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Plan Your Trip to Buenos Aires: Best of Buenos Aires Tourism

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Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires has a red-hot energy you can’t ignore. The city will wine and dine you with Malbec and unbelievably good steak, and keep you up ‘til dawn at clubs and dance halls. But there’s a low-key side that’s worth getting to know, too. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the barrios in the morning to see the neoclassical architecture at your own speed. Sure, Palermo’s got trendy restaurants and boutiques, but there’s something to be said for grabbing a choripán and having an easy picnic in Bosques de Palermo. Head to San Telmo for Feria de San Telmo—a huge street fair every Sunday—and to tango (see a show or catch it outdoors at Plaza Dorrego). For something more laid-back, check out an art museum or gallery, then hit a food stall at Mercado de San Telmo. Go fast or take it slow—the choice is yours. We’ve got more ideas below.

Travel Advice

How to spend 3 days in Buenos Aires

Steak, tango, Malbec, and so much more
Read on

Where to find the best tango in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the birthplace of tango—in the 1800s, this sensual dance united working class immigrants, indigenous Argentines, and freed slaves. Today it still offers a window into the passionate culture of the country. When I moved to Argentina at age six, an experienced tanguero (dancer) borrowed my beloved stuffed dog to dance tango with him on the colorful streets of Caminito La Boca; I’ve been captivated ever since.
  • Rojo Tango
    903
    Hands down the most exclusive tango show in the city, Rojo Tango is housed within the opulent Faena Hotel in an intimate speakeasy-like room lit in sensual red. Opt for the decadent pre-show dinner where quality Argentine wines flow freely. I feel I never fully understood tango as pure art until experiencing this immersive and creative show where both dancers and live musicians perform within mere feet of you.
  • Cafe de los Angelitos
    1,046
    For a classic tango experience, check out this gorgeous space that holds more than a century of dance history. An elegant tango show comes to life here with 21 tangueros accompanied by a live orchestra, and it caters to tourists, so it’s a great spot to get introduced to the culture (they even offer hotel transfers). During the day you can grab a coffee at the onsite cafe decorated with hundreds of photos recounting the history of tango.
  • Tango Queer
    0 reviews
    Buenos Aires is proudly one of the most queer-friendly travel destinations in the world. As a bisexual woman, I respect that Tango Queer challenges the existing heteronormative roles often present in “traditional” tango (ironically, as tango originated as a ballet-like dance between two men). Tango Queer is a warm, friendly space welcoming dancers of any gender to participate in either leading or being led. There are tango classes followed by milonga, where everyone of all abilities is invited to dance.
  • El Viejo Almacen
    1,093
    Revered as one of the most classic tango houses in the world, historic El Viejo Almacén has been the home of tango since 1968, when famous local tango singer Edmundo Rivero acquired the century-old building. It’s still one of the top spots to watch tango and perfect for a romantic evening out on the town. Dinner is served starting at 8 p.m., and a 100 minute show begins at 10pm.
  • Caminito
    7,550
    Not all tango requires a backdrop of red curtains and fancy stages. While it can certainly add dramatic flair, the culture of tango can be found right on the streets of La Boca, an eclectic and colorful neighborhood. When I have visitors, I always take them on a walking tour to see the skilled street performers here and have lunch at one of the many outdoor restaurants that offer casual tango shows such as Encuentro Nativo.
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Buenos Aires Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Buenos Aires

Lucía V

On buses: Without the SUBE, you will need coins to pay for the tickets (which you have to insert into a machine usually located behind the driver).

Natalia

Don't leave Buenos Aires without experiencing an Asado: the Argentinian national dish is a wide range of meats and sausages, traditionally grilled over an open fire. Mate is a bitter tea, and local custom is to drink it from small gourds and share it as a symbol of hospitality. If someone offers you some, take him up on it!

Stanner57

Plan your itinerary to include museums, restaurants, a side trip, and a tango show. Best museums include MALBA, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Issac Fernandez Blanco, and MAMBA. The Naval Museum is great also.

Stanner57

You need to spend at least a week here. This is a very civilized city, with interesting architecture, great museums, restaurants (particularly steaks and Italian food), tango shows, and several interesting day trip options.

Natalia

There's a reason famed tango singer Carlos Gardel used to call this city "My beloved Buenos Aires." Like the romantic and emotional dance that originated here, the streets of Buenos Aires tell stories of immigrants, love, struggle, passion, sorrow, and magic. It's all this, along with magnificent architecture, delicious food, and lovely people, that makes local residents (porteños) and tourists alike fall madly in love with Buenos Aires.

Neneb

Buenos Aires is vibrant, funky, exciting, chock full of history and abounding with fabulous food!! Short trips or long...there is much to see and do in Buenos Aires and the surrounding areas. It will challenge your senses and emotions.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Though Buenos Aires is served by three airports, all international flights arrive into Ministro Pistarini International Airport, located 20 miles (32 kilometers) from the city in the town of Ezeiza.

bus

The main bus terminal into Buenos Aires is the Retiro Bus Station, which is serviced by numerous bus companies that run services to Brazil and Chile, and destinations within Argentina.

ferry

There’s a regular ferry service to Buenos Aires from Colonia and Montevideo in Uruguay. Most ferries are operated by Buquebus and Seacat.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Buenos Aires from overseas, see if you need a visa using this website.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer: June-August is when the city is at its liveliest, and more cultural events are available than any other time of year. The weather is not a problem. It never reaches freezing, and it has snowed only once (very briefly) since 1918. The evenings are cool and crisp, the days are perfect for walking the city. For more information on Buenos Aires’ weather and when to go, check out some tips here.

Get around

metro

Buenos Aires’ underground metro, known as the subte, has six lines (A, B, D, C, E, and H) that connect the city’s main attractions and major train stations. To travel by both bus and underground metro, you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable SUBE card, which is available at metro stations and kiosks. To plan your journey, use this website.

bus

Known locally as colectivos, Buenos Aires buses are a cheap way to explore. Buses typically run 24 hours a day and cover the entire city. The Metrobus is a rapid transit system that uses dedicated lanes to avoid traffic.

taxis and rideshare

The most popular rideshare apps in Buenos Aires are Uber, Cabify, and Easy Taxi. You can also hail taxis from the street pretty easily; ensure you get a car with a meter and a license sticker in the window.

On the ground

What is the time zone?

Argentina Standard Time (GMT-3)

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Buenos Aires is 220V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. There are two associated plug types; type C, which has two round pins, and type I, which has three flat pins in a triangular pattern.

What is the local currency?

Argentine peso (ARS)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes.

Is it easy to find a bank?

Yes.

How much do I tip?

In Buenos Aires, a 10% tip is expected in restaurants.

Are there local customs I should know?

Lining up at bus stops

Be aware that lines usually form at bus stops and be sure to respect the order of the line when getting on the bus.

Mealtimes

In Buenos Aires, lunch and dinner times are much later than in other countries. Lunch is normally eaten around 2pm while dinner tends to get served closer to 11pm. Clubs usually open around 3am and tend to stay open until mid-morning.

Drinking

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Buenos Aires travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Popular Attractions

According to forum posts, Recoleta Cemetery is considered a must-see due to its historical significance and architectural beauty. Travelers have called out the Museo de Arte Decorativo for its uniqueness compared to standard fine art museums. The San Telmo fair and its evening milonga where locals dance tango are also highly recommended.

Culture and History

Some travelers suggested guided tours to gain deeper insights into the city's rich history and culture. For instance, the free walking tours and the Aristocratic Buenos Aires tour provide a broad overview of notable sites and their cultural significance, such as the historical details of notable figures buried at Recoleta Cemetery.

Outdoor and Leisure Activities

For those interested in experiencing local life and leisure, the Jardin Botanico and Palermo Soho are great areas to explore. These spots are ideal for leisurely walks and offer a chance to soak in the local atmosphere and architecture.

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Currency Exchange Options

In Buenos Aires, travelers can exchange currency at various locations. According to forum posts, Banco Nación at EZE airport is a reliable place, though it only offers the official rate and potentially long queues. For better rates, many travelers recommend the informal blue market for exchanging US dollars, particularly in areas like Florida Street where numerous cambio shouters offer services.

Blue Market Advice

Several users suggested using unofficial exchange places known locally as cuevas or dealing with individuals on Florida Street for a higher rate than the official exchange bureaus. This blue market tends to provide rates significantly above the official exchange rate, though they vary daily and are less regulated.

Additional Tips

For those carrying euros, it was noted that while euros are accepted, the exchange process might be easier with USD. Lastly, exchanging money at official locations like banks or using credit cards for transactions was mentioned as alternatives, albeit at less favorable rates.

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Transportation from Ezeiza Airport

According to forum posts, travelers have multiple transportation options from Ezeiza Airport (EZE) to Buenos Aires city center. Taxi Ezeiza and Tienda Leon are popular choices, offering pre-paid booth services inside the airport. Taxi Ezeiza fares are around 1420 Pesos for cash payments, and slightly higher for credit card payments. Tienda Leon also provides bus services, which are recommended by some travelers for their reliability and convenience.

Rideshare and Bus Options

Some users mentioned that Uber and Cabify are available at Ezeiza, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. The #8 bus (collectivo) is cited as the cheapest option, costing approximately USD $0.25, but requires a SUBE card for payment. This bus is a local service and might take longer due to multiple stops.

Additional Services

For those seeking a direct route, there is also a mention of a shared minibus service, Aerobus, which operates between EZE and specific points in the city. The service costs about US$8.00 and runs every 30 minutes during weekdays.

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Hotel Recommendations

For many users, Recoleta and Palermo are frequently recommended neighborhoods for lodging due to their safety, amenities, and proximity to tourist attractions. Travelers have called out specific hotels like Loi Suites Recoleta, Intersur Recoleta, Etoile, Melia, and Dazzler in Recoleta for their quality services. In Palermo, The 5th Floor and Miravida Soho Hotel are noted for their excellent hospitality and location.

Hotel Features

According to forum posts, upscale options like the Park Hyatt in Recoleta offer luxurious amenities but come at a higher price point. For a more budget-friendly option, the Wilton Hotel on Ave. Callao in Recoleta provides a clean environment and helpful staff at a more moderate price.

Luxury Options

Some travelers said that for a luxurious stay, hotels like the Alvear Palace and Palacio Duhau are highly recommended. These hotels are known for their grandeur and are located in affluent areas close to many cultural sights.

Booking Tips

Travelers have called out the importance of choosing hotels that allow payment in Argentine Pesos to take advantage of favorable exchange rates. It's suggested to use official websites to ensure the best rates and conditions.

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Taxi Services

According to forum posts, Taxi Ezeiza is a recommended option for transportation from EZE to Recoleta, offering fixed-rate fares and the ability to pay in USD or by credit card, though there might be a surcharge for card payments. Travelers have noted that the taxi service includes efficient English-speaking staff at the counter, though drivers may not speak English.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Some travelers mentioned using Uber as a viable option from EZE to Recoleta. It allows payment by credit card and is considered cheaper than traditional taxis. However, there are reports of occasional difficulties with card payments and ride acceptance.

Shuttle Services

For those preferring a shuttle service, Manuel Tienda León has been suggested by some users. It provides transport from EZE with the option of a fixed rate, bringing some predictability to travel expenses.

General Convenience

Travelers have called out the convenience of having multiple transportation options directly accessible at the airport, ensuring that reaching Recoleta from EZE can be managed with relative ease and according to personal preference regarding cost and convenience.

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Tango Show Venues

According to forum posts, travelers recommended several venues for tango shows in Buenos Aires. La Ventana is favored for its dinner and show combination, while Teatro Astro Piazzolla and Tango Porteño near the Buenos Aires Marriott are noted for their proximity and quality performances. Café Tortoni offers earlier shows at 8 pm, suitable for those who prefer not to stay out late.

Outdoor and Street Tango

Some travelers have pointed out that free tango shows can be enjoyed on Florida Street, with tips appreciated if you enjoy the performance. Additionally, Dorrego Square in San Telmo hosts an outdoor milonga, which begins with a dance lesson followed by open dancing, typically on Sunday evenings.

Alternative Tango Experiences

For those seeking a more intimate setting, forum users have mentioned smaller venues like Torquato Tasso in San Telmo, known for live orchestras and tango singers. Although a specific venue called We Are Tango, ideal for its small setting, has closed, travelers continue to seek similar intimate experiences.

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Usage and Sharing

According to forum posts, the SUBE card in Buenos Aires can be shared among multiple users. For buses and the subway, you only need to tap the card once upon entering. However, for trains, a tap in and tap out is necessary to calculate the fare based on distance traveled.

Purchase and Availability

Some travelers have mentioned difficulties in purchasing SUBE cards due to shortages. While they can sometimes be found at subway stations like Retiro or small shops in neighborhoods such as San Telmo, availability is inconsistent. Travelers have suggested asking landlords or using kiosks at the airport for obtaining a card.

Cost and Registration

Travelers have called out that the SUBE card is economical, with trips costing a small amount. There is an option to register the card which might offer savings for frequent users, but registering requires a National Document Identity Number, which may not be feasible for tourists.

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Luggage Storage

According to forum posts, there is a luggage storage service near AEP Airport, accessible via a link provided on the airport's website. Travelers can contact the service through WhatsApp, and it is located about 15 minutes from the airport.

COVID Testing

Travelers have mentioned that AEP Airport houses a COVID-19 testing facility operated by STAMBOULIAN Servicios de Salud. The facility offers RT-PCR and antigen tests, operates 24/7, accepts various payment methods, and is located in a tent outside Terminal A along Rafael Obligado Avenue.

Transportation

Some users have discussed transportation options at AEP Airport, noting the availability of taxis with fixed fares set by ticket machines at the airport. Additionally, there are remise services with fixed fares that can be pre-booked or accessed at counters in the arrivals area.

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