First Time in Buenos Aires? Avoid These 12 Common Mistakes
Visiting Argentina’s capital is one of those trips that stays with you forever. Buenos Aires is bold, elegant, and full of soul. From tango-filled nights to leafy parks and old cafés where time stands still, this city seduces you in ways you don’t expect.
But if it’s your first time in Buenos Aires, there are a few things that might surprise you , and if you’re not prepared, they can make your trip less enjoyable than it should be. I made some of these mistakes myself (so you don’t have to), and I’ve seen plenty of other travelers fall into the same traps. This year, I visited Buenos Aires for the 6th or 7th time, if I remember right. It almost felt like going back home for holidays.
So here are 12 common mistakes to avoid when it’s your first time in Buenos Aires and how to make the most of your stay in this magical city.
12 common mistakes to avoid when it’s your first time in Buenos Aires
Choosing the wrong airport
One of the easiest mistakes to make on your first time in Buenos Aires is not realizing the city has two main airports: Ezeiza International (EZE) and Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP). Ezeiza is the hub for most international flights and sits about 45 minutes from downtown (but depending on traffic could be 1.5. hours), while Aeroparque is much closer to the city center and handles many domestic and regional flights. Booking the wrong one can mean an expensive or time-consuming transfer, especially if you have a tight connection. Always double-check which airport you’re flying into or out of, and plan your transfers accordingly.
Missing on local coffee culture
Many visitors rush through sightseeing and miss the city’s traditional cafés: places like Café Tortoni, Los Galgos, or La Puerto Rico. Sitting in one of these historic coffeehouses is an experience in itself, part of the rhythm of Buenos Aires life. Don’t make the mistake of treating coffee breaks as “just a coffee” , it’s part of Argentinian life.
Skipping day trips
Buenos Aires is incredible, but nearby gems like Colonia del Sacramento (Uruguay) or El Tigre are worth exploring. Many first-time visitors never leave the city and miss out on seeing a different side of the region. If it’s so easy, why not to experience something beyond Buenos Aires, like a glimpse of a new country?
Exchanging Money the Wrong Way
One of the first things that confuses travelers in Argentina is money. Don’t rely on international ATMs or card payments- the rates are often terrible. Instead, use official exchange houses or bring cash (USD or EUR) and exchange at trusted places for a much better rate. If it’s your first time in Buenos Aires, make sure you understand how the “blue dollar” works – it’ll save you a lot, but it’s not totally legit. You’ll notice people shouting ”cambio dolar”- those are the ”exchange offices”.
Thinking that you can be on diet
If it’s your first time in Buenos Aires (or 2nd or 4th), forget about dieting. This is a city where food is at the heart of daily life, and resisting it feels almost impossible. Between generous portions of steak, pizza oozing with cheese (just look at the amount), empanadas on every corner, and the sweet temptation of medialunas or alfajores with your morning coffee, you’ll quickly realize that eating here is about indulgence, not restriction. And don’t get me started to talk about ice-cream- it is even better than in Italy. I’m not a big fan if ice-cream, but in Buenos Aires I ate it nearly daily…and it was winter.
Forgetting to carry cash
While more places now accept cards, Buenos Aires still runs on cash. From tiny cafés to market stalls and taxis, cash is king. Don’t assume you can pay everything with your card like in Europe or the U.S. If it’s your first time in Buenos Aires, carry small bills too: breaking a 1,000 peso note can be a challenge in some shops.
In some places, paying with card can add 20% to your bill. This is inevitable when you pay your taxi with card- they will always add that much extra. To avoid this use cash. When we arrived in Buenos Aires, we had no idea that it was the case. All we worried about was whether we can pay by card or not. When the driver told us to pay 20% more than the bill showed, we thought that we were cheated on. Later, we confirmed that it is, in fact, the standard.
Not booking popular restaurants in advance
Buenos Aires has world-class restaurants like Don Julio and trendy spots in Palermo, and they book out fast. If you arrive expecting to walk in, you might be disappointed. Make reservations for famous parrillas and high-end restaurants well ahead of your trip.
Don’t expect abundance of vegetables and vegetarian options in restaurants
Argentina is proud of its meat, especially beef. The quality is known all over the word. No wonder, there are endless meat restaurants, like the famous Parilla Don Julio or Parilla Aires Criollos (where parilla means grill).
While you will always find a basic salad or side of potatoes or pumpkin on the menu, vegetables rarely play a starring role. Traditional Argentine cuisine is very meat-heavy, and many locals can’t imagine a meal without it. That being said, things are slowly changing, and in neighborhoods like Palermo or San Telmo you’ll find more vegetarian-friendly spots and creative plant-based menus. Still, if it’s your first time in Buenos Aires and you’re vegetarian or vegan, it’s worth doing a little research ahead of time.
Being afraid of using public transportation
Buenos Aires is huge, and taxis or Ubers quickly add up. The city’s public transport system, especially the Subte (metro) and colectivos (buses), is cheap and efficient. All you need is a rechargeable SUBE card, which works for both metro and buses. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and a great way to feel the city’s everyday pulse. Just keep in mind that they drive like crazy, so be careful when crossing the street.
Expecting tango everywhere
Yes, Buenos Aires is the home of tango, but it’s not something you see on every corner. Many tourists expect the city to feel like one big tango show, but it’s more subtle than that. To experience it authentically, go to a milonga (a social dance hall), join a tango lesson (they are quite affordable) or book a tango show: there are many. My favourite tango show is in El Viejo Almacen (it’s the oldest tango place in Buenos Aires and they make quite a show) and Cafe Tortoni (it’s more classical, but really beautiful).
Occasionally, you may see tango dancers on the street. Your best option would be San Telmo or El Caminito in La Boca.
See also: Best tango shows in Buenos Aires: My Favorite experiences
Forgetting safety basics
Buenos Aires is vibrant and welcoming, but like any big city, you need to stay alert. Petty theft can happen, especially in crowded areas. Don’t flash valuables, keep your phone close, and use crossbody bags. Most areas are perfectly safe to explore, but if it’s your first time in Buenos Aires, a little street smarts will go a long way.
Buenos Aires got a bad fame in recent years, but if you listen to the locals (taxi drivers are usually great source of information and tips) and follow common sense rule, you will be fine. But you need to remember that some areas of Buenos Aires are not safe despite all precautions even during the day. The popular La Boca is not that safe despite being such a touristy spot. Surely, El Caminito is fine, but don’t go wandering around away from there. If in doubt, ask police officers as there are many of them in La Boca.
Not trying street food
Argentina is famous for steak, but Buenos Aires has amazing street food too. Choripán, empanadas, and even fugazzeta pizza by the slice are cheap, authentic, and loved by locals. Skipping street food means missing an essential (and tasty) part of the city. You’ll find many food stands across the city, especially along Reserva Costanera Sur (near Puerto Madero) or the promenade along Río de la Plata (the river of Buenos Aires) near Aeroparque.
See also:
- 15 best restaurants to eat in Buenos Aires according to locals
- 10 best traditional coffee shops in Buenos Aires according to the locals
- How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: Food, Culture & Hidden Gems
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This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Buenos Aires.
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