Travel Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Buenos Aires

General Tips

1. Time Management: Argentines generally have a more relaxed approach to time. Don’t be surprised if appointments run late.

2. Greetings and Courtesy: A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone new. Use “Usted” for formal situations, or “Vos” for a casual and friendly tone with locals.

3. Language: The official language is Spanish. While many locals in tourist areas speak some English, it’s always appreciated if you attempt to speak Spanish.

4. Tipping: In restaurants, tipping around 10% is customary. For taxi rides, round up the fare a bit.

5. Street Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Pickpocketing can be an issue.

Cultural Etiquette Tips

1. Dining Culture: Dinner is usually served late (after 9 pm). Argentines love their meat and wine, so if invited to dinner, be prepared for a long, leisurely meal.

2. Embrace the Passion for Football: Football (soccer) is a national obsession. Showing interest in local teams can help you connect with locals.

3. Tango: This dance and music form is synonymous with Buenos Aires. Visiting a tango show or learning to tango are popular tourist activities.

4. Respect for Traditions: Argentina has a rich cultural heritage, particularly in its indigenous and European traditions. Showing interest in these can help you connect more deeply with the locals.

5. Etiquette in Museums and Cultural Sites: Be respectful of the rules and guidelines at museums and cultural sites. This includes not touching artifacts, keeping quiet, and using whisper voices when necessary.