Getting from Buenos Aires Airport to the City Centre
Travelling from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre is one of the first things most visitors need to organise when arriving in Argentina. Most international flights arrive at Ezeiza International Airport, which is located around 30โ35 kilometres from central Buenos Aires, so the journey into the city is longer than in many other major cities. Depending on traffic and your final destination, the journey usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours.
Buenos Aires is a very large city, and most travellers stay in neighbourhoods such as Palermo, Recoleta, Microcentro, or San Telmo. Travel time will vary depending on which area you are staying in, with Palermo and Recoleta usually taking slightly longer than Microcentro because they are further from the main highway into the city. Traffic in Buenos Aires can be heavy, especially during morning and evening rush hours, so travel times can increase significantly during busy periods.
There are several transport options available, including private airport transfers, taxis, ride apps such as Uber or Cabify, airport shuttle buses, and public buses. Each option varies in price, convenience, and travel time, so the best choice depends on your budget, arrival time, and how comfortable you are navigating public transport in a new city after a long flight.
For most first-time visitors to Buenos Aires, the easiest options are usually private transfers, taxis, or ride apps, as these provide direct transport to your hotel and are relatively straightforward to arrange from the airport.
Transport Options from Buenos Aires Airport to the City
There are several ways to travel from Ezeiza Airport to central Buenos Aires, and the best option depends on how much you want to spend, how much luggage you have, and what time you arrive. Because the airport is located quite far outside the city, most travellers choose door-to-door transport rather than public buses.
The most convenient option is usually a private airport transfer, where a driver meets you in the arrivals hall and takes you directly to your accommodation. This is especially useful if you are arriving late at night, arriving early in the morning, or travelling with a lot of luggage. The price is normally fixed in advance, which means you do not need to worry about taxi meters or exchange rates.
Taxis are also widely available at the airport and are a common way to travel into the city. Official taxis operate from the airport taxi counters inside the terminal, and this is the safest way to take a taxi from the airport. The journey time is similar to a private transfer, but the price may vary depending on traffic and your exact destination.
Ride apps such as Uber, Cabify, and DiDi are also available in Buenos Aires and are often slightly cheaper than taxis. Many travellers prefer using ride apps because the price is shown in advance and the route is tracked in the app, which can feel more secure when travelling in a new city.
There is also an airport shuttle bus service, which is cheaper than taxis or private transfers but takes slightly longer because it may stop at multiple locations or require a transfer to a smaller vehicle in the city.
Public buses are the cheapest option but are usually only recommended for experienced travellers or people travelling on a very tight budget, as they can be complicated and take significantly longer than other transport options.
Ezeiza vs Aeroparque โ Which Airport Are You Flying Into
Buenos Aires actually has two main airports, and it is important to know which one you are flying into because the transfer to the city is very different depending on the airport.
The main international airport is Ezeiza International Airport, which handles most long-haul international flights from Europe, North America, and other continents. This airport is located far outside the city, which is why airport transfers take longer and cost more. Should you be arriving here check out our Ezeiza Airport Transfers Guide.
The second airport is Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, which is much closer to the city centre and is mainly used for domestic flights and some regional flights within South America. Aeroparque is located near the Palermo area and the river, and the journey to many central neighbourhoods can take 15 to 25 minutes, which is much faster than travelling from Ezeiza.
If you are arriving at Aeroparque, getting into the city is much easier and cheaper. Taxis, ride apps, and buses from Aeroparque are quick and inexpensive compared to Ezeiza transfers. However, if you are arriving on an international flight from outside South America, you will almost certainly arrive at Ezeiza, and this is the airport most travellers use when planning airport transfers.
It is always important to check your airport carefully, especially if you have connecting flights, because travelling between Ezeiza and Aeroparque can take over an hour depending on traffic.
Private Transfers from Buenos Aires Airport
One of the easiest and most stress-free ways to travel from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre is to book a private airport transfer. With a private transfer, a driver will meet you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name and take you directly to your hotel or apartment.
This option is very popular with travellers arriving after long flights because it removes the need to find a taxi, exchange money immediately, or work out public transport routes. Private transfers are also a good option if you are arriving late at night, early in the morning, travelling with family, or carrying large luggage.
The journey from Ezeiza Airport to areas like Palermo, Recoleta, or Microcentro usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During rush hour, the journey can take longer, sometimes up to 90 minutes.
Private transfers are usually fixed price, which means the price is agreed in advance and does not change due to traffic delays. This makes budgeting easier and avoids any confusion about taxi fares. While private transfers are usually more expensive than buses, they are often similar in price to taxis or ride apps when travelling as a group or with multiple passengers.
For many visitors, especially first-time visitors to Argentina, private transfers are often the easiest and most comfortable way to get from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre.
Taxi from Buenos Aires Airport
Taking a taxi from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre is one of the most common ways to travel into the city, and for many travellers it is a straightforward and reliable option. Taxis are available 24 hours a day at Ezeiza Airport, and official taxis operate from inside the airport terminal, which is important for safety.
When arriving at the airport, you should go to the official taxi desk inside the arrivals hall rather than accepting offers from drivers outside the terminal. The official taxi companies operate with fixed or estimated fares depending on your destination, and you will usually be given a receipt with the price before you travel. This helps avoid scams or drivers taking longer routes.
The journey from Ezeiza Airport to central Buenos Aires usually takes between 45 and 70 minutes, depending on traffic and your destination neighbourhood. Palermo and Recoleta are slightly further than Microcentro, so the journey may take a little longer if you are staying in those areas.
Taxis are generally more expensive than buses but cheaper than some private transfers, and they are a good option if you want direct transport to your hotel without needing to pre-book anything. Most taxis accept cash, and some accept cards, but it is usually best to confirm before starting the journey.
Overall, taxis are a convenient and fairly simple way to travel from Buenos Aires Airport to the city, especially if you use the official airport taxi services inside the terminal.
Uber and Ride Apps in Buenos Aires
Ride apps such as Uber, Cabify, and DiDi operate in Buenos Aires and are often a popular option for travellers going from Ezeiza Airport to the city centre. Many visitors prefer ride apps because the price is shown in advance, the route is tracked, and payment is handled through the app, which can feel easier than dealing with cash taxis in a new country.
Cabify is particularly popular in Buenos Aires and is often considered one of the most reliable ride apps in the city. Uber is also widely used, although pickup points at the airport may vary, and you may need to follow instructions in the app to meet your driver at a specific location outside the terminal.
The journey time when using ride apps is similar to taxis and private transfers, usually around 45 to 60 minutes to central Buenos Aires, depending on traffic conditions. Prices vary depending on demand and time of day, but ride apps are often similar in price or slightly cheaper than taxis.
One advantage of ride apps is that you do not need to speak Spanish to explain your destination, as everything is entered in the app. This makes ride apps a popular option for international visitors arriving at Buenos Aires Airport for the first time.
For many travellers, ride apps are one of the easiest ways to travel from Ezeiza Airport to Palermo, Recoleta, or the city centre, especially if you already use Uber or Cabify in other countries.
Airport Shuttle Bus (Manuel Tienda Leรณn)
The Manuel Tienda Leรณn shuttle bus is one of the most popular public transport options for travelling from Ezeiza Airport to Buenos Aires city centre. This is a private shuttle company that operates regular services between the airport and the city, and it is often used by travellers who want a cheaper option than a taxi but something easier than public buses.
The shuttle bus usually runs between Ezeiza Airport and the companyโs terminal near the city centre, and from there passengers can transfer to a smaller vehicle that takes them directly to their hotel or neighbourhood. This makes the shuttle a good balance between price and convenience.
The total journey time is usually around 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic and waiting time for transfers. The shuttle is generally cheaper than taxis and private transfers, making it a good option for budget travellers who still want a relatively easy journey into the city.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the airport or online in advance, and the service runs frequently throughout the day and evening. Many travellers consider the Manuel Tienda Leรณn shuttle to be one of the best value transport options from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre.
Public Bus from Ezeiza Airport
The cheapest way to travel from Ezeiza Airport to Buenos Aires city centre is by public bus, but this is usually only recommended for experienced travellers or people travelling on a tight budget, as the journey can be complicated and take significantly longer than other options.
To use public buses in Buenos Aires, you need a SUBE card, which is the cityโs public transport card used for buses, trains, and the metro. These cards can sometimes be purchased at the airport, but not always, which can make public transport difficult for visitors who have just arrived in the country.
Public buses from the airport can take 90 minutes to two hours to reach central Buenos Aires, depending on traffic and connections. Buses can also be crowded, and travelling with luggage can be difficult, especially during busy times.
While public buses are very cheap compared to taxis or private transfers, most visitors prefer taxis, ride apps, or the airport shuttle, as these options are much faster and easier after a long international flight.
Public buses are therefore usually best suited to budget travellers, backpackers, or people familiar with Buenos Aires public transport, rather than first-time visitors.
Airport Transfer Comparison โ Price and Travel Time
Choosing the best way to travel from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre often comes down to balancing price, travel time, and convenience. Because Ezeiza Airport is located quite far from the city, the difference between transport options can be significant, both in cost and in how easy the journey is after a long flight.
Private transfers are usually the most comfortable and easiest option because the driver meets you at the airport and takes you directly to your hotel. Taxis and ride apps are also door-to-door options and are slightly cheaper in some cases, although prices can vary depending on traffic and demand. Shuttle buses are cheaper but take longer, and public buses are the cheapest but also the slowest and most complicated.
Below is a general comparison of the main transport options from Ezeiza Airport to Palermo, Recoleta, and the city centre.
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approx Cost | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | 45โ60 minutes | High | Very Easy |
| Taxi | 45โ70 minutes | Medium | Easy |
| Uber / Cabify | 45โ70 minutes | Medium | Easy |
| Shuttle Bus | 60โ75 minutes | Low | Medium |
| Public Bus | 90โ120 minutes | Very Low | Difficult |
This table shows why most travellers choose private transfers, taxis, or ride apps, as the price difference is often worth it for a much faster and easier journey after a long flight.
Which Transfer Option Should You Choose
The best way to travel from Buenos Aires Airport to the city centre depends on your budget, arrival time, and travel style. There is no single best option for everyone, but some options are better suited to certain types of travellers.
If you are arriving late at night, early in the morning, travelling with family, or carrying large luggage, the best option is usually a private airport transfer, because it is the easiest and most stress-free way to reach your hotel.
If you want door-to-door transport but do not want to pre-book, then taxis or ride apps like Uber or Cabify are usually the best option. These are easy to use, widely available, and take roughly the same amount of time as private transfers.
If you are travelling on a budget but still want a fairly easy journey, the airport shuttle bus is usually the best compromise between price and convenience, especially if your hotel is near the city centre.
If you are travelling on a very tight budget and are comfortable using public transport, then public buses are the cheapest option, but they take much longer and can be difficult with luggage.
For most visitors to Buenos Aires, the most popular options are private transfer, taxi, or Uber, as these provide the simplest way to travel from Ezeiza Airport to Palermo, Recoleta, or the city centre.
Safety Tips for Airport Transfers in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is generally a safe city for travellers, but it is still important to be careful when travelling from the airport, especially if you are arriving for the first time or arriving late at night.
The most important tip is to only use official taxis or pre-booked transfers when leaving the airport. Do not accept rides from people offering taxi services inside or outside the terminal, as these are often unofficial taxis and may charge much higher prices.
If you are using a taxi, it is best to book at the official taxi desk inside the airport terminal, where you will receive a ticket with the fare and driver details. This is safer than getting into a random taxi outside the airport.
If you are using Uber, Cabify, or DiDi, always check the driver name, licence plate, and car model in the app before getting into the vehicle. Only get into the car if the details match the app exactly.
It is also a good idea to keep your luggage with you at all times and avoid putting bags in the front seat if possible. Keep important items such as passports, money, and phones in a secure bag rather than in suitcases in the trunk.
Following these simple precautions will help ensure your Buenos Aires airport transfer is safe and stress-free, whether you choose a taxi, private transfer, or ride app.
Travel Time and Distance from Buenos Aires Airport
Ezeiza International Airport is located approximately 30 to 35 kilometres from central Buenos Aires, and travel time depends heavily on traffic conditions and the area of the city you are travelling to.
Travel time to Microcentro, which is considered the main city centre area, is usually around 45 to 55 minutes in normal traffic. Travel time to Recoleta is usually around 50 to 60 minutes, while travel time to Palermo is usually around 55 to 70 minutes, as this area is further north in the city.
During rush hour, especially in the morning and early evening, travel time can increase significantly and journeys can take up to 90 minutes. Traffic in Buenos Aires can be heavy, so it is always a good idea to allow extra time when travelling to the airport for a departure flight.
Because the airport is relatively far from the city compared to many other major cities, it is important to plan your airport transfer in advance, especially if you have an early morning flight or are arriving late at night.
Rupertโs Handy Travel Tips
Arriving in Buenos Aires and heading into the city? Here are a few helpful tips to make your airport transfer smoother:
- Always use official taxis, ride apps, or pre-booked transfers rather than accepting rides inside the terminal.
- If arriving late at night, a private transfer or ride app is usually the safest and easiest option.
- Traffic in Buenos Aires can be heavy, so always allow extra time when travelling to the airport for departure.
- Keep small amounts of local currency available in case taxis do not accept cards.
- Save your hotel address offline on your phone in case your mobile signal is weak when you arrive.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Buenos Aires Airport from the city centre?
Ezeiza International Airport is located around 30 to 35 kilometres from central Buenos Aires, and the journey usually takes 45 to 70 minutes depending on traffic and your destination in the city.
What is the cheapest way to get from Buenos Aires Airport to the city?
The cheapest option is usually the public bus, but it requires a SUBE transport card and can take up to two hours. Most travellers prefer the airport shuttle bus, which is cheaper than taxis but much easier than public buses.
Is Uber available at Buenos Aires Airport?
Yes, Uber, Cabify, and DiDi operate in Buenos Aires and can be used from Ezeiza Airport, although pickup points may vary depending on airport regulations.
Is it safe to take a taxi from Buenos Aires Airport?
Yes, but you should always use official taxis from the airport taxi desk inside the terminal rather than accepting rides from drivers outside the airport.
Which is better, taxi or shuttle from Ezeiza Airport?
A taxi is faster and takes you directly to your hotel, while the shuttle bus is cheaper but takes longer and may involve a transfer in the city.
Further Reading & Related Guides
If this is your first time visiting Argentina, our Argentina Travel Guide is the best place to start. It covers money, safety, transport, SIM cards, and how to plan your trip across the country.
Once you arrive in the city, our Buenos Aires Travel Guide explains where to stay, how to get around, neighbourhood guides, and how to plan your time in the capital.
If you are staying in Buenos Aires for a few days, our Buenos Aires Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Guide is an easy way to see the main areas of the city and get an overview before exploring in more detail.
Many visitors also take excursions outside the city, so our Best Day Trips from Buenos Aires guide includes Tigre Delta, Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay, and other easy trips from the capital.
If you are travelling further around Argentina, you may also want to read our Iguazu Falls Guide in northern Argentina or our Things to Do in Ushuaia Guide in Patagonia to help plan a wider Argentina itinerary.
These guides together will help you plan a trip that includes Buenos Aires, Uruguay, Iguazu Falls, Patagonia, and day trips from the capital as part of one well-organised Argentina travel itinerary.
Last Updated
This guide was last updated in April 2026 to reflect current transport options, airport transfer services, and travel times between Buenos Aires Airport and the city centre.
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