Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and one of South America’s major gateways! As a multicultural metropolis, Buenos Aires hosts a melting pot of cultures and cuisines that make it one of the most vibrant destinations in the world. A very open and accepting city, this is a fantastic place to visit no matter what you are looking for.

It is, however, one of the largest cities in Latin America. This can make it hard to figure out where to stay – especially if safety is your main concern. Neighborhoods seem to join together without defined boundaries, so it’s good to gather your bearings before you arrive.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide! We’ve figured out the seven best neighborhoods in the city, and listed them based on what kind of traveller they are good for.

So let’s jump right into it!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

• Where to stay in Buenos Aires for your first time? Palermo
• Where to stay in Buenos Aires close to everything? Microcentro
• Where to stay in Buenos Aires for nightlife? San Telmo
• Best neighborhood in Buenos Aires for families? Belgrano
• Where to stay in Buenos Aires on a budget? La Boca
• Where to stay in Buenos Aires for couples? Recoleta
• Best neighborhood in Buenos Aires for a local experience? Villa Crespo

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Palermo

Best neighbourhood in Buenos Aires for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Palermo – admire the artworks and cinematic displays at the Latin American Museum of Art – perfect for fans of contemporary movements
• BEST place to visit in Palermo – head to the Museo Evita to learn about the iconic Eva Perón and her lasting legacy on Argentina

Palermo is increasingly becoming one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city and it is easy to see why! It is truly a microcosm of the city itself, with various subdivisions offering different types of attractions to cater to different tastes.

Palermo Viejo is the best district if you want nightlife, hipster culture and a vibrant arts scene. There is also Serrano for shopping,  Hollywood for upmarket culture and Chico if you want only the most exclusive experience. With a variety of great museums, art galleries and restaurants, you are truly spoilt for choice in Palermo!

• Head to Palermo Soho in the evenings – formally part of Viejo, this is one of the best districts in the city for nightlife
• There are plenty of beautiful gardens around the area, including the Jardin Botanico which is famous for its cats, and the Japanese Garden
• Teatro Ciego is a unique culture and dining experience – you are given the opportunity to enjoy your meal and a show in complete darkness
• Creatives should make a beeline for Galería Mar Dulce, where you can enjoy artworks by up and coming artists, and even purchase a few to take home
• Post Bar is a great nightlife venue with a rooftop bar area – there is also an attached late-night art gallery, and street art throughout

Best Budget Hotel in Palermo

CASA REINA sede Palermo

This budget-friendly hotel perfectly combines deluxe facilities with traditional furnishings. It also has an amazing location in the heart of the sought-after Palermo neighborhood.

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Not finding the right hostel? Buenos Aires has a selection of party hostels too!

Best Mid-range Hotel Palermo

Selina Palermo

Selina Palermo functions as both a hostel and a hotel, meaning it is great for both backpackers and budget travellers that want a little more privacy! Whether in a dorm or a private room, you will be able to enjoy the mesmerising decor that draws inspiration from the artistic district the accommodation is based in.

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Check this out – the 11 best boutique hotels in Buenos Aires will blow you away!

Best Luxury Hotel in Palermo

1828 Smart Hotel Boutique

This hotel has all the facilities you could possibly desire in a luxury accommodation. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a large fitness suite and even a solarium where you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful Buenos Aires sunshine! Rooms are elegantly decorated with modern furnishings and Italian marble bathrooms.

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Neighborhood #2 – Microcentro

Where to stay in Buenos Aires close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Microcentro – Buenos Aires is one of the few cities in the world where the public transport is an attraction in itself – hop on board Linea A to see why
• BEST place to visit in Microcentro – head to the Plaza de Mayo to see some of the city’s most iconic buildings including Casa Rosada

Microcentro is the geographic and economic heart of Buenos Aires, and is the perfect location if you want to be able to get around the city easily! Most of the Subte lines pass through the area, so no matter where you want to go you will be able to get there easily from Microcentro.

Whilst not as popular with tourists as the more historic neighborhoods, Microcentro still has some great attractions in its own right! This is the financial hub of the city, and where most of the government buildings are based. As such, there are plenty of excellent bars, restaurants and historic buildings waiting to be discovered.

• Florida Mall is an outdoor shopping centre where you can visit international boutiques, as well as admire street performers and tango dancers
• Head down to Avenida de Mayo where you can catch many of the major walking tours in the city – a great way to gather your bearings
• Casa de la Cultura is mostly used as a government building, however, the Salon Dorado area is open to the public and offers live music performances
• If you really want to splash the cash, head to Dora – an upscale restaurant offering fantastic fine dining experiences
• Cafe Tortoni is the oldest bar in the city – it functions as a regular coffee shop during the day, and becomes a vibrant nightlife venue in the evenings

Best Budget Hotel in Microcentro

Hotel Internacional

Despite being a two-star accommodation, Hotel Internacional comes with excellent reviews thanks to their excellent service standards! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and soundproofed, giving you a peaceful space to enjoy a good night’s sleep. A continental breakfast is provided every morning, and free WiFi is available throughout.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Microcentro

HTL City Baires

This modern and sleek hotel has a beautiful design, with all the rooms being styled with dark wood panels, red chairs, and ivory shades. The hotel also has a fantastic location in the Microcenter being just moments away from the bustling Florida Street along with having plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops on its doorstep.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Microcentro

InterContinental Buenos Aires

InterContinental are known internationally for their excellent luxury hotels, and Buenos Aires is no exception! There are two bars and two restaurants on-site offering Argentinian and international cuisines. There is also an indoor pool, as well as a gym and solarium. It is perfectly located for getting around the city with ease.

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Neighborhood #3 – San Telmo

Where to stay in Buenos Aires for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in San Telmo – drink at Krakow Cafe Bar, a popular spot with both locals and visitors
• BEST place to visit in San Telmo – Museo Historico Nacional is a great place to learn about Argentinian history – though everything is only in Spanish

Just south of Microcentro, San Telmo is a vibrant neighborhood where you can explore hipster culture in Buenos Aires! Though most of the best-known nightlife spots are in Palermo Soho, San Telmo is great if you want to uncover the underground nightlife scene and party like a local.

San Telmo is also one of the most scenic areas of the city, with winding cobbled streets and historic buildings around every corner! Budget travellers will also be pleased to discover that most of the inexpensive accommodation options are based in this area. If you want to get up close and personal with the real Buenos Aires, you should head to San Telmo.

• San Telmo is full of milongas (tango bars) where you can take part in the iconic dance – there are also street tango sessions every Sunday evening
• Plaza Dorrego is another great spot for public tango dancing in the evenings, and during the day it has a vibrant antiques market
• Manzana de las Luces is a historically important street filled with 17th and 18th-century government, education and religious buildings
• Interested in discovering the city’s LGBTQ+ scene? Pride Café is where the gay crowd hang out during the day before heading out for the night
• Desnivel might seem a little run down from the outside but don’t be fooled – they have some of the best street food in the city!

Best Budget Hotel in San Telmo

Telmho Hotel Boutique

The Telmho Hotel come with fantastic reviews thanks to their dedication to going the extra mile with service and facilities! Though very much a budget option, they have some luxury touches that truly elevate your stay. Rooms are equipped with modern conveniences, and an American style breakfast buffet is served every morning.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in San Telmo

Ribera Sur Hotel

The Ribera Sur Hotel is a boutique hotel situated in the heart of the historical quarter in the San Telmo district that has some fantastic facilities. The hotel is equipped with a range of carefully decorated room options and also features a beautiful outdoor area which is equipped with a glistening swimming pool, sun lounges and an outdoor dining area.

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Best Luxury Hotel in San Telmo

Hotel Madero Buenos Aires

This bright and airy hotel is a modern gem in the heart of one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods! They have a large spa area on the rooftop that comes with epic views across the city, and there is also a great indoor swimming pool. A buffet breakfast is served every morning.

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Editor’s Recommendation! These are the staff pick for the top hostels in Buenos Aires (for all budgets!)

Neighborhood #4 – Belgrano

Best neighbourhood in Buenos Aires for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Belgrano – wander along the Avenida Cabildo, a major shopping street with international brands and local boutiques
• BEST place to visit in Belgrano – visit China Town, a major immigrant community in the area with excellent restaurants

Belgrano is a very upmarket part of town, however, it is also one of the most peaceful areas in the city centre! This makes it a fantastic option for families looking for a great place to stay in Buenos Aires. It is located right next to Palermo, and has easy transport links to Microcentro, making it incredibly convenient.

As a very multicultural area, Belgrano is a great place to discover the cosmopolitan vibe of the city! Chinatown is located here and is a great area if you want cheap, well-prepared food. The main thoroughfare, Avenida Cabildo, also has some interesting attractions and fantastic dining locations.

• Catch a game at El Monumental, the largest stadium in the country – the River Plate soccer team often play their games here and there’s a great museum on-site
• Take a relaxing stroll through Barrancas de Belgrano – a beautiful park that has a very European atmosphere
• The Larreta Museum is situated in the former home of the famous Argentine writer and houses some great modern art exhibits
• Belgrano’s former town hall has since been transformed into the Historical Museum Sarmiento

Best Budget Hotel in Belgrano

Babel Belgrano

Babel Belgrano offers studio and apartment style rooms – perfect for families on a budget that want some extra privacy! Rooms are bright and airy and are fully air-conditioned for your comfort. Free WiFi can be accessed throughout the property, and there are private parking facilities.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Belgrano

Juramento de Lealtad Townhouse Hotel

This mid-range hotel has a fantastic location in Belgrano, just a stone’s throw away from Juramento subway station which provides easy access to other areas of the city. It is also just steps from the famous Cabildo avenue which has an amazing selection of shops, restaurants, and bars.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Belgrano

Argenta Suites Belgrano

This four-star hotel is the perfect option for families that want to splash the cash a little on something more luxurious! They have rooms specially designed for families that are fully soundproofed to give you some extra peace and quiet. A swimming pool and spa are both available.

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Have your dates picked? Read up on hostels in Mendoza before you book!

Neighborhood #5 – La Boca

Where to stay in Buenos Aires on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in La Boca – hire a rowboat from the port area and take a trip across the river
• BEST place to visit in La Boca – the port itself is an interesting attraction, with brightly painted houses

La Boca is located just south of San Telmo. Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, it has seen some light gentrification over the past few years that have made it increasingly more popular with tourists! For those on a budget, La Boca is a great place to base yourself.

That being said, we do recommend La Boca as an area for more seasoned travellers. Whilst safety is improving, there are still some rougher areas – particularly as you continue further south. Where possible, stick to the tourist routes and opt for a hotel close to the San Telmo boundary!

• La Bombonera, a lively football stadium that houses Boca Juniors, is a must-see attraction with a vibrant history involving soccer legend Diego Maradona
• The Clara Chevalier Museum is a quirky art gallery run by Clara herself – she will be happy to take you around and show off her work
• The Panaderia is somewhat of a local institution in Buenos Aires, offering some of the best cheesecake in the country at great prices
• La Perla, whilst a little pricier, is still significantly cheaper than restaurants in the more touristy areas and has great views across the river

Best Budget Hotel in La Boca

Hotel Intersur

This hotel is also located on the boundary between La Boca and San Telmo. Rooms are well equipped with modern conveniences and are fully air-conditioned! There is a private parking facility on-site, making it a great choice for those hiring a car in Buenos Aires. Breakfast is also provided.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in La Boca

Hotel Athos

This 3-star hotel features some brilliant on-site amenities including a cozy lounge area, sun-filled terrace, sleek fitness centre and 24-hour reception. It also has a fantastic selection of bright rooms perfect for a range of travelers.

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Best Luxury Hotel in La Boca

L’Adresse Hôtel Boutique

La Boca doesn’t have many luxury hotels, but L’Adresse Hôtel Boutique is a great four-star option if you want to splash the cash a little on a quality stay! There is a gorgeous outdoor terrace, and the 24-hour front desk can help you plan your itinerary and book taxis.

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Neighborhood #6 – Recoleta

Best neighbourhood in Buenos Aires for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Recoleta – relax and enjoy a pamper session at Ahin Spa, one of the city’s premium spa facilities
• BEST place to visit in Recoleta – Recoleta Cemetery has some gorgeous mausoleums and the tomb of Eva Perón

As one of the most exclusive districts in Buenos Aires, Recoleta is perfect for couples looking to splurge on a romantic getaway in Buenos Aires! There are plenty of great green spaces for romantic walks, as well as streets lined with local boutiques, international designer brands and upmarket restaurants.

The architecture of the area is stunning, and is designed to mimic the romantic streets of Paris! This adds to the affluent atmosphere and creates a truly mesmerising district. What’s more, it is also located close to the main tourist areas, allowing you to venture out to the main attractions with ease.

• Of all the shopping destinations in Recoleta, the Ralph Lauren store is one of the most decadent, housed in a restored colonial mansion
• The National Fine Arts Museum of Argentina is based in Recoleta, and is entirely free to enter – they’re best known for their impressionist collections
• Palacio Balcarce is the perfect date night option for couples that are willing to splash the cash on the ultimate fine dining experience
• Milion is a laid-back nightlife venue with an easy-going playlist, extravagant cocktails and a beautiful garden area

Best Budget Hotel in Recoleta

Up Recoleta Hotel

Located right in the heart of Recoleta, this is also a good option for couples on a budget but comes with some more privacy! There is a 24-hour reception available to help you plan your trip and book taxis around the city. It is one of the best-rated budget hotels.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Recoleta

Sileo Apart

Sileo Apart has a beautiful design throughout with the hotel being decorated in olive hues, parquet floors, and stylish furnishings. The rooms are all equipped with marble bathrooms and private balconies with spectacular views overlooking the city.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Recoleta

Mio Buenos Aires

If you really want to splurge on a luxurious hotel for your romantic getaway, Mio Buenos Aires is the perfect hotel for you! Rooms are beautifully decorated and come with standalone baths and separate shower rooms. There is a large spa centre on-site offering an indoor pool, sauna and massages.

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Need to see more of Argentina? These day trips from Buenos Aires will show you the coolest areas around.

Neighborhood #7 – Villa Crespo

Best neighbourhood in Buenos Aires for a local experience!

• COOLEST thing to do in Villa Crespo – catch a more authentic tango performance whilst enjoying cheap drinks at Villa Malcolm
• BEST place to visit in Villa Crespo – Parque Centenario is the perfect place to get away from the busy city atmosphere

Villa Crespo is located right next to Palermo but has so far managed to avoid the major tourist crowds. This makes it the best area for discovering the local way of life! You will still find lots of tango bars, Argentinian restaurants and lavish shops in Villa Crespo, but many of them are locally owned and have a more authentic feel.

That being said, tourism is starting to seep its way into Villa Crespo. This is great for finding a hotel, but we would suggest heading there sooner rather than later! It manages to continue the artistic atmosphere of Palermo, which is starting to attract more visitors to the area.

• Cafe San Bernardo is a popular bar with locals where you can enjoy a game of pool and sample cheap beverages
• Villa Crespo is a very multicultural area, so for food, we recommend heading to the Middle Eastern and Jewish neighborhoods
• Murillo is traditionally the best area of the city for leather goods, making it a great spot for picking up souvenirs and accessories
• The street art in Villa Crespo has a much more local feel, with socio-political messages abound – find the best at Castillo

Best Budget Hotel in Villa Crespo

Miliño Apart Hotel

Looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Buenos Aires’s exclusive Palermo Village area, then you need to check out Miliño Apart Hotel. The hotel has a range of apartment-style rooms of different sizes, making it perfect for a range of travelers.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Villa Crespo

Krista Boutique Hotel

This 4-star hotel has some incredible on-site facilities including a sparkling outdoor swimming pool, a cute garden area, and a sun terrace. Krista Boutique Hotel also has a fantastic location near central Buenos Aires just a stone’s throw away from Plaza Serrano Square.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Villa Crespo

BE Jardin Escondido

This gorgeous five-star hotel gives you all the luxury you would expect from a splurge option, whilst also retaining an authentic atmosphere! The luxurious rooms are well equipped with modern conveniences, and designed in a way that complements that artistic vibe of the surrounding area.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latin America for a reason! This urban dream is perfect for city lovers that want to experience culture, cuisine and history all in one place. The sprawling city has something to delight everyone, with many visitors opting to return time and time again.

Picking the best area in Buenos Aires is challenging, but we’re going to have to opt for San Telmo! Though still quite touristy, it has retained a level of authenticity and is great for party goers and budget travellers alike.

That being said, Buenos Aires is a truly eclectic city and each neighborhood has its perks. We hope this guide has helped you to narrow down your options.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!

Editor’s Note – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out this form to get a quote for your trip to Buenos Aires!

 

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