Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Buenos Aires
Palermo
Mid-rangeTrendy and expansive, Palermo offers a mix of leafy parks, vibrant nightlife, and boutique shopping.
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options
- +Green spaces for relaxation
- +Good access to public transport
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Larger area, requires some planning to navigate
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit, populated streets and consider taxis.
Recoleta
LuxuryElegant and historic, Recoleta exudes old-world charm with its grand architecture and cultural landmarks.
- +Beautiful architecture and wide avenues
- +Home to major cultural attractions
- +Safe and well-maintained
- -More expensive than other neighborhoods
- -Quieter at night compared to Palermo
🛡️ Very safe during the day and night due to its upscale nature and presence of police; still, common sense precautions against pickpocketing apply.
San Telmo
BudgetBohemian and historic, San Telmo is the heart of tango and vintage charm, bustling with antique shops and street performers.
- +Rich in history and tango culture
- +Great street food and antique markets
- +Authentic Buenos Aires atmosphere
- -Can feel a bit gritty and less polished
- -Some areas can be quiet and feel less safe at night
🛡️ Exercise caution, especially at night; stick to main squares like Plaza Dorrego and busy streets, and be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
La Boca
BudgetColorful and artistic, La Boca is famous for its vibrant Caminito street and passionate football culture.
- +Iconic, photogenic street art and architecture
- +Unique cultural experience centered around tango and football
- +Affordable souvenirs
- -Can feel very touristy and commercialized in Caminito
- -Outside of the main tourist strip, it can feel unsafe
🛡️ Stick strictly to the well-trafficked tourist areas like Caminito during daylight hours; venture elsewhere only with local guidance and extreme caution.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
ARS 35000/day
Hidden Gems in Buenos Aires
Lesser-known spots the locals love
El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Once a grand theater, this stunning bookstore retains its original architecture, including a painted ceiling and stage. It's a magical place to browse books or enjoy a coffee in a truly unique setting.
Mercado de San Telmo
FREEWhile San Telmo is known for its Sunday market, the Mercado itself is a vibrant daily hub. It offers an incredible array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and some of the best empanadas and choripan in the city.
Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur
FREEA vast urban nature reserve offering a peaceful respite with wetlands, forests, and diverse birdlife. It's ideal for a bike ride or a tranquil walk with views of the Rio de la Plata.
Safety in Buenos Aires
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Palermo and Recoleta. Be vigilant about surroundings, especially on public transport and at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted streets.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy avenues and popular nightlife districts. Taxis or rideshares are recommended for getting around after dark, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'Broken Credit Card Machine' scam: Waiters claim the machine is broken and ask you to pay cash, then use a skimmer.
- 2Distraction theft: Pickpockets work in teams, one distracting you while another steals your wallet or phone.
- 3Overpriced taxis: Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand if meter is not used (less common now but still possible).
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Buenos Aires