Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: Top Neighborhoods for First-Time Visitors

🇦🇷 So, you’re heading to Buenos Aires — exciting! Whether it’s your first time in South America or you’re a seasoned traveler, figuring out where to stay in Buenos Aires can feel a little overwhelming. (Massive city, lots of vibes, not a whole lot of English…totally understandable.)

Here’s the deal though: where you stay in Buenos Aires can seriously shape your experience. Who wants to spend their entire vacation getting from one place to another. (Not me that’s for sure). That’s why I highly recommend basing yourself in one of the city’s central locations, like Centro or Recoleta. Especially if it’s your first visit.

These areas put you near all the major attractions like Teatro Colón, Recoleta Cemetery, Plaza de Mayo, San Telmo Market, and the famous Museum of Latin American Art (MALBA). Plus, you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants and bars…because priorities duh.

You know I’m all about boutique hotels and aesthetically pleasing, design-forward stays — so I’m going to break down each of the five best neighborhoods and areas to stay in Buenos Aires.

I’ll also share specific hotel recommendations and what to do nearby—because I wouldn’t leave you hanging. So keep reading to find the perfect spot for your next BA adventure!

Read more on Buenos Aires:

• 3 Day itinerary for a first time visit to Buenos Aires
• 20+ Things to do in Palermo, Buenos Aires
• Take a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Buenos Aires at a Glance

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Buenos Aires:

• Magnolia Hotel (Mid-range), for a boutique, stylish, art hotel
• Loi Suites Recoleta Hotel (Mid-range), for an indoor jungle oasis
• 474 Buenos Aires Hotel (Mid-range), for a central and contemporary stay
• Casa Lucia, an SLH hotel (Luxury), for a lofty elegant design-forward escape
• Park Tower, Buenos Aires (Luxury), for classic luxury attention and service

Make sure to also check out my step-by-step guide to booking the best hotels!

Breakdown of Buenos Aires Neighborhoods

Buenos Aires is a pretty decent-sized city. And as a first-time visitor, you’ll probably want to stick to a few key neighborhoods. Palermo is the city’s trendiest and most popular area, known for its leafy streets, boutique hotels, and endless cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s broken into smaller sections like Palermo Soho (hip, artsy, full of murals and brunch spots) and Palermo Hollywood (sleek, upscale, and slightly more residential).

Just south of Palermo is Recoleta. Where you’ll find European-style architecture, luxury hotels, and the city’s famous cemetery—perfect for those who want a more polished, historic feel. I still think it’s so wild that a cemetery is one of the city’s most famous landmarks but it makes sense once you see it.

Then there’s Centro, making up the bustling downtown core. Centro usually includes Monserrat, San Nicolas, Microcentro, and Retiro which are great for sightseeing but less charming for overnight stays unless you like the sound of honking taxis as a lullaby. (I’m from San Francisco so honestly the lack of ambulance sirens at night is strange for me).

On the waterfront, Puerto Madero is the city’s most modern neighborhood, full of high-rise hotels and expensive steakhouses—ideal if you want a sleek, quiet area but lacking the character of other districts. They say this is also one of the safest neighborhoods in the city.

Finally, San Telmo is the oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, antique markets, and tango performances, offering a more bohemian, historic vibe.

I’ve hi-lighted the five main areas in the map above. You should know that there are also many residential neighborhoods of Buenos Aires such as Belgrano, Villa Crespo, and even La Boca. However for first-time visitors, I’d suggest sticking to the five areas mentioned above.

Each neighborhood has its own distinct energy, so choosing where to stay depends on whether you’re here for the history, nightlife, or just a good spot to sip Malbec and people-watch.

Best and Safest Areas to Stay in Buenos Aires

Locals (and Google/ChatGPT) say that Puerto Madero is generally the safest neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Although I’m going to be honest. That was NOT the vibe I got when walking to Cauce for dinner. It’s not that I felt unsafe…but the streets were pretty empty? And I just felt… idk extremely aware of my surroundings?

I was also traveling alone and walking at night around 7pm and there was no one else around. So I just felt like I kinda stuck out. I can see why people say the area is safe thought because it’s the city’s most modern district. With luxury high-rises, wide pedestrian walkways, and a strong police presence.

And since it’s mostly residential and business-focused, crime rates here are lower compared to other areas.

For a balance of safety and atmosphere, I’d recommend staying in Palermo (which is where I stayed for my first two nights in Buenos Aires). Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood are great choices. They’re well-lit, lively, and frequented by both locals and tourists. As always in Buenos Aires, standard precautions apply—be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Staying in Centro (Monserrat/San Nicolás)

Okay so I swear all the travel blogs I read said to stay in Palermo but I paid for my stay on Marriott points. So I ended up staying at the Buenos Aires Marriott in Centro (San Nicolás) for 5 days and absolutely loved it.

Don’t get me wrong, Palermo is beautiful and I’d def recommend staying there for a couple nights if you don’t mind hotel switching. But I loved the location of Centro/Microcentro because it was… literally central… to everything. Whereas I felt like Palermo was still kinda out of the way. Especially if you wanted to get down to San Telmo or La Boca.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Centro

• Buenos Aires Marriott — Located right across the street from Teatro Colon. This is where I stayed for 5 nights and loved it. I felt super safe and everything was only a short walk, uber, or subway ride away. I typically prefer non-chain hotels but wasn’t going to pass up a free stay on points.
• Hotel Pulitzer — A beautiful boutique hotel with an onsite restaurant, located near the main shopping street Avenida Florida.
• 474 Buenos Airers Hotel — A modern, stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the city, offering sleek rooms, excellent service, and a prime location near major attractions like the Obelisk and Florida Street.
• NH Buenos Aires Tango — I know this is another chain hotel but the NH brand is really wonderful in Buenos Aires. This one in particular is located right across from the Marriott that I stayed in. Super safe, accessible, and easy to get around.

Things to do in Centro

One of the best parts of exploring Centro Buenos Aires is its mix of historic landmarks and vibrant city life.

You can’t miss Teatro Colón—it’s a total showstopper, and trust me, even if you’re not into opera (I’m definitely not), the building itself will make you stop in your tracks. You can also take a guided tour like I did to really understand its history.

Learn more about my guided tour experience in this 3-day Buenos Aires travel guide (complete w/ sample itinerary).

Avenida Florida is where you’ll find the city’s pulse: think street vendors, endless shops, and a whole lot of hustle. Don’t forget to snap a pic of the BA sign made from plants and the Obelisk, the towering icon that’s pretty hard to miss. Especially if you’re staying at the Buenos Aires Marriott, its literally right outside your door.

For modern art lovers, MALBA is the place to be, with its contemporary exhibits that will make you appreciate Buenos Aires even more. After all the sightseeing, make sure to grab a coffee at OK! Coffee. And if you’re hungry, La Estancia is a no-brainer for Argentine steak.

For a nightcap, you’ll want to head to Florería Atlántico which recently made its way into the World’s 50 Best Bars list 🍸

Main Takeaway: Centro is the perfect neighbourhood for first-time visitors—centrally located to all the main attractions and offering a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury.

Staying in Palermo

It’s got that perfect balance of laid-back vibes and vibrant city life, plus it’s packed with cute cafes, trendy boutiques, and enough street art to keep you snapping pics all day.

The neighborhood is buzzing with energy, but it’s not so hectic that you feel like you’re drowning in crowds. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days wandering around, soaking in the local culture, and ending the night with a killer dinner at one of the countless restaurants. Trust me, you’ll love it here.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Palermo

• Magnolia Hotel Boutique — Perfect little art-deco boutique hotel located on a quiet street. I stayed here for 2 nights and loved it. 24/7 front desk service along with free breakfast and it was right around the corner from a cute little wine bar, Amores Tintos.
• Palo Santo Hotel — A beautiful luscious, leafy, green jungle oasis in the heart of Palermo. Known for being Argentina’s first urban green hotel with an extensive commitment to sustainability. This was hands down my first choice of hotel but I booked my trip too last minute and they were all sold out.
• CasaSur Palermo Hotel — Surrounded by bars and by many of the best restaurants of Buenos Aires, CasaSur Palermo Hotel represents the cool and hipster spirit of Palermo in its structure and design. I hear the area can get quite loud at night so if that doesn’t bother you, then I’d definitely recommend staying here.
• 1828 Smart Hotel — A modern, minimalistic stay with a beautiful swimming pool. Also located in the heart of Palermo and with an onsite spa. You seriously can’t get go wrong with any of these hotels.

Things to do in Palermo

There’s a ton to do in Palermo and they’re mostly centered around green leafy spaces and/or cute cafes and restaurants.

Check out my travel guide for a complete list of 20+ fun things to do in Palermo!

You can’t miss a stroll through the gorgeous Tres de Febrero Park (Bosques de Palermo), the colorful graffiti walls of Plaza Serrano, or the stunning Japanese Gardens if you’re in the mood for some zen. For food, Don Julio is the place for steak that will leave you questioning all other steaks you’ve ever had.

If you need a pick-me-up, then check out Salvaje and Moshu Treehouse — which serve up some of the best coffee in the area, with vibes that’ll make you want to linger for hours.

When it comes to nightlife, Tres Monos and Cochinchina are the bars you’ll want to hit for expertly crafted cocktails. And yes, both are part of the World’s 50 Best Bars list, so you know you’re in for something special.

Oh, and don’t miss the wine window! Yes, a literal window where you can grab a glass of vino to-go while you explore.

Main Takeaway: Palermo is one of the top neighborhoods to stay in Buenos Aires. If you’re into charming cafes, great restaurants, and tree-lined streets, you’ll love it here.

Staying in Recoleta

Another great part of the city to stay in is Recoleta! I think most people attribute this neighborhood to luxury and while it has some luxury shopping (mostly watch stores from what I saw), I wouldn’t say it’s particularly pretentious or anything. It just felt residential and nice.

There were also lots of people walking their doggos around which you know I love 🐶

I also loved how central Recoleta was, making it super convenient to reach the ferry terminal or even AEP domestic airport if you’re planning a trip to Iguazu Falls.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Recoleta

• Casa Bevant — A lower end mid-range hotel that offers apartment-style suites with sleek design, kitchenettes, and a homey feel, perfect for travelers who want a mix of comfort and independence. It’s smack dab in the middle of Recoleta and only two blocks away from the famous Recoleta Cemetery.
• CasaSur Recoleta — The sister hotel to CasaSur Palermo Hotel, CasaSur Recoleta blends boutique charm with five-star service, offering elegantly designed rooms and a prime location near Buenos Aires’ most iconic sights. It’s also located four blocks away from Fervor, one of the best steak restaurants in town.
• Loi Suites Recoleta — I can’t get over how many leafy oasis hotels there are in Buenos Aires. Loi Suites feels like a peaceful escape with its lush indoor garden and sun-drenched pool. Its spacious rooms, excellent service, and unbeatable proximity to Recoleta Cemetery and top museums make it a top choice for first-time visitors.
• Hotel Casa Lucia — Last but not least, my absolute favorite hotel in Buenos Aires. I wanted to put this first but didn’t want to scare you away with the price tag. (It’s not outrageous but it’s not cheap). Hotel Casa Lucía is the epitome of understated luxury, it’s no wonder why it’s apart of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand (my fav). Its interiors feature a sophisticated mix of marble, rich wood accents, and soft, earthy tones that create a warm yet refined atmosphere 🤤

Things to do in Recoleta

Recoleta is where Buenos Aires puts on its most elegant, European-inspired outfit and struts around like it owns the place. Which… i mean it kinda does. Maybe people equate this neighborhood with luxury because of all its ~euro~ vibes???

Well, the Recoleta Cemetery is the star of the show in this neighborhood. Yes I know it’s so weird that it’s a cemetery, but hear me out. The mausoleums are ridiculously intricate, every tombstone is basically a mini-mansion. Plus, former first lady of Argentina Eva Perón is buried here, so it’s a must-visit.

If you prefer to understand the history behind the things you’re looking at (like me), then make sure to join this $13 guided tour of the cemetery. I booked it pretty last minute and really enjoyed understanding all of the historical figures that are buried in Recoleta.

Right next door, Plaza Francia is a vibe, especially on weekends when artists and vendors set up shop. If you’re into art, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is packed with masterpieces from Van Gogh, Monet, and a bunch of local legends.

But if giant shiny things are more your speed, don’t miss Floralis Genérica—a massive metal flower that literally opens and closes with the sun. And when you need a break from all that walking? Café La Biela is the move—order a cortado, sit outside, and soak up the effortlessly cool Recoleta energy.

Main Takeaway: With its proximity to iconic landmarks, chic cafés, and high-end shopping, Recoleta offers the perfect mix of culture and luxury for first-time visitors. If you’re looking for a quiet and refined stay, surrounded by high-end hotels, then Recoleta is the neighborhood for you!

Staying in Puerto Madero

You might think it’s weird that I put the “safest” neighborhood in Buenos Aires so far down the list. That’s mostly because all of the neighborhoods in this article are generally “safe”. As with any destination when traveling, just be mindful of your surroundings and don’t wear flashy stuff.

If you love new modern high-rises and want some gorgeous views of the river — then you’ll definitely want to stay in Puerto Madero for your first visit to Buenos Aires. This area is relatively new compared to other parts of Buenos Aires.

Puerto Madero is basically the city’s answer to luxury living—think waterfront views, sleek apartment buildings, and fine dining.

Plus, it’s super close to the iconic San Telmo and Recoleta. So you’re not too far from the action, just with a more chill, upscale atmosphere.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Puerto Madero

• Hotel Madero — Located conveniently on the water, Hotel Madero is a super chic and luxurious stay. They have a killer rooftop pool and all of the rooms have their own private balcony.
• Alvear Icon Hotel — This hotel takes elegance to another level with its ultra-luxurious design, and epic views of the river and city skyline. The name might sound familiar because it’s the same brand as the Alvear in Recoleta.
• Faena Hotel — A bold, artistic gem in Puerto Madero, known for its avant-garde design and lavish amenities. It’s part hotel, part cultural experience, with stunning decor and world-class dining.

Things to do in Puerto Madero

I think the best part about Puerto Madero is definitely the river and the abundance of bridges. It’s fun to walk along the water and cross over onto the other side. While this isn’t the busiest part of town, there’s still plenty to see.

You can stroll along the picturesque docks, enjoy a meal at one of the many top-notch restaurants, or take a relaxing boat ride on the Río de la Plata. If you’re into art, the contemporary museums and galleries like the Museu de Arte Moderno are worth a visit.

Don’t miss the iconic Puente de la Mujer, a unique pedestrian bridge that’s perfect for photos. And then there’s also Reserva Ecológica (a lush park) which is just a short walk away.

For a more luxurious experience (aka probably where you’d find me tbh), make sure to stop by the Alvear Icon Hotel for a drink with a view or treat yourself to a spa day 🛁

Main Takeaway: Puerto Madero is all about sleek, modern architecture, upscale establishments, and a beautiful riverfront. Making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Buenos Aires looking for a luxurious stay.

Staying in San Telmo

Last but not least — the final neighborhood to stay in for your first time visit to Buenos Aires! And it’s a fun one! It feels like mini-Europe to me but I guess that’s why they call BA the “Paris of South America”. It definitely makes sense once you’re in San Telmo.

Known for its cobblestone streets, tango-filled plazas, and boho atmosphere, the San Telmo neighborhood is packed with art galleries, local cafés, and vintage shops.

If you’re into history and culture, you’ll love San Telmo’s old-world feel and proximity to iconic landmarks like the San Telmo Market and Plaza Dorrego.

Plus, it’s a great spot to discover the true essence of Buenos Aires’ nightlife, with plenty of bars and tango clubs to explore.

Top Hotel Recommendations in San Telmo

• L’Adresse Hotel Boutique — A charming boutique stay with Parisian flair in the heart of San Telmo, featuring exposed brick and antique accents for a cozy, homey vibe. Located just a short walk from the Mercado de San Telmo and the Defensa Street antique fair, it’s perfect for those wanting to immerse in local culture.
• Ribera Sur Hotel — Located near Parque Lezama, Ribera Sur Hotel is close to local cafés, historic sites, and Plaza Dorrego’s tango performances. There are only 16 rooms so it’s definitely a cute and cozy stay.
• Anselmo Buenos Aires — A Hilton Curio Collection hotel blending modern sophistication with San Telmo’s historic charm, right on Plaza Dorrego for easy access to tango shows and vibrant street life. Just steps from San Telmo Market and a short stroll to Puerto Madero.

Things to do in San Telmo

Besides feeling like mini-Paris, there’s so much to do and see and EAT in San Telmo!

There’s a ton of attraction in San Telmo including Plaza Dorrego, the beating heart of the neighborhood, where you’ll find tango dancers performing in the square, surrounded by cafés perfect for people-watching over a cortado.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, the San Telmo Market and the famous Feria de San Telmo take over the streets, turning the neighborhood into an open-air treasure hunt for antiques, handmade crafts, and quirky souvenirs. Even if you’re not in the market for a vintage typewriter or a 1920s tango record (but hey, you never know), the energy alone is worth the visit.

For a deeper dive into the neighborhood’s history, check out El Zanjón de Granados, an underground maze of 18th-century tunnels that reveal the city’s hidden past.

Then, make your way to Mercado de San Telmo, a lively indoor market where you can browse everything from fresh produce to artisanal empanadas. Speaking of food, you can’t leave without trying a steak at one of the neighborhood’s parrillas—La Brigada is famous for its waiters cutting meat with a spoon (yes, really).

You also can’t leave San Telmo without checking out Solar de French. It’s one of the most instagrammable places in Buenos Aires. Solar de French is a beautifully restored colonial courtyard that’s now filled with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries.

This historic pasaje, named after Domingo French (a key figure in Argentina’s independence), is now filled with colorful, dangling umbrellas that create a picture-perfect alleyway 🌈

Main Takeaway: San Telmo is a great neighborhood for travelers who love culture, character, and a touch of beautifully chaotic energy. It’s perfectly positioned between two iconic neighborhoods—just a short walk to Puerto Madero’s sleek waterfront and nature-filled Reserva Ecológica, or a quick ride to La Boca, home of Caminito’s colorful streets and La Bombonera stadium.

Buenos Aires FAQ

In addition to figuring out where to stay in Buenos Aires, here are some commonly asked questions for first time visitors to Buenos Aires, Argentina 🇦🇷

What currency is used in Buenos Aires?

The currency used in Buenos Aires is the Argentine Peso (ARS).

What’s the easiest way to get money in Buenos Aires?

Argentina has experienced super high inflation rates in recent years (I’m personally excited for Millei to turn things back round), significantly impacting the economy. While the official exchange rate exists, many Argentinians rely on the “blue dollar” – an unofficial exchange rate often more favorable than the official one.

For a 3 day itinerary to Buenos Aires, it’s generally recommended to obtain Argentine Pesos through unofficial channels like “cuevas” (informal exchange bureaus) to access the blue dollar rate, which will likely provide you with more pesos for your money.

Alternatively, you can also transfer yourself money and pick it up at a Western Union. A lot of people recommend this and I found it to be quite inconvenient. You have to create an account, get verified (which could take hours), and then go find a WU in the area.

Credit cards are accepted in 95% of the places I went and I basically only used cash for tipping my transportation and the housekeepers at my hotel. I ended up having a lot leftover that I had to spend at the airport. (This is probably why I have so many unnecessary Starbucks mugs from all over the world but whatever)

What language do they speak in Buenos Aires?

The official language of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is Spanish.

However, it’s important to note that:

• Argentine Spanish has its own dialect and accent, known as “Rioplatense Spanish.”
• Other languages are spoken in Buenos Aires, including Italian (due to significant Italian immigration in the past) and English, which is increasingly common in tourism and business.

How should I get around Buenos Aires?

At first, I was a bit nervous about getting around Buenos Aires but found it to be pretty easy. When I was in Palermo, I basically walked everywhere. The neighborhood is small. Once I moved to San Nicolas, I continued to mostly walk but also used the subway and uber at night.

The subway was totally safe (during the day) and I used uber to/from the airport multiple times. In addition to uber, you can also download Cabify which is the local version of Uber. Both apps worked well for me!

Is Buenos Aires safe?

Look. I actually hate this question. Anywhere on the world can be unsafe including your own home. Or maybe I’m just de-sensitized to safety because I live in the lawless city of San Francisco in California where it’s okay to steal and rob people in broad daylight sooooo.

So I’m going to answer this briefly. Yes, be mindful when you’re out at night. Don’t make yourself an easy target to pickpockets. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or bring designer things. And just be cautious of your surroundings.

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: Final Thoughts

Welp — there you have it! When it comes to where to stay in Buenos Aires, you really can’t go wrong—each neighborhood has its own personality, and they’re all solid choices for first-timers.

San Telmo is where history and tango rule, with cobblestone streets, antique markets, and old-world charm.

Palermo is the cool kid—packed with trendy bars, indie boutiques, and leafy parks that make you feel like you live here (even if it’s just for a few days).

Recoleta is pure elegance, with European-style architecture, top-notch museums, and, of course, its iconic cemetery.

Centro is the most convenient for sightseeing, putting you right in the middle of the action.

And last but not least — Puerto Madero offers a sleek, modern contrast with waterfront views and fancy hotels. No matter where you land, you’ll get a true taste of Buenos Aires—just be warned, you might not want to leave.

Visiting other parts of Argentina?

Check out my other travel guides on Argentina here.

Visiting other parts of South America?

Check out my other travel guides on South America here.

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!