Buenos Aires Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Logistics and Money
Which airport should I fly into? Aeroparque (AEP) is much closer to the city center than Ezeiza (EZE).
How do I get from EZE to the city? Use the official Tienda León bus/private car or apps like Cabify/Uber. Avoid random taxis outside.
Is the “Blue Dollar” still a thing? Yes, though the gap between official and “blue” rates has narrowed. Check current rates at El Cronista.
Should I bring cash? Yes, bring crisp, new $100 USD bills. Small or marked bills get a worse exchange rate.
Can I use my credit card? Yes, foreign cards now get a “MEP” rate close to the blue dollar, making them very convenient.
Is Visa or Mastercard better? Visa usually applies the better rate instantly; Mastercard may charge the official rate and refund the difference later.
What is a “Cueva”? An unofficial exchange house where you swap USD for Pesos at the blue rate.
Is it safe to use a Cueva? Generally yes, but ask your hotel for a recommendation rather than following people shouting “Cambio” on Florida Street.
Should I use ATMs? Avoid them if possible; fees are extremely high (often $10+) and withdrawal limits are low.
How do I pay for public transport? You need a SUBE card.
Where can I buy a SUBE card? Kiosks (look for the SUBE sign) or “Centros de Atención.” They are occasionally in short supply.
Can I use one SUBE card for multiple people? Technically no, but it is common practice on buses to tap for a friend.
Is the Subte (Metro) good? Yes, it’s fast and cheap, but it closes early (around 11:00 PM).
What is the best transport app? Google Maps or Moovit for buses; Cabify for rideshares.
Is Uber legal? It’s in a legal gray area but widely used. Drivers may ask you to sit in the front.
Why Cabify over Uber? Travelers often find Cabify more reliable and safer for foreigners.
Is the tap water drinkable? Yes, the tap water in Buenos Aires is safe to drink.
Do I need a SIM card? Yes, Movistar or Personal are top choices. You can get them at most “Kioscos.”
What is the standard tip? Roughly 10% in restaurants.
Do I tip taxi drivers? It’s not expected, but rounding up the fare is common.
Neighborhoods and Accommodation
Where is the best place to stay? Palermo (Soho or Hollywood) for nightlife and food; Recoleta for architecture and luxury.
Is San Telmo safe to stay in? It’s bohemian and great during the day, but can feel “edgy” at night. Stick to well-lit streets.
What is Palermo Soho? A trendy area with low-rise buildings, boutiques, and the most concentrated dining scene.
What is Palermo Hollywood? North of Soho, known specifically for its dense concentration of bars and restaurants.
Is Microcentro good for tourists? Good for sightseeing during the day, but it becomes a “ghost town” at night.
Which areas should I avoid at night? Constitucion, Once, and the outskirts of La Boca.
What is Puerto Madero? The modern, upscale docklands. Very safe but lacks the “old world” charm.
Is Belgrano a good option? Yes, it’s a beautiful, residential, and very safe neighborhood with a “Chinatown.”
What are “Villas”? Informal settlements (slums). Do not enter them, even if Google Maps suggests a shortcut through one.
Where should I stay for a “local” feel? Villa Crespo or Chacarita—they are the “new” Palermo but less touristy.
Sightseeing and Activities
Is the Recoleta Cemetery worth it? Absolutely. It’s a city of the dead with incredible architecture.
Do I need a ticket for the cemetery? Yes, there is now an entrance fee for foreigners.
Where is Evita buried? In the Duarte family tomb in Recoleta Cemetery.
What is El Caminito? The colorful street in La Boca. It’s very touristy but iconic.
Is La Boca dangerous? Stay within the 2-3 block “tourist zone” of Caminito. Do not wander into side streets.
What is the best museum? MALBA (Modern Art) or the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.
Is the Teatro Colón worth a tour? Yes, it is one of the top 5 acoustics in the world. Book ahead.
Can I see a show at Teatro Colón? Yes, standing-room tickets (Paraíso) are often very cheap if you’re on a budget.
What is El Ateneo Grand Splendid? A world-famous bookstore located inside a converted theater.
What is the Feria de San Telmo? A massive antique and street market every Sunday.
Is the San Telmo market crowded? Extremely. Go early (around 10:00 AM) to avoid the worst of it.
What is “La Bomba de Tiempo”? A famous percussion show every Monday night at Konex. Highly recommended.
Where can I see Tango? For a show: El Viejo Almacén or Esquina Carlos Gardel. For “real” tango: a Milonga (dance hall).
What is a Milonga? A social club where locals go to dance tango. They start very late (midnight).
What is the “Casa Rosada”? The pink presidential palace. Tours are available on weekends with prior booking.
Is the Botanical Garden free? Yes, and it’s a beautiful place to escape the city noise.
What is the Floralis Genérica? A giant metal flower statue that opens and closes with the sun (though sometimes the motor is broken).
Should I go to Tigre? Yes, it’s a great day trip. Take the Mitre train from Retiro.
Can I go to Uruguay for a day? Yes, take the Buquebus or Colonia Express ferry to Colonia del Sacramento.
Is Colonia worth more than a day? Most travelers say one day is enough to see the historic center.
Food and Drink
What time is dinner? Late. Restaurants don’t fill up until 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM.
What is a Parrilla? A traditional Argentine steakhouse.
What should I order at a Parrilla? Ojo de Bife (Ribeye), Bife de Lomo (Filet), or Entraña (Skirt steak).
Is Don Julio worth the hype? It’s world-class but requires booking months in advance. Many locals prefer “La Cabrera” or “El Ferroviario.”
What is “Choripán”? A chorizo sandwich, the king of Argentine street food.
What is “Chimichurri”? A herb-based sauce for meat (never spicy by global standards).
Is there spicy food in BA? Generally, no. Argentines are famous for avoiding spicy heat.
What is a “Merienda”? Late afternoon tea/snack time (around 5:00 PM-7:00 PM).
What are Alfajores? Traditional cookie sandwiches filled with Dulce de Leche.
Best Alfajor brand? Havanna for high-end; Cachafaz for the best “regular” one.
What is “Mate”? A bitter herbal tea shared socially. It’s a cultural staple.
Where can I buy Mate? Everywhere, but it’s hard to find in “cafes” as it’s a home/park drink.
Is the wine cheap? Excellent Malbec is incredibly affordable compared to US/EU prices.
What is “Fernet and Coke”? The unofficial national cocktail. It’s an acquired, bitter taste.
Are there vegetarian options? Yes, it’s improving, but “veggie” often just means “cheese and dough” (pizza/empanadas).
What is a “Bodegón”? A traditional, no-frills neighborhood restaurant with massive portions.
Should I drink the coffee? Ask for a “Café con leche” or “Cortado.” Avoid “Torrado” coffee (beans roasted with sugar).
What are “Facturas”? Argentine pastries, usually enjoyed in the morning or during Merienda.
Can I get “to-go” coffee easily? It’s becoming more common, but BA culture is about sitting down.
What is “Fugazzeta”? A thick, onion-heavy, cheese-stuffed pizza. It’s a local specialty.
Safety and Scams
Is Buenos Aires safe? Safer than many US cities, but petty theft (snatching) is common.
What is the “Mustard Scam”? Someone squirts liquid on you, a “helper” offers to clean it, and an accomplice steals your bag.
Can I use my phone in public? Be discreet. Don’t stand near subway doors or street corners with your phone out.
What is “Motochorros”? Thieves on motorcycles who snatch bags or phones and speed away.
Should I wear expensive jewelry? No. Leave the Rolex and flashy gold chains at home.
Is it safe to walk at night? In Palermo and Recoleta, generally yes on main streets.
What do I do if I’m robbed? Don’t resist. Hand over what they want.
Are taxis safe? Mostly, but use “Radio Taxi” (marked on the door) or use apps to be sure.
Is the area around the Retiro train station safe? It’s very busy and prone to pickpockets. Be alert.
Should I carry my passport? Carry a photocopy and leave the original in the hotel safe.
Culture and Etiquette
Do I need to speak Spanish? Basic phrases help immensely. English is common in tourist areas but not universal.
How do people greet each other? A single kiss on the right cheek, even between men.
What is “Castellano”? The local version of Spanish. They use “vos” instead of “tu” and pronounce ‘ll’ as ‘sh’.
Are people friendly? Very. “Porteños” (people from BA) love to talk and are generally very helpful.
Why are the streets so noisy? BA is a city of protests (“Piquetes”). It’s part of the local culture.
What is the best time of year to visit? Spring (October-November) when the Jacaranda trees bloom, or Autumn (March-April).
Is summer (January) too hot? Yes, it can be extremely humid and many locals leave for the beach, so some shops close.
What is a “Boliche”? A nightclub. They don’t get busy until 2:00 AM.
What is the dress code? Generally stylish but casual. Avoid “backpacker” gear (zip-off pants) if you want to blend in.
Is football (soccer) a big deal? It’s a religion. Seeing a Boca Juniors or River Plate game is an intense experience.
Miscellaneous
Is there a lot of graffiti? Yes, but much of it is world-class street art. Take a street art tour in Colegiales.
Are there many stray dogs? Not many strays, but lots of pets. Watch where you walk—owners aren’t great at cleaning up.
What is the “Dolar Qatar/Tarjeta”? Different exchange rates for locals; as a tourist, you mostly care about the “MEP” rate on your card.
Can I buy electronics there? No, they are extremely expensive due to import taxes. Bring what you need.
Are public toilets easy to find? Use cafes (buy a small coffee) or shopping malls.
Is there a “quiet” part of the city? The “Bosques de Palermo” (Palermo Woods) offer great green space.
Do I need an adapter? Argentina uses Type I (three flat pins in a V-shape) and sometimes Type C.
Is the internet fast? Generally yes, most Airbnbs and cafes have decent Wi-Fi.
What is “Lunfardo”? Local slang. “Che” is the most famous word, used like “hey” or “friend.”
How many days do I need? 4 to 5 days is perfect to see the main sights at a relaxed pace.