Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Fd, Argentina Travel Guide
The local money is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Due to economic volatility, the official exchange rate can differ significantly from parallel market rates. These parallel rates (often called "Dólar Blue" or MEP/CCL rates for credit card transactions) often present a more favorable exchange for foreign currency. Many travelers find Western Union a beneficial option. You send money to yourself from abstreet and pick up pesos in cash at a Western Union branch in Buenos Aires. This often yields a much better rate than official bank exchanges.
Credit/Debit Cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. Foreign credit card transactions often process at a favorable "MEP dólar" rate, making them a great choice for purchases. Always confirm the rate applied. Cash is necessary for smaller purchases, street vendors, local markets, and some taxis. Carry smaller denominations, as change can be difficult to find for large bills. ATMs are available but may have low daily withdrawal limits and high fees for international cards. The exchange rate at ATMs is typically the less favorable official rate. Use ATMs in case of emergency or small top-ups only.
These daily cost estimates utilize a favorable exchange rate for USD to ARS. Rates can fluctuate.
Tipping is customary for good service in Buenos Aires. Restaurants expect 10% in cash. For cafes/bars, rounding up the bill or leaving a few hundred pesos for good service is common. Tour guides might receive 10-20% of the tour cost or 5,000-10,000 ARS for a half-day tour. Hotel porters/housekeeping receive 1,000-2,000 ARS per bag or per day. Taxis generally do not require a tip, but rounding up the fare is acceptable.
~ $25-$45 USD/day
Hostel dorm bed: 10,000 - 25,000 ARS (~$10-$25 USD).
Street food, public transport (SUBE card), free tours. 15,000 - 20,000 ARS.
~ $70-$150 USD/day
Mid-range hotel/boutique hostel: 30,000 - 80,000 ARS (~$30-$80 USD).
Sit-down restaurants, public transport/occasional taxis, paid museums/tours. 40,000 - 70,000 ARS.
~ $200+ USD/day
4-5 star hotels: 100,000 ARS+ (~$100+ USD).
Fine dining, private transfers, premium tango shows/tours. 100,000 ARS+.
Use Western Union: This method often presents the most favorable exchange rate for converting foreign currency to Argentine Pesos. Set up an account before your travel.
Get a SUBE card immediately upon arrival for all public transportation. It presents significantly cheaper fares than taxis. Look for "menú ejecutivo": Many restaurants present set lunch specials that give excellent value for a multi-course meal. Go on foot when you can: Buenos Aires is a walkable city.
Explore parks, public squares like Plaza de Mayo, and enjoy free walking tours (remember to tip your guide). Many public museums also have free entry or free days.
If your accommodation includes a kitchen, buying groceries at local supermarkets lowers food prices.
Buenos Aires invites foot exploration.
Use credit cards for larger purchases that process at MEP dólar rates.
Consider an Airalo eSIM for affordable data, reducing roaming fees.
Be informed about common concerns and how to access help for a smooth trip.
No particular vaccinations are needed for entry to Buenos Aires for international travelers, unless arriving from a Yellow Fever a country that poses a risk. Consult a travel health professional before your trip for routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Varicella), Hepatitis A, and Typhoid. Tap water in Buenos Aires is generally safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available. Exercise caution with street food.
Public Hospitals give free emergency care, but can get packed. Private Hospitals/Clinics present higher standards and shorter wait times. Travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended to access private facilities without significant out-of-pocket costs. Pharmacies (Farmacias) are widespread and well-stocked, offering advice for minor ailments.
Always carry a small card with these emergency numbers and your accommodation's address.
