Buenos Aires' Top 10 Budget Options

Our Local Expert Says:

If the weather is nice, request an outdoor table in the tiny, hidden courtyard. You will be able to get a little bit of space, seated away from the hordes of tourists that cram in here every night.

Description:

There's nothing pretentious about this bustling parrilla where jovial waiters serve plump steaks, spicy chorizo, and slabs of fried provolone to a festive crowd. Red house wine flows freely and hot-off-the-grill papas fritas burn the tongue as families and groups of friends chow down in a casual atmosphere that's true to San Telmo's working-class roots. Reservations aren't necessary, but a line wraps around the corner on weekend evenings - its best to show up just before the dinner rush. Bring a hearty appetite for red meat and a good sense of humor.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Sunday fair also features a huge variety of clothes and accessories from local designers at a fraction of the price of similar things in Palermo. Be sure to venture down side streets to have a look in the stalls.

Description:

The San Pedro Telmo Antiques Fair is held every Sunday and the streets of charming San Telmo are extremely lively during the fair. Tourists can have a gala time, as there are tons of activities to choose from. Enjoy live performances by musicians or tango with the dancers. If you are in the mood for some shopping, check out the antiques and handicrafts sold here.

Description:

Visited by tourists and nostalgic 'Porteños' (people from Buenos Aires) alike, this establishment keeps alive the ritual of tea with cakes. The furniture carries its trademark carved fleur de lis from the turn of the century. Original pieces such as the Czech armchairs, French chandeliers, Italian stained glass and Slovenian columns are still present. The place has a permanent melancholic clientele, with a preference for spacious and classic rooms. The first floor is a dance area, where on Thursday afternoons experienced dancers, tourists and students gather for tango lessons or simply to dance.

Our Local Expert Says:

For about a dollar you can purchase a map of the cemetery from vendors at the entrance. It will prove to be quite useful when you find yourself in the maze inside.

Description:

This cemetery was a church graveyard until 1882 when the Governor opened it to the general public and renamed it Cemetery of the North. Small, and situated on the city's most valuable land, its importance resides in the many illustrious people that rest here. One of the most visited tombstones is Eva Peron's. The majority of materials used in the construction of tombs between 1880 and 1930 were imported from Paris and Milan, and important sculptural works grace many of the tombs.

Description:

Gibraltar is one of the most popular watering holes in San Telmo, drawing an international crowd to this small space for the pool tables, TV screens showing local soccer games, and, oddly, the spicy Indian and Thai-inspired menu. The green curry is a local favorite, as are the cheeseburgers, which tend to be a commodity in Buenos Aires. The good selection of already cheap beers on tap and drinks are half-price during happy hour, which stretches into a healthy 5 hours on week nights.

Description:

Dubbed a "designer bed and breakfast" by the owners, Malabia House is located in Palermo Soho in a century-old townhouse and former convent. Guests can choose from 11 rooms and 4 suites in this no-frills lodging that has everything you will need for a lovely stay, without some of the features that might draw you to another place with a pool or a spa. However, at Malabia House, the focus is on service, and the staff is more than willing to guide guests to some choice locations in the neighborhood.

Our Local Expert Says:

Piola is rare in that the kitchen remains open throughout the day, so if you (like all foreigners having trouble adjusting the late schedule here) get hungry at the early hour of 6pm, pizza at Piola is a great option. Also, inquire about the special evenings when Piola hosts a set-fee, all-you-can-eat-and-drink pizza and wine special.

Description:

Inaugurated 11 years ago in Treviso, Italy, the Buenos Aires version opened in 1993. The owners' concept was to create an atmosphere where you could eat and enjoy Italian music and cuisine. It is a place where people can relax and feel at home. Modern decoration. Piola was one of the first to offer a trendy style in Buenos Aires. The majority of clients are fairly young.

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't worry about bringing your own picnic - the food vendors are plentiful, serving up local specialties such as choripan, a tasty sausage sandwich. There are also lots of drinks and ice cream available.

Description:

Originally owned by Governor Rosas, this park opened to the public in 1874. Visit the Jardín de los Poetas, with sculptures of famous writers such as Alfonsina Storni, Félix Amador, Paul Groussac and Enrique Larreta. Enjoy the Rosedal where the colorful roses are kept. Other features include pergolas, bridges, fountains, seats, street lamps and a magnificent array of sculptures. Many activities are available at the lake, including rowing and pedal boats. These woods are the preferred choice for local joggers and bicyclers.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ostinatto offers discount tickets for local events, including sports games and parties. Inquire at the desk for a schedule of events. Also, the hostel offers a 10% discount on your room if you make reservations 5 days ahead of time. Reservations can be made online.

Description:

Located in the historical San Telmo neighborhood, Ostinatto is a fully refurbished, contemporary hostel occupying five levels in an antique building. The fashionable stark white interior is offset by touches of color, and the lowest level houses an art gallery. The fourth floor is an open dining area and lounge, where film screenings, tango classes, and Spanish lessons are held, along with community dinners, often prepared by the owner himself. The rooftop terrace overlooks the beautiful San Telmo skyline, and the small pool offers a bit of relief from the searing summer heat. Ostinatto has dorms and private rooms, all with clean bathrooms, lockers, and balconies.

Description:

This New-York style cigar bar has become a distinguished place in porteño nightlife. It makes the best spot for enjoying a drink or two, smoke cigars, and admire the frequent art exhibits organized here. Background music selections encompass the best of jazz and funk music. There are also first-class live music shows for a modest cover charge.