Retiro Bus Terminal

The Retiro Bus Terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro is the main long-haul bus terminal in Buenos Aires. Buses arrive and depart here to and from all parts of Argentina, as well as neighboring countries including Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Chile. The terminal is conveniently close to popular areas to stay like Centro, Puerto Madero, Recoleta, and Barrio Norte.

The terminal is located next to Retiro Railway Station and has 75 platforms. It's a hive of activity with an estimated 2,000 buses arriving and departing each day during high season. Retiro Train Station is a 5-10 minute walk from the Retiro Bus Terminal. From here, trains head out towards neighborhoods like Palermo, Belgrano, Colegiales, and the northern suburbs. It's approximately a 20-minute walk to the Tienda León Airport shuttle terminal in Puerto Madero, but only 5 minutes by taxi. The Buquebus Ferry terminal, for ferries to Uruguay from Buenos Aires, is also located nearby.

The terminal has several levels, with levels 2 and 3 being the most important:

• On the 2nd level, you'll find the platforms where buses arrive and depart. The information desk is located within the entrance hall on this level.
• The 3rd level houses the ticket offices for various bus companies. Most advertise their destinations on their windows. This is where you book or pick up tickets. Make sure to bring your passport as they usually require an ID number prior to purchase.
• Within the terminal, you'll also find ATMs, restaurants, and shops.

Linea C and Linea E subway lines terminate at Retiro Train Station, making it a convenient option to get to your destination in Buenos Aires. Many bus routes service the area, with numerous bus stops located outside Retiro Train Station. Taxis can be found on the lower floor for pickups, while drop-offs typically occur on the upper floors. Generally, taxis do not pick passengers up after drop-off, instead heading down to the lower designated pickup floor. Ride-share apps like Uber can be used in Buenos Aires, and drivers do pick people up, but you need to coordinate a pickup place with the driver.

Sometimes, late at night, the pickup area on the lower floor will close and operate from the drop-off area on the higher floor. When arriving by taxi or getting picked up, there is usually someone to hail the taxi and assist with your bags. They can be quite insistent and expect a tip for this service. Bear this in mind if you don't want to give a tip or don't have cash or smaller denominations of money.

Neighboring the Retiro Terminal and Retiro Train Station is an area called Villa 31. It is a densely populated and informal settlement with a vibrant community. While it may look colorful and inviting from the outside, it is advised not to wander around here alone, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Traveling by bus in and around Argentina is a good way to travel. The bus companies offer competitive rates and comfort. Many have large spacious seats with legroom, provide food and refreshments, and show movies. Generally, if you paid for your ticket in cash, most companies will allow you to change the dates on it.

To find out more about using public transport in Buenos Aires, including details on buses, subways, trains, taxis, ride-sharing services, and how to obtain and use the SUBE card, visit the Best Way to Get Around Buenos Aires section.

Address:

Avenida Antártida Argentina and Calle 10.

You can consult the Retiro Terminals website for more information.