Where to Stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Buenos Aires and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

This vibrant city is packed with personality, but choosing the right neighborhood can really shape your experience. While Buenos Aires is walkable in pockets and has decent public transport, staying in the right spot makes exploring much easier- not to mention a lot more enjoyable!

We’ve visited Buenos Aires many times on our travels through Argentina, and we’ve had the pleasure of staying all over the city. So now, we’re here to break down the six best areas to stay in Buenos Aires, and share our top hotel picks in each. Vamos! 

Where to stay in Buenos Aires Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a sprawling, energetic city made up of distinct neighborhoods—48 of them, to be precise! Don’t worry, we’re not going to trawl through them all in this blog, but we’ve picked out the standout highlights to help you make the most of your trip. 

The city is walkable in parts and has a wide-reaching bus and subway system. It is a little dated, but it’s a reliable way to get around. Uber is popular here, too. 

However, although it’s relatively easy to get around Buenos Aires, it’s still a large city, and choosing the right base will make your visit a whole lot smoother. Whether you’re here to soak up South American history, dance tango, or party all night, there’s a neighborhood for you!

• Recoleta – Buenos Aires is known as “the Paris of South America,” and that nickname shines brightest in Recoleta, an elegant neighborhood full of historic sights and old-world charm. Melia Recoleta Plaza Hotel offers classic style and a central location near major sights.

• Palermo – This is Buenos Aires’ trendiest and most sprawling neighborhood, with tons of great restaurants, cool cafés, fun nightlife, and vintage boutiques. Duque Hotel Boutique & Spa is an elegant and reasonably priced hotel in the heart of it all.

• San Telmo – This is where you’ll see Buenos Aires at its most atmospheric, with cobbled streets, antique shops, tango performances, and the city’s best market! Anselmo Buenos Aires mixes heritage charm with boutique comfort in the heart of the district.

• Puerto Madero – Sleek Puerto Madero is the newest part of the city, with waterfront views, modern high-rises, and polished restaurants. Hotel Madero Buenos Aires offers a sophisticated stay with great views and easy access to the boardwalk.

• Retiro – This classic neighborhood is known for its grand train station, leafy plazas, and refined architecture. Feir’s Park Hotel & Rooftop is a relaxed mid-range base with a great rooftop terrace.

• Belgrano – With its wide avenues and lovely old mansions, Belgrano offers a more residential vibe and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Argenta Suites Belgrano offers a modern stay with a great pool for the summer months!

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires

Recoleta

Recoleta is considered Buenos Aires’ most upscale area. If you’re drawn to leafy streets, grand architecture, and a quieter, more polished vibe, this is the place for you. It’s a fantastic base for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone who wants to stay somewhere scenic, walkable, and close to key attractions.

The area is home to the world-famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried. It’s one of Buenos Aires’ most important attractions! The National Museum of Fine Arts and Centro Cultural Recoleta are also here. And in between all of that, you’ll find beautiful parks, classic Parisian-style cafés, and boutique shops tucked into old mansions.

The great thing about staying in Recoleta is that it’s safe, central, and easy to explore on foot. It’s well-connected to the rest of the city but feels a world apart from the busier, louder neighborhoods. If you’re someone who likes to start the day with a quiet stroll, visit a museum, then wind down with a glass of wine on a sunny terrace, Recoleta will be your kind of place.

It offers a slower, more scenic slice of Buenos Aires, so it’s perfect for travelers seeking atmosphere, comfort, and culture.

Pros

• Safe, elegant, and very walkable with a calm, upscale vibe
• Close to major museums, parks, and historic landmarks

Cons

• More expensive than other neighborhoods
• Quieter nightlife and fewer casual hangout spots compared to Palermo or San Telmo
  

Alvear Palace Hotel – $$$

The Alvear Palace Hotel is the grand dame of Buenos Aires! If you’re looking for luxury with a capital L, this five-star, Parisian-style property ticks all the right boxes. It’s all marble floors, gilded mirrors, and chandeliers, so it really does feel like stepping into a European palace! 

Better still, the hotel is within walking distance of the cemetery, museums, and cafés. The rooms are spacious and classically styled, and the service is top-notch. We also love the rooftop bar with panoramic views. It’s perfect for sunset drinks! 

Double rooms here cost between $600 and $825 USD per night, while suites start at $1000 USD.

Check availability and book this five-star stay here!

Melia Recoleta Plaza Hotel – $$

Melia Recoleta Plaza Hotel has an elegant, almost old-Hollywood charm, with plush furnishings and a glamorous touch throughout the decor. You’ll also find an on-site spa and a lovely rooftop terrace complete with a pool—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

A free airport taxi and daily breakfast are included with your stay, so you can start each morning with fresh pastries, dulce de leche, and other local delights. Tucked on a quiet street in Recoleta, the hotel still puts you just a short walk from museums, restaurants, and iconic sights.

It’s an excellent mid-range pick if you’re after a bit of luxury without the Alvear’s hefty price tag. Expect to pay between $240 and $360 USD per night for a king room, while junior suites run around $500 USD during peak season.

Book your stay at Melia Recoleta Plaza Hotel here!

Blank Hotel Recoleta – $

For budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy Recoleta’s upscale charm, Blank Hotel Recoleta is a solid pick. It’s clean, modern, and located on a peaceful residential street just a few blocks from the cemetery and nearby restaurants. 

Rooms are simple but comfortable, with good beds, hot showers, and decent Wi-Fi. There’s also a small gym, spa area, and breakfast buffet included. While it’s not overly fancy, it delivers great value in one of the city’s most desirable areas.

All in all, I think that this place is ideal for those who care more about location and a good night’s sleep than luxury extras. Deluxe rooms here start at around $140 USD per night, but can go up to $300 USD per night if you want a room with a sumptuous spa bath.

Find the best prices for Blank Hotel Recoleta on Booking.com!

Related Read: Need help planning what to do once you’re here? Our 3-day Buenos Aires itinerary covers all the must-dos!

Palermo 

Palermo is Buenos Aires’ largest and trendiest neighborhood. While it’s not the most central area in terms of sightseeing, there’s a lot going on here. If you’re primarily in Buenos Aires to enjoy the city’s fantastic restaurants and nightlife, then Palermo is hands down the best place to stay.

By day, you’ll be able to explore its vintage boutiques and many parks and hop between cool coffee shops. Then at night, there are some world-class bars and clubs to enjoy. Be sure to visit Uptown, a speakeasy hidden behind a fake metro entrance, and Rey de Copas serves the best drinks in the entire city! 

Palermo is actually divided into several sub-neighborhoods. The two main areas are Palermo Hollywood, which is nightlife central, and Palermo Soho, where the best restaurants and coffee shops are.

Palermo is well-connected, with plenty of Subte (metro) stations and easy access to taxis or rideshares. Getting to other parts of the city from here is also quick and straightforward. 

For me, what makes Palermo special is that, despite being extremely stylish and bustling, it remains very residential and is definitely not overrun by tourists. There’s a great atmosphere here, and if we moved to Buenos Aires permanently, this is where we would live!

Pros

• Super safe with a hip and youthful vibe 
• Tons of cafes, shops, and nightlife

Cons

• Not the most central area for sightseeing
• Can be noisy at night, especially on weekends

Dazzler by Wyndham Polo – $$ 

Dazzler by Wyndham Polo is a sleek, modern hotel that sits right near the city’s Polo grounds, close to both Palermo’s parks and its nightlife. The rooms are spacious and clean, with big windows and a neutral, calming design. We love the rooftop pool and terrace, which are perfect for post-sightseeing swims and drinks.

There’s also a well-equipped fitness room, a solid breakfast spread each morning, and the friendly staff are always on hand to help you out with local tips. Rooms here typically cost between $185 and $315 per night.

Book your stay here, with free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance!

Duque Hotel Boutique & Spa – $$

Duque Hotel is a charming boutique stay tucked into a quieter street in Palermo Soho. It has a vintage-inspired look with warm, welcoming interiors and a reputation for friendly service. It also boasts a nice little spa area with a hot tub, sauna, and small outdoor pool. 

The rooms are cozy and stylish, and the breakfast is generous, homemade, and often served out in the leafy garden! But what we love the most about this hotel is how personal it feels – like a real home from home. Rooms here range between $170 and $260 USD per night.

Check availability and secure your stay here!

Hotel Clasico – $

Hotel Clasico offers fun, artsy interiors and a playful vibe right in the heart of Palermo Hollywood. Rooms feature bold prints, eclectic decor, and modern amenities, so it’s Instagram-friendly without trying too hard. 

When you stay here, you’ll be surrounded by some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, making it perfect for travelers who want to eat and explore late into the night. Despite its competitive price tag, it feels sleek, chic, and comfortable, so what’s not to love?

Double rooms here cost between $115 and $150 USD per night, while two-bedroom suites are available for around $420 USD.

Book this budget-friendly Buenos Aires stay here!

Puerto Madero

Puerto Madero is Buenos Aires’ most modern and upscale neighborhood. Set along the Rio de la Plata, it was once an abandoned port area that has now been transformed into a sleek and luxurious high-rise district. It boasts riverside promenades, polished restaurants, and upmarket bars, including the famous Trade Skybar! 

This area doesn’t have the classic, European-style charm of other parts of the city, since it’s so shiny and new. However, it’s a great pick for business travelers, or early risers who love nothing more than an early waterfront jog! And if you want to stay in a luxury hotel, Puerto Madero has the most extensive selection anywhere in Buenos Aires. 

Puerto Madero is also not as well connected by the Subte as other parts of the city. However, there are lots of stations in the neighboring Montserrat Area, and there are several buses you can take. It’s close to historic San Telmo (aka the home of tango), and the famous La Bombonera stadium, where the Boca Juniors play. Plaza de Mayo—aka Buenos Aires’ most important square—is also a 25-minute walk or a 15-minute bus ride away.

Pros

• Sleek, modern, and very safe
• Great for walking, jogging, and scenic river views
• Easy to access major areas and attractions

Cons

• Lacks traditional charm and local character
• More expensive 

Alvear Icon Hotel – $$$

Alvear Icon Hotel is a luxury skyscraper with sweeping city and river views. It’s one of the most sumptuous hotels in the entire city, offering refined comfort and standout amenities, including a rooftop pool and bar, several upscale restaurants, and a lovely wellness spa. But to be honest, the marble bathrooms in the rooms totally feel like spas unto themselves.  

You’re pretty much guaranteed a good night’s sleep in the super comfy beds, and when you wake up, it will be to panoramic views of the city through the floor-to-ceiling windows. So if you want to experience Buenos Aires in style, this is the place to stay! 

Rooms here cost between $450 and $600 USD per night for a deluxe room, while suites cost between $700 and $1,700 USD per night.

Check out all of the options and book your stay here!

Hotel Madero Buenos Aires – $$

Hotel Madero Buenos Aires s a relaxed, contemporary property tucked along a quieter street in Puerto Madero. It offers spacious rooms, a well-regarded on-site restaurant and bar, and a small spa complete with a pool and gym. One of its most popular features is the rooftop terrace overlooking the river—a great spot to unwind with a glass of malbec.

This hotel offers excellent value for the amenities it provides. Guests enjoy complimentary daily spa access and a generous breakfast buffet featuring fresh pastries, cold cuts, and other local favorites. It also has a flexible cancellation and rescheduling policy, which adds peace of mind for travelers. Nightly rates range from $220 to $415 USD, depending on the room category.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hilton Buenos Aires – $$

The Hilton Buenos Aires is one of the biggest hotels in Puerto Madero, and it’s super well equipped, with modern comforts and lots of business-friendly amenities. It boasts a prime riverfront location and a lovely rooftop pool with excellent skyline views.

The minimalist rooms really epitomise soft luxury with their clean lines, neutral tones, and cozy lighting – and don’t get me started on those marshmallow-like beds! Meanwhile, the on-site bar, Alberto’s, is always a good time. Rooms here cost between $215 and $830 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.

Find out more and book this stay here!

San Telmo

San Telmo is one of Buenos Aires’ most atmospheric neighborhoods. It has an artsy, Bohemian feel and it’s actually the city’s oldest barrio! We love coming here to wander through the cobbled streets, admire the colonial facades, and check out the antique stores.

San Telmo is famous for its Sunday antiques fair, while the San Telmo Market is open daily. There’s a ton of great food to be found here – make sure to visit Hierro restaurant for the best steak in Buenos Aires! 

Meanwhile, you can head to the plaza to watch tango dancing, or wander over to the neighboring La Boca neighborhood to watch the Boca Juniors play. Visitors don’t tend to stay in  La Boca, but it’s a total must-visit because it’s home to lots of tango performers and colorful houses, not to mention the best pre-game parties you’ll find anywhere in the world!

Although San Telmo is a little further away from the buzzy nightlife of Palermo, the major sights of Plaza de Mayo are just a 10-minute bus ride away, and San Telmo does have its own handful of bars and breweries, although it’s admittedly more low-key.

All in all, this area is ideal for travelers who appreciate charm and culture over polish, and who don’t mind a little bit of grit.

Pros 

• Rich in history and character
• Great for antique lovers and tango fans

Cons 

• Grittier and less modern than other areas
• Fewer nightlife options 

Anselmo Buenos Aires – $$ 

Set right on Plaza Dorrego, Anselmo Buenos Aires is perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of San Telmo’s action. It’s a stylish boutique hotel housed in a renovated 19th-century building, blending modern touches with historic charm.

The rooms are bright and minimalistic, with huge windows that open up to the buzzing plaza or quiet courtyards. We love the cozy on-site bar and café here, and the sleek pool, which is surrounded by quirky flamingo statues. On Sundays, the market spills out just steps from the front door, and you can often catch live tango performances right outside.

This place combines location, atmosphere, and comfort perfectly! Expect to pay between $135 and $185 USD per night for a twin or queen room here during the peak summer season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

L’Adresse Hôtel Boutique – $$ 

L’Adresse Hôtel Boutique is tucked away on a quiet residential street. It’s not fancy, but it’s very charming, with cozy colonial decor. In fact, each of the 14 rooms is individually styled with a mix of antique details and modern flair!

The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but it boasts a cozy lounge, a leafy little patio, and a welcoming lounge area. You’ve got some fantastic local cafés and bars right on your doorstep, and they serve a tasty complimentary breakfast with great coffee each morning to set you up for the day.

Rooms here cost between $80 and $225 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Ribera Sur Hotel – $ 

Ribera Sur Hotel offers a budget-friendly stay with boutique touches. In terms of value for money, it’s hard to beat! It offers simple but stylish rooms with lots of natural light, and there’s a sleek outdoor pool with a couple of sun loungers for guests to relax on. 

The service here is warm and friendly, and the location offers easy access to San Telmo’s historic core, as well as the modern waterfront area of Puerto Madero. It’s a solid pick for travelers who want convenience, cleanliness, and a splash of style without breaking the bank! Rooms here cost between $85 and $115 USD per night.

Browse room options and reserve your stay here!

Retiro

Retiro is a refined, central neighborhood that’s often overlooked by visitors, but it’s actually a fantastic base for first-timers! It’s super well-connected, since it’s home to the city’s main train station, and several subway lines serve the area. 

Top sights nearby include the famous Plaza San Martín, the Monumento a los Caídos, and the grand Retiro train station itself. Florida Street, a pedestrian shopping strip, begins here and runs all the way downtown. And yet despite its proximity to the action, Retiro still feels quieter than downtown Buenos Aires. 

In fact, Retiro is roughly in the geographical center of Buenos Aires, so it’s a great place to stay if you want to do a little bit of everything. You’re just a 15-minute Uber ride from Palermo’s vibrant nightlife or upscale Puerto Madero, and only 10 minutes from the famous Teatro Colon or historic Recoleta.

It’s also within walking distance from the busy microcentro (downtown) area. In short, this area is perfect for anyone who wants to be close to everything without staying right in the thick of the crowds.

Pros

• Central location with excellent transport links
• Leafy streets and elegant historic buildings

Cons

• Quiet area with less nightlife 
• Few attractions in the area itself

Casa Lucia Member of Melia Collection – $$$ 

Casa Lucia Member of Melia Collection blends contemporary style with classic elegance in one of Buenos Aires’ most refined neighborhoods. Retiro Station is just a 5-minute walk away and there are plenty of Subte stations and bus stops nearby, so you’ll be very well connected to the rest of the city. 

Meanwhile, inside, this place oozes old-school elegance. There’s a classy bar on site and the sumptuous rooms have a stylish neutral decor. But the standout has to be the on-site spa and wellness area, which includes a sleek indoor infinity pool, a sauna, and a luxurious treatment menu. 

Rooms here cost between $300 and $450 USD per night, while suites cost between $330 and $950 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Feir’s Park Hotel & Rooftop – $$

Feir’s Park Hotel & Rooftop offers great value for money in a peaceful pocket of Retiro. The rooms are large and comfortable, and most include balconies with city views. Meanwhile, the sleek rooftop terrace boasts a stylish infinity pool and sun loungers where you can relax and soak up the sun. You can also enjoy drinks up here while taking in views of the city’s skyline – sounds ideal, right?

Location-wise, you’re just a short walk from both the leafy Plaza San Martín and the upscale shops of Avenida Santa Fe. All in all, this hotel hits a sweet spot between price and polish, with a great location to boot! Rooms here cost between $110 and $210 USD per night.

Secure your stay at Feir’s Park Hotel & Rooftop here!

Argenta Tower Hotel & Suites – $

Argenta Tower Hotel & Suites is a solid budget pick that’s tucked away on a quiet street in Retiro, but still just a few blocks away from the action. It offers clean and spacious rooms with kitchenettes, so it’s a great choice for longer stays and travelers who like a little extra space.

There’s a seasonal rooftop pool and a gym for guests to use, and you can opt in to the breakfast buffet if you’d like. The décor is a little bit dated, but the service is friendly and reliable, the location is excellent, and this place always delivers a relaxing and comfortable stay. 

Browse room availability for your travel dates here!

Belgrano 

Belgrano is a relaxed, residential neighborhood in northern Buenos Aires, known for its wide boulevards, elegant old homes, and calm, tree-lined streets. It’s a lovely option if you’re looking for a quieter, more local experience away from the bustle of the tourist hubs.

While you won’t find major landmarks right on your doorstep, the neighborhood is well connected via buses and the Subte (Line D), making it easy to reach Palermo, Recoleta, and downtown. Belgrano is also home to Chinatown (Barrio Chino), where you’ll find noodle shops, street food, and quirky import stores.

This area is especially bustling on weekends, so make sure to check it out, even if you don’t end up staying here! There’s also the Estadio Monumental, a great place to catch a football game or just check out. And in the midst of Chinatown, you’ll find Belgrano C train station, which is not only a transport hub, but also the center of a buzzing social scene.

A few years ago, the train was lifted overhead, and the neglected space below became transformed into an exciting food scene known as “Via Viva”, which is lined with cafes, cocktail bars, and restaurants. It’s definitely not what you’d expect from a quiet residential neighborhood like Belgrano, but that’s part of its charm!

Pros

• Elegant and residential area 
• Well-connected by public transport

Cons

• Can be noisy at night
• Fewer tourist attractions than other areas 

Argenta Suites Belgrano – $$

Tucked into a quiet side street, Argenta Suites Belgrano offers apartment-style accommodation with a calm, homely feel. Each suite comes with a small kitchenette, a comfy lounge area, and plenty of space to unwind, which is ideal for longer stays. The property also has a small outdoor pool, garden patio, and a simple fitness center, so you’ve got everything you need. 

You’re within walking distance of local shops, bakeries, and the Subte, and just a few blocks from Chinatown if you’re craving noodles or dim sum. The hotel staff are friendly and helpful, and the vibe is more casual than fancy, which suits the neighborhood perfectly.

Suites here range between $140 and $330 USD per night, depending on the time of year and option you choose.

Browse room options at Argenta Suites Belgrano here!

Urbanica The Libertador Hotel – $$ 

Urbanica The Libertador Hotel is a sleek and stylish property with minimalist decor that feels trendy and functional at the same time. The rooms are bright and modern with clean lines and warm wood finishes, plus smart design touches that make the most of the space. 

There’s a small rooftop pool for cooling off in the warmer months, plus a laid-back terrace area where you can sip a drink and enjoy the view. The property is about a 10-minute walk from Barrio Chino and the Via Viva food street.

You’ve also got local bakeries, parks, and public transport nearby, so this is a convenient and cozy home from home. Rooms here cost between $115 and $235 USD per night.

See available rooms and book your stay here!

Sarum Hotel Design – $ 

Sarum Hotel Design is a simple, budget-friendly hotel in Belgrano. It offers no-frills rooms with comfy beds and good WiFi. It’s ideal if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and comfy to bed down for the night, but plan on spending most of your time out of the hotel and exploring the city. 

The area around the hotel is safe and residential, with local cafés and shops nearby. It’s not luxurious, but if you’re after good value and a calm base in a local neighborhood, Sarum ticks all the right boxes!

Rooms here cost between $100 and $185 USD per night, depending on the room category you choose and your dates.

These are very competitive prices, so snag this stay before the hotel fills up!

Related Read: Want to explore the city like a pro? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Buenos Aires here—from iconic landmarks to local favorites, it’s the perfect starting point for discovering what makes this city so special.

Top Activities to do in Buenos Aires

With your Buenos Aires stay sorted, it’s time to experience everything this vibrant city (and beyond!) has to offer—and trust us, the adventures are unforgettable. From food tours in Palermo to gaucho culture in the Pampas, we found so many ways to connect with Argentina’s heart and soul. Here are a few standout tours that gave us a deeper, more delicious, and more meaningful perspective on Buenos Aires.

• Eat your way through Palermo – We wandered between hidden local spots on this delicious Palermo food tour, sampling provoleta, choripán, and sweet treats like dulce de leche. Our guide shared fun culinary insights along the way—this tour is a must for curious foodies.

• See the city in comfort and style – Hopping between Recoleta, La Boca, and Plaza de Mayo in this private city tour made exploring so easy. With a local guide and air-conditioned car, this relaxed and customizable experience gave us a deeper feel for the city.

• Escape to the Tigre Delta – This half-day Tigre Delta and San Isidro tour took us from the city to leafy canals, colonial mansions, and riverside markets. The boat ride through the delta was peaceful and scenic—this tour is perfect for a laid-back city break.

• Live a day of gaucho life – Set on a scenic ranch in the Pampas, this full-day estancia tour treated us to horseback rides, an open-fire asado, and gaucho games. The wine flowed, the food was incredible—this cultural experience was pure magic.

• Take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Iguazú Falls – This private tour to Iguazú Falls handled everything: flights, transport, park tickets, and a stellar guide. It was long but seamless, and the views? Completely worth it. A true bucket-list experience.

Renting a Car in Argentina

We enjoyed a rental car for our second trip to Argentina when we traveled in Patagonia – and wow, what a way to travel! But the best part was that we only paid $40 USD per day for a 5-person sedan!

But how? Well, if you’re renting a car in Argentina, the cheapest company is Discover Cars. We often get questions from readers asking us if the website is fake because it seems too cheap! It’s a great website and the one we used for our rental.

If you do want to compare prices (and you should), do a quick search on Airport Car Rentals too. They’re another big competitor, and each company often has its own deals to offer!

Thanks for reading!

After a day of wandering leafy streets, watching tango in a plaza, or sipping drinks by the river, having the right home base in Buenos Aires really makes all the difference. Whether you’re staying in chic Recoleta, trendy Palermo, or the colorful heart of San Telmo, each barrio brings a unique rhythm and flavor to your trip.

We hope this guide helps you find a stay that suits your style—and sets you up for an unforgettable experience in Argentina’s vibrant capital. Still planning your trip? Be sure to check out our other Argentina blogs here for more tips, hotel recs, and things to do across the country. Or scroll down for a few of our most popular guides below:

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