Buenos Aires can feel overwhelming on arrival, but it runs on a logic that reveals itself quickly. Here are the practical things you need to know before landing, from airport transfers to the blue dollar exchange rate.
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Airport Transfers
Buenos Aires has two airports. Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE, commonly called Ezeiza) handles most international flights and is 32km (20 miles) southwest of the city center. Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) handles domestic flights and some regional international routes and is just 6km from downtown along the river. From Ezeiza, the official taxi service (Taxi Ezeiza) has a booth in the arrivals hall; fares to central Buenos Aires are fixed at approximately 15,000-20,000 ARS (US$15-20 at blue rate). The cheaper option is Bus 8 (Linea 8) which runs to Plaza de Mayo for about 400 ARS (US$0.40) but takes 1.5-2 hours and is not recommended with luggage or at night. Private transfer services bookable online cost US$25-35. From Aeroparque, a taxi to Palermo costs about 5,000-7,000 ARS (US$5-7). Never accept rides from drivers who approach you inside the terminal; always use the official taxi stand.
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Money and the Blue Dollar
Argentina’s currency situation requires explanation. There are multiple exchange rates, the most important being the official rate (used for credit card transactions) and the “blue dollar” (dolar blue), the parallel cash rate. As of 2026, US$1 cash exchanges for roughly double the official rate at cuevas (informal exchange houses) on Calle Florida. Bring crisp US$100 bills for the best rate. Western Union offers rates close to the blue dollar for electronic transfers. Credit cards now use the MEP rate (roughly between official and blue), so you no longer get severely penalized for using cards, but cash still yields the best value. Never exchange money on the street with “cambio cambio” shouters; use established exchange offices or Western Union. ATMs dispense pesos at the official rate with high fees (10,000 ARS per withdrawal limit) and are not recommended. A basic meal out costs 8,000-15,000 ARS (US$8-15 at blue rate). A coffee is about 2,000-3,000 ARS (US$2-3).
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Getting Around
The Subte (subway) has 6 lines (A, B, C, D, E, H) covering central neighborhoods. A single ride costs about 125 ARS with a SUBE card (purchase at lottery shops and convenience stores for about 300 ARS, then load with credit at subway stations). Buses (colectivos) cover the entire city 24/7 and also use the SUBE card. Taxis are abundant and affordable: a 20-minute ride within the city center costs 3,000-5,000 ARS (US$3-5). Uber and Cabify operate in Buenos Aires but drivers may ask you to sit in the front seat due to local taxi union tensions. For navigation, Google Maps works well for transit directions. The city is flat and very walkable between neighboring barrios: Palermo to Recoleta is a 30-minute walk, San Telmo to Puerto Madero is 15 minutes.
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Visa and Entry
Citizens of the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. No reciprocity fee is currently charged for any nationality (Argentina eliminated all reciprocity fees). Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Upon entry, you will receive a 90-day tourist stamp. Overstaying results in a fine payable at the airport on departure. For visa-required nationalities, apply at an Argentine consulate before travel.
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Safety
Buenos Aires is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft and pickpocketing are common in crowded areas and on public transit. Keep your phone in your front pocket, not your back pocket. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. La Boca should only be visited during daylight hours and stay on the Caminito tourist streets. San Telmo at night requires sticking to well-lit main streets. The neighborhoods of Palermo, Recoleta, Belgrano, and Puerto Madero are safe at all hours with normal urban precautions. Do not hail taxis on the street at night; use ride-hailing apps or have your hotel/restaurant call a radio taxi. Emergency number: 911. Tap water is safe to drink in Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires Travel Tips: Etiquette and Customs
Argentines greet with a single kiss on the right cheek, even between men in social settings (a European custom distinct from much of Latin America). Dining is late: restaurants fill at 9-10 PM, and dinner often runs past midnight. Tipping in restaurants is 10% and is left in cash even if you pay by card. Mate (yerba mate tea) is a social ritual; if offered, drink the entire cup without stirring and pass it back. Do not say gracias when receiving the mate unless you are done drinking. Argentines are direct and expressive; raised voices in conversation are normal, not anger. Dress is more formal than in much of the Americas: Portenos take pride in their appearance and shorts are uncommon outside of summer and tourist areas.
Suggested Hotels in Buenos Aires
Alvear Palace Hotel
Belle Epoque grand hotel in Recoleta with a spa, afternoon tea service, and exemplary service since 1932. Best for luxury travelers seeking old-world elegance. Check rates and availability
Mine Hotel Boutique
Stylish Palermo Soho boutique hotel with pool, garden patio, and walking distance to the city’s best restaurants. Best for couples and design-conscious travelers. Check rates and availability
Milhouse Hostel Avenue
Award-winning central hostel with dorm beds from US$12, rooftop terrace, and social atmosphere. Best for solo backpackers. Check rates and availability
For more practical tips, see our best time to visit Buenos Aires guide and our things to do in Buenos Aires guide.
