Is it safe to take public transport at night?

The Subte stops running around 11pm on weekdays, 1am weekends. Night buses run but stick to well-lit stops. After 11pm, locals use ride apps or licensed taxis. Avoid empty subway cars late at night.

Do I need to speak Spanish to use public transport?

Basic Spanish helps but isn't required. Transport apps work in English. Key phrases: 'parada' (stop), 'permiso' (excuse me), '¿cuánto falta?' (how much longer?). Subway announcements are in Spanish only.

What's the difference between a taxi and a remise?

Taxis are yellow/black with meters that locals don't trust. Remises are private cars you call by phone - safer but no apps. Most locals now use Uber/Cabify instead of either. Street taxis are the least recommended option.

Can I use my contactless credit card on public transport?

No, you must use a SUBE card. Foreign credit cards don't work on buses or subway turnstiles. Some newer buses accept contactless payments but it's unreliable. Stick to SUBE cards.

How to get around Buenos Aires like a local

Buenos Aires locals rely on the Subte subway system for speed, buses (colectivos) for everywhere else, and walking for short distances. Get a SUBE card for all public transport, avoid rush hours when possible, and never take taxis without using an app.

Get a SUBE card immediately. Buy a SUBE card at any subway station, kiosk, or lottery office for 90 pesos. Load it with at least 2000 pesos to start. This card works on all buses, trains, and the subway. Locals never carry exact change anymore.
Master the Subte subway system. Use the Subte for long north-south or east-west trips. Lines A, B, C, D, E, and H cover most tourist areas. Download the BA Subte app for real-time updates. Avoid rush hours (7-9am, 6-8pm) when cars are packed beyond comfort.
Learn the colectivo bus system. Buses go everywhere the Subte doesn't. Use the Moovit or Cómo Llego apps to find routes. Board through the front door, tap your SUBE card, and move to the back. Press the stop button or say 'parada' to the driver when you want to get off.
Walk like a porteño. Buenos Aires is extremely walkable. Locals walk fast and cross streets confidently. Look for pedestrian crossing lights, but don't expect all drivers to stop. Most neighborhoods are safe to walk during the day.
Use ride apps strategically. Use Uber, Cabify, or local app DiDi instead of street taxis. They're safer, cheaper, and don't require haggling. Uber works exactly like home. Have your pickup location pin ready before requesting.
Bike when weather permits. Use EcoBici (free bike share) if you have an Argentine phone number, or rent from local shops. Stick to bike lanes (ciclovías) - Buenos Aires drivers are aggressive. Best for Sunday morning rides in Puerto Madero or Palermo.

Is it safe to take public transport at night?: The Subte stops running around 11pm on weekdays, 1am weekends. Night buses run but stick to well-lit stops. After 11pm, locals use ride apps or licensed taxis. Avoid empty subway cars late at night.
Do I need to speak Spanish to use public transport?: Basic Spanish helps but isn't required. Transport apps work in English. Key phrases: 'parada' (stop), 'permiso' (excuse me), '¿cuánto falta?' (how much longer?). Subway announcements are in Spanish only.
What's the difference between a taxi and a remise?: Taxis are yellow/black with meters that locals don't trust. Remises are private cars you call by phone - safer but no apps. Most locals now use Uber/Cabify instead of either. Street taxis are the least recommended option.
Can I use my contactless credit card on public transport?: No, you must use a SUBE card. Foreign credit cards don't work on buses or subway turnstiles. Some newer buses accept contactless payments but it's unreliable. Stick to SUBE cards.