Argentina Currency Guide
The currency of Argentina and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.
Currency
Argentine Peso
ARS
Checking rates
Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go
The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.
Payment Tips to Remember
Always pay in the local currency
If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.
Set up a travel card before you fly
Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.
Airport exchange counters: last resort
Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.
Check ATM fees on screen
Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.
Keep some small cash
Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.
Cards for Abroad
Explore the Wise multi-currency card
One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.
Learn more
Local data
Get an eSIM for Argentina before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Airalo
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
City Guides in Argentina
Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, known as the southernmost city in the world. Travelers pass through it as the gateway to Antarctica.
La Plata
La Plata is the capital of Buenos Aires Province, a port city on the Río de la Plata. Its university's Museum of Natural Sciences is world-renowned and draws many visitors.
Mendoza
Mendoza is the main city of Argentina's Mendoza Province, and together with its surrounding area it forms the country's fourth-largest urban region. With varied sights like Cerro de la Gloria, General San Martín Park, the cathedral, and its theaters, it's a great place for a leisurely walk.
Mar del Plata
Mar del Plata is a popular beach resort on the coast southwest of Buenos Aires. In summer, it comes alive with visitors enjoying the beaches and casinos.
Salta
Salta is a provincial capital in northwestern Argentina and one of the country's larger cities. Its downtown area is pleasant to explore at a relaxed pace.