It’s the birthplace of tango, a carnivore’s dream, a nightlife destination, the hometown of Pope Francis — or, as some say, the Paris of South America. There are countless other reasons to visit Buenos Aires. For many travelers, it’s the show-stopping primary destination; for others, it’s a gateway to Argentina’s spectacular glaciers, national parks, and wine regions.
Whether you have a quick overnight or a week to spend, the city’s best boutique hotels serve as fitting introductions to the porteño lifestyle. Many of our favorites are located in the side-by-side neighborhoods of Palermo Soho or Palermo Hollywood, but there are elegant options in Recoleta, too, and an Art Deco gem in San Telmo, just south of downtown, that are just as good — if you can manage to get a room.
Home Hotel
Rooms from $135/night
One of the city’s original boutique hotels, Home is the passion project of an Argentinian-English couple. From the vintage wallpaper and retro furnishings to the adorable swimming pool and Instagram-worthy breakfast, it’s still one of the city’s most stylish places to sleep. The subterranean spa and craft cocktail bar are icing on the cake. There’s another perk, too: the owners of Home produce their own mini-guide to the city, packed with priceless insider tips on where to eat, drink, and shop, exclusively available to guests of the hotel.
L’Hôtel Palermo
Rooms from $121/ night
You wouldn’t guess it from the street, but the highlight of L’Hôtel is its leafy central garden. Guest rooms are nice, too, smartly soundproofed and outfitted with bathtubs and artisanal bath products. All told, it’s like a miniature oasis in the center of bustling Palermo Soho, ideally located across the street from one of the city’s best coffee shops, and within easy walking distance of many of the city’s best restaurants and boutiques.
Hotel Pulitzer
Rooms from $80/ night
Plenty of porteños (Buenos Aires locals) know the Hotel Pulitzer, even if they’ve never stayed there: the hotel’s 13th-floor Sky Bar, offering spectacular views over the city skyline, is a popular stop for young professionals who work in the neighborhood. The hotel itself offers good value, with comfortable modern rooms, a good buffet breakfast, and a glass-ceilinged library lounge. It’s located downtown, within easy reach of Plaza San Martin and several pedestrianized shopping streets.
Moreno Hotel Buenos Aires
Rooms from $70/ night
For those interested in architecture, Moreno Hotel is a must-see: the building is a rare Art Deco landmark that’s been lovingly restored. The boutique hotel itself has long been popular among travelers, but after the addition of a stylish wine bar, Aldo’s, and BeBop, an underground jazz club, it’s become a destination for locals, as well. Guest rooms are surprisingly spacious and comfortable, with modern amenities, and the terrace is an idea spot for a nightcap.
BE Jardin Escondido by Coppola
Rooms from $120/ night
If Francis Ford Coppola had a hotel in Buenos Aires, what would it be like? Small and charming, apparently, stocked with good books and fine bourbon — and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy them. BE Jardin Escondido is where Coppola stayed while filming Tetro (2009) in Buenos Aires. Now it’s an exclusive boutique hotel staffed by stylish and knowledgeable locals. Book the Francis Suite, where the famous director slept and stored his film equipment, for the full experience.
Legado Mitico
Rooms from $150/ night
The name of this thematic boutique hotel, Legado Mitico (loosely translated, “mythical legacy”) hints at what you’ll find inside. Each guest room takes inspiration from an Argentinian legend, from Che Guevara to Eva Perón to tango star Carlos Gardel. It’s located on a quiet block of Palermo Soho, so there’s plenty to see and do within easy walking distance — and after a day of sightseeing and shopping in Buenos Aires, Legado Mitico’s breezy terrace is the perfect place to relax.
Mine Hotel
Rooms from $116/ night
Location, location, location — just off the bike lane that runs through the heart of Palermo Soho, to be exact — plus modern decor, fast wi-fi, and a stylish continental breakfast. Mine Hotel Boutique also has a small swimming pool and outdoor lounge space, making it one of the most practical and popular boutique hotel options in Buenos Aires.