Undoubtedly one of Latin America’s most exciting cities, Buenos Aires will see you strolling down elegant boulevards to cosmopolitan eateries, past colourful street markets and into tiny wine bars – and on to hip party spots where you’ll dance ’til dawn. With accommodation options ranging from intimate family-run B&Bs; to trendy boutique townhouses; family friendly apartment hotels; and contemporary, five star hotels with outstanding spa facilities, there’s something in the city to suit every budget. And in a city brimming with fabulous barrios to explore, location is top of the list when considering the best places to stay in Buenos Aires.
Beautiful Recoleta is one of the city’s most romantic neighbourhoods, where properties exude a charming faded grandeur. Amble through Recoleta Cemetery — either solo or with a knowledgeable guide — for a glimpse of where some of the city’s most illustrious residents have been laid to rest, before visiting the nearby smart boutiques and little markets. Also overflowing with history, neighbouring Retiro boasts many of the city’s old palaces, including Palacio Paz, as well as antique shops and galleries aplenty, plus Buenos Aires’ main bus and train stations. Both are fantastic choices for visitors looking to experience sophisticated, old-world Buenos Aires.
The charm continues in San Telmo, a bohemian barrio perhaps best-known for its buzzing Sunday market. Go to admire artisanal jewellery, vintage clothes, leather goods and trinkets midst thronging crowds, with live drumming and a fun party atmosphere. Little bars and eateries spill out onto the street, perfect for low-key drinks and lively tango on the cobbles. Once one of the city’s wealthiest neighbourhoods, San Telmo was left dilapidated by a yellow fever epidemic in 1871, although many of its grand old buildings are now being restored.
For a hip, happening scene try trendy Palermo. Abuzz with independent boutiques, street art, quirky bars and chic eateries, it also offers some of the city’s best nightlife. Palermo Soho has a cool vibe and lots of heritage buildings, whilst Palermo Hollywood is famed for its restaurants. Business travellers, on the other hand, might opt to stay in Centro or the up-and-coming Puerto Madero district, where red brick dockyards have been transformed into striking hotels with impressive waterfront views. Monserrat, too, is a lovely choice for museum-goers keen to be in the heart of the action.
Wherever you choose to stay, hop on the metro, grab a taxi or simply amble from cafe to bar and back, getting a glimpse of as many of the city’s wonderfully diverse barrios as possible. There’s so much history, culture, food and fun to be had — whether sharing a bottle of Argentinian red in a low-key bistro, taking in an irresistibly sexy tango show, or cheering the national side at a football match in colourful La Boca. Our pick of the best places to stay in Buenos Aires promise a magical experience, from intimate hideaways to hip hangouts, right across the city.