Once 30 De Diciembre

Once-30 De Diciembre Buenos Aires: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Once-30 De Diciembre, commonly referred to as Once, is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Buenos Aires’ Balvanera district. Renowned for its diverse immigrant heritage, bustling commercial centers, and pivotal role as a transportation hub, Once is a microcosm of Buenos Aires’ rich urban tapestry. The area is defined by its energetic markets, multicultural communities, and significant architectural landmarks such as the Mercado de Abasto, historic synagogues, and the central Plaza Miserere. At its core, the Once-30 De Diciembre station on Line H of the Buenos Aires Subte exemplifies the fusion of modern infrastructure with the city’s storied past, serving as both a gateway for visitors and a tribute to local history.

This comprehensive guide offers detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, travel tips, cultural highlights, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you plan an immersive visit to Once and its iconic station. For further exploration, consult resources on Buenos Aires landmarks and transit (Britannica, Wander Argentina, Buenos Aires Tourism Board).

Introduction
Historical Evolution of Once
Top Attractions and Visitor Information
Once-30 De Diciembre Station
Balvanera Neighborhood Guide
FAQ
Visuals and Media Recommendations
Conclusion
References

Historical Evolution of Once

Once takes its name from the Once de Septiembre railway station, itself a commemoration of the 1852 Battle of September 11, a pivotal event in Argentine history. The neighborhood flourished during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a magnet for European immigrants—Jewish, Italian, and later Korean and Chinese—who established synagogues, markets, businesses, and cultural institutions. This multi-ethnic foundation has shaped Once into one of Buenos Aires’ most dynamic and diverse urban centers (Britannica).

Top Attractions and Visitor Information

Mercado de Abasto

Once’s most iconic landmark, the Mercado de Abasto, is a former wholesale market transformed into an expansive shopping and entertainment complex. The mall, open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, features a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, including the Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum). Guided tours can be arranged for groups, providing insight into the building’s Art Deco architecture and its connection to tango legend Carlos Gardel (Wander Argentina).

Synagogues and Religious Sites

The neighborhood is home to significant Jewish heritage sites, including El Gran Templo de Paso and the Sephardic Yesod Hadath. Generally, these synagogues are open for visitors Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with tours available by prior arrangement.

Plaza Miserere

Plaza Miserere, also known as Plaza Once, is a bustling public square and transportation hub adjacent to the Once-30 De Diciembre and Once de Septiembre stations. The plaza is a focal point for street vendors, local events, and daily commuters, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and experiencing the district’s lively atmosphere.

Once-30 De Diciembre Station

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, matching the Buenos Aires Subte network schedule.
Ticketing: Access to the station and all Subte lines requires a SUBE card, available for purchase and recharge at automated machines and ticket booths within the station.

Architectural Features

Opened in 2007, Once-30 De Diciembre station exemplifies contemporary underground design. Its robust construction ensures efficient passenger flow, safety, and accessibility. The station features two wide side platforms, ample lighting, energy-efficient materials, and clear multilingual signage. Notably, the station honors Buenos Aires’ tango culture with murals by Hermenegildo Sábat and is dedicated in memory of the República Cromañón nightclub fire victims, with commemorative panels and murals.

Accessibility and Amenities

The station is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, Braille signage, tactile paving, adapted restrooms, and public Wi-Fi. Additional amenities include automated ticket machines, staffed assistance booths, seating areas, digital information displays, and printed maps.

Safety and Security

Security cameras, emergency intercoms, fire suppression systems, and the presence of station staff contribute to a safe environment. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant during peak hours due to heavy foot traffic.

Urban Integration and Nearby Attractions

Strategically located at Avenida Pueyrredón and Avenida Rivadavia, the station offers seamless connectivity:

Direct Transfers: Connection to Line A (Plaza Miserere) and Once de Septiembre railway terminal (Sarmiento Line).
Bus and Ecobici Access: Numerous bus lines and the city’s bike-sharing system serve the area.
Nearby Sights: Plaza Miserere, Mercado de Abasto, Ciudad Cultural Konex, and La Perla Bar are all within walking distance.

Travel Tips

Best times to visit: Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) for a more relaxed experience.
Photography: Murals and artistic features make the station photogenic.
Guided Tours: Some city tours include the station as part of routes exploring Buenos Aires’ immigrant history and tango legacy.

Balvanera Neighborhood Guide

History and Culture

Balvanera, encompassing Once, evolved from rural estates into a bustling city district during the mass immigration of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its multicultural spirit is reflected in the area’s synagogues, churches, schools, and diverse businesses (Buenos Aires Tourism Board).

Architectural Highlights

Abasto Shopping Mall: Art Deco masterpiece, open 10:00 AM–10:00 PM, free entry.
Café de los Angelitos: Historic tango venue, open daily 9:00 AM–midnight. Tango shows (from ARS 2500) can be booked online (cafedelosangelitos.com.ar).
Plaza Houssay and Facultad de Medicina: Green spaces and architectural landmarks frequented by students.

Dining and Nightlife

Balvanera offers a vibrant food scene, with options ranging from parrillas (grills) like El Litoral to international eateries and the only kosher McDonald’s outside Israel at Abasto Shopping. Nightlife includes local bars and the Dome Rooftop Bar with city views.

Parks and Public Spaces

Plaza Primero de Mayo: Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM, features playgrounds and murals.
Plaza Velasco Ibarra: Family-friendly green space with communal seating.

Events and Unique Experiences

June 2025 Highlights: Festival Calesita (June 12), Sabor a Buenos Aires (June 14–15), La Chocolaterie (June 28–29), and the Bonfire of Saint Peter and Saint Paul (June 28) (timeout.com).
Weekly Marches: The Madres de la Plaza de Mayo march every Thursday at 3:30 PM at nearby Plaza Congreso.
People-watching and Markets: Explore Once’s specialized fabric and party supply shops.
Tango at Café de los Angelitos: Experience live tango in a historic setting.
Furniture Shopping on Avenida Belgrano: Discover a variety of furniture outlets for every budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Once-30 De Diciembre station?
A: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

Q: How do I buy tickets for the Subte?
A: Purchase and recharge a SUBE card at station kiosks or automated machines.

Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, including elevators, ramps, tactile paving, Braille signage, and adapted restrooms.

Q: What are the main attractions near Once-30 De Diciembre?
A: Mercado de Abasto, Plaza Miserere, Abasto Shopping Mall, Ciudad Cultural Konex, Café de los Angelitos.

Q: Are guided tours offered in English?
A: Yes, several local operators provide English-language tours highlighting history, architecture, and cuisine.

Q: Is Balvanera/Once safe for tourists?
A: Yes, especially during the day. Exercise standard urban caution, particularly in crowded areas and after dark.

Visuals and Media Recommendations

Maps and Virtual Tours: Available on the official Subte website and Buenos Aires Tourism Board.
Photography: Capture murals, Art Deco architecture, and vibrant street life.
Apps: Download Audiala for curated walking tours and audio guides.

Conclusion

Once-30 De Diciembre and the surrounding Balvanera district offer an authentic and immersive Buenos Aires experience—blending history, culture, and urban energy. Whether exploring bustling markets, attending a tango show, or discovering the neighborhood’s architectural gems, visitors will appreciate the area’s unique spirit and accessibility. For up-to-date event schedules, travel tips, and guided tours, download the Audiala app and follow our channels for the latest insights.