Retiro

Retiro is Buenos Aires' main transport hub with mixed conditions. The Plaza San Martín area is fine, but avoid the bus terminal area, especially after dark.

Retiro is basically two different neighborhoods with very different safety levels within the same area. The upscale Plaza San Martín district has excellent security - hotel concierges, well-lit streets, and regular police presence make it safe for solo female travelers. But the bus terminal area requires serious caution because of heavy foot traffic, street vendors, and limited security. Smart approach is to stay in the Plaza San Martín zone for hotels and restaurants, then use the transport connections only during busy daylight hours. The contrast between these adjacent areas is stark, so you need to know exactly where you are and plan accordingly.