Plan 3–4 days for the city, plus a day trip across the river to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. Most visitors from the US, Canada, the UK and the EU don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Top things to do in Buenos Aires
- Recoleta Cemetery, with Evita’s family tomb.
- Plaza de Mayo and the pink Casa Rosada.
- San Telmo and its Sunday street market.
- La Boca‘s colourful Caminito street (daytime only).
- A tango show or a local milonga. See tango shows in Buenos Aires.
- Teatro Colón, one of the world’s great opera houses.
- El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a bookshop in a former theatre.
- A parrilla dinner with Malbec.
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Where to stay in Buenos Aires
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Palermo (Soho, Hollywood) | Restaurants, bars, parks, first visit |
| Recoleta | Elegant, safe, museums |
| San Telmo | Tango, history, budget |
| Puerto Madero | Modern luxury, waterfront |
| Centro / Microcentro | Sights, but quiet at night |
More in where to stay in Buenos Aires.
Getting around
The Subte (metro) and buses (colectivos) are cheap; pay with a rechargeable SUBE card or, on many lines, a contactless bank card. Uber, Cabify and DiDi work well. Neighbourhoods like Palermo and Recoleta are pleasant to walk, and the city has free EcoBici bike-share.
Airport to the city
International flights land at Ezeiza (EZE), about 35 km from the centre: 45–90 minutes by car. Options include official taxis, remises, Uber, the Tienda León shuttle and the cheap bus 8. Some regional flights use Aeroparque (AEP), just 15 minutes from Palermo. See Ezeiza Airport to Buenos Aires.
Money in Argentina
Argentina’s currency situation has changed a lot. Foreign Visa and Mastercard cards are now charged close to the market (MEP) rate, so paying by card is usually fine. Cash in crisp US$100 notes can still get a slightly better rate and 10–15% cash discounts. ATMs have high fees and low limits. Full guide: money in Argentina for tourists.
Day trips
- Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay: a cobbled colonial town just over an hour by ferry. See Colonia day trip.
- Tigre Delta: islands, canals and boat rides, about an hour by train.
- An estancia in the pampas, with gaucho shows and an asado lunch.
Best time to visit
Spring (September–November, with purple jacaranda blooms in late October and November) and autumn (March–May) are mild and pleasant. Summer (December–February) is hot and humid, and winter (June–August) is cool but fine for city sightseeing. Details: best time to visit Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires guides
- 20 best things to do in Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Buenos Aires
- Best time to visit Buenos Aires
- Ezeiza Airport to Buenos Aires
- Money in Argentina for tourists
- Tango shows and milongas
- Colonia del Sacramento day trip
More of South America: our Rio de Janeiro and Cusco travel guides.
FAQ: Buenos Aires travel
How many days do you need in Buenos Aires?
Three to four days, plus a day for Colonia or Tigre.
Is Buenos Aires safe?
Mostly, with big-city precautions. Watch for pickpockets and phone snatchers, especially in Microcentro, San Telmo and La Boca, and avoid La Boca outside the main tourist street.
What time do people eat dinner in Buenos Aires?
Late: restaurants fill up from about 9:30pm.
Is Buenos Aires expensive?
Prices rose sharply in recent years, so it’s no longer a bargain destination, but steak, wine and transport remain good value.
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