Whether you’re visiting for tourism or need a vehicle for a business trip, finding a reliable car rental in Buenos Aires is key to exploring the city. Browse our list of top agencies offering a wide selection of vehicles, from compact cars to family-sized SUVs, ensuring you find the perfect ride.
Renting a car in Buenos Aires can be a practical option for expats planning to explore Argentina beyond the capital, though most residents find the city’s public transportation and taxis sufficient for daily life.
The city has numerous international and local car rental agencies, particularly concentrated around Jorge Newbery Airport (Aeroparque) and Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza), as well as in neighborhoods like Microcentro and Palermo.
Driving in Buenos Aires differs significantly from North American and European cities. Porteños have an assertive driving style, and traffic can be chaotic, especially during rush hours.
Lane discipline is often treated as a suggestion rather than a rule, and double-parking is commonplace. Most expats who rent cars do so for trips outside the city to destinations like Mendoza, Bariloche, or Iguazu Falls, rather than for navigating Buenos Aires itself.
You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country (an International Driving Permit is recommended but not always required), a credit card in the renter’s name, and your passport. Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some charging additional fees for drivers under 25. Argentina drives on the right side of the road, and road signs follow international conventions.
Car rental rates in Buenos Aires are generally comparable to or slightly lower than North American prices, though prices fluctuate with currency exchange rates. Insurance is mandatory, and most basic rental rates include minimal coverage. It’s strongly recommended to purchase comprehensive insurance (seguro todo riesgo) due to the driving conditions and higher accident rates. Some credit cards offer rental car insurance, but verify whether this coverage extends to Argentina.
