Your Guide to Using Public Transport in Buenos Aires
In the huge city of Buenos Aires it is easy to get lost, so travel tips are always welcome. One app that everyone visiting Buenos Aires should consider installing is “cómo llego buenos aires”. This app helps you find your way around the city; it shows routes of public transport, car, cycling and walking. Especially if you are planning to travel by public transport, this app is very useful, because it calculates the duration of your journey and offers the available means of transport. So, now that you know there are numberous possiblities to get around the city, the next question is: What is the easiest, cheapest, and best transport to use?
Taxi
The easiest way to get around the city is by taxi. Taking a taxi in Buenos Aires is very cheap compared to taking a taxi in Western Europe. A 5 minute drive will cost a maximum of 50 pesos (3 euros). However, be sure to take a radio taxi as this is the offical and safe option. Radio taxis can be tracked through the city and for this reason it is a smart idea to take these taxis, especially during the night. Also, always agree on a price before getting into a taxi as it is not uncommon for taxi drivers to scam tourists by asking for more money than is normal.
The bus
In Buenos Aires you will see a lot of buses driving Around. Buses are a good option if you don´t want to spend too much on transportation.
Be aware though, that some bus stops are hard to find, as they do not always have a big sign. Sometimes a little sign attached to a tree is all you will find. If you want to find out more information about the routes of the buses in Buenos Aires, it is a good idea to buy a so-called “Guia T” at one of the many kiosks in the city. This guide contains all necessary information about the buses and is perfect for finding your way around the city without using the internet.
The metro
In Buenos Aires there is a huge underground network of metros. On the streets you will recognize a metro station by a big sign with the word “subte” on it. There are different lines available, mostly referred to in colours (red, green, blue etc). You can easily buy your ticket at the ticket counter at the station. A return ticket will only cost you 10 pesos (0.65 Euro)! The cheap price resembles the fairly poor facilities of the metros: some are very old and it can get really hot in the summer since most metros do not have air conditioning. Moreover, try to avoid travelling during peak hours (8.00-9.00 and 17.00-19.00) as the metros will be very crowded.
Regardless of what type of transport you decide to take, be sure to always keep an eye on your personal belongings because pickpockets are always ready to strike.
Buenos Aires is a great city and with these travel tips you will definitely be prepared for finding your way around the city. Enjoy!
Buenos Aires Feb 2016, Elise de Gier