Welcome – Buenos Aires Tourism Guide(ENGLISH)

Why travel and get to know Buenos Aires?

The list of reasons to visit Buenos Aires is extensive. You’ll explore it, it will move you, and you’ll take away great memories of it. We present you with good reasons to experience one of the most attractive cities in Latin America.

1. Because you can dance tango in its place of origin Born in the Río de la Plata in the 19th century, tango is a fusion of African culture, local cultures of the gauchos and indigenous peoples, and the contribution of European and Middle Eastern immigrants. In the city, you’ll find numerous tango venues with live orchestras and dancers. The best part? The most renowned places include a dinner featuring Argentine meats or an international menu.
2. Because you’ll understand how far the passion for soccer can go in Buenos Aires. Football is in the air at all times: you can feel it in the stadiums, hear it in the neighborhood bars, and see it in the goal celebrations among teammates in a local league. Additionally, Buenos Aires is the home of the ‘most intense sports experience in the world’: the SuperClásico, the match between Boca and River, the two most important teams in the country, where you’ll experience the deepest levels of this passion.
3. Because you’ll celebrate and laugh until (very) late. The nightlife is a key element in the ‘city that never sleeps.’ In its bars, pubs, breweries, and nightclubs, both young and older adults find options throughout the week to enjoy until the sun rises again. Only here can you have dinner at a restaurant after midnight or start the night out at three in the morning. Are you going to miss its eternal nightlife?
4. Because we say hello, hello, bonjour, ciao, and olá. Buenos Aires is a reflection of those who came from afar to inhabit ‘the new world.’ In the visual identity of Buenos Aires, foreign influences intertwine to form an uneven and captivating whole. We have Spanish, Italian, French, English, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Brazilian, and Peruvian nuances, among many others. You’ll discover it in its architecture, its food, and the way its inhabitants speak and behave. If you want to connect with the vibrant community of expatriates in the city, you can do it here and here.
5. Because you’ll buy high-quality designer clothing. Local brands and independent designers make Buenos Aires the ideal destination for those seeking new aesthetics and exclusive garments. The star of the market? Tanneries with authentic handmade leather products. Don’t miss the antique and craft fairs either, filled with curiosities and hidden stories.
6. Because you’ll taste flavors from around the world in one city. Porteño cuisine is based on the essence of immigrants who populated Buenos Aires in the 19th century, enriching the local menu with recipes from Spain, Italy, Germany, and the incredible Andean cuisine of neighboring countries. Its gastronomic quality is recognized in the ‘Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2020’ list, with 10 awarded restaurants in Buenos Aires, including the selection of Don Julio as the best in Latin America. Don’t leave without trying a good barbecue, Buenos Aires-style pizza, empanadas, dulce de leche ice cream, alfajores, some delicious churros, and, of course, traditional mate. In addition, Buenos Aires is also known for its cocktails. Two Buenos Aires bars were chosen among the world’s 50 best bars according to The World’s 50 Best Bars ranking (one of them being the best in South America). Here are 5 cocktails you can only find in Buenos Aires.
7. Because you’ll enjoy its cultural side. There are many reasons to say that Buenos Aires is a city steeped in culture. This is evident in its bookstores, theaters, and museums. The Colón Theater, one of the top four opera houses in the world, contributes to this reputation, as does the porteño fileteado, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and Corrientes Avenue, witness to the golden age of tango. Whether it’s a wall (visit ‘El regreso de Quinquela,’ with 2000 square meters) or a napkin, we believe that any excuse can serve as a canvas to express a burst of inspiration.
8. Because you’ll be surrounded by greenery and fresh air. We are a nature-friendly urban destination, ideal for walking or cycling. Pedestrian streets and an extensive network of bike lanes make it possible to explore the city sustainably. We have more than 100 public green spaces, including the 350-hectare Ecological Reserve, a meeting point for thousands of runners, tourists, young people, and environmental enthusiasts. In our local lingo, staying indoors is a waste; it’s better to get out and breathe fresh air while capturing as many images as your camera or smartphone memory can handle.
9. Because you’ll come back with a ton of friends. The essence of Buenos Aires lies in its people. No matter how long your stay is, you’ll quickly learn that the taste of mate (a traditional Argentine drink) is not bad at all, but it’s truly a symbol of affection and camaraderie. You’ll realize that we love to have long conversations after meals, and we even have a word for it, ‘sobremesa.’ And above all, you’ll understand that despite being accused of giving too many kisses and hugs, there’s no more genuine quality in people than showing affection.

---

That’s who we are, get to know us!

Come to Buenos Aires and discover why we call it ‘the city of all passions.’ Our blood is of immigrants. We are passionate,’familieros’ (family-oriented) We also give strong hugs. We always greet with a kiss. Our tables are filled with friends, uncles, cousins, children, and siblings. In our tradition we have ‘sobremesa’ (post-meal conversation).

We could argue passionately, get emotional with enviable ease. We are made of contrasts, popular culture and sophistication, the traditional and the modern, age-old religions and modern idols. Our city is full of life and intensity, enriched with stories that are shared and intertwined. Here, we meet on the street, we sit for hours at café tables.

We look each other in the eyes. Here, the night is a new day. The city lights up with its hundreds of theaters, thousands of restaurants, and bars. The night wakes you up. Here, we don’t speak Spanish; we speak ‘porteño,’ something you won’t find anywhere else. Absolutely, soccer match is a spectacle you should see at least once in your life. Here, taxi drivers are poets and philosophers.

Here, we will show you tango and dulce de leche, and we want to discover you, we want to get to know you. Because here, we don’t receive tourists; we make friends. And you may find us a bit noisy, but above all, authentic. Here, in Buenos Aires, you can be sure of one thing: you will feel like a part of the city. And when you leave, you will take something of ours with you and leave your mark.

---

¿How to get to Buenos Aires?

Choose the most suitable mode of transportation based on the distance from your point of origin and your budget. BY PLANE If you are traveling by plane to Buenos Aires, you will land at either Ezeiza or Aeroparque airports depending on where you are coming from.

• Ministro Pistarini International Airport – Ezeiza It is the country’s most important airport where most international flights and some domestic flights from other destinations in Argentina arrive. The airport is located in the town of Ezeiza, 32 km from the city, about 50 minutes from the city center.
• Jorge Newbery Airport The uniqueness of this airport is that it is located within the city and is approximately 25 minutes away from the main hotels. Passengers arriving from an Argentine province or a neighboring country will land at this airport, as it primarily operates domestic flights and some regional flights.

¿How to get from the airports to the city?

In both airports, visitors have a variety of transportation options:

• Shuttles and private transfers: You can book them in advance or upon arrival.
• The company Tienda León offers services from both airports to the Puerto Madero terminal in the city center.
• Taxis: There are different taxi stands available within the airports.
• Remises: These are private cars with private drivers. Several remis companies offer their services to visitors from the airport.
• Public transportation: All airports are connected to the city center by bus lines, and in the case of El Palomar, there is also a train line that connects it to the city. They are not specifically designed for transporting luggage, and they can be crowded during rush hours. To use public transportation, you will need a SUBE card. We also recommend downloading the «BA Cómo Llego» (BA How to Get There) app to find the best way to reach your destination in the city.

BY BOAT

From Uruguay, you can cross to Buenos Aires by boat in a short time. If you’re traveling from farther away, a cruise will be the best option.

• Ferries The terminals of ferry companies are located in the tourist districts of Puerto Madero and La Boca. The companies you can choose from are:
• Buquebus
• Seacat
• Colonia Express
• Cruises Numerous cruise lines operate from the port of Buenos Aires, making it one of the most important turnaround ports in the region. Passengers arriving on cruises disembark at the «Quinquela Martín» passenger terminal in the Retiro neighborhood, considered the best of its kind in all of South America. The terminal is located a short distance from the city center and the main tourist attractions. Taxis, remises (private car services), and tourist buses are available from the terminal.

BY BUS

Arriving by bus is another option for visitors coming from provinces within Argentina or neighboring countries. Long-distance bus services offer comfortable seats and catering. The bus terminal is located in the Retiro neighborhood and provides easy access to the city’s public transportation network. If you have any questions, our informants at the Tourist Assistance Center in Retiro will assist you. Take advantage of it!

---

Visa, Embassies, and Consulates

Visitors from the vast majority of countries around the world do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days (citizens of Mercosur countries also do not need a passport, only their identity document is required). Check your specific situation with the National Directorate of Migration.

---

Embassies and consulates

It is advisable to check your immigration requirements with the Argentine embassy or consulate in your country of origin. You can also consult foreign embassies and consulates in Argentina.

---

¿Are you traveling with your pet?

Anyone who wants to travel with their pet to the City of Buenos Aires from abroad must vaccinate it against rabies (dogs and cats) between 30 days and 12 months before entering Argentina. Within the 10 days prior to the trip, a veterinarian accredited by the public agency responsible for animal health in their country of residence must complete the Veterinary Certificate of Argentina and include a copy of the rabies certificate. These certificates must be presented at the Argentine Consulate for legalization only if the animal is being imported for commercial purposes (personal pets do not require consular approval). Other pets (birds, invertebrates, tropical fish, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals like rodents and rabbits) do not require a rabies certificate but must meet other requirements and must be accompanied by a health certificate.

---

Climate

With an average annual temperature of 18ºC (64°F), there are few days of intense heat or cold, making it possible to visit the city at any time of the year.

The coldest month is July. Although there are no frosts, it’s advisable to go out with a wool coat, a jacket or overcoat, and a scarf. In winter, the cold is moderate during the day, but temperatures drop considerably at night.

In summer, the heat is humid. Mornings are warm, while temperatures rise significantly around noon and in the early afternoon. At night, the heat decreases slightly, so lightweight and cool clothing is recommended, and there’s no need for coats.

The rainiest seasons are autumn and spring (from March to June and from September to December). These are generally drizzles or brief rains that don’t hinder the development of various activities and allow walking on the street with an umbrella or raincoat.

On sunny days in autumn and spring, mornings are cool, temperatures pleasantly rise around noon, and they decrease at night.

¿CASH OR CARD?

The trend in Argentina is to pay in cash at stores and restaurants, and even some Ubers do not accept card payments, which may be surprising for tourists from other countries. In Buenos Aires, it is possible to pay with a card at most establishments, although the current exchange rate will be applied.

Dónde cambiar dinero

The best option for getting Argentine pesos is to exchange euros or dollars at the exchange offices in Buenos Aires. There are numerous official exchange offices in the capital, and you can also get pesos at banks.

At the exchange offices at the airport, they offer a less favorable exchange rate, so our recommendation is to exchange money in the city or only exchange what you need.

In the streets of downtown Buenos Aires, you will see people offering «blue dollar,» a parallel exchange rate for US dollars to pesos, which can be quite advantageous.

Holidays

Before planning a trip to Buenos Aires, it’s advisable to be aware of the local holidays. This way, you can find out in advance if any special celebrations are taking place or if museums and points of interest will be closed.

• New Year’s Day: January 1st.
• Carnival Monday and Tuesday: Variable dates.
• National Day of Memory for Truth and Justice: March 24th. Commemorates the 30,000 victims who died during the bloody coup d’état of 1976.
• Good Friday: Variable date.
• Veterans and Fallen in the Malvinas War Day: April 2nd. Commemorates the soldiers who fought to keep the Falkland Islands under Argentine control.
• Labor Day: May 1st.
• May Revolution Day: May 25th. Commemorates the revolution that took place in Buenos Aires on May 25th, 1810, marking the beginning of the Argentine state.
• Passing of General Manuel Belgrano: June 20th. Commemorates the death of one of the main figures behind Argentina’s independence and the creator of the national flag.
• Independence Day: July 9th. Celebrates Argentina’s independence on July 9th, 1816.
• Passing of General José de San Martín: August 17th. Commemorates the death of General José de San Martín, whose campaigns were crucial for the independence of Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
• National Sovereignty Day: November 20th. Commemorates the defense at the Battle of Vuelta de Obligado, where the Argentine forces successfully repelled an Anglo-French naval attack.
• Immaculate Conception Day: December 8th.
• Christmas: December 25th.

Tax Free Refund for Accommodation

CASH PAYMENT AT THE BLUE EXCHANGE RATE REMINDER In Buenos Aires, international visitors are guaranteed a refund of the IVA (21% tax) for accommodation services. The refund applies to visitors who pay with an international credit card or through a bank transfer from a foreign bank. The procedure applies to those who can validate their status as foreign citizens with their passport.

---

CoWorking Spaces

Fortunately, coworking spaces abound in Buenos Aires, and today we have a large number of alternative workspaces to suit all tastes. If you search well, you can find several coworking spaces that fit your needs:

From luxurious rental offices to truly innovative communal workspaces. Nowadays, the Palermo neighborhood in the city takes the majority of coworking spaces, but other nearby neighborhoods like Belgrano and Recoleta are quickly catching up.

Here’s a list of the main coworking spaces available in each neighborhood of the city compiled by Trabajarfreelance (you can check the map with the location of each one on the website). You can also find more places on the elplanc.net website.

sitio elplanc.net.
shorturl.at/gmEGR
shorturl.at/bjK16

---

Transport in Buenos Aires

Acquire your SUBE card.

Buenos Aires is a very large city, and even if you are staying in the city center, sooner or later you will need to use public transportation. Since the metro or subway network is limited, buses, as well as apps like Uber or Cabify, become important options.

To get around the city using any mode of transportation, all you need is a SUBE card. It’s a modern, efficient, and eco-friendly electronic ticket system. How do you get it? If you live in or are visiting Buenos Aires, you can buy a SUBE card online or at one of the SUBE card issuance centers. Then, you need to register it with your information online and load it with money through online banking, ATMs, authorized loading points (such as subway stations), or SUBE automatic terminals.

Additionally, if you’re a visitor in the city, you can obtain your SUBE card at any of the Tourist Assistance Centers in the City. If you want to get one, you’ll need to present an identification document or passport, an email address, and a phone number to register the card.

---

Before embarking on your journey in the vibrant City of Buenos Aires, always refer to our interactive map for precise navigation. Locate addresses, plan your route, and select your preferred mode of transportation while specifying the distance you’re willing to walk.

Subway: Your Fastest Route to Exploration

Discover the efficiency of Buenos Aires’ subway system, renowned as the quickest and most reliable mode of transport within the city. With six interconnected lines seamlessly linking major avenues, train stations, and bus terminals, the subway provides unparalleled access to key attractions, hotels, and tourist hotspots in downtown Buenos Aires.

The subway operates with convenient hours to accommodate commuters throughout the week. From Monday to Friday, services run from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm, with extended hours on Saturdays from 6 am to 12 am. On Sundays and holidays, services are available from 8 am to 10:30 pm, ensuring reliable transportation options for all travelers.

Stay updated with the latest subway schedules and premetro line timings to streamline your travel experience and make the most of your time exploring Buenos Aires’ vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. Efficient navigation awaits with Buenos Aires’ subway system at your fingertips.

---

Bus in Buenos Aires: Available 24hs

The bus (urban bus or omnibus) is a fast and economical option (the ticket price depends on the distance traveled) for getting around the City of Buenos Aires. It is the most used means of transport by its inhabitants, as there is always a bus stop nearby in every neighborhood. There are more than 180 lines that travel through different parts of the City and connect it with the neighboring localities of Greater Buenos Aires. The service operates regularly 24 hours a day, although after 11 PM, the frequency is reduced. Depending on the line you want to take (and the time of day), the frequencies can vary between 2 minutes and 40 minutes.

Train: the most convenient way to enter and leave the city. The suburban railway network is a good alternative for traveling to the neighborhoods far from the city center or for visiting tourist areas outside the radius of the City of Buenos Aires (such as Tigre and the Delta). The service is economical and tickets can be purchased at the various stations, with bills, coins, or the SUBE card. Depending on the area you want to travel to, there are different head stations located in different neighborhoods of the city.»

Discover Buenos Aires Bike Program: Your Eco-Friendly Transportation Solution.

In a bid to promote eco-friendly commuting, the City Government of Buenos Aires has rolled out its innovative bike program, seamlessly integrated into public transportation. As part of the renowned “EcoBici” initiative (download the EcoBici App), you can now navigate the city’s extensive network of bike paths with ease and convenience.

User-Friendly System

The “EcoBici” program offers a hassle-free experience, ensuring effortless bike usage for commuters. Simply register, learn about the program’s requirements, and you’re all set to pedal your way through the city’s vibrant streets.

Usage Guidelines

On weekdays, users are required to renew bike usage every hour, while on weekends and holidays, the renewal period extends to every two hours. This system ensures smooth operations and availability for all program participants.

Taxi and Remis Services: Your Comfortable Travel Options

For those seeking comfort and convenience in their travels, Buenos Aires boasts a robust taxi and remis service network. Taxis can be hailed directly from the street or requested via phone, offering quick and efficient transportation solutions.

Abundant Taxis with Minimal Wait Times

With a large fleet of taxis circulating throughout the city, characterized by their distinctive black and yellow colors, waiting times are typically minimal, ensuring prompt service for passengers. For added safety, consider opting for radiotaxis equipped with advanced radio systems.

Understanding Taxi Fare Structure

Taxi fares in Buenos Aires comprise an initial price, commonly referred to as the “flag drop,” along with additional charges based on distance and time. While taxis provide convenient door-to-door services, they are among the pricier transportation options within the city.

Alternative Transportation: Remis Services

Alternatively, travelers can opt for remises, chauffeured car services available via phone reservation from reputable agencies. Although resembling taxis in some aspects, remises offer a more personalized and comfortable travel experience, albeit at a higher cost.

---

---

Tips

Before accessing the station, it is important to check the direction you want to go, as the platforms of some stations are not interconnected.

As in other major cities, many petty thieves decide to deprive tourists of their belongings on the subway. To avoid being another victim, it is necessary to be extremely cautious, not stand next to the doors, and keep all our belongings hidden and under control at all times.

---

Bus

Argentine urban buses, better known as ‘colectivos’ or ‘bondi,’ are the city’s most widely used transportation system.

The colectivos run on traffic-free routes that greatly speed up the journey and are the only way to reach certain places.

Schedule and Frequency

Buses in Buenos Aires operate 24 hours a day with frequencies ranging from every 2 minutes to every 40 minutes, depending on the line and time of day.»

Tourist Bus: The Best Way to Explore the City

LThe Buenos Aires Bus company offers a tourist bus service that provides an ideal tour to get to know the most important neighborhoods and places in the city. A panoramic view that will also give you an overview of where everything is in just one day, and that you will want to explore more deeply on other days.

Route of the Buenos Aires Tourist Bus

The Buenos Aires Bus tourist bus makes 24 stops, allowing passengers to get on and off at each of them, and has a frequency of every 20 minutes.

The stops made by the bus are as follows:

• Florida

etc

Schedule

The schedules of the Buenos Aires sightseeing bus vary depending on the time of year. During the summer months, the first bus departs at 8:40 AM and the last at 10:15 PM. In winter, the routes start at 9:00 AM and end at 8:40 PM.

Mobile Applications

---

Telephony and Internet

Prepaid phone cards For those who wish to rent a cell phone or mobile phone during their stay in the City, they can opt for a service of prepaid phone cards, which can be purchased at kiosks and phone booths.

IMPORTANT: remember that if you requested our welcome kit for digital nomads through our website, you will automatically receive a pre-activated SIM card that you can pick up at Ezeiza Airport when you arrive in the city. If you don’t know how to request it, it’s very easy. Go in and find out.

---

Tax Refund on Purchases (Tax Free Shopping)

Foreign tourists can request a VAT (Value-Added Tax) refund on purchases of domestically produced goods amounting to $70 (seventy Argentine pesos) or more, made in the country at stores participating in the Tax Free system of ‘Global Blue Argentina’. To process this refund, you have to follow these steps:

• In the store: shop at stores displaying the Tax Free logo and ask for the refund form.
• At the Argentine Customs: when leaving the country, at any Argentine Customs office (at airports, river ports, or border posts), show your receipts along with your purchases and your passport and have the received refund forms stamped
• Tax refund collection: can be in cash, by credit card, or bank check. Find out all the offices where you can get the VAT refund by clicking here.

---

Tourism information Centers!

During your visit to Buenos Aires, stop by the Tourist Information Centers in different neighborhoods to get information and recommendations about Buenos Aires and its attractions, and to make the most of your stay.

Aeroparque Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm. Address: Sector A2 | National Arrivals. OBLIGADO RAFAEL, Av.Costanera 3451 Neighborhood: Palermo

Tourist Information Center: Florida Pedestrian Street Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. Address: Florida and Marcelo T. de Alvear Neighborhood: Retiro

Tourist Information Center: Historical Center Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. Address: Florida 50 Neighborhood: San Nicolás Starting point for guided tours: • Classics in Spanish • Classics in English • Urban Trekking

Tourist Information Center: Retiro Hours: Monday to Friday from 7 am to 2 pm. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 7 am to 4 pm Address: Bus Terminal Station – Bridge 3 Local 83 (ANTARTIDA ARGENTINA AV. 1250) Neighborhood: Retiro

Tourist Information Center: Recoleta Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. Address: Avenida Quintana 596 Neighborhood: Recoleta Starting point for guided tours: • Classics in Spanish • Classics in English

Tourist Information Center: Caminito Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm Address: Avenida Don Pedro de Mendoza alt 1900 (Costanera, opposite the Plazoleta de los Suspiros) Neighborhood: La Boca Starting point for guided tours: • Classics in Spanish • Classics in English • Urban Trekking • Bike Tour BA

Tourist Information Center: Lagos de Palermo Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. Address: Av. Sarmiento and Av. Figueroa Alcorta (Plazoleta Enrique García Velloso) Neighborhood: Palermo Starting point for guided tours: • Classics in Spanish • Classics in English • Urban Trekking

As part of the measures adopted by the Government of the City of Buenos Aires to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the operating hours and opening of the Tourist Information Centers may be altered. We suggest that you contact them in advance to verify that they are open.