Overview
Argentina is a country of contrasts: from the tango-filled streets of Buenos Aires to the icy glaciers of Patagonia, the wine valleys of Mendoza, and the red desert landscapes of Salta. It’s a place where you can sip Malbec at sunset one day, and trek beside penguins or glaciers the next.
This Argentina travel guide brings together my personal tips, favorite spots, and practical advice to help you plan your trip with confidence.
Quick Facts for Argentina Travel
Spanish — “Gracias” = Thank you
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Many nationalities can enter visa-free for 90 days
Type C / I (220V)
Buenos Aires
Spring (Sept–Nov) or Fall (Mar–May)
Uber (in some cities), Cabify, Rappi
Home of Tango, mate tea, and the land of Messi and Maradona.
Must-See Highlights
Buenos Aires — The Paris of South America. Don’t miss San Telmo, Recoleta Cemetery, and a tango show.
Iguazú Falls — Massive waterfalls on the border with Brazil, a true natural wonder.
Patagonia — Glaciers, penguins, and epic hikes. Perito Moreno Glacier is unmissable.
Mendoza — Famous wine region, perfect for Malbec lovers.
Salta & Jujuy — Stunning colored mountains and traditional Andean culture.
Argentina Travel Food & Lifestyle
🍽️ Must try : Empanadas, choripán, dulce de leche, medialunas.
🥩 For meat eaters: Argentina is steak heaven — parrillas are everywhere.
🥐 Gluten-free note: Argentina is surprisingly celiac-friendly! You’ll find gluten-free bakeries and products labeled sin TACC.
Budget & Money Tips
💶 Argentina can be both cheap and expensive depending on how you manage money:
Budget travelers: $20–40/day (hostels, street food, buses).
Mid-range: $50–100/day.
- Use the blue dollar rate, as cash exchange is often better than paying by card.
- Western Union is a practical way for obtaining cash ! Just be ready to hold a lot of cash. On the right, you can see an equivalent for 150€. i I highly recommend splitting it and hiding it in different areas.
Getting Around in Argentina
In Buenos Aires: Subte (metro), colectivos (buses), and apps like Cabify work well.
Domestic flights save time and can be affordable. The country is so big that it can be necessary if your time visiting is limited. I personally wasn’t in a rush, so I only travelled by night buses.
Long distances = long bus rides (comfortable but can be 12+ hours). I recommend taking night buses ! That way, you save on a hotel and don’t a full day on the bus.
Several companies stand out for their service and coverage, including Andesmar, Via Bariloche, Flecha Bus, and Chevallier. In Patagonia, Chaltén Travel is also a trusted choice.
Most companies offer different seat classes—semi-cama (reclining), cama (bed-like), and even executive suites—making overnight journeys more pleasant.
Choose whichever you prefer ! 👇🏻
| Seat Class | Comfort Level | Best For | Notes / Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Cama | Medium | Day trips or short overnight rides | Reclining about 120°, basic amenities, usually no meals. |
| Cama | High | Overnight trips | Reclining 140–160°, more legroom, often includes blankets/pillows. |
| Cama Ejecutivo / Suite | Very High | Long overnight journeys | Fully reclining seats, extra legroom, sometimes meals/snacks, onboard entertainment. |
Safety & Cultural Tips
💰 Pickpockets in cities: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario can have pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas, buses, and tourist spots. Keep your bag in front of you, don’t flash your phone in the street, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
🌙 Night travel: Stick to registered taxis or ride apps like Cabify/Uber (where available). Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night, especially in the capital.
💶 Cash caution: Carry small amounts of money and split it in different places (pocket, bag, etc.). Argentina is cash-heavy, but try not to show large bills in public.
🪧 Protests: Demonstrations happen often in Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires. They’re usually peaceful but best avoided as a foreigner.
🔥 Friendly but passionate: Argentinians are warm, chatty, and love sharing opinions (about politics, football, or life in general). Don’t be surprised if conversations get loud — it’s passion, not anger!
Language Tips for Argentina Travel
🇪🇸 Spanish is the official language, but 🇦🇷 Argentinian Spanish (Rioplatense) has its own special flavor:
Instead of “tú,” locals use “vos” (this is called voseo).
Instead of “tú,” locals use “vos” (this is called voseo).
Example : Tú hablas → Vos hablás (You speak)
“LL” and “Y” are often pronounced like a “sh” sound.
Calle (street) → “cashe”
Hello → Hola
Thank you → Gracias
Please → Por favor
How much is it? → ¿Cuánto cuesta?
Excuse me → Perdón / Disculpá
Cheers! → ¡Salud!
In Buenos Aires, you’ll also hear Lunfardo (local slang). Example:
“Laburo” = work
“Plata” = money
“Bondi” = bus
✨ Point of You tips :
If you already speak French, Spanish, or Portuguese, you’ll pick up Argentine Spanish super quickly — just remember that “vos” is your new best friend.
Locals love when foreigners try Spanish, even just a little. It opens doors, especially outside of touristy areas. So don’t be shy !
My Experience
🇦🇷 Argentina is HUGE ! I’ve explored parts of it, but there’s still so much I haven’t seen yet. This guide is based on my own journey, mixed with tips I gathered along the way.
- Loved Buenos Aires and its tango shows
- Friendly people and beautiful landscapes
- Various gluten-free options
- The country is so diverse : from desert to snow
- Good experience with long night buses
- Currency rates vary A LOT : stay informed
