The Best of La Boca, Argentina

Buenos Aires' Most Colourful Neighbourhood

La Boca is one of Buenos Aires' best-known barrios. Situated at the mouth of the Riachuelo River, the former shipping port is famous for its blue-collar grit.

But don't be discouraged by its rough reputation. La Boca is where the city's immigrant history comes to life, and where you'll witness the local love of tango, soccer and the arts.

Bus to La Boca

The public bus (or, colectivo) is the best way to get to La Boca. The 29 bus snakes throughout the capital -- it's the cheapest city tour in town. One terminus is the leafy northern suburb of Olivos (where the Presidential residence is located); the southernmost stop is at La Boca's vibrant waterfront.

To find your most convenient stop, consult a copy of the Guia "T", the handy guide to BA's extensive bus system (they're readily available at local newsstands). And be sure to save your coins -- you'll need it to pay the fare.

The Street: El Caminito

El Caminito, the slim street populated by multihued houses, is the barrio's top tourist attraction. The rainbow colour scheme harkens to La Boca's past when residents painted their humble homes with leftover ship paint. Along the strip you'll encounter a plethora of restaurants and souvenir shops, local artists and impromptu tango shows. If you're a soccer fan, you can opt to pose for a photo with the uncanny Diego Maradona double.

The Sport: Boca Juniors Soccer

Soccer, or futbol as it's known in South America, is an Argentine institution. The nation's most renowned team is the Boca Juniors, who play at the iconic La Bombonera (the Chocolate Box) stadium. For fans of the yellow and blue, there are tour groups that sell tickets for rowdy home games. (Try to find seats for the 'Superclasico' match, which pits Boca against their cross-town rivals River Plate). When the team's not in town, you can visit the stadium and the Museo de la Pasion Boquense, a museum dedicated to all things Boca.

The Arts: Fundacion Proa

This contemporary art foundation and museum adds a modern touch to La Boca's historic sensibility. The newly renovated building is a bright, light-filled space that's as innovative as the art within its walls. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so check ahead to see what's on display. Make sure to stop in at Fundacion Proa's gorgeous café. The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the views of La Boca, the river and beyond.