We recommend arriving to Buenos Aires ideally the weekend before the wedding so that you can enjoy the beautiful Buenos Aires! We then encourage you to form groups to travel a few days around Argentina (see tips in "Travel Argentina").
In Buenos Aires there are two main airports: Ezeiza (EZE) or Aeroparque (AEP). EZE is the main international airport with daily non-stop flights from the main cities in America and Europe (around an hour by car from the city) while AEP is in the city and has several national and international flights from Latam and US.
Internet: Once you land you will have free Wifi at the airport. You can either opt for an eSim (e.g. Airalo , Holafly or Saily) for the rest of the trip (recommended) or a SIM card (e.g. Movistar, Claro or Personal, although none available for purchase at the airport).
For Saily you can apply discount code of -15%: "leonledaron".
Transportation from the airport: Uber and Cabify (ride-sharing apps) work in Argentina. There also are private car service companies you can use, right after you exit baggage control, such as: Manuel Tienda de Leon, On Baires Transfers, Remises Vip Cars, Taxis Municipalidad de Ezeiza, etc. Any of these companies need to be booked after going through the customs check where there are specific counters for this purpose (do not exit the last door before having taken a decision).
VISA: French citizens are not required to hold a special Visa for entering Argentina. If you hold a Passport from a different nationality, please check the official website for requirements.
Although the wedding is in a venue located outside Buenos Aires city, we recommend you to stay in Buenos Aires (CABA). We highly recommend to book AirBnb's as an accommodation option or a hotel. We´ve indicated some fancy hotels below, but you can find all sort of hotels in Buenos Aires for reasonable prices also. All major hotels chains have several hotels in the city.
Recommended neighborhoods are:
1. Palermo
Palermo is one of Buenos Aires' largest and most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its parks, restaurants, bars, and shops. It is divided into:
Palermo Soho: Trendy area with boutique shops, cafes, and a lively nightlife scene.
Palermo Hollywood: Known for its excellent dining options and hip bars.
Palermo Chico: Quieter area with upscale residences and proximity to parks like the Botanical Garden and Japanese Garden.
Some hotels in this area include:
• Casa Sur Palermo - Costa Rica 6032
• Casa Sur Bellini - Cabello 3780
• Home Hotel - Honduras 5860
• Fierro Hotel - Soler 5862
2. Recoleta
Recoleta is an elegant neighborhood known for its French-style architecture, cultural attractions, and high-end shopping.
Some hotels in this area include:
• Meliá Recoleta Plaza - Posadas 1557
• Sofitel Recoleta - Posadas 1232
• Libertad Hotel - Libertad 1617
• Casa Calma - Suipacha 1015
For the wedding day, we'll coordinate a bus to and from Recoleta.
Please feel free to contact us for any doubt on booking places!
• Ride-sharing apps: Uber and Cabify work in Argentina, download the apps, and choose cash/card as payment method. We personally prefer Cabify as they have nicer cars.
• Taxis: Official taxis are painted in yellow and black. Taxis in Buenos Aires are obliged by law to use the meter. Take into account that several taxis in Buenos Aires only accept cash, so if you are low on cash ask first.
• Public Transport: If willing to go for buses/subway you will need to buy a contactless SUBE-card in a metro station, kiosko or train station. Top up the card with cash. This can be done at the purchase location or in stores with a sign “Carga SUBE Aqui”.
- Subway: The underground system has 6 lines, with good connections to Palermo, Recoleta, and Microcentro. Weekdays: 5:30am until 23:30 at night. Saturdays: until midnight. Sundays: 8:00am until 22:30.
- Buses: We suggest downloading the “Transit” app for your phone: https://transitapp.com
The official unit of currency is the Argentinian Peso (ARS). Cash is still widely used in Argentina. That means you'll always have to keep ARS in your pocket. Even to give tips in restaurants, as you may pay the bill with card, but usually you can't charge the tip on it and it's paid in cash (10% tip is the usual, can be a little bit less though, no need to leave more). Finally, when purchasing goods or services, specify that you’ll pay cash and you may get a +10% discount.
Given the current unstable financial situation in Argentina there could be alternative exchange rates in addition to the official currency rate. Although at the moment (January 2025) the exchange rate is stabilized we suggest for you to plan to bring USD Cash. You can use your credit/debit international card but you could get a better exchange rate if you sell USD to ARS to what is called "dólar blue". You may be able to exchange at your hotel or ask us and we'll contact you or indicate where to change.
Notes: 1) 100 USD bills are converted at a better rate than smaller figure bills, and 2) Old USD bills are not accepted by most exchange rates or stores).
Buenos Aires is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any large urban area, it's essential to take precautions to ensure your safety and security. Below are some tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
1. Always be aware of your surroundings:
Stay alert, especially in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing and theft (it's not worse than Barcelona, but pickpocketers may easily identify you and follow you). Always try to put your valuable belongings in a pocket with a zip.
2. Be Vigilant in Crowded Places:
Be wary of distractions, such as street performers or people asking for directions, which may be tactics used by pickpockets.
3. Avoid Displaying Valuables:
Minimize the display of expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronic devices, which may attract unwanted attention.
4. Stay on Well-Lit Streets:
Stick to well-lit and busy streets, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas.
5. Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Sharing Services:
Stick to licensed taxis (marked with official logos) or reputable ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify, especially at night.
By following these safety tips and using common sense, you can minimize risks and enjoy all that Buenos Aires has to offer as a tourist. Remember that while incidents can happen anywhere, most visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience in the city.
Explore Historic Neighborhoods - the tourist bus is the best way to do so:
- Visit La Boca to see the colorful Caminito street and experience tango culture. For football fans tours are available for the Boca Juniors Stadium.
- Wander through the cobblestone streets of San Telmo and browse antique markets.
- Discover the elegant architecture and cultural landmarks in Recoleta. It is highly recommended to visit the surroundings of the Cementery of Recoleta.
- Discover the historial buildings of the city: "Casa de Gobierno", "Tribunales", etc.
- Enjoy scenic views of the Rio de la Plata and the city skyline in waterfront areas like Puerto Madero. For nature lovers, the natural reservation is a great option for going for runs.
- Palermo, Buenos Aires' largest barrio, is a vibrant mix of trendy boutiques, leafy parks, lively nightlife, and diverse architectural styles ranging from grand mansions to colorful street art.
Restaurants:
We strongly recommend you to watch the Netflix Chaper of "Somebody Feed Phil" of Buenos Aires prior to arriving. The city has unlimited options to eat great food. Still, some of our favourites are:
- Pizzería "Guerrín" and "El Cuartito" (Classic Pizza)
- Don Julio (10th best restaurant in the world according to The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2024)
- Aramburu (Two Michelin Stars!)
- El preferido de Palermo
- El Obrero ("Bodegón" - Classic Argentinean Food)
- Los Galgos (Bar Notable)
- Chori (To eat some classic "Choripan" which great combinations!)
- Narda Comedor (Fresh Food)
- El Correo (to eat outside in this beautiful hidden aisle in Recoleta)
- Misiguene (Jewish Food)
- Tegui (High end cousine)
- Cusina Paradiso (Pasta)
- La Mezzeta (Classic Pizza)
- Nola (New Orleans Food - Fried Chicken)
Take Day Trips:
- Explore nearby attractions such as Tigre Delta, a picturesque area of islands and waterways.
- Do a Campo Day in cities near to Buenos Aires. They usually include full "asado" (barbecue) 🥩, horseback or sulky riding activities 🐎, typical Argentinean dances or shows (e.g. folklore dance)💃, and opportunity to be out in the nature, relaxing with friends and wine🌻☀️.
While there are many options we highly recommend:
. Estancia El Ombu (110-120usd per person) - to reserve email: reservaselombu@gmail.com directly with them (110usd) or to info@arecotradicion.com with an agency that also coordinates transportation and a visit to a nearby (and very cute!) town (130usd)
. La Candelaria (110-130usd) - book via info@estanciacandelaria.com they are now offering 25% off these days!
. Others higher end (>100usd): La Bamba de Areco, Casa de Campo La Margarita (http://www.estancialamargarita.com.ar), or Estancia Villa Maria
• Others more economical (<100usd): Don Silvano Estancia Chica, or Don Manuel
Relax in Parks and Gardens:
- Take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic in the massive "Bosques de Palermo" (Palermo Woods) or Plaza Francia in Recoleta.
- Explore the Japanese Garden and the Botanical Garden for serene natural surroundings in the middle of the city.
Shop and Explore Markets:
- Browse for souvenirs, crafts, and antiques at markets like Feria de San Telmo.
- Shop for designer brands and local fashion in neighborhoods like Palermo Soho and Recoleta.
Visit Cultural Attractions:
- Explore museums like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the MALBA (Museum of Latin American Art).
- Attend a performance at the Teatro Colón, one of the world's most renowned opera houses (highly recommended!)
Enjoy Nightlife:
- Experience Buenos Aires' vibrant nightlife scene with its plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Sip cocktails in trendy rooftop bars or dance the night away in pulsating nightclubs. Some recommended high end bars are Florería Atlántico, Presidente Bar or El Purgatorio.