Mar del Plata
Argentina's most famous beach resort city with 8km of beaches and vibrant nightlife
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About Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires Province is the heartland of Argentina, encompassing vast Pampas grasslands, an 1,800 km Atlantic coastline, the Ventana mountain range, and some of South America's most vibrant cities. La Plata, the planned provincial capital, features stunning neo-Gothic architecture and world-class museums, while Mar del Plata draws millions of Argentine vacationers to its famous beaches each summer. The province is the cradle of gaucho culture, and traditional estancias offer visitors an authentic taste of Argentina's pastoral heritage.
- Capital
- La Plata
- Largest city
- La Plata
- Population
- 17 million
- Languages
- Spanish
- Currency
- Argentine Peso
- Time zone
- America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires
Explore Buenos Aires by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Buenos Aires
The 4 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Sierra de la Ventana
Mountain retreat with spectacular hiking, rock formations and Parque Tornquist
La Plata Cathedral
One of South America's finest neo-Gothic cathedrals in the planned provincial capital
Tandil
Charming hill town famous for its granite outcrops, artisan cheeses, and outdoor activities
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Buenos Aires Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Buenos Aires, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Buenos Aires
- Days 1-2Buenos Aires city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Buenos Aires
- Days 1-3Buenos Aires comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Buenos Aires, departure
Where to stay in Buenos Aires
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $30
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $80
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $250
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
NH Gran Hotel Provincial
An iconic Art Deco landmark on the Mar del Plata seafront, this historic hotel has welcomed Argentine presidents and celebrities since 1950. The hotel features a stunning oceanfront casino, multiple restaurants, a spa, and rooms with sweeping Atlantic views.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Costa Galana
A premier five-star beach hotel in Mar del Plata offering elegant rooms with panoramic ocean views, a rooftop pool, and a world-class thalassotherapy spa. The hotel's location on Playa Grande puts guests steps from Mar del Plata's finest beach.
Check rates on Booking.comSheraton Mar del Plata Hotel
A modern international luxury hotel set in Mar del Plata's lively Playa Grande area, offering spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and conference facilities. The hotel's rooftop bar offers exceptional views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Check rates on Booking.comHosteria ACA de Pinamar
A beautiful beachfront hosteria set among the famous Pinamar pine forests, offering elegant rooms, a garden pool, and direct beach access. The property exudes the distinctive Pinamar charm with its wood-and-stone architecture surrounded by fragrant pines.
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Buenos Aires
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
La Marca Parrilla
One of Mar del Plata's most celebrated steakhouses, La Marca serves impeccably grilled Argentine beef in an elegant setting. The restaurant's open fire grill, extensive wine list, and professional service make it the top choice for a special asado experience.
Chichilo Mariscos
A legendary Mar del Plata seafood restaurant with decades of history, Chichilo is the place to eat the city's finest fresh fish and shellfish. The cazuela de mariscos (seafood stew) and langostinos al ajillo are unmissable.
El Rincon del Gaucho
A classic parrilla in San Antonio de Areco serving traditional gaucho-style asado in a rustic estancia atmosphere. The wood-fired grill produces some of the most authentic open-fire roasted beef outside of a private estancia.
Resto La Anunciacion
A sophisticated restaurant in a beautifully restored colonial mansion in San Antonio de Areco, serving creative modern takes on traditional Argentine cuisine. The tasting menu featuring local Pampas ingredients is extraordinary.
Taberna Baska
A historic Mar del Plata institution founded by Basque immigrants, Taberna Baska serves a unique fusion of Basque and Argentine cooking that reflects the city's immigrant heritage. The kokotxas (salt cod cheeks) and txangurro (spider crab) are house specialties.
El Establo
A beloved traditional parrilla in La Plata that has been feeding hungry university students, politicians, and working families since the 1960s. Known for its enormous portions, excellent value, and the best blood sausage (morcilla) in the province.
Getting around Buenos Aires
Well-connected by bus and train networks from Buenos Aires city; Route 2 highway is the main artery to the coast
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15 | $40 | $150 |
| Food (per day) | $8 | $20 | $60 |
| Transportation | $4 | $10 | $25 |
| Activities | $3 | $10 | $15 |
| Daily total | $30 | $80 | $250 |
Best time to visit Buenos Aires
Essential travel tips
- Book beach accommodation months in advance for January
- Learn basic Spanish phrases — English is less common outside main cities
- Carry cash as ATMs can be unreliable in smaller towns
- Rent a car to fully explore the Pampas and mountain regions
Safety information
Keep valuables secure on crowded beaches — Playa Bristol and other popular Mar del Plata beaches attract pickpockets during peak season. Leave valuables at your hotel and only bring what you need to the beach. Use a waterproof pouch for essentials.
Be aware of rip currents on Atlantic beaches — The Atlantic coast of Buenos Aires Province has strong rip currents, especially at exposed beaches like Necochea and some sections of Mar del Plata. Only swim at beaches with lifeguards (bandera verde = safe; amarilla = caution; roja = no swimming). Never swim alone.
Use official taxis or ride-share apps — In Mar del Plata and La Plata, use radio taxis called from hotels or restaurants, or use Cabify or inDriver apps. Avoid unlicensed taxis (piratas) which may overcharge or pose safety risks.
Avoid displaying expensive electronics and jewelry — Walk with awareness in city centers, particularly in La Plata and Mar del Plata. Keep smartphones in your pocket rather than displayed in your hand. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry when exploring on foot.
Exercise caution in peripheral neighborhoods of La Plata and Mar del Plata — The main tourist areas and city centers are generally safe, but the outer suburbs and some industrial areas of these cities can have higher crime rates. Stick to central areas and ask locals or hotel staff which areas to avoid.
Be prepared for extreme summer heat and sun — Summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C on the coast and in the interior Pampas. Use high-SPF sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and seek shade during the hottest hours (12PM-3PM). Heatstroke can be a real danger for children and elderly travelers.
Take care on rural roads and Route 2 in holiday season — Route 2 to Mar del Plata is notorious for accidents, particularly on Fridays and Sundays in January when millions of porteños travel to and from the coast. Avoid peak travel times, obey speed limits, and never drive while tired.
Carry a photocopy of your passport — Argentine law requires carrying ID at all times. Carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original when sightseeing. Police may ask to see identification.
Check beach safety flags before entering the water — All beaches in Buenos Aires Province use a standardized flag system: green (safe), yellow (caution, swim near shore), and red (no swimming). Jellyfish blooms (aguavivas) are common in summer and can cause painful stings.
Be cautious when changing money — Use official casas de cambio or your bank card for currency exchange. Avoid street money changers (arbolitos) despite potentially better rates — scams and counterfeit bills are common. Be discreet after withdrawing cash from ATMs.
Register your accommodation with your consulate if on a long trip — For extended stays, register your trip with your home country's consulate in Buenos Aires city. Keep emergency consular contact information easily accessible.
Take hiking safety seriously in Sierra de la Ventana — The Parque Tornquist trails can be demanding and weather changes rapidly in the mountains. Always register your hike at the park entrance, carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and don't hike alone on longer trails. Inform your accommodation of your plans.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Buenos Aires?
Entry requirements follow Argentina rules. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Buenos Aires?
The currency in Buenos Aires is the Argentine Peso (ARS). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Buenos Aires?
The main language(s) spoken in Buenos Aires: Spanish. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Buenos Aires?
The top attractions in Buenos Aires include Catedral de La Plata, Museo de Ciencias Naturales de La Plata, Mar del Plata Beaches, Sierra de la Ventana, and Tandil Hills and Cerro El Centinela. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.