Botanical Garden Visit

A serene escape into nature, showcasing diverse plant species.

Shopping

Shopping in La Plata

Discover the best shopping spots for local crafts, fashion, and souvenirs.

Craft Shopping in Antiques Fair

Explore local crafts and antiques at the La Plata antiques fair.

Outdoor

La Plata Parks

Experience the green spaces and outdoor activities in La Plata's local parks.

Biking Through La Plata

Explore La Plata comfortably by bike on dedicated bike lanes and quiet streets.

Picnic at Plaza Moreno

Relax and enjoy a picnic in one of La Plata's central squares.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in La Plata.

Currency
$ | ARS | Argentine Peso
Population
The approximate estimated total population of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina is '0.8 million'.
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Average weather
La Plata
Jan
sun
30°19°
Feb
sun
29°18°
Mar
cloud
27°16°
Apr
cloud
23°13°
May
rain
19°9°
Jun
cold
16°6°
Jul
cold
15°5°
Aug
clear
17°6°
Sep
clear
19°8°
Oct
cloud
22°11°
Nov
sun
26°14°
Dec
sun
29°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on La Plata.

What people love

La Plata, located in the Buenos Aires province of Argentina, offers several benefits for travelers:

  1. Cultural attractions: La Plata is known for its rich cultural heritage and impressive architecture. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Cathedral of La Plata, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the Teatro Argentino.

  2. Parks and green spaces: The city is home to numerous parks and gardens, providing a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. The Paseo del Bosque is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

  3. Educational institutions: La Plata is home to the National University of La Plata, one of the most prestigious universities in Argentina. Visitors interested in academia can explore the university campus and its cultural offerings.

  4. Gastronomy: The city boasts a vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants serving traditional Argentine cuisine as well as international dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like empanadas and asado.

  5. Proximity to Buenos Aires: La Plata is located just a short drive away from the bustling capital city of Buenos Aires. Travelers can easily visit both destinations and experience the best of urban and suburban Argentina.

Overall, La Plata offers a mix of cultural, natural, and culinary attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking a unique Argentine experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to La Plata, Argentina may include:

  1. Limited tourist infrastructure: La Plata is not as touristy as other destinations in Argentina, so you may find fewer amenities and services geared towards tourists compared to places like Buenos Aires or Mendoza.

  2. Language barrier: While many people in La Plata may speak some English, the primary language spoken is Spanish. If you are not fluent in Spanish, you may encounter challenges communicating with locals.

  3. Safety concerns: Like any city, La Plata has areas that may be less safe, especially at night. It is advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings to avoid potential risks.

  4. Limited transportation options: While La Plata has a decent public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or efficient as in larger cities. Renting a car or using taxis may be necessary to explore the area more easily.

  5. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: La Plata is more of a university town, so the nightlife and entertainment options may be more limited compared to larger cities like Buenos Aires.

It's always a good idea to research further and stay informed about the specific circumstances and conditions of the destination you are planning to visit.

La Plata, the capital city of the Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, is a city rich with history and notable for its unique urban planning and architecture. Here is a detailed history:

Foundation and Planning:

  • Founded: La Plata was officially founded on November 19, 1882, by Dardo Rocha, the then governor of Buenos Aires Province. The foundation was part of a plan to establish a new capital city for the province after the city of Buenos Aires was federalized in 1880 and became the capital of Argentina.
  • Urban Design: The city is known for its innovative grid layout designed by Pedro Benoit. La Plata was meticulously planned with a diagonal street system, public squares every seven blocks, and wide boulevards, reminiscent of Washington D.C. and other planned cities.

Significant Events:

  • Inauguration of Key Buildings: Shortly after its founding, significant buildings like the Cathedral of La Plata, the Government House, and other key civic structures were constructed. The Cathedral, designed in neo-Gothic style, is one of the largest churches in Argentina and a landmark of the city.
  • Economic and Cultural Growth: Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, La Plata grew as a cultural and educational center. The establishment of the National University of La Plata in 1905 was a significant milestone, contributing to the city’s reputation as a hub for higher education and research.

Historical Figures:

  • Dardo Rocha: As the city’s founder, he played a pivotal role in its establishment and development. Rocha’s vision was instrumental in the city's urban planning and growth.
  • Pedro Benoit: The architect and engineer responsible for designing the city’s layout, Benoit's work is still evident in La Plata's unique urban design.

Important Landmarks:

  • La Plata Cathedral: This iconic neo-Gothic cathedral, whose construction began in 1884 and was completed in 1932, stands out for its impressive size and architectural beauty.
  • Natural Science Museum: Opened in 1888, the museum is one of the most important of its kind in South America, housing vast collections of paleontology, anthropology, and natural history.
  • Teatro Argentino de La Plata: Originally opened in 1890 and rebuilt after a fire in 1977, this theater is a major cultural venue hosting operas, ballets, and concerts.
  • Republica de los Niños: Opened in 1951, this educational theme park is designed to teach children about civic institutions and the functioning of government, featuring scale models of various public buildings.

Modern-Day La Plata:

  • Today, La Plata is a vibrant city known for its scientific and educational institutions, cultural events, and architectural landmarks. It continues to be an essential administrative, cultural, and educational center in Argentina.

This overview captures the essence of La Plata's rich history, significant events, and enduring landmarks.