Is Buenos Aires public transport safe?

Generally yes, but watch for pickpockets on crowded buses and subway cars. Don't display valuables and keep bags in front of you. Avoid empty subway cars late at night.

Can I use my phone to pay for transport?

No, Buenos Aires requires the physical SUBE card. Mobile payment isn't accepted on public transport yet. Always carry your SUBE card.

What if the Subte is closed?

Buses run 24/7 as backup. Night buses (marked with 'N') follow similar routes to Subte lines. Expect longer wait times and crowds after subway closure at 10:30pm.

How do I know which bus to take?

Use BA Cómo Llego app - enter your destination and it shows all bus options with walking directions to stops. Bus stops also have route maps, but they're often outdated or missing.

How to Get Around Buenos Aires by Public Transport

Buenos Aires has an extensive public transport system with the Subte metro, buses (colectivos), and trains. Get a SUBE card for all transport, expect buses to be crowded but frequent, and use the Subte for longer distances across the city center.

Get a SUBE card immediately. Buy a SUBE card at any subway station, kiosk, or lottery shop for 90 pesos. This rechargeable card works on all public transport. Load it with credit at machines in stations or participating shops. You cannot pay cash on most transport.
Download essential apps. Get BA Cómo Llego (official city transport app) and Moovit for route planning. Both work offline and show real-time bus locations. Google Maps is less reliable for Buenos Aires public transport timing.
Learn the Subte system. The subway has 6 lines (A, B, C, D, E, H) covering central Buenos Aires. Runs Monday-Friday 5am-10:30pm, weekends 8am-10:30pm. Line A is oldest and most touristy. Lines D and B connect most neighborhoods visitors need.
Master the colectivo buses. Over 180 bus lines cover the entire city. Wave at approaching buses - drivers won't stop unless flagged. Tell the driver your destination when boarding. Buses run 24/7 but less frequently after midnight. Expect crowds during rush hours (7-9am, 5-8pm).
Use trains for longer distances. Three main train lines: Mitre, San Martín, and Belgrano Norte connect Buenos Aires to suburbs. Useful for day trips to Tigre Delta or San Isidro. Less frequent than buses but more comfortable for longer journeys.

Is Buenos Aires public transport safe?: Generally yes, but watch for pickpockets on crowded buses and subway cars. Don't display valuables and keep bags in front of you. Avoid empty subway cars late at night.
Can I use my phone to pay for transport?: No, Buenos Aires requires the physical SUBE card. Mobile payment isn't accepted on public transport yet. Always carry your SUBE card.
What if the Subte is closed?: Buses run 24/7 as backup. Night buses (marked with 'N') follow similar routes to Subte lines. Expect longer wait times and crowds after subway closure at 10:30pm.
How do I know which bus to take?: Use BA Cómo Llego app - enter your destination and it shows all bus options with walking directions to stops. Bus stops also have route maps, but they're often outdated or missing.