How Does Public Transport Work in Argentina?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Buenos Aires has an extensive Subte subway and Metrobus BRT network, both accessed with the rechargeable SUBE card.
2What You Need to Know
The Buenos Aires Subte (subway) is fast and affordable, running across six lines; the SUBE card is also valid on city buses and commuter trains. Intercity travel is excellent via Argentina's world-class long-distance bus network, with semi-cama and cama sleeper buses connecting major cities comfortably. Domestic flights with Aerolíneas Argentinas and JetSMART are an option for covering the country's vast distances. Uber operates in Buenos Aires and other cities but remains legally contested by taxi unions, though it functions reliably in practice.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Buy and load a SUBE card at kiosks or metro stations — cash is not accepted on Buenos Aires buses or the Subte.
- 2For long distances, overnight cama (full-flat) bus seats rival budget flights in comfort and are far cheaper.
- 3Book intercity buses in advance on long weekends and in summer (January–February) as they sell out fast.
Important Warning
Uber drivers in Buenos Aires sometimes ask passengers to sit in the front seat and avoid showing the phone screen at pickup to reduce confrontations with taxi drivers.
How does this compare?
Public Transport rules in nearby and similar countries:
Mexico City Metro costs around 5 pesos; use Uber instead of street taxis for safety, and colectivos for inter-town travel.
Uber and local app 99 are the safest and most practical options for tourists; São Paulo and Rio have metro systems, while city buses are cheap but difficult to navigate.
Each major city has its own transit system and card — Toronto uses PRESTO, Vancouver uses Compass, and Montreal uses STM cards.
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