Visa and Mastercard are most common in Argentina, with American Express coming in third.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and supermarkets in Buenos Aires and other major cities. Some smaller establishments and shops in rural areas may accept only cash. When you can use a credit card, go with travel rewards credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees, as these fees can be high in Argentina.
Tips:
In Argentina, ATMs can be expensive, costing up to £8 or £8.88 per transaction, according to forums. Aside from paying foreign transaction fees, you’ll pay local ATM fees, and you’ll be limited to how many pesos you can get per withdrawal. You’ll need to make multiple withdrawals, adding up the fees.
Prepaid travel cards are usually an alternative to debit cards. However, in Argentina, they could cost you more than they’re worth. If you already have a Prepaid travel card, use it to make payments where accepted.
Cash is popular in Argentina. Museums, taxis, smaller shops and restaurants may accept only cash. Since ATMs in Argentina have fees and daily withdrawal limitations, you should consider carrying enough cash for up to 5 days. Keep ATM withdrawals as a backup option.
Traveler’s checks are rarely accepted in Argentina. Some high-end shops in Buenos Aires might accept them, but you’ll likely have to find a bank to cash them. This could cost you additional time and fees, which makes traveler’s checks a poor cash alternative in Argentina.
Common Argentine peso banknotes:
 |  |  |
 |  |
Credit cards are widely accepted in Buenos Aires and other large cities in Argentina. If you plan to use a credit card in Argentina, compare credit cards without foreign transaction fees. But make sure to carry cash for smaller shops, family-owned restaurants, taxis and other incidentals.
ATM cash withdrawals are an option, but due to ATM withdrawal limitations and fees, it may be best to take some cash with you and use a debit card as a last resort.
Discover which banks have welcome offers, rewards or refer-a-friend deals available.
If you regularly use airport lounges, a bank account that includes airport lounge access could be worth considering.
Find out more about the American banks operating in the UK.
We explain everything from registering and funding your business to employment and business law.
What are your chances of winning the monthly prize draw?
We’ve compiled a list of banks and apps that pay refer-a-friend bonuses, so you can earn some money for referring your friends.
Use our side hustle tax calculator to estimate how much income tax and National Insurance you might owe on your side hustle earnings.
Is this cashback scheme from Santander any good?
Ways to boost your income with just an internet connection, smartphone or laptop.
Learn more about how to deposit your hard-earned cash in a bank account.
