Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is one of the most exciting cities for digital nomads. It has a vibrant culture, an affordable cost of living, and a growing startup scene. In this guide, we will explore the best places to work, play, and live in Buenos Aires as a digital nomad.
Where Digital Nomads Stay
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Buenos Aires, Palermo is the most popular neighborhood for digital nomads. It offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury apartments. San Telmo, Recoleta, and Belgrano are also great neighborhoods to consider, each with their own unique charm.
Palermo
- Best for: Digital Nomads looking for a more upscale experience.
- Description: This is one of the most popular neighborhoods for digital nomads in Buenos Aires. It’s known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Palermo Soho is particularly popular among younger crowds due to its vibrant nightlife. There are many co-working spaces and cafes that offer free Wi-Fi in the area.
Where to Stay
Recoleta
- Best for: Creative Digital Nomads
- Description: This is a more upscale neighborhood and is known for its cultural attractions such as the Recoleta Cemetery and the National Museum of Fine Arts. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and shops in the area. Some of the co-working spaces in Recoleta are more upscale and cater to those in creative industries.
Where to Stay
San Telmo
- Best for: Digital Nomads looking to save money and experience a more diverse crowd.
- Description: This is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires and is known for its historical buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s a popular spot for street performers and artists, and there are many cafes and restaurants in the area. Some of the co-working spaces in San Telmo are more budget-friendly and attract a diverse crowd.
Where to Stay
Microcentro
- Best for: Digital Nomads looking for a more corporate vibe.
- Description: This is the central business district of Buenos Aires and is a popular location for those in the finance and business industries. There are many hotels and serviced apartments in the area that cater to business travelers. Some of the co-working spaces in Microcentro are more corporate and have a more professional atmosphere.
Where to Stay
Belgrano
- Best for: Digital Nomads looking for a more relaxed and quiet environment.
- Description: This is a quieter neighborhood and is popular among families and older digital nomads. There are many parks and green spaces in the area, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants. Some of the co-working spaces in Belgrano are more relaxed and cater to those who prefer a quieter work environment.
Overall, Buenos Aires offers a wide variety of neighborhoods to suit different preferences and budgets. Digital nomads can choose to stay in a more upscale neighborhood like Recoleta, a more bohemian neighborhood like San Telmo, or a quieter neighborhood like Belgrano. Palermo is a popular choice for its trendy cafes and co-working spaces, while Microcentro is ideal for those in the corporate world.
Where Digital Nomads Work
Buenos Aires has an abundance of coworking spaces and cafes for digital nomads to work from. One of the most popular coworking spaces is Urban Station, which offers a range of services including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. Other great coworking spaces include La Maquinita, Area Tres, and WeWork.
If you prefer working from a cafe, Buenos Aires has no shortage of great options. Café Rivas in Palermo Hollywood is a popular spot with fast Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere. LAB Tostadores de Cafe in San Telmo is another great option, with delicious coffee and plenty of seating.
- Unique Traits: Rooftop Terrace in some locations
- This is a popular co-working space in Buenos Aires with several locations across the city. The spaces have a modern design and offer a variety of amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and free coffee. Some locations also offer a rooftop terrace for socializing and networking.
Urban Station
- Unique Traits: Loyalty program for visitors that visit frequently!
- This co-working space has several locations in Buenos Aires and is known for its modern design and flexibility. Members can choose to work in different areas of the space, such as a quiet room or a more social area. The spaces offer high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and free coffee. They also have a loyalty program that rewards frequent users with discounts on future bookings.
La Fabrica del Sur
- Unique Traits: One unique feature of this space is its outdoor patio area, which is great for socializing and networking.
- This co-working space is located in the San Telmo neighborhood and is housed in a converted factory. It has a rustic, industrial design and offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a kitchen area.
- Unique Traits: It has a variety of events and workshops for members to attend, such as language classes and networking events.
- This co-working space is located in the Belgrano neighborhood and is known for its community-oriented atmosphere. It has a modern design and offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and free coffee.
- Unique Traits: It has a variety of events and workshops for members to attend, such as pitch nights and mentorship sessions.
- This co-working space is located in the Palermo neighborhood and is geared towards entrepreneurs and startups. It has a modern design and offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and free coffee.
Overall, Buenos Aires has a variety of co-working spaces to suit different preferences and needs. La Maquinita Co and Urban Station are great for their modern design and flexibility, while La Fabrica del Sur is unique for its outdoor patio area. AreaTres is known for its community-oriented atmosphere, and The Office Buenos Aires is ideal for entrepreneurs and startups. All of these spaces offer high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and other amenities to ensure that digital nomads can work efficiently and effectively.
How digital Nomads Get Around
Buenos Aires has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. The subway, known as the “subte,” is the most efficient way to get around the city. A single ride costs only a few pesos, making it very affordable.
If you prefer to explore the city on foot or by bike, Buenos Aires has plenty of options for you as well. The city has many bike rental shops and bike lanes, making it easy and safe to explore the city on two wheels.
Here are some tips and recommendations for getting around the city:
- Buenos Aires has a subway system, known as the “Subte”, which is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. There are six lines (A, B, C, D, E, and H) that cover much of the city, and trains frequently run throughout the day. Fares are inexpensive, and you can purchase a rechargeable SUBE card to make your trips even more seamless.
- Bus: Buenos Aires also has a vast network of buses, known as “colectivos”, that can take you just about anywhere in the city. Each bus line is identified by a number, and there are also different types of buses (e.g. express buses) that may have different routes and stops. Fares are also inexpensive, and you can pay with your SUBE card.
- Taxis and ride-sharing apps: Taxis are readily available in Buenos Aires, and they can be hailed on the street or through an app like Easy Taxi or BA Taxi. Uber and Cabify are also available in Buenos Aires, although they have faced some legal challenges in recent years.
- Walking and biking: Buenos Aires is a walkable city, and many of its most popular neighborhoods (such as Palermo and Recoleta) are best explored on foot. If you prefer to bike, there are several bike rental companies in the city, and Buenos Aires also has a bike-sharing program called Ecobici that allows you to rent a bike for short trips.
- Driving: While it’s certainly possible to rent a car in Buenos Aires, we generally don’t recommend it for visitors. Traffic can be very congested, parking can be difficult to find, and navigating the city’s streets can be a challenge. Stick to public transportation or taxis instead.
Overall, getting around Buenos Aires as a digital nomad is relatively easy and affordable, thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation system. With a little bit of planning, you’ll be able to navigate the city like a pro and get to all the places you need to go.
Where Digital Nomads Eat and Drink
Buenos Aires is known for its delicious food and wine. As a digital nomad, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to dining out. One of the most popular dishes in Buenos Aires is the steak, which is often served with chimichurri sauce.
If you want a more casual dining experience, try one of Buenos Aires’ many food trucks. One popular food truck is La Maruja, which serves delicious empanadas and sandwiches.
La Cabrera
- Unique Traits: Don’t miss their popular happy hour, where you can enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers.
- Known for its exceptional Argentine steaks, La Cabrera offers a wide selection of meats and cuts, all cooked to perfection. The restaurant also has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with rustic decor and friendly staff.
Don Julio
- Unique Traits: Inviting restaurant with amazing empanadas and famous sweetbreads.
- A top-rated steakhouse in Buenos Aires, Don Julio is known for its premium cuts of beef, cooked over an open flame grill. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and traditional Argentine decor. Be sure to try their famous sweetbreads and empanadas, too.
La Pescadorita
- Unique Traits: Fresh seafood restaurant with a revolving menu
- For fresh seafood and a taste of the sea, head to La Pescadorita. This quaint restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including ceviche, grilled octopus, and shrimp skewers. Their menu changes frequently based on what’s in season, so there’s always something new to try.
Sarkis
- Unique Traits: Armenian restaurant that won’t hurt your wallet. Good for lunch.
- For something a little different, try Sarkis, a popular Armenian restaurant in Buenos Aires. The menu features a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, including hummus, falafel, and lamb kebabs. The restaurant is casual and affordable, making it a great option for a low-key dinner or lunch.
Cafe Tortoni
- Unique Traits: A cafe packing a ton of history and features an extensive argentine pastry menu.
- A classic cafe in Buenos Aires, Cafe Tortoni is a must-visit for its historical significance and charming atmosphere. The cafe first opened in 1858 and has been a gathering place for intellectuals, artists, and politicians ever since. The menu features classic Argentine pastries and coffee drinks, perfect for a mid-afternoon break.
San Telmo Market
- Unique Traits: Huge market with a ton of vendors selling literally everything. A must see.
- For a taste of local flavor, head to the San Telmo Market. This bustling market features food stalls and vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to empanadas and churros. There are plenty of options to choose from, so you can sample a variety of traditional Argentine dishes.
La Mar
- Unique Traits: If you love seafood, definitely stop here because the Peruvian inspiration takes the flavor up a notch.
- Another great seafood option, La Mar offers a more modern take on traditional Peruvian cuisine. The menu features a variety of ceviches and other seafood dishes, as well as refreshing cocktails and desserts. The restaurant has a bright and colorful decor, with a lively atmosphere.
Each of these restaurants and markets offers a unique dining experience and features traditional Argentine cuisine, seafood, or international flavors. From cozy steakhouses to bustling food markets, there’s something for every taste and budget in Buenos Aires.
How Digital Nomads Party
Buenos Aires has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of options for digital nomads to explore. Palermo is the most popular neighborhood for nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. La Trastienda and Niceto Club are two popular venues for live music.
- This trendy neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most popular bars and clubs. The streets are lined with colorful street art and bustling with young locals and tourists alike. Some of the best places to check out in Palermo Hollywood include:
- Carnal:
- This stylish bar is known for its creative cocktails and live music
- Carnal:
- Niceto Club:
- One of the most famous nightclubs in Buenos Aires, Niceto Club hosts a variety of events from indie rock concerts to dance parties.
- Niceto Club:
- Frank’s Bar:
- This hidden speakeasy-style bar requires a password to enter and serves up some of the best cocktails in town.
- Frank’s Bar:
San Telmo: This historic neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and tango dancing. It’s also home to some great bars and restaurants, including:
- La Poesía:
- This cozy bar is a favorite among locals for its charming decor and extensive wine list.
- El Federal:
- This historic bar has been around since 1864 and is known for its old-world charm and classic cocktails.
- Gran Bar Danzón:
- This upscale bar and restaurant serves up delicious food and drinks and often hosts live jazz music.
- Recoleta: This upscale neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most elegant bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to dress up and enjoy a night out. Some of the top spots in Recoleta include:
- Florería Atlántico:
- This unique bar is hidden beneath a flower shop and serves up creative cocktails inspired by Argentina’s history and culture.
- Florería Atlántico:
- The Library Lounge:
- Located inside the Four Seasons hotel, this elegant bar is known for its extensive whiskey selection and cozy atmosphere.
- The Library Lounge:
- La Biela:
- This historic cafe and bar has been around since 1850 and is a great place to enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while people-watching.
- La Biela:
- Puerto Madero: This waterfront neighborhood is known for its modern architecture and high-end restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to enjoy a night out with a view. Some top spots to check out in Puerto Madero include:
- Faena Hotel:
- This luxurious hotel is home to several bars and restaurants, including the elegant Library Lounge and the trendy El Cabaret.
- Faena Hotel:
- Isabel:
- This stylish bar and restaurant serves up delicious food and drinks and often hosts live music and DJs.
- Isabel:
- The Steve:
- This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
- The Steve:
How Digital Nomads Keep Safe
Buenos Aires is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it has its share of crime. As a digital nomad, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid being targeted by thieves.
One of the most common ways travelers are robbed in Buenos Aires is through “smash and grab” thefts. Thieves on motorcycles or bikes will ride up to a car or pedestrian, smash a window or snatch a bag, and ride off quickly. To avoid this, keep your car windows rolled up and your bags and valuables out of sight, especially when walking on the street or sitting at outdoor cafes.
Another common tactic used by thieves is a distraction. Thieves will work in pairs, with one person distracting you while the other steals your belongings. This can happen in crowded areas, on public transportation, or in tourist spots. To avoid this, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close to you at all times. Don’t leave your bags unattended, and be cautious when people approach you for help or to start a conversation.
Pickpocketing is also a common problem in Buenos Aires, especially in crowded areas such as public transportation, tourist sites, and shopping areas. Thieves will often work in groups and create distractions, such as bumping into you or asking for directions, while another person steals your wallet or phone. To avoid this, keep your valuables in a secure place, such as a cross-body bag or a front pocket, and be aware of your surroundings.
Finally, it’s important to note that certain areas of Buenos Aires are more dangerous than others, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas, and be cautious when taking public transportation at night. If you’re unsure about the safety of an area, ask locals or your accommodation staff for advice.
By taking these precautions and being aware of common theft tactics, you can enjoy your time in Buenos Aires safely as a digital nomad.
Conclusion
Buenos Aires is a fantastic city for digital nomads, with plenty of options for work, play, and exploration. From coworking spaces to delicious food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing all that Buenos Aires has to offer.
FAQs
Is Buenos Aires a good city for digital nomads?
Yes, Buenos Aires is a great city for digital nomads. It has a thriving coworking scene, affordable living costs, and a rich cultural heritage to explore.
How much does it cost to live in Buenos Aires as a digital nomad?
The cost of living in Buenos Aires can vary depending on your lifestyle and accommodation preferences. However, on average, you can expect to spend around $1,500-$2,000 per month on rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.
What are some popular coworking spaces in Buenos Aires?
Buenos Aires has a wide range of coworking spaces, including Urban Station, La Maquinita, and AreaTres. These spaces offer flexible memberships, high-speed internet, and community events.
Do I need a visa to work as a digital nomad in Buenos Aires?
If you’re planning to stay in Buenos Aires for less than 90 days, you don’t need a visa as a tourist. However, if you plan to stay longer or want to work for an Argentine company, you’ll need to apply for a work visa.
What are some popular activities for digital nomads in Buenos Aires?
There are plenty of things to do in Buenos Aires for digital nomads, including exploring the city’s many cultural landmarks, visiting coworking spaces and networking events, learning Spanish, and enjoying the local food and wine scene.
How do I find the Whatsapp groups for digital nomads in Buenos Aires?
You can find all of the Whatsapp groups for digital nomads inside Nomad Grab’s app. Inside our app, you can filter by country, and city to find the active Whatsapp communities and groups for your destination city. You can also filter the groups by interest, like hiking, sports, or nightlife. It’s a remarkable tool to add to your arsenal so log in and get plugged in immediately!
