Traveling Argentina on a Budget

Argentina has long been viewed as an affordable destination for international visitors; its fluctuating economy has led to various exchange rates, making goods and services quite cheap. The main complaint from travelers used to be the high airfare into the country – but that’s changing now.

With the election of President Javier Milei, significant reforms have strengthened the Argentine peso against the US dollar while pushing the country further into recession. Although transportation remains inexpensive, dining out and lodging costs have seen an increase.

Nevertheless, there are still numerous ways to explore Argentina affordably, especially if you embrace local customs.

Typical daily expenses in Argentina (in USD)

Bring large denominations of stable currency (like USD) to secure the best exchange rates

While the exchange rates in Argentina have stabilized somewhat, cash exchanges still offer the best rates. Bring larger bills (like $100 notes for the highest rate) and exchange them at a cueva (an unofficial exchange house) to avoid high ATM fees or Western Union charges.

Using cash also ensures you receive the best rates when buying goods or services. Paying in cash allows businesses to bypass card processing fees, often resulting in a 10% discount for you.

Book flights to Buenos Aires from Miami, Los Angeles, or Madrid

When flying from or through the United States, consider routing your flight through Miami or Los Angeles.

While Houston offers the shortest direct flights to Argentina, round-trip fares from Miami or Los Angeles to Buenos Aires can often match the price of a one-way ticket from Houston.

If you're traveling from or through Europe, Madrid typically offers the most affordable flights.

Make the most of Argentina’s transportation options: subways, buses, planes, and trains – if you can find them.

Buenos Aires boasts the Subte, the only subway system in Argentina. It’s user-friendly, and for areas not serviced by the Subte, buses provide access. Use the Cómo Llego app or Google Maps for route planning.

For exploring the rest of Argentina, consider budget airlines like Flybondi, which often offer fares comparable to long-distance bus tickets.

Trains to nearby destinations like Tigre and La Plata are convenient and reliable, but services to more distant locations can be challenging to book and require advance planning. However, they are very cost-effective.

In cities like Salta, Bariloche, and Córdoba (except Mar del Plata), local buses are a convenient and accessible option.

In Buenos Aires, it's advisable to use taxis rather than rideshares, except for trips to or from Ezeiza International Airport.

When navigating Buenos Aires, taxis are typically more affordable than rideshares. However, they don’t accept card payments, so keep cash handy.

When arriving at the city from the airport, taxis often prefer to agree on a fixed rate rather than using the meter, making rideshares a worthwhile option to bypass negotiations.

The most budget-friendly airport option (aside from the Line 8 bus, which requires a SUBE card) is the minibus that picks up passengers just past the bus stop.

The ticket costs $10 and will take you to the San Telmo neighborhood. (This service is distinct from the Tienda de Leon shuttle, which has more seats but is significantly slower).

When arriving in Bariloche, it’s common to share a taxi with fellow passengers from your flight, as there’s only one route into the city.

Look for monthly accommodation, explore Facebook groups, and steer clear of immersive experience packages.

If your goal is to learn Spanish in Argentina, many schools offer immersive packages that typically cost around $1,000 per month, covering classes and a homestay with a local, often including meals.

It's more economical to book classes directly with the school and then find your own lodging via Airbnb or a Facebook housing group.

Travelers often enjoy booking a week or two in various neighborhoods of Buenos Aires to immerse themselves in the city's diversity. To save money, consider staying in one location for a monthly rate instead of switching neighborhoods and incurring nightly or weekly charges.

Facebook groups and Craigslist can be dependable sources for finding affordable accommodation in Buenos Aires. Look for listings marked dueño directo (owner direct) to secure the best prices and avoid the usual 30% commission from rental agencies that also advertise here.

Pack your outdoor equipment instead of relying on local purchases in Argentina.

Purchasing any outdoor equipment—whether for hiking, camping, or rock climbing—can be costly in Argentina due to import taxes. Make sure to check your gear requirements before your trip to avoid being caught in Patagonia needing supplies just before an outdoor adventure.

If you find yourself in need of a sleeping bag, some refugios (mountain huts) in the national parks offer rentals for the night.

Opt for comida por peso, empanadas, or platos del día for your lunch.

For a wallet-friendly lunch, visit a comida por peso (food by weight) eatery. Choose your meal, have it weighed by the staff, and pay according to the weight.

Looking for another budget choice? Empanadas are a great option! You'll find empanada shops across the country, offering both meat and vegetarian varieties.

For a budget-friendly yet filling meal, opt for restaurants offering a plato del día (daily lunch special), which typically includes an entrée, drink, and dessert or appetizer at a fixed price.

Shop at local stores instead of supermarkets, and prepare your meals in your accommodation.

Argentina boasts numerous verdulerías (fruit and vegetable shops) and carnicerías (butcher shops), which often provide better quality and lower prices than supermarkets.

Meat and wine are inexpensive almost everywhere, but fresh produce—especially imported fruits and vegetables—can be quite costly.

Focus on locally grown products. Inquire about daily or weekly discounts by asking for the oferta (offer) at small shops.

Dining out typically ranks as one of the largest expenses aside from lodging in Argentina. Preparing your own meals can save you a significant amount, especially during a month-long stay.

Visit a milonga or enjoy tango in the public square.

While formal tango performances can be captivating, they often come with a high price tag. Instead, head to a milonga (tango club) to experience the local dance scene. Check Hoy-Milonga for event listings.

Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo features afternoon tango shows, allowing you to tip the performers without needing to order an expensive meal like at the larger venues.

For fun, check out government-sponsored events.

The Argentine government organizes various free festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the nation’s rich history, music, and cuisine. Current offerings can be found on Disfrutamos BA.

Don't miss La Noche de los Museos in Buenos Aires and other cities, offering free access to all museums until the early morning. Similarly, La Noche de Librerias transforms the streets of Buenos Aires into an open-air book fair, with bookstores staying open late.

Continue planning your adventure in Argentina:

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