Daniela Puyos 
Looking for where to stay in Buenos Aires? Fantastic!
I was born and raised in Buenos Aires – so I have all the HOTTEST tips to make your stay in the city memorable!
Spoiler alert: the best area for first-timers is Palermo. It is just the trendiest area in the city and home to many landmarks!
But hey! Buenos Aires has many more neighborhoods with fantastic hotels for all tastes.
Stay until the end to uncover cute boutique hotels and tips for where not to stay in Buenos Aires!
All the accommodations mentioned in this article are very popular. In order to get the room of your dreams, it is vital you book in advance!
If you are in a hurry
Here are my TOP picks for the best hotels in Palermo, the best area for first-timers:
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Palermo – where to stay in Buenos Aires for the first time
- 2. Recoleta – where to stay in Buenos Aires for couples
- 3. San Telmo – for historical cafés and bars
- 4. Puerto Madero – for the most luxurious hotels
- 5. Belgrano – best area for families
- 6. Villa Crespo – for budget travelers
- 7. Microcentro – for easy access to public transport
- BONUS: Where NOT to stay in Buenos Aires
- BONUS 2: Best boutique hotels in Buenos Aires
- BONUS 3: Best airport lodging in Buenos Aires
- FAQs about where to stay in Buenos Aires
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here you have a Buenos Aires districts map to help you locate the areas!
- Palermo: for first-timers
- Recoleta: for couples
- San Telmo: for historical bars
- PUERTO MADERO: for the most luxurious hotels
- Belgrano: for families
- VILLA CRESPO: for budget travelers
- MICROCENTRO: for easy access to public transport
1. Palermo – where to stay in Buenos Aires for the first time
Palermo is one of my favorite Buenos Aires zones and my neighborhood when I grew up there!
It is definitely a great area for first-timers and a great place to stay for solo travelers looking to meet new people and get lost in the Buenos Aires vibe!
This lively neighborhood is, without a doubt, one of the trendiest areas in the city. It is the perfect mix between bohemian and modernity!
Palermo is divided into many different areas, and it includes the cool Palermo Hollywood and Palermo Soho in the Palermo Viejo area.
Palermo Hollywood acquired its name because it is home to most of the biggest TV and Radio broadcasters and studios in the country.
In Palermo, you can find so many cute city markets. For example, in Plaza Serrano, there is a craft market every weekend surrounded by bars!
Palermo Soho is known for its unique street art and boutique stores!
Other attractions in the district include Alto Palermo, a shopping mall in Avenida Santa Fe. So if you need to shop til you drop, we got you!
You can also explore beautiful green areas like the Japanese gardens, the Botanical gardens, and Parque Tres de Febrero.
If you want a detailed list of activities in the city, check out our comprehensive local guide to the best things to do in Buenos Aires.
BE Jardin Escondido By Coppola
Looking for 5-star hotels in Buenos Aires? This one will make you feel like a celebrity! It is located steps away from Plaza Serrano in Palermo Soho. Enjoy the free breakfast on the outdoor patio with views of the pool.
Other accommodation options in Palermo
A stunning hotel in Palermo Soho. It comes with a spa center with jacuzzi, and gorgeous rooms with private balconies
Offers private and shared rooms in Palermo Soho, just a few moments from Plaza Serrano! The roof terrace has beautiful city views as well!
Modern and luminous apartment for 3 guests. It comes with a shared roof terrace pool, and gorgeous views of the city!
Since Palermo is the best area for your stay in Buenos Aires, here are a couple more options in case the above ones are booked out:
- Luxury – Krista Boutique Hotel
- Mid priced – Palo Santo Hotel
- Budget – Sissi Haz Hotel
- Airbnb – Studio in Buenos Aires
Things to do in Palermo
- Spend time at lush green park Parque Tres de Febrero
- Admire art works at Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA)
- Try some traditional Argentinian steak at La Cabrera or Don Julio
- Go to Buenos Aires Eco-park in Alto Palermo to see beautiful nature and animals
- Join a Buenos Aires Graffiti & Street Art Tour nearby
2. Recoleta – where to stay in Buenos Aires for couples
As a local, this is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city!
Recoleta, also known as Barrio Norte, is one of the city’s most beautiful and romantic districts.
I love this area. It has it all! It is chic and glamorous, and it has a great cultural scene!
Recoleta was the neighborhood chosen by the elites when they moved to Buenos Aires around the 1820s. That’s why there are so many french-style mansions in the area!
In the district, I suggest you stop by the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and admire the art pieces from Argentinian and International artists.
You can also visit the famous bookstore set in a former Opera House, El Ateneo Grand Splendid. If you’re a bookworm, you’ll love this place, I promise!
I also recommend visiting the pedestrian bridge Dr. Alfredo Roque Vítolo. Here you can enjoy fantastic views of the city, including the Law Faculty and Floralis Generica.
One of the district’s main attractions is Recoleta Cemetery! Opened in 1822, this is known to be one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. It is the resting place of many famous figures, including Eva Perón.
For a romantic dinner with your partner during your stay in Recoleta, I recommend Duhau restaurant and winery. They serve traditional food and the best Argentinian Malbec, and the vibe is perfect for a romantic evening!
In Recoleta, you have all types of accommodations, from boutique hotels to 5-star hotels!
Located in the heart of Recoleta, steps away from bars and restaurants. It offers an onsite spa and a bicycle rental service to explore the city. Select rooms come with sweeping city views.
Other accommodation options in Recoleta
Located steps away from Recoleta Cemetery. It features a free breakfast, an indoor pool, modern rooms, and a spa
Centrally located in Recoleta with easy access to the city attractions. This cute boutique hotel offers rooms with spacious terraces
An Airbnb located in Recoleta which has rooms with beautiful style and is within walking distance to cultural sites and great restaurants
Things to do in Recoleta
- See an exhibition at Centro Cultural Recoleta
- Visit the National Library of Argentina
- Spot giant flower sculpture – Floralis Genérica
- Go for a walk at beautiful Plaza Francia
- Feast at Parrilla Los Pinos
3. San Telmo – for historical cafés and bars
San Telmo is Buenos Aires historical Old Town. It is the oldest neighborhood in the city, and loved by locals and travelers alike!
It is home to historic buildings, and you can get to areas like Recoleta in 30 minutes with public transport. Plus, Puerto Madero is a short walk away!
Tango was born in San Telmo brothels and was not well-known in Argentina until it became popular in Paris!
I highly suggest you stop by Plaza Dorrego on a Sunday to see the outdoor antique market surrounded by traditional cute bodegones.
Another must-stop is Feria de San Telmo for street food and antiques. And don’t forget Mafalda statue, a comic strip character that is an iconic figure in Argentinians’ Imaginary.
Do you want to visit a historical conventillo (little house)? Pasaje Defensa is open to the public and features bars, and antique shops. Sometimes even live shows!
San Telmo is a hotspot for a night out, filled with restaurants, bars, and music venues.A classic we locals love is Bierlife. It has craft beer, live music, and traditional food like empanadas and milanesas. (with vegan options, of course!)
Fantastic studios with modern design and bright colors. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, massages and treatment rooms!
Other accommodation options in San Telmo
Centrally located in San Telmo, this boutique hotel has a historic conventillo style. It offers stylish rooms and a very good breakfast
Set in a beautiful historic building, Patios de San Telmo has an outdoor pool, rooms with a balcony, and a bar
Centrally located in San Telmo, this Airbnb has an amazing interior design! The rooftop pool is stunning!
Things to do in San Telmo
- Have a picnic at the beautiful Parque Lezama
- See artworks at MACBA – Museum of Contemporary Art
- Watch a tango show in one of the many places in San Telmo
- Check out nice artworks at El Solar de French
- Dine at Parrilla La Brigada
4. Puerto Madero – for the most luxurious hotels
Puerto Madero is exquisite! The Darsena River is the main character. And it is surrounded by restaurants and bars with views!
This area is super rich, it has a lot of modern skyscrapers and some old beauties too.
One of the main icons of the city is El Puente de la Mujer (Women’s bridge), it connects both sides of the river together and it represents a couple dancing Tango.
Another great attraction in the area is the Ecological Reserve Costanera Sur, where you can find wild untouched nature and amazing wildlife. You can have a picnic here or go for a run!
There are around 1700 species in the Ecological Reserve Costanera Sur! You can even find the big Tegu Lizard here!
Another pro about this area is the location, as you are within walking distance of San Telmo, and the Microcentro. Recoleta and Palermo are not that far either!
This modern and luxurious hotel is located steps away from Rio Darsena. All the upscale restaurants are steps away from your hotel room. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast and the onsite indoor pool!
Other accommodation options in Puerto Madero
Stay in deluxe apartments in the middle of Puerto Madero. Properties come with balconies and a shared swimming pool
Feel at home in these beautiful apartments with balconies. Located steps away from all the restaurants in Puerto Madero
Stay in a luxury apartment at the Faena Hotel. Located in the heart of Puerto Madero, with a deluxe onsite bar
Things to do in Puerto Madero
- Visit the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve
- Visit the Sarmiento Frigate Ship Museum
- Try your luck at Casino Buenos Aires
- See famous statues at Paseo de la Fama
- Enjoy some delicious food at Cabaña las Lilas
- Have a walk at beautiful Micaela Bastidas Park
5. Belgrano – best area for families
Belgrano is a stunning residential area in the middle of the city. You have Palermo just steps away but it is a quieter district and families live here.
Belgrano district acquired its name because of the political figure Manuel Belgrano, who invented the Argentinian flag!
The area is great for specialty cafés. I suggest Bee Coffee where you can try a traditional alfajor or medialuna next to a classic latte.
One of the most iconic things to do in Belgrano is visiting China Town. Don’t forget to go through the Chinese Arch at its entrance!
This area is also home to Barrancas de Belgrano, a fabulous city park where you can enjoy family picnics and strolls.
For museums, I recommend Museo Larreta. It was the home of the Argentinian writer Enrique Larreta and now is open to the public with exhibits of his Spanish art.
This luxury hotel is a great place to stay in Buenos Aires for families and makes it easy to get around the city. It offers a swimming pool, spacious family-friendly rooms, and a great breakfast. You can easily access museums, parks, and restaurants on foot from the hotel.
Other accommodation options in Belgrano
Beautiful apartments in the heat of Belgrano. All restaurants and bars, are just steps away. Some apartments come with floor-to-ceiling windows!
Get value for money in this beautifully decorated Airbnb steps away from Avenida Cabildo. It can host 3 guests
Family-friendly Airbnb featuring 3 bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Restaurants and cafes are around the corner
Things to do in Belgrano
- Go for a stroll at the lush green park, Barrancas de Belgrano
- Marvel at modern artworks at Larreta Museo
- See the Monument to the Victims of State Terrorism
- See a football match or concert at River Plate Stadium
- Go shopping along Avenida Cabildo
6. Villa Crespo – for budget travelers
Villa Crespo is right next to Palermo. And as the city expands, more hip bars and cafés are getting established in the area.
So, now, this up-and-coming neighborhood offers cheap accommodation in a great area of the city, so budgeteers never lose out!
But Villa Crespo offers more than just close vicinity to Palermo. This district is home to the Cultural Center Matienzo!
Matienzo usually has live music and other events onsite. Either way, you can always have a drink at their bar and meet locals! It’s also kind of a weird place, but weird in a good way!
The city of Buenos Aires wants to rename Villa Crespo to Palermo Queens because of the amount of bars and live music around!
You can also visit Mercat Villa Crespo, a very nice food market with high-end street food with National and International offerings.
Beautiful renovated studio in the middle of Villa Crespo. The apartment is a 20-minute walk from Plaza Serrano. It comes with a fantastic balcony with city views.
Other accommodation options in Villa Crespo
Quirky and stylish guesthouse offering amazing views from the rooftop terrace. Only a 10-minute walk to Palermo
Cozy studio with a balcony, near Villa Crespo Center and Palermo’s bar zone. Amazing value for money!
Centrally located Airbnb has fully furnished spacious rooms and is within walking distance to cool bars and nightlife
Things to do in Villa Crespo
- Go for a stroll at Parque Centenario
- Play pool at Cafe San Bernardo
- Explore street art at the intersection of Castillo and Serrano
- Check out milongas (Tango dance halls) in Villa Crespo
- Explore Argentinian cuisine at La Crespo
7. Microcentro – for easy access to public transport
Microcentro is the business district of the city. It has a never-ending list of restaurants, and bars, and has a lot of state buildings and landmarks.
It offers easy access to the rest of the city through public transport. You even have Retiro station in the area, the main railway, and bus station.
Basically, you can say the Microcentro is the heart of the city!
Avenida 9 de Julio in Microcentro is the widest avenue in the World! On this avenue, you can find the Obelisco!
I highly recommend you visit Plaza de Mayo. At one end you have the presidential house, La Casa Rosada, which is well worth checking out!
On the other end, you have Avenida de Mayo, where you can find Palacio Barolo with its iconic architecture, which was inspired by Dante’s “Divine Comedy!”
You can visit the iconic Teatro Colón, a goooorgeous opera house you just have to see, and I highly recommend seeing a show!
PRO TIP: If you’re going to go to the opera, book it at least a week in advance – it’s one of the most popular things to do in BA!
In my opinion, Microcentro is the New York’s Times Square of Buenos Aires!
Upscale and classy hotel located steps away from Avenida 9 de Julio and Plaza San Martin. It offers a spa center with a jacuzzi and sauna. Select rooms come with city views.
Other accommodation options in Microcentro
Young and modern hotel located steps away from Plaza San Martin. Enjoy the free breakfast every morning!
This cozy studio in Microcentro has public transportation just a short walk away. It can host 2 guests
Unique apartment with sweeping views of the Obelisco. The style is exquisite, perfect for 2 guests
Things to do in Microcentro
- Take a photo of Obelisco with Eva Peron mural
- Enjoy a meal at Parrilla Aires Criollos
- Visit Museo del Agua y de la Historia Sanitaria
- Discover the streets of Buenos Aires with a bike tour
- Join a guided walking tour and learn about the history of the city
| 👑 Luxury price: | $300 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | $120 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $60 |
| 📍 Best area: | Palermo |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | BE Jardin Escondido |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Duque Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Up Recoleta Hotel |
BONUS: Where NOT to stay in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a super safe city, even for solo travelers. But like in any big city, some areas can be a bit so-so.
That’s why I am gonna give you some tips on where not to stay in the city, so you can have a trouble free trip to Buenos Aires.
La Boca
Don’t get me wrong, La Boca is a unique neighborhood, and it is full of history. And you should definitely visit during your trip to Buenos Aires.
I am sure you are excited to visit the colorful streets of El Caminito, as well as its markets and traditional bodegones. However, although it has a lot to offer, the area is a bit gritty.
The most touristy paths in La Boca are safe for tourists during the day, so don’t go wandering around in La Boca in search of the unknown!
If you plan to be out at night and return to your accommodation late, it is better to stay safe and not tempt fate. I suggest staying in any of the areas above instead for your trip to Buenos Aires!
Retiro Station
The Retiro Station area also isn’t the nicest, as train stations usually aren’t the safest areas in most big cities. But it is quite a paradox because some of the most luxurious hotels are in that area!
If you need to take a bus or a train it is completely okay. But I wouldn’t necessarily wander around there showcasing my phone and camera. Just be safe!
BONUS 2: Best boutique hotels in Buenos Aires
If you are looking for the most unique and beautiful hotels in Buenos Aires, here you have the best boutique hotels in the city!
The prices for these properties go from US$100 to US$700 per night.
1. Live Soho Boutique Belgrano
This stunning property offers modern lofts with floor-to-ceiling windows and beautiful city views! It comes with private kitchens and bath tubs. The location is perfect! It is near the heart of Belgrano and Palermo!
2. Mine Hotel
This hotel is located in the heart of Palermo, just a few blocks away from Plaza Serrano. The property has a luxurious bohemian vibe. It comes with an outdoor swimming pool, and select rooms come with spa baths!
3. Live Soho Boutique Palermo Soho
Stay in a trendy and modern boutique hotel in the heart of Palermo Soho! Feel at home with your own private kitchen and balcony with views. There is a rooftop terrace with sweeping views available for guests!
4. Tango de Mayo
This boutique hotel is so cute! It is set in a historic building in the area of Monserrat, very close to San Telmo. It features an old world vibe, and offers an incredible traditional breakfast every morning. Including medialunas!
5. Legado Mítico
This incredible boutique hotel features a sophisticated look! You will feel as if you were the president! Enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning. Relax at the hotel’s hot tub and sun terrace! The property is located in the heart of Palermo.
6. Palacio Duhau
This property truly looks like a palace! A great place to spend your Buenos Aires vacation for couples. The hotel is located in the beautiful area of Recoleta. Select rooms come with relaxing spa baths!
BONUS 3: Best airport lodging in Buenos Aires
If you need to make a quick stop in Buenos Aires, and rather stay close to the airport to catch a plane, I’ve got you!
Here you have the best airport lodging near Aeropuerto Internacional de Ezeiza.
- Holiday Inn Ezeiza Airport – this amazing hotel offers a free airport shuttle. It is located a 10 minute drive away from the airport. It comes with an outdoor swimming pool, and an incredible breakfast for a fee.
- EZE Inn Boutique Hotel – homey boutique hotel located less than a 10-minute drive away from the airport. The property offers an onsite bar, a free breakfast, and paid airport shuttle for guests.
- Hotel Plaza Central Canning – beautiful boutique hotel located a 15-minute drive away from the airport. The property is located next to a shopping area with cafés. It offers a paid airport shuttle, and a complimentary breakfast.
FAQs about where to stay in Buenos Aires
🗺️ What is the best neighborhood to stay in Buenos Aires?
The best neighborhood to stay in Buenos Aires is Palermo. Plus, it is the safest area to stay in Buenos Aires, together with Recoleta
⏱️ How many days do you need in Buenos Aires?
I recommend at least 4 days if you want to see a big chunk of the city. Buenos Aires is huge so you’ll need plenty of time to explore it!
🛏️ What is the best hotel in Palermo, Buenos Aires?
BE Jardin Escondido By Coppola and Duque Hotel Boutique are the best hotels in Palermo.
🤔 Is Buenos Aires a safe city to visit?
Yes, it is completely safe to visit Buenos Aires. But like in any capital city, you need to be cautious and don’t leave your belongings unattended. All the neighborhoods I have mentioned are very safe!
🚶Is Buenos Aires a walkable city?
Yes! But keep in mind Buenos Aires is huge. If you want to walk to Palermo from Recoleta, or to San Telmo from Puerto Madero, that is completely doable. For Palermo to San Telmo, it is better to take public transport.
👨👨👧👦 Which is the best hotel for families in Buenos Aires?
The best hotels for families are in the Belgrano district: Argenta Suites Belgrano and Sucre Suites are great options for families with kids!
☀️ When is the best time of the year to visit Buenos Aires?
The best time to visit Buenos Aires is between April – June, and September – December.
🚖 How much is a taxi from Buenos Aires airport to the city?
Overall trip from Ezeiza Airport to the city center takes around 40 minutes and the average fixed taxi fare is between US$30 and US$35.
😎 What is the trendiest area in Bueno Aires?
Palermo is the trendiest area in Buenos Aires. It is filled with hip bars and cafés, boutique stores, and music venues.
Conclusion
That is all for today, my lovely people! Now you know where to stay in Buenos Aires, and take your pick from 7 gorgeous areas!
As you know, Palermo is the best for first-timers. I also gave you a quick tip of where I wouldn’t necessarily stay and the best boutique hotels!
Honestly, all the hotels I mentioned are stunning, but if I had to choose my top favorite 2, I’d go with:
- BE Jardin Escondido By Coppola – the area is unbeatable in Palermo, and the interior design looks beautiful!
- Blank Hotel – incredible homey feel in the middle of Recoleta. The indoor pool looks amazing!
These hotels are super popular, so it is better to book in advance in order to save yourself the accommodation of your dreams!
Which of these areas is your favorite? Let me know in the comments, and if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to answer them!
Have a lovely time in Buenos Aires, Argentina!
Daniela
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