Passage Notes
Passage Notes
Argentina
Destination

Argentina

Key airports
Buenos Aires EZE (int'l), AEP (domestic/regional)
Best months
Oct-Apr (spring/summer)
Time zone
ART (UTC-3)
Currency
Argentine Peso (ARS) - volatile, carry USD
Visa
Visa-free for UK, US, Canada, Australia (90 days)

Argentina is a long-haul destination from everywhere except neighbouring South America. Most international visitors arrive at Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE), which is 45 minutes from the city centre - not a quick transfer. The country has two major airports serving Buenos Aires with completely different roles: EZE handles long-haul international flights, while Aeroparque (AEP) handles domestic and regional services including routes to Santiago and Sao Paulo. Understanding which airport you are using matters more here than in most countries.

The currency situation is genuinely confusing. The Argentine peso is volatile, and the “blue dollar” parallel exchange rate means your money goes significantly further if you plan ahead. Carry US dollars. The practicalities of paying for things in Argentina require more thought than you might expect, but they are manageable once you understand the system.

I visited Buenos Aires, explored multiple neighbourhoods extensively, flew in and out of both airports, and continued onward to Santiago. The food and culture are exceptional. The logistics require a bit of homework. Here is what you need to know.

Getting there

Routes to Argentina

Select your origin to see the best routing options.

No direct flights from the UK or Ireland to Buenos Aires. Madrid and Sao Paulo are the most practical connection points, with Gulf carriers offering an alternative via their hubs. Expect 16-20 hours total travel time.

CarrierRouteTypeFlight timeNotes
Iberia / LATAMLHR - MAD - EZE1 stop17-19hThe most popular routing from the UK. Madrid connection is well-timed for the overnight leg to Buenos Aires.
LATAMLHR - GRU - EZE1 stop18-20hVia Sao Paulo. Useful if combining Argentina with Brazil. GRU connection can be tight.
EmiratesLHR - DXB - EZE1 stop22-24hLonger but competitive fares. Dubai stopover possible. The Buenos Aires service is not daily.
Air France / KLMLHR/DUB - CDG/AMS - EZE1 stop17-19hGood option from Dublin via Amsterdam or Paris. Frequencies vary seasonally.
Where to go

Destinations in Argentina

Tested routes

Reviews

Related notes

Notes