La Plata

Where to stay

Budget travelers cluster around the Diagonal, the massive central avenue that cuts the city into a grid, and the blocks near the main bus terminal on the southern edge. Staying near the Diagonal puts you walking distance from the cathedral and university; staying near the terminal saves time on connections but is quieter and further from the historic center.

Getting around

• La Plata is a university town, so the student population keeps prices down and the nightlife active. The area around the university campus and the Diagonal has the highest density of hostels and cheap eateries catering to students.
• Get to Buenos Aires first, then take a frequent bus or train from the Retiro or Constitución terminals. The ride is short and costs a fraction of a private transfer, with multiple departures daily making it easy to fit into any schedule.
• The city is famous for its wetlands and birdlife. Day trips to the nearby reserves are easy to arrange independently by bus or taxi, and are far cheaper than packaged tours from Buenos Aires, which often include long, unnecessary transfers.

When to go

Hostels are cheapest and easiest to book during the cooler, wetter months of May through August. Prices climb and rooms fill during the Argentine summer holidays in December and January, and around major university exam breaks or local festivals.