Best Areas to Stay in Buenos Aires + Hotel Recommendations

Where to stay in Buenos Aires: best Buenos Aires neighborhoods

Palermo

When it comes to safe areas to stay in Buenos Aires, Palermo is often the first neighborhood that comes to mind. With its vibrant art scene, stylish bars and restaurants, museums, and green spaces, it’s easy to see why Palermo is one of the best areas to stay in Buenos Aires.

Its location makes it an ideal base, as it’s close to many of the city’s top attractions. Palermo works well for couples and solo travelers, but it’s also one of the most family-friendly areas in Buenos Aires.

Palermo accommodation in Buenos Aires ranges from hostels to elegant boutique hotels, giving travelers plenty of choices. Plus, it’s just a short ride from the airport.

I’ve spent time in Palermo several times, mainly to visit specific restaurants and bars, and even at night, it felt very safe. That said, like in any big city, it’s important to use common sense.

I recommend Palermo for first-time visitors, families, and travelers who want easy access to everything. It’s a great choice for a relaxing and laid-back vacation in Buenos Aires.

🏨 Best hotels in Palermo for every budget:

• Luxury: Legado Mitico Buenos Aires
• Mid-range: Hotel Clasico
• Affordable: Hotel Costa Rica
• Hostel: Play Hostel Garden

San Telmo

San Telmo was one of my personal favorites and definitely one of the top places to stay in Buenos Aires. Known for its colonial heritage, San Telmo has a unique charm and character that sets it apart from the rest of the city.

This area offers a variety of accommodations and, thanks to its bohemian vibe, it’s one of the most budget-friendly areas in Buenos Aires.

San Telmo is buzzing during the day with restaurants and its famous central market, which is one of the main attractions in Buenos Aires. The nightlife is equally enjoyable, with cozy bars perfect for a drink or dinner.

Every Sunday, San Telmo transforms into a huge open-air market. It’s a must-see and one of the nicest markets in the city. Afterward, you can watch tango dancers perform in Plaza Dorrego. Street performers are a common sight, especially during warmer months.

I lived in San Telmo for two months and always felt safe, even at night. However, as locals advised, it’s best to stay on busier streets after dark and avoid quiet alleys.

I highly recommend San Telmo to travelers looking to experience the city’s culture and connect with locals. Its affordability and character make it one of the best areas to stay in Buenos Aires for a deep cultural experience.

🏨 Best hotels in San Telmo for every budget:

• Luxury: Anselmo Buenos Aires, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Mid-range: Ribera Sur Hotel
• Affordable: Patios de San Telmo

Microcentro

Microcentro, also known as La City, is the central business district and the site of Buenos Aires’ first European settlement. That’s why many historical landmarks are located here, making it one of the top places to stay in Buenos Aires.

Staying in Microcentro puts you close to iconic attractions like Congreso Nacional, Teatro Colón, the Obelisco, and Plaza de Mayo. It’s also a cultural hotspot, home to legendary cafés like Tortoni and restaurants such as Pizzería Güerrín.

Microcentro is one of the liveliest Buenos Aires neighborhoods for tourists during the day, with locals and visitors out enjoying the city. After dark, it’s best to stick to busy avenues and avoid quiet streets.

I recommend Microcentro to everyone who is planning just a quick stop in the Argentine capital. If you have just one day in Buenos Aires, make sure you stay in Microcentro.

🏨 Best hotels in Microcentro for every budget:

• Luxury: Libertador Hotel
• Mid-range: NH Buenos Aires Tango
• Affordable: DEL900 Hotel Boutique

Recoleta

If you’re wondering where to stay in Buenos Aires to enjoy a luxurious vacation, Recoleta is the answer. With elegant avenues, impressive architecture, and proximity to top attractions, this is one of the best Buenos Aires neighborhoods for tourists.

Recoleta is home to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Recoleta Cemetery, where Argentina’s most famous figures are buried. The surrounding area is packed with cultural institutions like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Recoleta Cultural Center.

Recoleta hotels in Buenos Aires are known for their world-class service, attention to detail, and beautiful design. Many are located inside historic buildings with grand façades and stylish interiors, from luxury five-star hotels to boutique accommodations. 

While Recoleta is generally considered a high-end neighborhood, there are also a few mid-range and budget-friendly hotels that still provide great value for money. So even if you’re not looking to splurge, you can still enjoy everything this area has to offer.

Thanks to its safety, walkability, and access to top attractions, Recoleta is a great choice for couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a more polished and peaceful stay in Buenos Aires. 

🏨 Best hotels in Recoleta for every budget:

• Unique: Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
• Luxury: Palladio Hotel Buenos Aires – MGallery
• Mid-range: SuMa Recoleta Hotel
• Affordable: A Hotel

Puerto Madero

Puerto Madero stands out as one of the best areas in Buenos Aires to stay in for modern architecture and upscale experiences. If you’re wondering where to stay in Buenos Aires for safety, chic design, and trendy restaurants, this is your spot.

The area features beautifully restored warehouses, stylish shops, and a scenic waterfront walk. Green spaces like the Ecological Reserve make it perfect for strolls at any time of day. Cross the iconic Puente de la Mujer, and you’re in the city center.

It’s one of the top Buenos Aires neighborhoods for tourists looking for a luxurious stay. This means that the area is not suitable for budget travelers.

Stay in Puerto Madero if you want a modern, safe, and upscale experience in Buenos Aires. It’s best for couples, business travelers, and those not on a budget.

🏨 Best hotels in Puerto Madero for every budget:

• Luxury: Alvear Icon Hotel
• Luxury: SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero
• Mid-range: Modern Apartments in Puerto Madero

Unfortunately, there are no affordable accommodations in Puerto Madero.

Places to avoid in Buenos Aires

While Buenos Aires is generally safe, there are some areas you should avoid, especially at night.

La Boca is a popular daytime destination, but I don’t recommend staying there. At night, it’s better to avoid the area altogether.

Retiro and Plaza Constitución are busy during the day but less safe after dark. In Retiro, make sure to stay away from Villa 31 (Barrio Padre Mugica).

Places like Fuerte Apache and Barracas are not suitable for visitors. If you have a reason to go there, only do so with a trusted local guide.