Monumental Stadium (Estadio Antonio Vespucio Liberti)

Few activities whip Argentines into a frenzy like a football (soccer) match, and watching local team River Plate—one of the country’s top teams—playing at their home stadium is an experience like no other. Football fans can also explore behind the scenes on a guided stadium tour, including the press conference room, training field, and trophy hall, or even combine it with a guided stadium tour of La Bombonera.

The stadium is also home to the River Plate Museum, a huge sporting museum with a 360-degree movie theater, multimedia exhibitions, and displays of trophies, original uniforms, and club memorabilia.

• There is a café and gift shop on-site, and game-day visitors have many more food options.

• Stadium tours typically include entrance to the museum.

• The stadium and museum are wheelchair accessible.

Monumental Stadium is located in the Belgrano district of Buenos Aires. The closest metro station is Congreso de Tucumán (Line D), about 20 minutes’ walk away. Several buses (colectivos) pass the stadium, including No. 29, which runs from Plaza de Mayo and No. 15 from Avenida Santa Fé in Palermo. An easier option is to take a taxi or opt for a tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.

The main football seasons in Buenos Aires run from August to December, and February to July. Most matches are held on weekends, or occasionally on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. Unless you’re attending a game, it’s best to avoid visiting on match days when the stadium will be overrun with crowds.

Built in 1937, Monumental Stadium boasts an illustrious history, hosting many of the nation’s most prominent sporting events, including the 1978 World Cup finals and the First Pan American Games in 1951. The 75,000-capacity stadium is also used as a concert venue for international artists. Performers who have taken the stage here include Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, the Rolling Stones, U2, and Madonna.