Calle Florida Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires' iconic pedestrian street, famous for 'blue dollar' exchange, bustling shops, historic architecture, and vibrant street life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, shops open
Calle Florida Buenos Aires
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, shops open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Buenos Aires' iconic pedestrian street, famous for 'blue dollar' exchange, bustling shops, historic architecture, and vibrant street life.
"Calle Florida: where history meets hustle, and your wallet gets a workout with the 'blue dollar'."
💰 Blue Dollar Exchange
Calle Florida is the prime spot for 'blue dollar' rates. Confirm rates and be cautious with street vendors.
📱 SIM Card Convenience
Movistar on Florida Street is a reliable spot for SIM cards with a passport.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gath & Chaves Building
Florida and Perón
An iconic 20th-century department store, now a beautifully restored office building. A symbol of Buenos Aires' elegant past.

Centro Naval Restaurant
Florida Street
Dine in a stunning 1914 building! Access the restaurant on the 6th floor via a classic elevator for an executive menu.

Street Performers
Pedestrian sections of Calle Florida
Enjoy live music and vibrant street art. From rock tributes to local musicians, the energy is infectious.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Currency Exchange
Safety First on Florida Street
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Blue Dollar Exchange
Calle Florida is the prime spot for 'blue dollar' rates. Confirm rates and be cautious with street vendors.
📱 SIM Card Convenience
Movistar on Florida Street is a reliable spot for SIM cards with a passport.
🚶♀️ Stay Alert for Pickpockets
Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive items.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Street musicians add to the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the live performances!
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Blue Dollar Exchange
Calle Florida is the prime spot for 'blue dollar' rates. Confirm rates and be cautious with street vendors.
📱 SIM Card Convenience
Movistar on Florida Street is a reliable spot for SIM cards with a passport.
🚶♀️ Stay Alert for Pickpockets
Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive items.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Street musicians add to the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the live performances!
🏛️ Admire Historic Architecture
Look up! Many buildings, like Gath & Chaves, are architectural gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Calle Florida is a vibrant and historic pedestrian street in Buenos Aires, renowned for its 'blue dollar' exchange and diverse shopping. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere, street performers, and impressive architecture, like the Gath & Chaves building. However, many caution about the prevalence of pickpocketing and the aggressive nature of some street vendors.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calle Florida is easily accessible via public transport. The Buenos Aires subway (Subte) has several stations nearby, including Lavalle (Line C) and Florida (Line B). Buses also frequently run along parallel avenues. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other central Buenos Aires attractions.
Yes, large sections of Calle Florida are pedestrianized, making it very walkable and enjoyable to explore on foot. This allows you to take in the shops, street performers, and architecture at your own pace.
For getting around Buenos Aires, the subway (Subte) and buses are highly recommended. You can use a rechargeable card for both, which can be purchased and topped up at kiosks.
Taxis are readily available throughout Buenos Aires, and ride-sharing apps like Uber also operate in the city. They can be a convenient option if you prefer not to use public transport.
Depending on your starting point, walking to Calle Florida from areas like Plaza de Mayo or San Telmo is feasible, offering a chance to see more of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Calle Florida is a public street and does not require any tickets for entry. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
Most shops on Calle Florida operate during standard business hours, typically from around 9 AM or 10 AM to 7 PM or 8 PM on weekdays and Saturdays. Some may have shorter hours on Sundays.
While the street itself is free to access, some specific attractions within buildings, like the restaurant at Centro Naval, may have their own admission or dining costs.
Currency exchange houses (casas de cambio) on Calle Florida typically operate during business hours and may have limited hours or be closed on Sundays. Some 'cuevas' (unofficial exchange spots) might be open, but exercise extreme caution.
Movistar, located at 723 Florida Street, is a recommended place to purchase a SIM card using your passport.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Calle Florida offers a wide range of shopping, from souvenir shops and leather goods to clothing boutiques and electronics stores. It's a bustling commercial street.
Yes, Calle Florida is a popular spot for tourists looking for souvenirs, including leather items, mate gourds, and Argentine crafts. Be prepared to haggle in some of the smaller shops.
While it's a commercial street, you can sometimes find good deals, especially if you're willing to compare prices and haggle. However, be mindful of quality and authenticity.
'Arbolitos' are informal money changers found on Calle Florida. While they often offer the 'blue dollar' rate, it's generally safer to use official exchange houses.
Yes, several shopping centers are within walking distance or a short ride from Calle Florida, offering a more enclosed shopping experience with a variety of brands.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
The historic Gath & Chaves building, the ornate entrance to the Centro Naval, and the vibrant street performers offer excellent photo opportunities. Look up to capture the stunning architecture.
It's generally safe to take photos, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially when focusing on your camera. Keep your belongings secure.
The Centro Naval is a historic building on Calle Florida that houses a social club and a restaurant. Its impressive architecture makes it a notable landmark.
While not always advertised, you might find local guides offering walking tours that include Calle Florida, highlighting its history and key landmarks.
You might encounter various forms of street art, from murals to individual artists showcasing their work, adding to the dynamic visual appeal of the street.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
You can find a range of dining options, from quick bites and cafes to the unique experience of the restaurant inside the Centro Naval building, offering an executive menu.
The executive menu at the Centro Naval restaurant typically includes a main course, a drink, and coffee or dessert, offering good value for a meal in a historic setting.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like empanada shops, cafes, and street food vendors if you're looking for budget-friendly meals.
While Calle Florida itself is more commercial, venturing a few blocks away will lead you to restaurants serving traditional Argentine cuisine like parrillas (steakhouses) and other local specialties.
Restaurants generally follow standard lunch and dinner hours, with many open throughout the day. Cafes and smaller eateries may have more flexible hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to dining, the Centro Naval restaurant offers a unique setting, though it might be more suited for older children. For younger ones, consider grabbing empanadas or ice cream from smaller vendors. Most importantly, keep a very close eye on children and their belongings due to the risk of pickpocketing. Ensure everyone stays together and valuables are secured.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, opt for local bakeries, empanada shops, or street food stalls rather than sit-down restaurants. Utilize the Subte and buses for transportation to save on travel costs. Be mindful of your spending, as the sheer variety of goods can be tempting, but always prioritize safety and secure your money.
🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters
Remember that while prices can be attractive, quality can vary. Always inspect items carefully before purchasing. The 'blue dollar' exchange rate can also make your shopping budget stretch further. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and keep your wits about you to avoid any unfortunate incidents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Blue Dollar' Phenomenon
Travelers often advise sticking to official exchange houses or well-known 'cuevas' (unofficial but established exchange points) for security. The 'blue dollar' also applies to euros and other major currencies, not just USD. Understanding this system is key to managing your budget effectively in Argentina.
It's important to note that exchange rates can fluctuate daily. While Calle Florida is the traditional hub, some travelers have found better rates or more secure options in other parts of the city, but Florida remains the most accessible and well-known area for this.
Navigating Safety and Security
To stay safe, always keep your valuables (phone, wallet, passport) in secure, zipped pockets or a money belt. Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas, near street performers, and when engaging with street vendors. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics openly. If someone approaches you aggressively or tries to distract you, be firm and move away.
While the street can feel overwhelming, most visitors have a positive experience by taking sensible precautions. The presence of police and security can be seen in some areas, but vigilance is your best defense. Remember the phrase 'dame la mochila!' (give me the backpack!) as a warning to be extra alert.
Architectural Gems of Calle Florida
Another must-see is the Centro Naval, a spectacular 1914 building that houses a social club and a restaurant. Visitors can ascend via a classic elevator to the sixth floor to enjoy a meal with a view, stepping back in time.
Take time to look up as you walk. Many facades feature intricate detailing, ornate balconies, and impressive stonework, showcasing the architectural styles that defined Buenos Aires during its golden age. These historic structures add a layer of depth to the bustling streetscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit