Buenos Aires Ultimate Guide: Local Favorites and Tourist Highlights

Tips before traveling

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: The most pleasant time of year to explore the city is March to May (Autumn) and September to November (Spring). During these shoulder seasons, you’ll encounter mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and colorful foliage/flowers making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

CURRENCY: Argentina's currency (ARS) experiences frequent fluctuations due to inflation, so prices online typically do not reflect current costs. Checking with local banks, using financial websites, or consulting with businesses or information centers can provide you with the latest exchange rates. Additionally, carrying a mix of cash and cards is best practice. Western Union is a reliable service for anyone looking to exchange currency via electronic transfer, offering favorable rates. However, nearly all transactions in Argentina can be paid for by card, processed at or near the blue dollar rate depending on your bank. 

GETTING AROUND: Buenos Aires is a relatively convenient city to navigate thanks to its walkable neighborhoods, efficient public transportation system, and friendly locals. Using Google Maps will give you the best routes and updated transit line recommendations to get around, including options such as the Mitre train, Subte (subway) system, and buses that connect all corners of the city. Rides cannot be paid for with cash, but rather require a ‘SUBE’ card transaction upon boarding (obtainable at lottery agencies and train/subway stations). 

SOCIETY & CULTURE: Social norms in Argentina differ notably from the rest of Latin America and there’s a striking warmth to Argentine hospitality. It’s custom to greet one another with a kiss on the cheek and linger at the table after a meal conversing with friends and family, referred to as “sobremesa.” Influenced by Europe, mealtimes and schedules also tend to run later, with some businesses closing midday and reopening into the late evening, and nightlife thriving into the early morning. The tradition of "merienda" also bridges the gap between lunch and dinner, providing a time for socializing over coffee/tea and pastries.