Money, Budget, and Shopping in Argentina

Money

Currency

Currency: Argentine peso (100 centavos).

Banknotes: 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 10,000, and 20,000 pesos.

Coins: Although coins from 1 to 10 pesos still exist, they are practically no longer used due to inflation. In fact, merchants often round prices up to the nearest hundred.

Exchange:

Exchange

It’s almost a tradition in Argentina: for a long time, due to persistent price increases, the country has had two exchange rates—an official one (via banks) and a better parallel rate (with street exchange). Even when inflation slows and the two rates converge, the habits remain.

In practice, the informal market is the most commonly used by tourists and locals when they need to exchange money. This takes place in unofficial exchange bureaus (called "cuevas"), which are barely hidden. While you should exercise some caution and avoid exchanging money directly on the street, the practice is widespread, and you’ll often be approached in cities for this type of transaction. There, exchanges are done at better rates than in banks or official exchange bureaus, quickly and without paperwork.

Another solution that has gained popularity among travelers is using Western Union and its many agencies. Through this globally recognized company specializing in money transfers, you can send money to yourself from your own account via their app and then withdraw your pesos at the nearest Western Union branch. It’s a safe, secure, and legal system with generally favorable exchange rates—making it a great option.

As for withdrawals via bank cards at ATMs, this is a rather discouraged choice compared to other methods, especially since the fixed fees are substantial and withdrawal limits are often very low.

In summary, for exchanging money in Argentina, the best options by far are unofficial exchange bureaus and Western Union, either separately or combined. Final tip: given inflation, even if it has slowed, it’s better to exchange money gradually during your trip rather than all at once to avoid losing out on the exchange rate.

Which currency to bring

While the euro is accepted in the country, despite not always offering the best rates outside major cities, the US dollar remains the ideal choice. Traditionally, the American currency is the absolute reference in Argentina, and everywhere—even in the most remote areas—you can exchange dollars or even pay with them. The only conditions: bring bills in good condition (or risk refusal) and include large denominations (along with some small ones for minor purchases), as these are highly valued locally and may even secure a better exchange rate.

Payment methods

Choosing the right payment method in Argentina requires some flexibility.

For cash, if you prefer, use pesos for small daily expenses (though dollars can also work), while larger purchases should be made in US currency. In fact, for significant amounts, paying directly in cash dollars often allows for substantial discounts—up to 20 or 30%.

As for card payments, while cash is still king in the country, it’s an option worth considering for major expenses. This is especially true since authorities introduced a special system called the "MEP Rate" for foreign tourists paying with Visa or Mastercard. After each purchase (but not withdrawals), the bank initially charges at the official rate, then refunds the difference a few days later, aligning with a more favorable rate close to the parallel market. This remains a viable option, provided your bank doesn’t impose high fees for each transaction.

Finally, there are virtual payments via QR codes, which are becoming increasingly common. However, in Argentina, they still have the drawback that you often need a local bank account linked to the payment app for it to work.

One last thing to know: as a visitor, if you pay for accommodation with a foreign bank card or in foreign currency (dollars or euros), you’re exempt from the 21% VAT on the price. So, don’t forget to check your bill before leaving to ensure this discount has been applied.

Upon return

While the peso can be exchanged outside Argentina, the rates are generally very poor, with at best the hope of recovering barely half of its value. This means it’s best to spend all your money before departure or end your trip with something other than cash pesos.

Budget

As elsewhere, it all depends on how you plan to travel in the country and what you want to do—or how. For a backpacker-style trip, based on two people traveling in the low season, budget around 50 € per day per person. Though adding 10 € to 20 € more will allow for greater comfort in accommodations and transport.

What can be expensive

The high season, from December to February, when prices rise by 25 to 30%.

Domestic transport, especially if you rely too much on flights and premium overnight or long-distance express buses. That said, the country is vast—even ranking in the world’s top 10 largest.

Entrance fees to national parks, which have a dual pricing system with higher rates for foreigners. So, if you plan to visit several...

Patagonia, which remains Argentina’s most expensive region, especially in high season.

Activities like glacier tours, southern cruises, or even a tango show in Buenos Aires, which can require a significant budget.

The payment or exchange methods you choose if you haven’t fully understood the different options available in the country.

And then there’s inflation, which, depending on whether it’s under control or not, can impact the cost of your trip and especially the exchange rate.

What may not be expensive

Paying for major expenses with a Visa or Mastercard to benefit from the "MEP Rate" discounts.

Renting a small car with a group.

All those street events and performances in Buenos Aires, plus museums, which are often free or very affordable.

Natural spaces not designated as parks or reserves, where access is free, including for hiking.

Incidentally, meat and local wines—two Argentine specialties—are very affordable.

Price range

Budget double room: around 30 €.

Mid-range double room: from 50 € to 60 €, you already have a decent selection.

Snacks, local restaurant meals: the most economical category, with a simple but complete meal costing around 10 € or less.

Tourist restaurant meals: around 20 € to 30 €, including those famous "parrilla" (barbecues), a true Argentine institution for beef lovers.

Budget car rental: between 40 € and 60 € per day for a small city car. Note that in high season or Patagonia, expect to pay about a third more.

Long-distance buses: given the country’s size, it’s best to calculate by travel time, with rates from 4 € to 6 €-7 per hour depending on the comfort level. Over time or for very long distances, this can add up, so it’s worth comparing with flights.

Domestic flights: often quite expensive, budget between 80 € and 200 € depending on distance and airline.

Urban taxi: 5 € or 6 € for a city ride, or 1 € to 2 € for the equivalent in public transport.

Park entrance fees: 20 € to 30 € for the "foreign rate."

Bargaining and tips

Bargaining isn’t really an Argentine practice (unlike in Peru or Bolivia), even in markets, though you can always try when buying souvenirs. That said, the "MEP Rate" system for foreigners or paying in cash for large amounts—often leading to discounts—can already be seen as a plus.

However, tips ("propina") are very much a part of daily life, so much so that if you follow the rules, they can account for about 10% of your daily expenses. Generally, you add 10% to the bill in restaurants, give 1 € or 2 € to hotel staff, bus porters, or round up to the nearest hundred for taxis.

Shopping and souvenirs

Beyond a few local food products like dulce de leche (a kind of milk jam, a national specialty), Argentine wines, or—more originally—a mate set with its gourd, bombilla (the metal straw), and a pack of yerba, you can also bring back handicrafts. Among others: handmade wooden items, silverwork, ponchos and woolen blankets, plus all those leather goods turned into boots, belts, jackets, or bags, whose quality is renowned.