Ultimate Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Buenos Aires Travel Guide Overview

Buenos Aires, the city where the simple things of life are
appreciated. A coffee, a siesta, a walk in the park, a little chat with
friends… In Buenos Aires you will find busy streets at any time (but
especially at night) with people drinking wine, eating, and even
sleeping at Plaza San Martin. The nightlife is incredible. If you are
going to Buenos Aires, you’re in for a treat because it is an amazing
place!

We hope this Buenos Aires travel guide can help you plan your trip,
learn about the must-see places in the Buenos Aires, give you travel
tips, and ensure you make the most out of your trip to Buenos Aires.

Table of Contents

How to Reach the Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina, in South America, and is easy to get to.

By car

Once in South America, you can go by car to Buenos Aires. Actually, you can cross all of South America by car.

By plane

You can reach Buenos Aires from the majority of big airports in the world. You can also search for the Argentinian Airlines, “Aerolineas Argentinas”.

By bus

You can use Buquebus to get to Buenos Aires from Montevideo or Punta del Este, for example.

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

Most stores and hotels are located in Palermo, with visitors having access to transport services and the major city sites. Travelers can also opt for the south of Palermo, which is similar to Palermo in terms of options and is near the city center. San Telmo is also an option for those looking for a more traditional feel to their stay. Another option with a more local but swanky vibe is the Palermo Soho neighborhood.

Buenos Aires Travel Tips

Do Try to Tango

You have to try to dance a little bit of Tango as it’s a very popular dance in Argentina. It is possible to find some free lessons with a local in a Milonga or in some hostels. If you just want to appreciate the dance, there are many places in the city where you can pay to watch a show. If you’re lucky like us you can even get pulled on stage for a dance! Have fun!

Don’t buy water

Unlike other South and Central American countries the water is safe to drink. You can refill your bottle with Buenos Aires’ tap water, is totally drinkable. Save your money for the steaks!

Do a free walking tour

There’s no need to spend loads on a guided tour if you are trying to save some cash. You can enjoy a free walking tour like in the biggest cities of Europe. Of course, don’t forget to tip your guide. Another option is renting a bicycle and cycling around Buenos Aires which is quite fun.

Do a day trip to Delta el Tigre

With a return ticket of 8 ARS more or less, you can take a slow train of one hour each way to visit Delta el Tigre and enjoy a nice way to relax and the beautiful view of the Delta.

Eat all the meats!

Argentina is know for it’s grass-fed beef. Head to a parrilla and try a little bit of everything. My favorite place was La Brigada Parrilla which was featured on Bizarre Foods. Be sure to try some sweet bread as well (it’s not what you think it is).

Don’t leave Buenos Aires without trying dulce de leche

The amazing flavor of the milky caramel sweet… You can find this incredible treat in different types of desserts but don’t leave until try it, you won’t regret it!

Typical Costs in Buenos Aires

Price Range for Hotels

Prices of dormitory rooms at hostels range from 75 ARS and you can find hostels for under 100 to around 200 ARS for the most popular ones (always in shared bedrooms). If you want some privacy, you will find private rooms at around 500 ARS.

Hotels are around 180 to 200 ARS. For a good location, you can search an accommodation near San Telmo or Palermo. If you want to stay in a more trendy type area the Soho district is quite nice.

Cost of meal

If you are on a tight budget, it is possible to find meals at 93 ARS at lunch and 210 ARS at dinnertime. If you really want to go out to eat in the city, do it at lunchtime, as some cafes have a lunch menu that often includes steaks. Some popular places in Buenos Aires are Café Tortoni and Guerrin. My favorite Eat and Drink of course is La Brigada Parilla.

Cost for commute

Getting around is easy. You can walk, take a bus or subway to lots of places in Buenos Aires. A one-way ticket is 4,50 ARS and a 24-hour touristic bus is 260 ARS. Taxis were also affordable and safe which is how we chose to get around most of the time.

Buenos Aires Phots

FAQ

How many days do you need in Buenos Aires?

Three to four days is enough to cover the main neighborhoods, a tango show, and a long parrilla dinner. Add a day if you want to take the slow train out to the Tigre Delta. With extra time you can linger in cafés and parks, which is very much how locals spend their days.

Is Buenos Aires expensive for travelers?

Buenos Aires can be good value for visitors, though costs swing with the exchange rate and inflation. Hostels, lunch menus, public transport, and taxis are the easiest places to save, and tap water is drinkable. Because Argentine prices change quickly, check current rates for hotels and meals before booking rather than relying on older figures.

Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?

Buenos Aires is generally manageable for tourists, with the usual big-city caution about pickpocketing and phone snatching. Busy streets stay lively late at night, and this guide's writers found taxis safe and affordable. Keep valuables out of sight, stay aware in crowds, and check current advice for specific neighborhoods before you go.

Do you need a car in Buenos Aires?

No, you do not need a car in Buenos Aires. The city is easy to cover on foot, by bus, by subway, or by taxi, and driving and parking in the center are more hassle than help. Renting a bicycle is another fun option, and the Tigre Delta trip works by train.

Do people speak English in Buenos Aires?

Some people do, but Spanish is the main language, so expect less English than in many European capitals. Hotels, tour operators, and tourist-oriented restaurants usually manage basic English, while neighborhood cafés and taxis may not. Learning a few Spanish phrases, and keeping a translation app handy, makes ordering and getting around noticeably easier.

When is the best time to visit Buenos Aires?

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are generally the most comfortable times to visit Buenos Aires. Seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere, so summer is hot and humid and winter is cool. Since the city is built around outdoor cafés, parks, and late nights, mild weather suits it best.