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My very first stop this year as a full time digital nomad was Buenos Aires, Argentina and I’m so glad it was! I had such a great time in this city. I went in with very few plans and even fewer expectations, but I made amazing friends and we had some fantastic experiences. After spending a few weeks eating my way through countless parrillas, and dancing tango until sunrise, I’m here to share everything you need to know about visiting Argentina’s captivating capital.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or considering Buenos Aires as your next digital nomad destination, this guide covers all the essentials. I’ve put together everything from the must-see sights to where to eat, drink, and stay, plus all those insider tips I wish I’d known before arriving.
Why Visit Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires is often called the “Paris of South America,” and after visiting, I definitely get why. The city seamlessly blends European sophistication with vibrant Latin American culture. Think wide boulevards lined with jacaranda trees, stunning Belle Époque architecture, world-class museums, and some of the best steak and wine you’ll ever taste.
But what really sets BA apart is its energy. From wild soccer matches to late-night dinners that don’t start until 10 PM to intimate milongas dancing tango with strangers, this city has a fire energy that’ll keep you on your toes. The city will wine and dine you with Malbec and unbelievably good steak, and keep you up dancing til 5am (which I did several times).
Here are just a few things that make Buenos Aires special:
- Incredible food scene: Buenos Aires, and Argentina in general, is famous for its steak and malbec, but there is truly so much culinary diversity here. I also had amazing Italian and Venezuelan food in Buenos Aires!
- Rich cultural heritage & history: If you enjoy learning the history of the places you visit like me, you’ll really love the walking tours here and learning about the history of the city and the country in general.
- Digital nomad friendly: Great wifi, coworking spaces, and a thriving remote work community for those of you who travel and work.
- Vibrant night life: I’m definitely a party girl, and there is no shortage of night life in this city! There’s a scene for everybody, and clubs and bars stay open until the sun is up.
Know Before You Go
Language & Customs
Argentinians speak Spanish, though if you’ve learned Spanish elsewhere, it may be more difficult to understand the Argentine accent. The double ‘ll’ is pronounced more as a ‘sh’ sound and they use different slang.
Argentines greet with a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting for the first time, so don’t be shocked if someone reaches in for a cheeky kiss!
Dinner is served pretty late in Argentina – if you’re invited out for dinner, it will almost definitely be after 9pm. I went out to eat alone around 8pm when I first arrived and the restaurant was completely empty – it seemed like the servers were still getting ready to start the dinner shift.
That being said, nightlife also starts super late. The clubs really hit their stride around 2am, and you’ll still see a line to get in at that time. They’ll usually close at 5am or later.
Tipping is not mandatory in Argentina, but 10% is standard at restaurants and very appreciated.
Staying Connected
WiFi is available essentially everywhere in Buenos Aires, but I’d highly recommend phone data as well. If you don’t want to pay your country’s phone provider for an international page (which I definitely do not recommend), you can get a physical SIM card at a store, kiosk, or at the airport. The main providers in Argentina are Movistar and Claro. Their website gives you details on how to connect to their networks.
However, if you want something much easier, you can do what I do and get an eSim. If your phone is unlocked (in order for it to be unlocked, it must be paid off), you can easily install an eSim even before you leave your home country so that you have service as soon as you land. I used this the entire time I was traveling and you can top up when you need to. In order not to run out of data to quickly, you can always use WiFi in restaurants and cafes. Get started with Airalo – this is the company I personally use on my trips!
Money, money, money
Argentina’s currency is the Argentine peso, and its economy isn’t the most stable. Prices change often, and while most places take card, it’s always good to have cash on hand. I’d heard that using the ATMs as a foreigner was pretty annoying, so I didn’t even attempt. Your best bet is to use Western Union to send money to yourself and pick it up at a nearby location – they are all over the city. Just make sure to bring your passport with you!
When to Visit Buenos Aires
Since Buenos Aires is in Argentina and is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so seasons are opposite to what you might expect. I visited during their summer (January) and as a summer baby, I absolutely loved the warm, sunny weather, but everyone has their preferences!
Summer (December – March): Warm and humid with temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and higher. Perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the city’s many parks. This is peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (March – June): Much more mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall colors. Great for walking around and exploring neighborhoods.
Winter (June – September): Cool but mild, with temperatures around 14°C (57°F). Perfect for museum hopping and enjoying Buenos Aires’ incredible indoor cultural scene. I’m from New York, so winter in Buenos Aires feels like it would be pretty mild to me!
Spring (September – December): Pleasant weather and blooming jacaranda trees make the city absolutely gorgeous during this time of year.
Neighborhoods & Where to Stay
Buenos Aires is a very large, spread out city. It’s definitely a lot bigger than I’d expected, so making sure you stay in a convenient and safe neighborhood is important. While I stayed in Palermo Hollywood, I spent some time in some of the other neighborhoods and did some digging to get you the scoop on them. Keep in mind that BA is a large city, and these are only a few neighborhoods you can choose from, but it’s enough to get you started!
Palermo: Hip & Chic
Best for: First-time visitors, foodies, nightlife lovers, digital nomads
Palermo is a chic neighborhood of Buenos Aires divided into several other neighborhoods – the most popular of which are Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood. Both neighborhoods are super popular with digital nomads and travelers in general and boast lots of high-end boutiques, cafes, and bars. It’s a really fun place to go out to eat, grab a drink, and hang with friends. Also a great place to find a cute cafe to work from – I found that I had more luck with this in Hollywood than Soho.
Recoleta: Elegance & Luxury
Best for: Luxury travelers, museum lovers, those wanting a quieter base
Recoleta gave Upper East Side vibes for sure. This is one of the wealthiest areas of the cities with tree-lined streets, French-style architecture, and upscale shopping. It’s also home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita is buried. It’s well-connected, but quieter than Palermo, with lots of elegant cafes around to have a bite to eat.
San Telmo: History & Charm
Best for: Culture lovers, tango enthusiasts, budget travelers, those wanting authentic Buenos Aires
San Telmo is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, retaining its bohemian vibe with cobblestone streets, old churches, and historic buildings. It’s the home of the famous Sunday flea market and is close to tourist sites like Plaza de Mayo. There’s also an incredible tango scene and street performances here and is one of the most affordable neighborhoods for accommodation.
Puerto Madero: Modern Waterfront
Best for: Business travelers, those wanting modern amenities, skyline views
Puerto Madero is the safest area of the city, as the Coast Guard are stationed and patrol the area pretty seriously. Here you’ll find modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront. It’s also easy to walk to the downtown area of the city for all the main attractions!
Centro/Microcentro: Right in the action!
Best for: Short stays, sightseeing-focused trips, business travelers
Centro puts you right in the middle of Buenos Aires’ main attractions. the vast majority of Buenos Aires “must see” sights are here so it remains the ideal base for anyone visiting!
Hostels & Hotels in Buenos Aires
Hostels in Buenos Aires
Are you traveling on a budget? I got you! Here are a few of the hostels with the best reviews in Buenos Aires.
Milhouse Hostel Avenue – dorms from $21.25 and offers private rooms. Lots of activities including cookign classes, wlaking tours, and DJ sets. 24/7 reception, and the best part is that the dorms have ensuite bathrooms! (I always book an ensuite bathroom when I book a dorm!)
America del Sur Hostel Buenos Aires – dorms from $22 and offers private rooms. Located in San Telmo and within walking distance of Plaza de Mayo, 9 de Julio Avenue, Puerto Madero, and Plaza Dorrego. Also has ensuite dorms!
Viajero Buenos Aires Hostel – dorms from $21 and offers private rooms. I know people feel a way about chain hostels, but I love a Viajero! They never disappoint. The dorms have privacy curtains and the private rooms are beautiful. This one is also located in San Telmo and has a pool!
Wanna see more options? Check out more below!
Hotels in Buenos Aires
If you have more wiggle room in your budget and would like to stay at a hotel, here are some options for every budget!
Low Budget – < $100/night
Up Barrio Norte: starting at $42 per night. This hotel is no frills but does offer single rooms and looks clean with great reviews, so I’d definitely recommend if you’re on a budget and traveling solo but don’t want to stay in a hostel!
La Fresque Hotel: starting at $33 per night. This hotel has a laundry facility and is close to a lot of main attractions! Some rooms even have small living areas. Perfect for two people!
Huinid Obelisco Hotel: starting at $85 per night. Although a bit pricier, this has a few more amenities including a spa, gym, breakfast, and a bar. It’s also close to some major attractions, so it’s perfect for a short stay on a budget.
Palermo Bridge: starting at $78 per night. Perfect if you want to explore the trendier Palermo neighborhood. Check out my breakdown of some of the most popular neighborhoods in Buenos Aires for more details!
Up Laprida: starting at $47 per night. Adults only for those of you who would prefer to be in an environment sans children. The cemetery is only a 15 minute walk and this is a really beautiful neighborhood!
Mid-Budget – $100 – $300/night
1828 Smart Hotel: starting at $238/night. Located in Palermo Soho, this hotel includes a bar, pool, restaurant, and breakfast! It’s even pet-friendly in case you’re traveling with a furry friend.
L’Adresse Hotel Boutique: starting at $106/night. This San Telmo hotel is a little bit more low key, but still includes breakfast and has a bar to relax at after a long day of sight seeing!
Loi Suites Recoleta Hotel: starting at $211/night. With a great location in Recoleta, this hotel boasts a pool, restaurant, spa, breakfast, and even has parking available in case you decide to rent a car.
Duque Hotel Boutique & Spa: starting at $195/night. This boutique hotel includes a pool and hot tub, spa, breakfast, and restaurant and is located in the trendy Palermo neighborhood.
Hotel Madero Buenos Aires: starting at $263/night. Boasting a full-service spa and health club, this Puerto Madero hotel is a great place to unwind after a long day. This is a great place to stay if you’re in town on business!
Looking for something else? Check out more hotels that suite your needs below!
Things to do in Buenos Aires
As the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires has no shortage of culture, history, food, and nightlife to keep you entertained. It’s a large city, but thankfully well connected via public transportation and readily available rideshare apps like Uber. Here are a few fun things you can do in the city!
Tours & Experiences
Walking tours: There are several walking tours you can do all over the city. While you can visit these places on your own, learning the history of the places you visit from a local just hits different. I loved this tour that I did of Recoleta cemetery (I know it sounds weird, but I swear it’s so interesting) and this tour of La Boca! I also loved using GuruWalk for free walking tours in any city – check them out!
Soccer game: While a little more tough to book on your own, you can’t miss going to a soccer game in Buenos Aires. I booked a game via Airbnb – keep in mind that they are on the pricier end (I booked mine for around $100), but the games are generally on the pricier side anyway. I missed the opportunity to go to the famous Bombonera stadium, so if you have the chance, definitely take it!
Tango show: Of course, you must go to a tango show. There is no shortage of options with a wide range of budget options. Most of them allow you to book either just a show or dinner and a show. Here are a few options to check out:
- Café de los Angelitos
- Café la Humedad
- Tango Porteño
- Teatro Piazolla Tango (This is the one I went to!)
Asado: You can’t leave Argentina without attending at least one asado. Argentines gather amongst friends for a night of steak and other meats, food, and wine and all contribute to the feast in some way. This is obviously best to do with friends and locals, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this will be difficult. I suggest an experience like this first asado that I did. But, if you’re staying a while, you might just have an opportunity to do this experience with friends!
Looking for stuff to do? Check out one of my favorite sites to use to book tours and experiences – Get Your Guide – below!
Restaurants & Food
Steak in Argentina is absolutely legendary, but it’s not all there is to offer. Make sure you try some empanadas and mate, too! Here are a few more restaurants to try:
Don Julio – This one you might have already heard of, since it’s regarded as the best steakhouse in the world. I took myself to dinner here, and it was truly great food. The service really brought it over the top – you get complimentary champagne while you wait for your table outside. While it is iconic, I don’t think the food was significantly better than some of the other steakhouses I went to. Make sure to make a reservation!
Parrilla Vittorino – This was one of the first places I went to eat in Buenos Aires, and it did not disappoint. The food was truly excellent, and far more affordable than Don Julio. Beautiful environment and great service – I’d highly recommend this place!
Kefi – While not a steakhouse, this Greek restaurant serves delicious food in a beautiful restaurant. We went as a group and had a great time trying a ton of different plates. If you want something different than all the steakhouses, go here!
Empanadas Nenis – This was a quick stop to get some Venezuelan fried foods and was absolutely delicious. Again, a great spot to go to if you’re looking for a little something different. I’d go here if you happen to be in the area, though, since it’s just a small shop with a couple tables.
Mercado San Telmo – This old indoor market from 1879 is one of the cities gems and a great spot to try most of the argentine typical food in a gourmet version. Perfect for sampling everything in one place.
Dishes/Drinks to Try:
- Bife de chorizo
- Empanadas
- Mate
- Milanesa
- Anything dulce de leche
- Medialunas for breakfast
- Alfajores
- Provoleta
Buenos Aires Bars & Nightlife
Uptown & The Bronx – I didn’t eat here, but the drinks and decor/theme were fantastic. It’s a NYC themed bar that really did a great job – and I’m a born and raised New Yorker! I came here twice and both times the music was a different vibe but still great. Weekends are more lively and it definitely attracts quite a few tourists, but I had a great time.
Frank’s – This was a really cute speakeasy with delicious high-end cocktails. It’s a great place for a date night or a catch up with a few friends.
Florería Atlántico (Retiro) – I didn’t have the chance to go to this speakeasy hidden behind a flower shop and wine store, but it is consistently ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars. The cocktails are inventive and rooted in immigrant stories of Argentina. I’d definitely give it a shot if you have a chance to go!
Niceto Club – I stayed a couple blocks away from here and got to go on a themed night (when it was Club 69). It’s huge and has multiple rooms with different vibes. I had a really great time here! In my experience, it’s pretty rare for night clubs to have great reviews on Google, but this one passes the test.
Paseo de la Infanta – There are tons of restaurants and bars here and lots of options for nightlife! You can come grab a bite and a drink then find somewhere to go dancing at night. We started our night here one night and then ended our night at La Mala, which was also a ton of fun with Latin music all night.
History & Landmarks
La Boca & Caminito – I wasn’t expecting such a colorful neighborhood in the “Paris of South America” so I was super excited when I got to visit La Boca! It’s a beautiful neighborhood with a rich history. Make sure to check out the tour I linked above for a tour – you can definitely explore on your own, but I just love learning about the places I visit.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid – This theater-turned-library is a must visit. It’s absolutely beautiful – and best of all, completely free to visit. You can browse the different sections (there are several floors) or have a coffee and a snack at the cafe where the stage is. It’s a great chill afternoon activity.
The Japanese Garden – While not a particularly large garden, it is a really pretty garden in the middle of the city. It’s a great place to walk around and bring a book – but I’d maybe try going early as it does get quite crowded.
Recoleta Cemetery – Hear me out: this was such a surprisingly great visit, especially to do as a tour. I loved learning about the history of the cemetery, and some of the stories of a few of the “residents” of the cemetery, including the famous Evita Peron. Make sure to check out the tour I did above.
Plaza de Mayo & Casa Rosada – This is Buenos Aires’ oldest public square and a historic site central to key events like the 1810 uprising. The famous pink presidential palace (Casa Rosada) dominates one side of the square – if you’ve seen the movie Evita, you’ll recognize it!
El Obelisco – One of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It was built to mark the fourth centenary of the city’s first foundation. It stands tall on Avenida 9 de Julio (which is also the world’s widest avenue) and is perfect for photos.
Getting Around Buenos Aires
Public Transportation
The underground metro in Buenos Aires is called the “subte.” While I didn’t travel by subte, the city is pretty well connected by it and the buses (called colectivos). 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. You’ll need your passport to get one.
Taxis & Ubers
You can hail taxis pretty easily, but Ubers are easy, affordable, and readily available. I never had any issues getting an Uber ride at any time of day. They were usually between $1-$5 for short rides. Cabify is another option if you don’t want to only rely on Uber.
Buenos Aires for Digital Nomads
Where to work
There is no shortage of cafes to work from in Buenos Aires – one of my favorites was LAB Training Center & Coffee Shop. You’ll find both locals and visitors alike working from coffee shops, so don’t worry about looking out of place. There are tons to choose from so feel free to use Google Maps and read some reviews! I like to search for “laptop,” “wifi,” “work”, and/or “cowork” in the reviews.
Meetups & events
The first think I usually do when I get to a new city is join some sort of nomad or traveler group. There is a really great Digital Nomad Facebook Group for Buenos Aires. They post all sorts of events like trivia nights, paint and sip nights, and nightclub outings. There is a little something for everybody. If you’re looking to learn Spanish or another language, I’d also recommend attending a Mundolingo event. Like everything in BA, they usually start to really get going later at night, but they’re a lot of fun!
Interested in becoming a digital nomad but don’t know where to start? Check out my FREE Ultimate Guide to Remote Work here!
Final Thoughts
I had a really great time in Buenos Aires and thought it made a great base for digital nomads – it was easy to make other traveler friends and get around. There was plenty to do, great food, fun nightlife, and so much history. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or planning to stay for months as a digital nomad, Buenos Aires offers something truly special. Take time to wander the neighborhoods, strike up conversations with locals, and embrace the Argentine way of life. Don’t rush – this is a city meant to be savored.
If you have any questions or anything to add, please make sure to leave something in the comments!
