If you are going to Buenos Aires for the first time, then it is important to think about what you want to get out of your trip. If you want to see tourist attractions, then you should stay in the center of Buenos Aires. If you want to meet people and enjoy the nightlife, then you should stay in the neighborhood of Palermo.
I have been to Buenos Aires twice and both times I stayed in Palermo. Palermo is just really a nice place to stay and there are plenty of nice cafés, restaurants and bars nearby. There are also plenty of parks nearby.
For me, it is just a lot less chaotic than the city center. If I only had a few days in Buenos Aires, then I would spend them downtown to see as much as I could. Check out our 2-day itinerary for Buenos Aires.
Neighborhoods for First-Time in Buenos Aires
▪️ City Center/Downtown
The City Center is probably the best place to stay for your first time in Buenos Aires as you are close to all of the main attractions. We recommend that you stay at the Marriott Hotel in the city center as it is the hotel with the best location in Buenos Aires.
In the City Center (Microcentro) you’ll find the widest avenue (9 de Julio), Colón Theatre, the Pink House, the Obelisk, Corrientes avenue, Palacio Barolo and Tortoni Cafe.
If you are visiting Buenos Aires for a couple of days you can choose to stay in this area and you’ll have everything you need to see from Buenos Aires.
📌 To continue reading: Is Microcentro safe? Our opinion
▪️ Palermo
Palermo is the largest district in Buenos Aires and is a great place to stay if you are interested in art, parks, and food!
You won’t be disappointed with your stay in Palermo and I recommend staying here especially if you plan on staying 3 months in Buenos Aires. The only downside is that it is a little further from touristic activities.
📌 To continue reading: Is Palermo safe? Our opinion
Final Thoughts
There are many places to stay in Buenos Aires and it is a big city. As it is your first time in the city, you will probably just get to scratch the surface of what the city center has to offer. Choosing an option near Avenida 9 de Julio is probably your best option but don’t worry if you are a bit away as you can always get a taxi or an Uber to where you want to go.