Argentina Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Argentina is generally safe for tourists, especially in major cities and popular tourist destinations. However, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching is common, particularly in crowded areas, public transport, and tourist hotspots. Be vigilant of your belongings.
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Type C (2-pin round) and Type I (3-pin flat diagonal)
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10% is appreciated if service is good. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common. For hotel staff, a small amount (e.g., 50-100 ARS) for porters or housekeepers is appropriate.
Prepaid SIM cards are readily available from major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal. You will need your passport to register. Coverage is generally good in urban areas.
Many nationalities, including citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest requirements based on your nationality with the Argentine embassy or consulate before traveling.
Right
Buenos Aires has an extensive public transport system including the 'Subte' (subway), an extensive bus network ('colectivos'), and commuter trains. You'll need a 'SUBE' card for all public transport in Buenos Aires and other major cities. Intercity buses are a popular and comfortable way to travel long distances.
Uber, Cabify, Didi
Long-distance buses are the primary mode of intercity travel, offering various comfort levels from economy to cama (sleeper) services. Domestic flights are available for covering vast distances quickly, especially to Patagonia or other remote regions. Trains are less developed for long-distance travel, but some scenic routes exist.
- • Greetings: Argentinians typically greet with one kiss on the right cheek, even among men and women who are meeting for the first time. A handshake is also acceptable in more formal settings.
- • Meal times: Dinner is usually eaten quite late, often after 9 PM or even later on weekends.
- • Mate: Sharing mate (a traditional herbal infusion) is a common social ritual. If offered, accept it and pass it back to the server when finished.
- • Personal space: Argentinians generally have a smaller personal space bubble compared to some Western cultures.
Dress is generally casual but smart-casual for evenings out, especially in Buenos Aires. For visiting churches or religious sites, modest attire is appreciated.
Argentina is predominantly Roman Catholic. When visiting churches, dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and maintain a quiet demeanor during services. Photography may be restricted during mass.
Football (Soccer) — Football is a national obsession in Argentina, deeply ingrained in its culture. Matches are vibrant events, and conversations about local clubs (like Boca Juniors and River Plate) and national heroes (Maradona, Messi) are common. Polo is also a very popular and prestigious sport, along with rugby.
February/March (movable date, before Lent)
Carnival (Carnaval)
Celebrated with parades, music, dancing, and water fights across the country, with Gualeguaychú and Corrientes hosting some of the most famous celebrations.
May 25
Día de la Revolución de Mayo (May Revolution Day)
Commemorates the formation of the First National Government in 1810, leading to independence. Celebrated with parades, historical reenactments, and traditional food like locro and empanadas.
July 9
Día de la Independencia (Independence Day)
Marks Argentina's declaration of independence from Spain in 1816. Celebrations include military parades, flag ceremonies, and public festivities throughout the country.