Survival Guide to Public Transportation in Buenos Aires

For international students arriving in Buenos Aires, navigating the city's extensive public transportation system is key to exploring everything this vibrant metropolis has to offer. From bustling city streets to serene parks and cultural hotspots, Buenos Aires is best explored using its buses, subways, and taxis. Here's your complete guide to getting around like a local:

Buses (Colectivos)

Buenos Aires boasts a dense network of buses, known as "colectivos," that cover virtually every corner of the city and its outskirts. Here’s what you need to know:

• Routes and Numbers: Each bus route is identified by a number and color-coded based on its general direction. Learning the major routes that pass near your accommodation and university will simplify your daily commute.

• Payment: Buses accept a reloadable smart card called "SUBE" (Sistema Único de Boleto Electrónico). You can purchase and reload SUBE cards at subway stations, kiosks, and some local shops.

• Boarding: Buses stop at designated bus stops marked with signs indicating the routes they serve.
  

Subways (Subte)

The Buenos Aires subway system, locally known as "Subte," is another efficient way to navigate the city:

• Lines and Stations: The Subte consists of six lines (A to H, with some letters skipped) that cover most of the city center and extend to the suburbs. Each line is identified by a color and letter.

• Fares: Like buses, the SUBE card is used to pay for subway rides.

• Operating Hours: The Subte operates from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late at night (around 10:30 PM), with slightly reduced hours on weekends and holidays.
  

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber, Cabify, and DiDi are widely available in Buenos Aires. Taxis are easily identifiable by their black and yellow colors.

Tips for Using Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

• Safety: For safety reasons, it's best to use ride-sharing apps or call a radio taxi rather than hailing one off the street.

• Payment: Most taxis accept cash, while ride-sharing apps offer the convenience of paying through the app or by cash.

Download Apps: Apps like "Moovit" provide real-time information on routes, schedules, and service updates, making navigating the city easier.

Safety: While public transportation in Buenos Aires is generally safe, be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas or during rush hours. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.