How’s it going, travelers? ✈️ Still in Montevideo, Uruguay, but with my bags packed, I decided it was time to cross the river into Buenos Aires, Argentina. While you can take a direct ferry (about 4 hours), I went for the more adventurous – and cheaper – route: a bus + ferry combo.
This journey wasn’t just about crossing borders; I also discovered how much things have changed in Argentina, especially when it comes to money exchange rates 💵, eating out 🍷, and local culture. Let me take you step by step through this trip!
🚌 Step 1: Bus from Montevideo
Instead of relying on Uber (which took too long), I hopped on a bus for 52 pesos – just over $1 USD. The bus station in Montevideo is easy to navigate, with multiple companies and a small waiting area.
The bus itself? Clean, spacious, and even had WiFi (though I didn’t test it long). After about 2 hours, we arrived at the port city where I would catch the ferry to Argentina.
🚢 Step 2: Boarding the Ferry to Buenos Aires
Once at the terminal, I noticed two main ferry companies:
- Colonia Express
- Buquebus (the one I used)
The ferry ride was supposed to be about 1.5 to 2 hours. Onboard, I saw two seating options:
- Economy class (3 seats per row)
- Business class (2 seats per row)
I accidentally sat in the wrong section at first 🤦♂️, but honestly, both had pros and cons. Business looked cleaner with leather seats, but economy had more windows and felt cozier.
Either way, the ferry was smooth and comfortable. Before I knew it, I was stepping into the streets of Buenos Aires!🇦🇷
💵 Argentina’s New Money Rules (2025 Update)
One of the biggest shocks in Argentina is always the exchange rate situation. When I was last here, things were very different:
- Official Government Rate: Low and not favorable
- Blue Dollar (Black Market Rate): Almost double the official rate
- How Travelers Managed: Brought in cash 💵 or used Western Union
But in 2025, things have changed:
👉 There are now three exchange rates:
- Official Rate (lowest, government controlled)
- Blue Dollar Rate (highest, street exchangers)
- Tourist Dollar Rate (for foreign card payments 💳, almost the same as the blue rate)
This means you no longer need to carry wads of cash or wire yourself money. Simply using your international credit or debit card gets you close to the best rate. Super convenient!
⚠️ Tip: Always double-check the current rates when you arrive, as Argentina’s money system changes fast.
🏨 First Impressions in Buenos Aires
After arriving, I checked into my room. I personally prefer accommodations without kitchens, since it reduces the risk of cockroaches (yes, they’re common if people cook and don’t clean properly).
Something unusual happened on my way: a man asked me to buy diapers (pañales) instead of money. I hesitated but eventually bought them using my card. Later, a cashier told me it might not have been a scam – maybe he truly needed them. Still, an experience worth sharing.
🍽️ Steak, Wine & Argentine Food Culture
One of the best parts of Buenos Aires? The food culture. Argentinians eat dinner late – usually around 10 PM – so when I arrived at 8 PM, restaurants weren’t crowded yet.
I visited a parrilla (grill restaurant) and ordered a steak with potatoes, chimichurri sauce 🌿, and wine. I wanted just a glass, but they brought me a whole bottle for about $4 USD! 🍷
💡 Price Comparison: Uruguay vs Argentina
- Uruguay: Steak + veggies + wine = ~$30 USD
- Argentina: Bigger steak + potatoes + full bottle of wine = ~$30 USD
The steak in Buenos Aires? Unmatched. Argentina truly has the steak game on lock 🔒🥩. Add the spicy kick of chimichurri sauce, and it was a meal to remember.
🌃 Buenos Aires at Night
Buenos Aires at night has a special kind of magic ✨. Walking through the streets near the Obelisco, the city gave off Times Square vibes (though not as brightly lit on this trip as in the past).
Still, the mix of neon lights, busy streets, and local energy makes it one of the most unforgettable night scenes in South America.
Traveling from Montevideo to Buenos Aires by bus + ferry is not only cheaper but also more fun if you enjoy a bit of adventure 🚍➡️🚢➡️🇦🇷.
What stood out most this time was the new money situation – no more stress about exchanging cash or Western Union transfers. Just swipe your card and enjoy close-to-blue-dollar rates.
And of course, don’t leave Argentina without trying their steak and Malbec wine 🍷🥩 – trust me, it’s world-class.
👉 Would I do this trip again? Absolutely. Buenos Aires has a charm that never fades.
