If you’re planning a trip to Argentina, choosing where to stay in Buenos Aires Argentina is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll make before you leave. The city is enormous, and the differences between its neighborhoods are striking. Where you stay will go a long way toward shaping your impression of this South American gem.
There’s also one crucial detail most travelers don’t know, and it could save you a lot of money. Foreign visitors in Argentina don’t pay the 21% VAT on accommodation, which can make official hotels surprisingly good value. There are a few conditions, though. We’ll go through them in detail so you don’t get caught out when paying in advance.
Before you start browsing Booking.com, find out which areas are actually worth considering—and where you might regret staying. 😉
TL;DR: If you don’t have time to read the whole article
- Best value for money: If you want a beautiful setting without spending a fortune, take a look at the boutique Mine Hotel Boutique in trendy Palermo.
- Luxury and history: Fans of grand old palaces and first-class service should look at Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt or the iconic Alvear Palace Hotel in Recoleta.
- Best-rated hidden gem: The tiny guesthouse Mariposita de San Telmo has an incredible guest rating and the most romantic old-town atmosphere.
- A unique stay: At Be Jardín Escondido by Coppola, you can book a room in the house where the famous director stayed while writing his screenplays.
- Best for a tight budget: If you’re after a clean, reliable bed for just a few dollars, the highly rated DEL900 Hostel Boutique in the city center is a great choice.
- Important payment tip: To get the 21% VAT removed automatically, pay with a foreign bank card at the hotel—not in advance in pesos through an Argentine payment gateway.
💡 Use this map to compare what’s currently available—you’ll also see how much cheaper accommodation can be just a few stops from the center.
Which area should you choose?
Choosing the right neighborhood matters much more in Buenos Aires than picking a specific hotel. Every barrio has its own character, and what looks like an ideal location on the map can be disappointing in reality. Microcentro and the area around Retiro terminal are good examples. They look perfectly central, but after 8 p.m. and at weekends, this office district empties out and can feel rather bleak.
Recoleta, by contrast, is a classic choice and probably the best option for your first visit. The neighborhood is full of Parisian-style façades, wide boulevards and luxury boutiques. It feels very safe even after dark, and you can walk to the Bellas Artes museum. You’re also close to both the city center and leafy Palermo.
Palermo is a huge area divided into several smaller neighborhoods. It’s the trendiest part of the city, with some of the best cafés and plenty of stylish boutique hotels. Palermo Soho and Hollywood are lively and noisy at night, while nearby Botánico and Chico are more residential and peaceful. If you’re staying in Buenos Aires for longer, consider Belgrano or Villa Crespo too—often described as Palermo without the price tag.
If you’re after historic charm, you’ll love San Telmo. Colonial-era paving and old bookshops create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else, but after dark, stick to the main streets and use an app such as Cabify rather than walking around. Modern Puerto Madero is the complete opposite, with its skyscrapers. It’s very safe, but perhaps lacks a little of Argentina’s soul. One important warning: La Boca and Constitución are not good places to stay, and you should give them a wide berth after sunset.
When to visit and when to book
Accommodation prices in Buenos Aires have changed quite a bit in recent years, and the city is no longer somewhere you can stay for next to nothing. In 2026, a typical mid-range hotel costs USD 80–150 per night for a double room with breakfast. Luxury and design-led boutique hotels commonly charge USD 200–500, while you can find a clean hostel for USD 20–40. The current citywide average is around USD 108 per night.
For the best deals, consider visiting during the Argentine winter. July and August are by far the cheapest months. Temperatures drop, but the city still has plenty of charm. August is also the month of a major tango festival, which is free for all visitors.
The biggest savings, though, come from Argentina’s tax system. A room priced at USD 120 will effectively cost you about USD 99, because foreign visitors are automatically entitled to a 21% VAT exemption. It applies to the room and breakfast if breakfast is included, but not to services such as the hotel bar or laundry. Foreign bank cards also use a more favorable exchange rate, which in August 2026 was around ARS 1,515 to the US dollar.
To have the hotel deduct the tax, you need to meet two basic conditions. Pay for your accommodation in person with a foreign bank card, and show a valid passport at reception. Be very careful with bookings paid in advance through local payment gateways in pesos—you’ll usually lose the discount for good. For private rentals such as Airbnb, the exemption only applies if the owner is officially registered for tax, so it’s worth asking in advance.
Where to stay in Buenos Aires: 18 best hotels
Let’s take a look at some accommodation that consistently gets excellent reviews. I’ve picked a mix of luxury palaces, small boutique hotels and budget-friendly options, so you can find one that suits your style and budget.
1. Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
If you’re looking for the very best Buenos Aires has to offer, Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires at Av. Alvear 1661 in prestigious Recoleta is one of the city’s highest-rated hotels. The original aristocratic palace dates back to 1934 and is cleverly connected to a modern tower by an underground art gallery. Guests often praise the impeccable staff, who are warm and create a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. Between the two buildings, a beautiful terraced garden offers a peaceful spot for coffee away from the city noise. The special cheese room and celebrated afternoon tea are also big hits.
From reading guest reviews, it seems that the rooms in the historic wing have a little more character, while those in the newer tower could do with a refresh. You may also find that you can’t get into the garden restaurant without a reservation. The location is fantastic, though, and the surrounding streets feel very safe well after dark. Nearby, Gioia Cocina Botánica is a wonderful plant-based restaurant for dinner, and the Bellas Artes museum and famous Recoleta Cemetery are both within walking distance.
💡 Tip: A morning coffee here may cost about as much as a full lunch elsewhere, but if you’re looking for flawless service for a special occasion, Palacio Duhau won’t disappoint.
2. Alvear Palace Hotel
Alvear Palace Hotel at prestigious Av. Alvear 1891 is arguably Argentina’s most famous hotel. From the moment you walk in, you’re transported to a more glamorous era. It opened in 1932 and has welcomed presidents and film stars ever since. Located in upscale Recoleta, it’s often praised for its beautiful architecture and opulent French style, complete with marble, crystal chandeliers and heavy drapes. The atmosphere inside is wonderfully peaceful, and the spacious rooms have comfortable beds. Service is excellent and warm, and in the evening, staff even turn down the bed for you.
Be prepared for a hefty price tag, and note that early check-in may come with a substantial fee, so after a long flight you might have to wait for your room. Some rooms also have less-than-impressive views. On the other hand, the hotel’s famous winter garden, L’Orangerie, draws Buenos Aires’ social set for afternoon tea, and guests love the generous breakfasts. Luxury boutiques are all around, and at a nearby street market you can pick up beautiful leather goods made by local artisans.
💡 Tip: Book a table for tea in the winter garden, even if you’re not staying at the hotel. It’s a wonderful experience if you want to imagine how Evita might have felt in the glamorous world she moved through.
3. Palladio Hotel Buenos Aires – MGallery
Palladio Hotel Buenos Aires – MGallery has a distinctly old-world feel. It occupies a beautifully restored early-20th-century palace that fits perfectly with Recoleta’s Parisian architecture. Located at Av. Callao 924, it’s one of the city’s highest-rated hotels. Reviews frequently highlight the exceptionally friendly staff, spacious and spotless rooms with marble bathrooms, and comfortable beds. Breakfast offers plenty of variety, and you can head straight out to explore: the metro station is right by the entrance. The famous El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookshop is just a few minutes’ walk away.
After a long day exploring, you’ll appreciate the rooftop terrace and heated pool, with lovely views of the surrounding green parks. There’s also a small spa with a sauna and a stylish cocktail bar where guests like to stop for an evening drink. The interiors are elegant and filled with natural light. One small drawback: although excellent soundproofing blocks out the noise of the metropolis, the heavy corridor doors can slam loudly, so you may hear other guests returning to their rooms.
💡 Tip: You’ll often see it listed simply as Palladio Hotel. It’s a great choice for couples looking for five-star comfort and a little romance, but who prefer a more intimate atmosphere than a huge hotel complex.
4. Mine Hotel Boutique
From the street at Gorriti 4770, Mine Hotel Boutique doesn’t look like anything special, but step inside and you’ll find a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. This small boutique hotel sits in the heart of lively Palermo Soho. The neighborhood gets busy in the evenings, but the rooms are peaceful. Guests from around the world often praise the exceptionally kind staff, who’ll happily arrange a transfer from the ferry or offer tips for day trips. Breakfast is excellent, with fresh pastries, cheese, fruit, specialty coffee and delicious omelets. The airy, clean rooms have everything you need, including a coffee maker and good Wi-Fi.
The city center is about 4 km away, but some of the best boutiques and charming little cafés are right around the corner. The inner courtyard has a garden with a small, clean pool and quiet corners for reading. Books are scattered throughout the house, and it’s great to see the hotel’s focus on sustainability. Some rooms even have a whirlpool tub—just the thing after a full day on your feet. When you get hungry, head to nearby Casa Munay, an excellent vegetarian restaurant, for lunch.
💡 Tip: I recommend this hotel if you want to soak up the relaxed local atmosphere of Palermo, appreciate stylish design and great food, but still need a reliably quiet room at night.
5. Legado Mítico
If you love places with a story, the boutique hotel Legado Mítico at Gurruchaga 1848 is likely to win you over. It sits right between bustling Palermo Soho and quieter Palermo Botánico, and with just 11 rooms, the atmosphere is wonderfully intimate. The building is understated from the outside, and the entrance stays locked to non-guests, giving you privacy and security. Inside, it feels like a cozy private library, complete with leather armchairs and a fireplace—more like visiting well-read friends than staying at a hotel. Guests particularly praise the staff, who can quickly arrange a guide or excursions in the area.
The rooms are the real highlight: each is named after an Argentine icon, whether writer Jorge Luis Borges, Eva Perón or Che Guevara. You’ll find themed details such as a typewriter and old books. A simple buffet breakfast is served in the morning, and you can request a fantastic omelet. In the afternoon, settle down with a book in the quiet courtyard. The hotel could use a little renovation, though, and some guests mention worn towels or basic bathroom products. The surrounding side streets are full of excellent restaurants, cafés and shops, all just a few blocks away.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you’re interested in Argentine history and culture and want peace and quiet in an otherwise lively neighborhood. It has plenty of character and is a lovely alternative to large, impersonal hotels.
6. Be Jardín Escondido by Coppola
Be Jardín Escondido by Coppola at Gorriti 4746 is a unique property and one of the city’s highest-rated hotels—you’ll quickly see why. It’s a real home hidden behind an unassuming wall, where famous director Francis Ford Coppola once wrote a film screenplay. That relaxed, homely feel is still here. Guests rave about the peace and quiet, spacious rooms and beautiful courtyard filled with climbing greenery, a small pool and a grill. The staff are fantastic and quick to offer advice on exploring the area, and breakfast—with some of the best cappuccino around—is excellent.
You’ll be staying in the heart of popular Palermo Soho, with the best bars, shops and nightlife right outside. Yet behind the walls, it’s unexpectedly quiet, so you can recharge after a full day of sightseeing or watch a film in the private screening room. There are only a handful of rooms, so it often books up early. Service is discreet, with a strong focus on privacy.
💡 Tip: A brilliant choice for film fans and anyone looking for a stay with a real story. Sometimes listed under the shortened name Be Jardín Escondido, this boutique gem is sure to win you over with its unique atmosphere.
7. Fierro Hotel
Fierro Hotel is at Soler 5862 in Palermo Hollywood, and if you love discovering new flavors, you’ll be in heaven. This hotel is all about food, with some of the city’s best-known restaurants right on its doorstep. Instead of standard rooms, you’ll find spacious, airy suites with huge windows, plenty of light and exceptionally comfortable beds. Most have a small kitchenette, which is handy for longer stays. Guests love this peaceful, safe neighborhood. When you want to visit the main sights, an Uber ride costs around USD 5–8.
The staff are excellent, and breakfast is wonderful—you can even have it served as late as 3 p.m. After a full day out in 40°C heat, the small heated rooftop pool and sauna are a welcome retreat. To be fair, the bathrooms are average in size, and it’s best to keep an eye on your valuables: one guest reported money missing from a room. If you’ve had enough traditional asado, head a little farther along to Sampa, a great plant-based restaurant.
💡 Tip: This hotel is especially suited to foodies and fans of modern design who want to stay at the heart of the city’s dining scene. And breakfast served until the afternoon is a dream for anyone who likes a lie-in on vacation.
8. Anselmo Buenos Aires, Curio Collection by Hilton
You’ll fall in love with historic San Telmo, and Anselmo Buenos Aires, Curio Collection by Hilton at Don Anselmo Aieta 1069 fits right in. The 1875 building blends into the old town from the outside, while inside you’ll find a modern glass atrium and subtle industrial design. Guests love the exceptionally friendly staff, who may even greet you by name, as well as the rooftop plunge pool, gym and pleasant views. The hotel is right by Plaza Dorrego, a great location for Sunday markets or watching couples dance tango in the street in the evening. Breakfast includes fresh pastries and fruit, though some guests find it fairly average.
The rooms are on the small side, but the space is used cleverly, and you can count on the cleanliness you’d expect from the Hilton brand. One drawback mentioned in honest reviews is the lack of privacy in the bathroom: the frosted-glass doors don’t close tightly, so noise and light can travel into the room. When you head out after dark for San Telmo’s bohemian atmosphere, take care and use a taxi to get around the side streets—it’s safer than walking.
💡 Tip: I recommend this hotel if you want the atmosphere of the old town without giving up the standards of a large hotel chain. If it’s full, try Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center, which is known for its breakfasts, although the rooms are rather worn.
9. Mariposita de San Telmo
Mariposita de San Telmo at Carlos Calvo 950 is one of the city’s highest-rated places to stay and captures the romantic spirit of San Telmo perfectly. It’s an old historic house that looks rather unassuming from the outside, so you’ll need to ring the bell to be let in. Inside, you’ll find a charming courtyard and a bright patio where generous homemade breakfasts are served. Guests particularly value the personal attention from the owners—something you don’t get at a large hotel complex. The rooms are a little small but wonderfully cozy and full of historic details. Mercado San Telmo, traditional cafés and old bookshops are all nearby.
The biggest draw, though, is the spacious dance hall with its special wooden floor. Tango lessons are held here, and reviews say the instructors are patient and friendly. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer looking to refine your steps, you’ll find their approach encouraging. Many guests choose this place specifically to combine a city break with dance lessons in a warm, welcoming setting.
💡 Tip: If you’re looking for genuine local character and romance, you may have found it. This place is ideal for couples who don’t mind the little imperfections that come with an old house and want to experience Argentine tango firsthand.
10. L’Adresse Hôtel
L’Adresse Hôtel is in San Telmo at Bolívar 1491, a short walk from Lezama Park. This beautifully restored French-style boutique hotel pairs original exposed brick with modern European design, high ceilings and wooden floors. Guests love the helpful staff, who’ll store your luggage and offer detailed advice on exploring the southern part of the historic center safely and which places to avoid. Breakfast has a French touch. Some guests find it fairly basic, but after a full day on your feet, you’ll appreciate the very comfortable beds.
There’s no elevator, so if you don’t fancy carrying your bags up the stairs, ask for a room on the ground floor. The cozy old building has a few minor quirks: some guests mention poor bathroom ventilation or a short shower screen that lets water splash out. Although this is generally a quieter area, street-facing rooms can be affected by bus noise, so I recommend asking for a room overlooking the courtyard. The livelier bars are about a 10-minute walk away. By Uber, Ezeiza Airport is about 30 minutes away, while the journey to Aeroparque takes roughly 40 minutes.
💡 Tip: This is a lovely retreat for anyone who wants to explore narrow streets and experience the real Buenos Aires, then return to a clean, cozy and stylish room in the evening.
11. Casa Lucia, Member of Meliá Collection
The newly opened Casa Lucia, Member of Meliá Collection is at Arroyo 841 in elegant Retiro, inside the iconic Edificio Mihanovich, built in 1929. It was once the tallest building in Latin America and remains an architectural gem. The bright interiors are thoughtfully designed, and guests often comment on the hotel’s elegance. The real highlight, though, is the exceptionally attentive staff, who are happy to point you toward nearby Plaza San Martín or the lively city center.
The rooms meet the latest standards and are packed with technology, while the bathrooms have enormous tubs and bath salts. If you’re lucky enough to get a room on a higher floor, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Río de la Plata and the surrounding grand palaces. The acclaimed Cantina restaurant and the beautiful spa are two more highlights, with the spa considered one of the best in the city. The basement pool is wonderfully warm—a perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the main shopping streets. The area’s charming lanes, cafés and outdoor seating may make it hard to stay in at night.
💡 Tip: Staying in a building that’s part of the city’s history is an experience in itself. Some booking sites list it under the shorter name Casa Lucia, so don’t be confused—it’s the same luxurious hotel with excellent service.
12. Faena Hotel Buenos Aires
Faena Hotel Buenos Aires at Martha Salotti 445 is a stay you won’t soon forget. The famous designer Philippe Starck transformed a former industrial grain warehouse into an extravagant world of bold red, leather, velvet and crystal. Guests love the visual spectacle and the gorgeous outdoor pool, with its enormous golden crown in the middle. The food is another highlight, from generous breakfasts to excellent pasta and grilled meats. The renowned Rojo Tango cabaret is also on site, with one of the city’s best—and rather expensive—dance shows.
Despite its iconic reputation, this hotel isn’t without its drawbacks. Guests sometimes mention slow service at the pool or bar, and some smaller rooms show their age and could use a little attention. The location is excellent, though: Puerto Madero is one of Buenos Aires’ safest neighborhoods. You can stroll along the wide promenades at night without worry, and a huge ecological reserve begins just around the corner. Head there for a long walk or a morning run.
💡 Tip: If you love bold luxury and dramatic design, this hotel—often shortened to Faena Hotel—will take your breath away. Just be prepared to pay for the extravagance.
13. Alvear Icon Hotel
The modern glass tower Alvear Icon Hotel, part of the famous Alvear family, offers sweeping views of the metropolis and the broad river. On arrival, you’ll likely be impressed by the spacious, bright rooms and clean modern design. Guests particularly praise the comfortable beds and luxurious heated bathroom floors. The real highlight is on the 32nd floor: a stunning glass-enclosed indoor pool and bar, where sunsets over the city are a real treat. The staff are exceptionally friendly and may even arrange an early check-in for you.
Set in the revitalized docks, the hotel is surrounded by upscale restaurants and long cobbled promenades that come alive with music and street tango in the evenings. Plaza de Mayo is an easy walk away. You might not find the raw, typical Argentine atmosphere here, but you’ll get a feeling of complete safety, clean streets and none of the city’s evening hustle and bustle. Some guests do mention a limited breakfast selection and surprisingly poor coffee, which is disappointing for such a grand hotel. Still, it’s an excellent retreat for travelers who like a little luxury.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you love modern architecture and city views and expect impeccable service. It also caters to wheelchair users, with built-in ramps providing step-free access to the bars and restaurants.
14. Hilton Buenos Aires
The vast Hilton Buenos Aires in modern Puerto Madero runs like a well-oiled machine. You may recognize its grand glass atrium from the Argentine film Nine Queens, where it played a significant role. Guests come for the excellent service, spacious rooms with exceptionally comfortable beds and superb soundproofing. The generous breakfast buffet is a favorite, with plenty of options for guests with specific dietary needs, and the rooftop pool is another highlight. There’s also a stylish Argentine restaurant, an elegant wine bar and a well-equipped gym.
Expect to pay extra for this level of comfort, and the main breakfast buffet can get quite busy. The surroundings are very safe, with wide waterfront promenades and old port cranes. It’s a lovely area for an early run or a leisurely evening stroll between local restaurants. The calm by the harbor is especially welcome after a long day in the noisy city center, which is only about a 15-minute walk away.
💡 Tip: This is a very practical option for families with children or business travelers who want a safe area, extra-spacious rooms and the reliable standards of an international hotel chain.
15. Marriott Buenos Aires Downtown
If you need to stay right in the city center, Marriott Buenos Aires Downtown at Carlos Pellegrini 551 is a very convenient base. Formerly the Sheraton Libertador, it has recently undergone a successful renovation. It’s just off busy Avenida 9 de Julio, on the edge of Microcentro and Retiro. Guests appreciate the clean, spacious rooms and great city views. The best features are the glass-enclosed rooftop pool and gym, where you can watch the traffic chaos far below in peace. The hotel’s Irish bar is another welcome spot to unwind after a full day out.
The staff are generally excellent, and guests often mention how kind and helpful they are. Breakfast is good, with plenty of fresh fruit, although some say the service can be a little disorganized and corridor noise can travel through the doors. The location makes it easy to reach all the metro lines and major sights, but there’s one thing to keep in mind: this office district empties out quickly after work, so you’ll probably head to livelier streets in Palermo or Recoleta for dinner.
💡 Tip: This is a good fit if you only have a few days in Buenos Aires and want to get between the main historic sights quickly and easily.
16. Scala Hotel Buenos Aires
Scala Hotel Buenos Aires on wide Bernardo de Irigoyen Street is a great middle-ground option if you don’t want to spend money on the priciest neighborhoods. Guests praise the clean, spacious rooms, helpful staff and generous buffet breakfast. A well-maintained outdoor pool with sun loungers is a rare bonus in the city center and this price range—perfect for relaxing after a long day. You’re also within easy walking distance of public transport, the pink Casa Rosada and historic San Telmo, where the famous Sunday market is well worth a visit.
It’s not entirely perfect, though. The air conditioning is centrally controlled, so rooms can be unnecessarily warm in the shoulder season. Guests sometimes mention a lack of power outlets by the bed or difficulty catering to special diets, such as gluten-free. Take care when paying, too: a few people reported problems with card security after their stay, so I’d recommend using a virtual card. Still, it’s a very good address with a 24-hour reception and staff who are happy to help.
💡 Tip: The hotel also has a decent fitness center, a bar and an upscale restaurant. It’s a great compromise if you want four-star service and a convenient location but need to keep an eye on your budget.
17. 725 Continental Hotel
Right by the famous Obelisk at Av. Roque Sáenz Peña 725, you’ll find 725 Continental Hotel, housed in a beautiful historic building dating back to 1927. Its biggest selling point is undoubtedly the fantastic rooftop terrace with a pool and bar, overlooking Avenida 9 de Julio and the Obelisk. Guests love the comfortable, spotless rooms, even if they’re a little small, and the generous breakfast. The staff work hard to make you feel welcome, and the location is perfect for exploring the center and its shopping streets on foot.
The metro station is just steps from the entrance, making it easy to reach more distant parts of the city when you’re ready for a change from the center. The furnishings are showing their age, though, the elevators can be a little slow and the old key system sometimes acts up. Some guests also mention slow, unreliable Wi-Fi, so it may not be the best choice for streaming in the evening. Still, the atmosphere and rooftop evenings make these small compromises worthwhile.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you’d rather spend your savings on great tango or food. If it’s full, the excellent MONS hostel is nearby in Recoleta. Guests praise its cleanliness, friendly staff and wonderful terrace views of the famous cemetery.
18. DEL900 Hostel Boutique
DEL900 Hostel Boutique is in a beautiful historic building dating back to 1900 at Hipólito Yrigoyen 1208, and it’s one of the loveliest budget-friendly places to stay. Step inside and you’ll find a distinctive retro feel, glass ceilings and old pool tables in a huge common room. Guests love the friendly atmosphere, where it’s easy to meet fellow backpackers, as well as the reliable air conditioning, dependable Wi-Fi and incredibly helpful staff, who can even arrange an early-morning taxi. Plaza de Mayo is nearby, and four traditional restaurants and an ATM are just steps away.
You can choose an inexpensive shared room or a decent private double with its own bathroom. Just remember that this is a very old building, which comes with a few drawbacks. You may have to wait a few minutes for the shower to warm up, and it’s not the place to come for modern luxury. The government district nearby is fairly safe during the day, and the hostel is well connected to the metro.
💡 Tip: This place is best for low-maintenance travelers looking for a clean, affordable bed in the center. The stylish common room is also the perfect place to swap tips with other travelers exploring Argentina.
How to choose the right hotel
When making your final decision, think about how much you’ll rely on public transport. You can’t get around Buenos Aires without a reloadable SUBE card: buses don’t accept cash, and the driver won’t let you on without one. A metro ride with a registered card costs ARS 1,684 (as of August 2026). If you’d rather not deal with that, choose a hotel within walking distance of the sights. Tienda León buses will take you safely from Ezeiza Airport to the city center for around ARS 16,500.
Your own sense of safety is another important factor. In general, it’s recommended to choose a hotel west of Plaza de Mayo, where the streets tend to be calmer. The main risks in Buenos Aires are usually pickpocketing and motorcyclists unexpectedly snatching phones, rather than being robbed inside your hotel. This is more common in crowded parts of the city center and around Constitución station.
Where to next?
Once you’ve sorted out your accommodation, you may find these practical travel guides useful too. Read our detailed guide to things to do in Buenos Aires for our best tips on sights and interesting places. If you’re planning a longer trip through South America, take a look at things to do in Rio de Janeiro or read our comprehensive guide to Argentina: A Guide to the Land of Tango, Steak and Glaciers.
Frequently asked questions
How exactly does the 21% VAT refund on accommodation work?
It works completely automatically if you pay for your accommodation with a foreign payment card (issued outside Argentina) or by international bank transfer. You also need to show a valid foreign passport at reception. The discount is deducted directly at payment, saving you a significant amount of money, and you don’t need to fill out any forms or wait for a refund.
Does the VAT discount also apply to spending in the hotel restaurant?
No, this benefit applies exclusively to the room rate itself and breakfast, if it’s included as a fixed part of the room price from the start. All other hotel services, such as the bar, laundry or parking, must by law be billed on a separate invoice and you’ll pay VAT on them in full.
Is the Microcentro district a good choice for accommodation?
At first glance it might seem so thanks to low prices and excellent transport connections. In reality, though, it’s the most common tourist mistake, because it’s a purely business district that completely empties out after 8 PM and on weekends. Shops close and after dark you don’t feel particularly comfortable or safe there.
Is it safe to stay in the La Boca neighborhood?
Absolutely not, it’s a very bad idea. Although the colorful Caminito street is full of tourists and police during the day, after sunset the entire area turns into a dangerous zone with high crime rates. Don’t look for hotels in La Boca or around Constitución station at all, and don’t be tempted even by suspiciously low prices.
How much does a night in a hotel in Buenos Aires cost on average?
In 2026 the city is far from as cheap as it used to be. For a solid and clean mid-range hotel you’ll usually pay 80 to 150 USD per night. Luxury five-star hotels with views range between 200 and 500 USD. You can find a decent hostel from 20 to 40 USD and the overall average across the city is around 108 USD.
When is accommodation in Buenos Aires cheapest?
You’ll find the lowest hotel and flight prices during the Argentine winter, which falls in July and August. August is also an absolutely fantastic choice for a visit, because the city hosts a big tango festival. It’s completely free for the public and you’ll see the best dancers from around the world.
What’s the best way to get from Ezeiza airport to the hotel?
The safest and most reliable option is the comfortable Tienda León buses, which take you to their terminal in the Puerto Madero district for around 16,500 ARS. Another option is an official airport taxi, which you order and pay for in advance at the counter, costing you 25 to 30 USD.
Can you pay cash on public transport?
In the metro (subte) you can theoretically buy a single ticket with cash, but city buses don’t accept cash at all. For hassle-free travel around the city you absolutely need a rechargeable SUBE card. If you don’t have one, you’re left relying on walking, taxis or the very popular Cabify app.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
