I love Buenos Aires. I can admire the stunning European architecture around Casa Rosada, watch a tango performance in Plaza Dorrego, and eat a delicious steak, all within a 20-minute radius. The steaks I’ve had here are the second-best in the world (Mendoza is first), so I cannot get enough of Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires is a city that dances a tango between chaos and charm. Imagine Paris and Madrid had a love child, boasting INCREDIBLE architecture that ranges from the lavish Teatro Colon to the colour-splashed streets of La Boca.
The locals, or Porteños, are a fiery mix of warmth and wit, with a strong passion for football, politics and the perfect steak. Speaking of which, the local cuisine is a carnivore’s haven. It’s home to parrillas offering succulent cuts of meat that would make a vegetarian run for the hills.
Wherever you end up here, it’s impossible not to experience the tango. You’ll soon find out that the tango is not just a dance but a soulful expression of the city itself – hidden in every corner and candle-lit bar.
The city is rich with culture and passion, but each neighbourhood offers something completely unique. It is home to over 40 of them, each of which has been influenced by countries from all over the world: Italy, Spain, Georgia, Lebanon, Germany, you name it.
With so much on offer, deciding where to stay in Argentina’s capital can be daunting. But never fear, amigo! You have come to the right place. I’ve compiled my wit and wisdom into this all-encompassing guide on the top areas in the city.
So, without further ado, let’s find the best area for you.
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Buenos Aires Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay
If you’re backpacking South America, the chances that you’ll wind up visiting Buenos Aires are pretty high. Here are our top recommendations for where to base yourself.
Recoleta
Walkable and affluent, Recoleta is simply a joy to wander around thanks to its exquisite architecture. If you stroll around this district, you may feel like you’re in Paris because of its stunning townhouses, built in the Beaux-Arts style.
San Telmo
San Telmo is the oldest barrio in Buenos Aires and known for its well-preserved colonial buildings. This neighborhood was the city’s first industrial area back in the 17th century, home to brick-making factories and warehouses as well as Buenos Aires’ first windmill.
Palermo
Palermo barrio is Buenos Aires’ culture powerhouse. An ever-growing number of expats and vacationers are drawn to Palermo’s grandeur and style. Explore Palermo Buenos Aires’ historic museums, walk along the sweeping boulevards, dine at the countless restaurants, and socialize among the bustling nightlife of Palermo.
Villa Crespo
There are a lot of cool neighborhoods in Buenos Aires (San Telmo above being one of them); however, Villa Crespo is definitely one of the most authentic and best neighborhoods to stay in Buenos Aires.
Belgrano
Old Anglo-Saxon-style single family homes with gardens sit nestled between new high rises in Belgrano, where the sidewalks are famous for dog-walkers! There’s a limit of 10 dogs per person, but it’s not uncommon to see double that number. It’s certainly an interesting sight to see!
The Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Though it is easy to get around, this is an enormous city. If you want to stay close to the landmarks and hotspots, there’s an area in Buenos Aires for you, but which one will it be? Below I’ve listed the top five areas in Buenos Aires.
1. Recoleta Neighbourhood – Where to Stay for Your First Time
Walkable and affluent, Recoleta is simply a joy to wander around thanks to its exquisite architecture. If you stroll around this district, you may feel like you’re in Paris because of its stunning townhouses, built in the Beaux-Arts style.
The barrio of Recoleta is distinguished as one of the most expensive places to live in the city and home to some of its most prestigious schools, but it is also a great spot for architecture buffs and anyone who wants to be close to some awesome tourist sights.
- Best For: Families and anyone looking for a more upmarket spot to stay in.
- The Vibe: It’s not too busy, fairly peaceful, there are many restaurants and bars nearby, but it isn’t rowdy and wild.
- Proximity to Airport: From the main airport (EZE) it’s a 45-minute Uber ride away, or 2.5 hours by public transport. It’s a 15-minute Uber from AEP, or 18 minutes on the number 37 bus.
- Transport Level: One of the best-connected parts of the city. You can get here by bus, metro or Uber, and it’s easy to walk around in Recoleta.
- Budget: High for Buenos Aires. This is one of the more upmarket parts of the city.
- Crowds: Moderate. It can get busy here, but not the extent of somewhere like Plaza de Mayo or even La Boca which attract much larger crowds at times.
Things to See and do in Recoleta
- Pay your respects at the stunning Recoleta cemetery, the final resting place of many famous Argentines, including Eva Perón.
- Check out an exhibition at the beautiful Centro Cultural Recoleta.
- Admire the art on show at Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, home to masterpieces by Titian, Goya and Rembrandt, among others.
- Get your dancing shoes on and learn to tango.
- Visit the National Library of Argentina, built in the brutalist style.
- Take a breather and relax in the green space of Parque Thays.
- Browse artisanal goods at the ‘Feria Hippie,’ a fair that takes place in Plaza Francia.
- Meander through Calle Junín admiring its stunning architecture and palaces, like Palacio Duhau and the amazing Pizzurno Palace, now the Ministry for Education.
OWN Palermo | Best Hotel
This is a super comfy stay in a spot-on location that feels safe and easy to navigate. The rooms are bright, spotless, and totally fresh, with modern touches throughout. Plus it’s right near Recoleta’s green spaces and top sights. Also, Ivan’s coffee rec just two doors down served up the best cup I had in all of Argentina – don’t skip it.
AQ Tailored Suites | Best Luxury Hotel
AQ-tailored suites are perfect if you are looking for a luxury hotel but your budget screams moderate splurge. Fancy pondering life, overlooking the city like you’re in a music video? No worries, the rooftop pool has you covered.
The rooms are so nice you might debate exploring this city versus becoming one with the bed. The rooms also have a kitchenette, a perfect reminder that you can indeed burn toast from anywhere in the world. Not to worry, after attempting to cook breakfast, head down to the buffet for a feast of flavours or venture into the city centre and perch up in one of the cafes nearby.
Casa Franca Recoleta Hostel | Best Hostel
Welcome to Casa Franca, where the Wi-Fi is nearly as strong as the friendships you will make. Think of this as a luxury escape if you value your adventures on friendships, memories made and stories to tell.
The rooms have everything you need. They’re simple, yet luxurious for the price. The beds are comfy, spacious and come with a privacy curtain. The location? Well, you are slap bang in the middle of Recoleta’s charm, making this place the perfect base to make new travel buddies and go exploring.
Room in Recoleta | Best Airbnb
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly spot in Recoleta, then you’re out of luck. This is posh person territory. However, Serena’s spot was one of our favourites in Buenos Aires, despite splashing out more cash for a shared apartment.
She’s very friendly and responsive (not the case with many Airbnb hosts here), everything was clean, and the kitchen is fully equipped, which was great for when we resisted the urge to smash down yet another parilla. We’ll definitely be back here one day.
2. San Telmo Neighbourhood – Where to Stay on a Budget
San Telmo is the oldest barrio in Buenos Aires and is known for its well-preserved colonial buildings. This neighbourhood was the city’s first industrial area back in the 19th century, home to brick-making factories and warehouses as well as the city’s first windmill.
Now San Telmo is one of Buenos Aires’ most multicultural areas, home to French, British, German, Spanish and Russian immigrants. It’s also my pick for you budget-conscious backpackers.
Not only is this neighbourhood affordable, but it also has a distinctly bohemian feel. Antique shops line the centuries-old cobble streets next to lively steakhouses and hip cafes. My fave part however, is heading down to Plaza Dorrego where locals love an impromptu tango session!
- Best For: Budget accommodation, and being close to some of the main points of interest in Buenos Aires.
- The Vibe: San Telmo is the city’s cultural heart, with regular tango performances taking place, especially around Plaza Dorrego. It’s often lively at daytime here.
- Proximity to Airport: A 35-minute Uber ride, or 2 hours on public transport, using 2+ different connections from EZE, or 22 minutes by Uber from AEP.
- Transport Level: Pretty good. San Telmo is at the heart of everything, so it’s well-connected by buses, with Independencia subte (metro) station a 15-minute walk away.
- Budget: Low. Buenos Aires is surprisingly affordable for a major capital city, and San Telmo is a perfect blend of being cheap, safe, and near the interesting places.
- Crowds: It can get busy at times, but certainly isn’t unbearable.
Things to See and do in San Telmo
- Admire the colourful Eastern Orthodox Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity.
- Visit the historical Plaza de Mayo, which played a significant part in the revolution of 1810.
- Marvel at the Nuestra Señora de Belén Church in the heart of San Telmo.
- Experience the hustle and bustle at the San Telmo market.
- Get hands-on and enjoy an interactive Argentine Gastronomical Dinner.
- Head down to the waterfront and Visit Puerto Madero.
- Browse the antiques for sale at the bustling Feria de Antigüedades on Plaza Dorrego.
- Get acquainted with the contemporary art scene at the Museum of Modern Art.
- Watch a Tango Show at El Viejo Almacen.
- Try out a spot of dancing at one of the area’s many milongas (tango parlours).
- Drop into one of the many colonial houses turned galleries and art spaces, like El Solar de French.
L’Adresse Hotel Boutique | Best Hotel
Elegantly designed, this hotel’s eclectic decoration sits comfortably in this trendy neighbourhood of San Telmo. With a helpful staff, and a convenient location near museums, restaurants, and markets, L’Adresse is one of the best boutique hotels in Buenos Aires!
This chic spot pays attention to detail, and everything here is taken into consideration, including the fresh home-baked pastries at breakfast.
America Del Sur Hostel | Best Hostel
Enjoy this clean and modern hostel, which includes large common rooms perfect for making new friends. Located close to public transport connections, you’ll be able to explore the city with ease.
The rooms are cleaned daily and free breakfast is included to set you up for a day of sightseeing. It’s also just 10 minutes from Plaza Dorrego, a spot I love not just for the tango dancing, but also because they have a delicious parrilla at El Rincon de Dorrego.
One Bedroom in the Metropolis of Buenos Aires | Best Airbnb
Enjoy the charm and comfort of this private loft in La Editorial with a modern and unique style. The decor includes details such as an old radio, recycled furniture and outdoor areas to relax. With one bathroom, a double bed and a sofa bed, it is perfect for three guests.
3. Palermo Neighbourhood – Best Area to Stay for Nightlife
Buenos Aires knows how to party! Each of the three areas of Palermo has its own flavour. By day Palermo Hollywood offers a laid-back vibe with endless cafes and delicious restaurants. After dark this area blossoms into a social hub with electric nightlife.
Palermo Soho is the neighbourhood trendsetter, with boutique shops on every corner it’s a shopaholic’s dream. When the sun sets, the vibrant streets transform into a nightlife capital, and there is no shortage of clubs and buzzing bars. You’ll be guaranteed a good night, that’s for sure.
Palermo Chico is Buenos Aires’ culture powerhouse. You can explore the historic buildings, walk along sweeping boulevards, and dine at countless restaurants.
This is my top pick for nightlife in the city, but with its big green spaces and various museums and art galleries, there is more than enough to do in Palermo by day.
- Best For: Younger people looking to be close to the main nightlife spots of the city.
- The Vibe: By day, this is a posh part of the city, similar to Recoleta. By night it’s lively as locals and tourists alike hit the bars round here.
- Proximity to Airport: From EZE, it’s a 1-hour Uber ride or 2 hours on public transport with multiple connections. From AEP, it takes 15 minutes by Uber, or 18-20 by various public transport routes.
- Transport Level: Palermo is a very well-connected area with buses, the metro and Uber all good options here.
- Budget: High by Buenos Aires standards. Along with Recoleta, this is one of the posh spots.
- Crowds: Moderate throughout the day, it gets lively at night however as people hit the bars.
Things to See and do in Palermo
- Take a stroll around the immaculate Japanese Gardens.
- Explore the vast Parque Tres de Febrero with its many attractions.
- Grab some wheels and go on a bike tour exploring the city.
- Learn about Argentina’s most famous first lady Eva Perón at the Museo Evita.
- Soak in the city and meet new people with a wine and food walking tour.
- Soak up some art at Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA).
- Wander through the lush Carlos Thays Botanical Gardens.
Palo Santo Hotel | Best Hotel
Located within walking distance of a wide selection of local restaurants and cafes, this chic hotel’s friendly staff make it the perfect place to set up camp.
The rooms are spacious with large beds and bathrooms that come with rain-head showers; the decor is sophisticated with considered attention to detail. There’s even a rooftop pool so you can enjoy some time out from your busy schedule in Argentina’s capital city.
Home Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel
Staying at Home Hotel was like finding a quiet oasis tucked away in the hustle and bustle of the city. This boutique hotel is a mix of retro design and luxury, the rooms are comfy, and you can even enjoy city views from your own spa bath.Don’t even get me started on the breakfast: homemade jams with fresh pastries, international dishes and their famous brunch menu, I was in food heaven.
Play Hostel Soho | Best Hostel
Bang in the middle of Palermo Soho, this artsy little gem is budget-friendly, affordable (by Palermo’s standards), and even came with a nice little complimentary breakfast at the cafe next door. Now, I must admit this isn’t the best spot for social vibes. But if you want to stay in one of the top places in the city on the cheap, and still get decent value for it.
Stunning Studio in a Brand-New Building | Best Airbnb
This spot is located just one block away from Libertador Avenue and the amazing Cervino Boulevard with several fine restaurants and coffee shops. The private apartment offers a cosy living-dining area with armchairs, a bedroom for two guests with a double bed, a kitchen, one full bathroom and a lovely balcony facing the street. The apartment is equipped with Internet (Wi-Fi), Cable TV, air conditioning, and modern amenities.
4. Villa Crespo Neighbourhood – Coolest Place to Stay
The city’s neighbourhoods are pretty cool, each offering its own unique flavour. However, Villa Crespo is one of the most authentic and best areas you can visit when travelling to Buenos Aires.
It’s a middle-class area with a cool edge – close enough to Palermo for the city’s traditional and iconic tourist hotspots, but it still holds its own and keeps things local and authentic.
This is primarily a residential area where you can feel most like a porteño (resident of Buenos Aires).
The area is famous for its street art so you will want a good camera handy. It is also home to the city’s Jewish community. There are many synagogues as well as Hebrew schools in this middle-class barrio, which adds to Villa Crespo’s already multicultural feel.
- Best For: Getting away from the tourist spots and staying in a more authentic area.
- The Vibe: Quieter than other spots on this list, you can experience the city with more of a local feel in Villa Crespo.
- Proximity to Airport: It’s 50 minutes from EZE by Uber (1 hour 45 minutes by public transport), and 21 minutes away from AEP by Uber, the trambus, or the number 34 bus.
- Transport Level: You have a few options to get around here, including buses, but this is a slightly quieter part of town where you are best off using Uber.
- Budget: It’s cheaper than neighbouring Palermo, and offers a great spot to stay near the posh spots without spending too many pennies.
- Crowds: As a more residential area, it’s fairly quiet around here.
Photo: McKay Savage (Flickr)
Things to See and do in Villa Crespo
- Shop for leather goods around Murillo, a traditional spot to find them.
- Practice your skills in the kitchen with an Argentine cooking experience.
- Stroll through the jacaranda trees and relax in Parque Centenario.
- Immerse yourself in Argentine culture with a wine and art tour.
- Explore the many murals of Villa Crespo’s street art scene at the intersection of Castillo and Serrano.
Apart Milino | Best Budget Hotel
Feel at home in this residential area in an apartment that fills the gap for affordable accommodation.
Each private apartment comes with a kitchen, which means you can make your own meals, and if you are travelling with friends you can select a larger apartment and enjoy socialising in the space together. Its great location makes it easy to take in the stylish area.
Acevedo 716 – Apart Hotel | Best Hotel
Apart Hotel is a stunner – freshly done up but still full of character. Inside, it’s clean, bright, and sorted with everything you need, including a fridge, toaster oven, and coffee maker for those slow mornings. It’s smack bang near Palermo with bars, shops, and cafés all around, and the staff are absolute gems – super helpful without being overbearing.
Garden Oasis with Two Floors | Best Airbnb
An apartment loft on two floors, that includes a bedroom on the upper floor with a double bed. The main part is the living room which includes the kitchen and modern amenities. The house has a beautiful entrance full of plants in the garden of the house, giving a spectacular view.
5. Belgrano Neighbourhood – Where to Stay for Families
Old Anglo-Saxon-style single-family homes with gardens sit nestled between new high rises in Belgrano, where the sidewalks are famous for dog walkers! There’s a limit of ten dogs per person, but it’s not uncommon to see double that number. It’s certainly an interesting sight to see!
This upper-middle-class neighbourhood, home to wealthy Argentines and expatriates alike, is centred around its main thoroughfare, Avenida Cabildo. This spot is home to a plethora of fashion stores, from upscale designer shops to independent boutiques and fast-fashion options.Belgrano is also the home of Barrio Chino – the tiny Chinatown of Buenos Aires.
Things to See and do in Belgrano
- Stroll through the lush park of Barrancas de Belgrano, designed by French-Argentine architect Carlos Thays.
- Check out some modern art at the Larreta Museum, housed in the former residence of Argentine writer Enrique Larreta, which also features an Andalusian-style garden.
- Watch a football match at River Plate Stadium.
- Soak up some history at the beautiful historical museum Sarmiento, previously Belgrano’s town hall.
- Explore eateries and soak up Buenos Aires’ Asian-Argentine culture in Chinatown.
- Keep an ear out for Belgranodeutsch, a mix of Spanish and German spoken in the barrio.
- Get your grill on and experience a rooftop Argentinian barbeque.
Argenta Suites | Best Hotel
Convenient and clean, this hotel is close to many shops and restaurants, and a short stroll from the subte (metro) and a bus stop.
The peaceful atmosphere and helpful staff mean that your stay will be stress-free and comfortable. There’s also a pool area and sauna for guests to use, plus a delicious buffet breakfast included in the price, which was one of the best I had here.
LOPEZ Hostel & Suites | Best Hostel
LOPEZ Hostel & Suites in Buenos Aires provides adults-only accommodations (no screaming kids!) with a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace. There is a concierge service and a tour desk, along with free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
The accommodation provides a shared kitchen, room service and currency exchange for guests. Useful to avoid getting scammed in Florida Street.
One Bedroom in a Historic Building | Best Airbnb
One block from the University of Belgrano and two blocks from subway line D, which connects to any point of the city. This luxurious one-bedroom spot with one bathroom and a sofa bed is on the first floor of a historic building, it offers all the modern amenities for guests to enjoy their stay.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Buenos Aires
Here’s what people usually ask me when looking for accommodation in the city.
Where is the Best Place to Stay With Kids?
Argenta Suites is located in Belgrano, which is the best neighbourhood for youngsters. This accommodation is in a safe and peaceful part of town with twin rooms available and lots of restaurants, and shops nearby.
Where is the Safest Area in the City?
Any of the more upmarket spots such as Palermo, Recoleta or Belgrano. However, like any country, it has parts which are more dangerous for tourists than others, so it’s important to know where to avoid before you go. Around Retiro bus station and La Boca are particularly sketchy.
Is Buenos Aires a Walkable city?
Yes, Buenos Aires is incredibly walkable. This city almost feels like it was designed to be explored on foot. In fact, many hidden gems are best discovered by wandering the streets.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Buenos Aires
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Buenos Aires.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Buenos Aires Should you Choose to Stay in?
Whether you want to explore the best museums and art galleries, shop til you drop, or spend some time in nature this vibrant South American gem has something for every traveller.
If you still find yourself a little unsure of the right spot to park up to feel right at home, I’ll recap my top accommodation picks for ya.
America de Sur Hostel is one of the best hostels in Buenos Aires. You’ll get your social fix and a bed at a bargain, plus you are in the heart of the action.
AQ Tailored Suite is one of the best hotels in Buenos Aires. This modern boutique hotel is in an ideal location to explore the city, as it is close to the top tourist attractions and nearby public transportation links. It also has an outdoor pool for those hot Argentine summers.
Now that you are armed with my insider tips, it is time to go and make unforgettable memories and dive head first into adventure. Adios Amigo, safe travels.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Argentina.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Buenos Aires.
- Not sure what to do when you arrive? Our unique things to do in Buenos Aires has you covered.
- Planning out an itinerary for Buenos Aires is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
