Have you ever wondered where the vibrant heartbeats of Buenos Aires could take you as a digital nomad, traveler, or expat? Uncover the top choices with our guide to the 10 best downtown hostels in Buenos Aires, exclusively on ExpatPathways.
Our selections are more than just a bed to rest; they are gateways to the city’s soul, offering proximity to iconic landmarks, exceptional amenities, and a chance to mingle with like-minded global citizens.
Step into the bustling life of Buenos Aires and find your perfect urban oasis with us. Where will your journey begin?
Advantages of staying in the center of Buenos Aires
- The central area of Buenos Aires covers the neighborhoods of Monserrat, San Nicolás, Retiro, San Telmo, Congreso and part of Balvanera, Palermo and Recoleta.
- When we talk about the downtown area in Buenos Aires, we generally refer to one of those neighborhoods mentioned.
- This area of the City of Buenos Aires has 9 de Julio, Leandro N Alem and Callao avenues as vertical axes; while Corrientes, Córdoba, Santa Fe, Belgrano, 25 de Mayo, Independencia and San Juan avenues are part of its horizontal axes.
- The central area of Buenos Aires is one of the most active in terms of civil, governmental, financial and economic activity.
- It is also common to find travelers and digital nomads residing in some of the hostels or apartments in the area
- After the Covid-19 pandemic, and after the withdrawal of many companies that had their offices in those areas, the government of the City of Buenos Aires promotes a rehabilitation of the Center of Buenos Aires in order to “reactivate” the area and promote residences, rentals and housing development.
- Public transportation in this area of the City is fantastic. Being delimited by the main urban arteries, the downtown area of the City is ideal for getting around easily and quickly by bus, train, subway and even bicycle.
- One of the main obstacles in the central area of Buenos Aires lies in its congestion during weekdays (and some weekends as well). This is due not only to the traffic of vehicles that must travel there for work purposes, but also to the repeated mobilizations and protests that usually take place at the Plaza de Mayo, the Obelisk or the National Congress.
The Best Downtown Hostels in Buenos Aires
1. Viajero Hostel Buenos Aires
Location: Venezuela 649, San Telmo.
Located in the iconic San Telmo neighborhood, Viajero Hostel Buenos Aires offers a vibrant experience that mirrors the local passions of Buenos Aires, from food and football to bohemian lifestyles. The hostel boasts impressive amenities, including two outdoor pools—one on the terrace and another open-air option.
Visitors can indulge in both local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant bar, Casa Jaguar. The hostel is ideally situated for exploring the historic and charming San Telmo with its cobblestone streets and 19th-century architecture, adjacent to the modern and upscale area of Puerto Madero.
Viajero Hostel provides a wide range of daily activities, including live shows, city walks, and gastronomic events, enhancing the cultural immersion.
Accommodation options cater to diverse preferences, offering both shared dormitory rooms with bunk beds and private rooms with en suite facilities. This setup is perfect for meeting fellow travelers or enjoying a more secluded stay. Each room is designed to provide comfort and rest, crucial after a day of exploring the bustling city.
The hostel’s exotic charm and strategic location, just a short walk from Belgrano metro station and close to cultural hotspots like Centro Cultural Kirchner and Teatro Gran Rex, make it an appealing choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive Buenos Aires experience.
2. Milhouse Hostel Avenue
Location: Av. de Mayo 1245, Centro.
Milhouse Hostel Avenue, nestled among bustling shops and restaurants on a tree-lined street, is a down-to-earth lodging option located just a stone’s throw from a metro station and close to the iconic Casa Rosada.
This hostel is known for its sociable environment, offering both basic mixed-sex dorms for up to eight people and female-only dorms, all equipped with bunk beds, lockers, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The private rooms feature en suite facilities and added amenities such as towels. Guests can start their day with a free continental breakfast and enjoy other facilities like a guest kitchen, a rooftop terrace, and a game room with a pool table.
Milhouse Hostel is perfect for travelers looking for a memorable and lively stay in Buenos Aires. It provides a range of modern facilities at affordable rates, including air conditioning and a safe for valuables. The hostel’s rooftop is a highlight, offering a unique space to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening barbecue while taking in the city views.
With a constant renewal of activities and tours available, guests are guaranteed a fun and safe experience, making Milhouse an excellent choice for those eager to explore and engage with the city and its culture.
3. Hostel Colonial
Location: Tucumán 509, San Nicolás.
Hostel Colonial, positioned conveniently amid shops and eateries, is an informal yet cozy accommodation choice in Buenos Aires. Just a short walk from key attractions like Plaza de Mayo and Casa Rosada, and only three minutes from a subway station, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the city’s historical sites.
The hostel offers straightforward mixed-gender dorms accommodating 5 to 8 guests, with private rooms available as well. Amenities include free breakfast, lockers, a communal kitchen, and a TV lounge, enhancing the comfort and convenience of your stay.
The hostel is praised for its excellent location close to the Obelisco, Congress, Florida Street, and numerous restaurants. With its family-friendly atmosphere, Hostel Colonial aims to make guests feel at home, providing facilities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and access to a shared kitchen where guests can prepare their own meals.
Additional comforts include a cozy common lounge with TV and computers, luggage storage, and friendly staff ready to assist with navigating the area. Some rooms also offer private bathrooms and balconies with city views, ensuring a pleasant and accommodating stay for all guests.
4. Parla Hostel
Location: Av. Hipólito Yrigoyen 855, San Nicolas.
Situated in a vibrant area filled with casual eateries and bars, Parla Hostel is housed in a 19th-century building just steps away from a metro station and within walking distance to Plaza de Mayo and Teatro Colón.
This low-key hostel offers a variety of room types, ranging from unfussy dorms to private rooms, some featuring balconies, lockers, and en suite facilities. Linens are included to ensure a comfortable stay. The hostel boasts a rooftop bar with a terrace, providing a picturesque setting to relax and socialize.
Parla Hostel enhances its historic charm with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi throughout the premises, a shared kitchen, and spacious common areas. It is noted for its proximity to major attractions like Café Tortoni and the Kirchner Cultural Centre.
The hostel also offers family rooms, daily cleaning services, and facilities like air conditioning and heating to cater to the needs of travelers and digital nomads. With its dedicated staff, currency exchange service, and BBQ facilities, Parla Hostel offers a welcoming and convenient option for visitors seeking an authentic Buenos Aires experience.
5. Rayuela Hostel
Location: Av. Belgrano 887, Monserrat.
Rayuela Hostel offers a welcoming and fun environment in the heart of Buenos Aires, just minutes away from major attractions like Plaza de Mayo and Casa Rosada. This downtown hostel provides simple mixed-gender dorms for up to 8 guests, featuring amenities such as Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms.
For those seeking more privacy, private rooms with TVs and minifridges are available, and some include en suite facilities. The hostel promotes a lively atmosphere with a TV lounge, pool table, communal kitchen, and a game room, complete with a covered patio that hosts BBQ grills. A typical Argentine breakfast is included, ensuring a taste of local flavors each morning.
Managed by its owners, Rayuela is committed to providing a secure, clean, and enjoyable stay, aiming to make every guest’s experience unforgettable. The hostel offers a range of services at no extra charge, including air conditioning, heating, Wi-Fi, and personal computers.
For entertainment, guests have access to a variety of musical instruments, and the hostel regularly organizes social events like wine tastings and Argentine asado nights.
Positioned ideally within walking distance to vibrant locales such as Puerto Madero and the historic Avenida de Mayo, Rayuela is a perfect choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the culture and liveliness of Buenos Aires.
6. 06 Central Hostel
Location: Maipú 306, San Nicolas.
06 Central Hostel is ideally located in the bustling heart of Buenos Aires, surrounded by the city’s key landmarks including Obelisco and Casa Rosada. This hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, from low-key mixed-sex and female-only dorms for up to 12 people to private rooms with en suite facilities.
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, and include linens. The hostel features a bright breakfast room adorned with murals where guests can enjoy their morning meal, and other amenities such as a 24-hour communal kitchen, TV lounge, and two furnished patios enhance the living experience.
This historical building, which once served as a famous suit factory visited by figures like Eva Perón, now offers modern conveniences with a touch of old-world charm. 06 Central provides ample facilities, including spacious shared bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a lively hostel courtyard where social interactions flourish.
Daily cleaning services, large lockers, and a friendly, helpful staff ensure a comfortable stay. Additionally, the hostel organizes group dinners and other social activities, fostering a community atmosphere. Its proximity to major transit options makes it an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore Buenos Aires economically and comfortably.
7. Art Factory Hostel
Location: Piedras 545, San Telmo.
Art Factory Hostel, situated in the vibrant San Telmo neighborhood, combines artistic flair with comfort and personalized service. This creative hostel not only features an art gallery but also bright dorms for both mixed-gender and female-only guests, complete with free Wi-Fi and lockers.
The private rooms, some with en suite facilities, are individually decorated by artists from around the world, adding a unique aesthetic appeal. Amenities at Art Factory include a trendy bar with a terrace, a communal kitchen, and a cozy lounge with a library, making it a hub for travelers looking to immerse themselves in art and culture.
Conveniently located just five minutes on foot from the city center and near the metro, Art Factory Hostel is a lively, affordable option in the historical heart of Buenos Aires. Rated highly for its staff, mansion-like ambiance with colorful décor, and the best terrace in San Telmo, the hostel offers a variety of rooms ranging from private to 4-8 bed dormitories.
Services include 24-hour reception, free internet, coffee and juice all day, and cultural activities like tango and Spanish lessons. This hostel is perfect for those who want to explore the eclectic mix of contemporary and colonial architecture in San Telmo and enjoy Buenos Aires’ vibrant cultural scene.
8. Reina Madre Hostel
Location: Dr. Tomás Manuel Anchorena 1118, Recoleta.
Reina Madre Hostel, located in the elegant Recoleta neighborhood, is housed in a beautifully renovated old house with French and Spanish architectural influences. Just a six-minute walk from the nearest metro station, this casual hostel offers a mix of bright dorms and private rooms, all equipped with lockers and air conditioning.
The shared bathrooms are individual and located outside the rooms. Common areas include a kitchen, dining room, and a living room with a flat-screen TV, while a rooftop terrace with sun loungers provides a perfect place to relax and socialize.
This hostel is designed to make each guest’s stay in Buenos Aires unique, whether traveling for work or tourism. With its friendly atmosphere, attended by the owners who are travelers themselves, Reina Madre offers personalized service to help guests discover the city’s attractions.
The hostel’s ten rooms are spacious and equipped with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and room service. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a warm and friendly place to stay in a prime location with easy access to public transport and major tourist sites.
9. BA Stop Hostel
Location: Av. Rivadavia 1194, Centro.
BA Stop Hostel, nestled in the heart of Buenos Aires, offers a relaxed, trendy environment just a minute’s walk from a metro station and close to major attractions like Teatro Colón and Plaza de Mayo. The hostel features mixed and female-only dorms with wood furnishings, ceiling fans, and shared bathrooms.
Upgraded rooms offer en suite facilities and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a unique ambiance in the eclectic lobby, which doubles as a bar and showcases vivid artwork. The hostel emphasizes cultural identity and intercultural exchange among its guests, facilitated by its well-decorated common areas, including a common kitchen with red tiles.
This centrally located hostel is ideal for groups and individual travelers alike, providing amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a laundry service. BA Stop is dedicated to enhancing the guest experience by fostering a sense of community in its common living room, equipped with many sofas, rustic decorations, and a TV with a DVD player.
Additionally, the hostel offers bicycle and car rental services to explore the city, and its proximity to key transport lines ensures that all main areas of Buenos Aires are easily accessible.
10. Franca City Hostel
Location: Av. de Mayo 1410, Congreso.
Franca City Hostel, located in a bustling area of Buenos Aires, is housed in a palatial building dating back to 1910, just steps from the Saenz Peña metro station. This relaxed hostel provides streamlined mixed-gender dorms with Wi-Fi, reading lights, privacy screens, and shared bathrooms.
Private rooms, some with en suite facilities, add flat-screen TVs for added comfort. The hostel offers a range of communal amenities, including a kitchen, lounge, co-working space, and a screening room, along with a lobby bar where guests can unwind.
Franca City Hostel prides itself on serving travelers from around the world, offering SUPER SIZE capsule beds and a vibrant social atmosphere on Av. De Mayo. The hostel’s facilities blend the historic architecture of the early 20th century with modern amenities, creating a unique living experience.
Services include 24-hour cleaning, air conditioning, and a breakfast option. For those looking to work as they travel, the co-working space and communal living areas provide ideal environments for both productivity and relaxation, making it a top choice for visitors seeking a dynamic stay in the heart of Buenos Aires.
(Featured Image Source: Só analogicas/flickr.com)
