This beautiful Beaux-Arts building is not to be missed by dedicated shoppers and architecture lovers. Dating from the early 1890’s, Galerias Pacifico features a sky-lit rotunda with 12 gorgeous frescos done near the mid 20th century by Argentine new realism artists. The downtown location of the shopping center is at the intersection of Florida and Cordoba which allows a respite from the crowds and performers on Florida.

Abasto, although slightly more removed from the high tourist density center, the largest shopping mall in Buenos Aires is definitely worth the visit for the serious bargain shopper. Less marble flooring and more stores is the mantra of this locale that seems to cater more to the local in search of affordable price tags rather than top designer duds. Don’t be fooled, one can easily spend it all with over 230 brands and 2000 square meters of shopping area.

The smallest of the main shopping malls in the city is located in Recoleta. Patio Bullrich lives up the neighborhood’s reputation and has a price tag to match. The sky-lit roof and elegant interior design bestow an aura of airy sophistication. There is a small play area for children. Although mostly Argentine brands, there are several international brands including Diesel and Armani Exchange.

Paseo Alcorta is another modern-day bastion of commercialism and is nestled at the southern tip of the boutique-laden Palermo. Dominated by a gigantic Carrefour supermarket on the ground floor, this center touts three jam-packed floors of chain clothing stores interspersed with more unique fashion outlets.

Similar to a typical higher end shopping mall in the United States, this hub of shipping euphoria contains a good balance of decently priced designer stores. The shopping mall provides a quality shopping experience away from the frenzied tempo of Avenida Santa Fe. Divided into four levels, with the obligatory food court and kids section on the uppermost, the foreign shopper is comforted by familiar international brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Quicksilver.

This is one of the more popular destinations for locals. All the big-name stores are found here but deals abound. This area is the most out of the way from traditional tourist areas and is not accessible by metro, but a stroll around the Flores and Floresta train stops will reveal dirt cheap prices.

This is a convenient location for tourists staying in Recoleta or Palermo- the shopping area is just a few stops down on the D-line metro. Get off at the Jose Hernandez subte stop and walk the blocks up to Congreso de Tucuman station before heading back.

Shops here are a walking distance from Palermo, but prices are much lower than the expensive boutiques around Plaza Serrano. Stroll along the streets surround Scalabrini Ortiz, a few blocks from Malabia metro station. This locale is packed with people on the weekends. At times there are even lines to get into stores.