Argentina Currency for Tourists: Banknotes, Coins and How to Pay Without Surprises

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Argentina’s Currency: The Argentine Peso (ARS)

Argentina’s official currency is the Argentine peso (ARS), usually identified by the symbol $. For tourists, it’s important to know that the Argentine peso is the country’s official currency, although some hotels, tour operators, and tourist-oriented businesses may also accept foreign currencies or international payment cards.

For everyday expenses, public transportation, restaurants, small shops, and other purchases, it’s recommended to have some Argentine pesos and an international payment card available.

Good to know

Argentina currently has banknotes with different designs and denominations in circulation. Different designs of the same denomination may be valid at the same time. For older banknotes, it’s important to check whether they are still legal tender.

Argentine Banknotes Currently in Circulation

Argentina has several series of banknotes in circulation, so it’s completely normal to receive different designs.

The banknotes currently in circulation have denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 10,000 and 20,000 pesos. Different designs of the same denomination may circulate at the same time.

Are Coins Still Used in Argentina?

Yes. Argentina still uses coins, although they are much less common than they were a few years ago. Due to inflation, lower denominations have lost much of their purchasing power, and most everyday transactions are now made with banknotes or electronic payment methods.

That said, you may still receive coins as change in supermarkets, gas stations, cafés, or some local shops. They can also be useful for small purchases or when using cash-operated vending machines.

Good to know

1, 2, 5 and 10 peso coins are still legal tender in Argentina. However, they are becoming increasingly uncommon in everyday transactions.

Argentine Coins Currently in Circulation

These are the coins you may still find in circulation. Although they remain legal tender, you’re unlikely to receive many during your trip, as most payments are made with banknotes or cards.

Are Old Argentine Banknotes Still Valid?

Yes, but not all old banknotes are still valid. Argentina has had several different banknote series over the years, so it’s normal to come across different designs. However, some older banknotes have been withdrawn from circulation and are no longer accepted as legal tender.

For that reason, it’s helpful to know which banknotes are still valid and which are no longer accepted. This will help you avoid confusion if you receive cash or change during your trip.

Important

The 2 peso and 5 peso banknotes were withdrawn from circulation several years ago and are no longer valid. If someone tries to use them as payment, you should not accept them.

Argentine Banknotes That Are No Longer Valid

The following banknotes belong to older issues of the Central Bank of Argentina and can no longer be used to make purchases or as a valid means of payment.

If you come across one of these banknotes, it may have some value to collectors, but it can no longer be used to pay at shops, restaurants, hotels, or on public transportation.

How to Spot a Counterfeit Banknote

Most tourists never encounter counterfeit banknotes during their trip. However, knowing a few basic security features can help you avoid problems, especially when receiving high-value cash.

The Central Bank of the Argentine Republic recommends a simple three-step method to verify a banknote: Feel, Tilt and Look. It only takes a few seconds and doesn’t require any special equipment.

1. Feel

Authentic banknotes have raised printing that you can feel by running your fingers over certain areas. This special printing technique is one of the hardest security features to counterfeit.

2. Tilt

When you tilt the banknote, the security strip changes color depending on the viewing angle. This is a normal feature and one of the official security measures.

3. Look

Hold the banknote up to the light to check for the watermark featuring the main portrait, along with other security features embedded in the paper.

Tip for Travelers

You don’t need to inspect every banknote you receive. Pay particular attention when you’re handed 10,000 or 20,000 peso banknotes, as these are the highest denominations currently in circulation.

Recommendation

If you need to exchange money, do so at banks or authorized exchange offices. Avoid exchanging cash with strangers on the street to reduce the risk of receiving counterfeit banknotes or becoming the victim of a scam.

Should You Pay with Cash or Card in Argentina?

During your trip, you’ll be able to use both cash and international credit or debit cards. The best option depends on the type of purchase you’re making, as each payment method has its own advantages.

Paying by Card

International credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, wineries, and most tourist-oriented businesses. For many travelers, paying by card is the most convenient and secure option, as it eliminates the need to carry large amounts of cash.

Paying with Cash

It’s still a good idea to carry some Argentine pesos. Many small shops, local markets, kiosks, street fairs, and family-run businesses prefer cash payments and, in some cases, may even offer a better price when you pay in cash.

On the other hand, withdrawing cash during your trip isn’t always the most cost-effective option for foreign visitors. Depending on your bank and card issuer, ATM withdrawals may involve fees, withdrawal limits, and additional charges.

Tip for Travelers

Before traveling, check with your bank about any fees or conditions for using your cards or withdrawing cash in Argentina. In most cases, combining card payments with a small amount of cash is the most practical and cost-effective approach.

Which Payment Method Is Best?

There isn’t a single best answer. While many businesses accept international cards, others still prefer cash. The best approach is to choose the payment method that offers the right balance of convenience, costs, and exchange rate for each situation.

Where to Check the Exchange Rate in Argentina

Exchange rates in Argentina can change frequently. If you want to check the value of the U.S. dollar or other currencies before exchanging money, it’s best to rely on official sources or reputable financial websites that provide up-to-date information.

Recommended Sources

Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (BCRA): publishes the official exchange rate of the Argentine peso.
Authorized exchange offices: provide the current exchange rate at the time of your transaction.
Reputable financial websites: offer daily updates on Argentina’s different exchange rates.

Tip for Travelers

If you need to exchange money, use banks or authorized exchange offices. They provide a safer experience, issue transaction receipts, and help reduce the risk of scams.

Is It Safe to Exchange Money on the Street?

No. Although you may come across people offering currency exchange in some tourist areas, this practice involves unnecessary risks. You could receive counterfeit banknotes, become the victim of a scam, or end up with a different exchange rate than the one originally agreed upon.

To avoid problems, always use official exchange services or electronic payment methods whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money in Argentina

What currency is used in Argentina?

Argentina’s official currency is the Argentine peso (ARS). Although some tourist-oriented businesses accept U.S. dollars or euros, most everyday transactions are made in Argentine pesos.

Should I bring cash or pay by card?

The best approach is to use both. International cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist businesses, while cash is still useful for small shops, local markets, tips, and other everyday expenses.

Can I pay with U.S. dollars, euros, Chilean pesos, or Brazilian reais?

Some hotels, tour operators, and tourist businesses accept cash payments in U.S. dollars, euros, Chilean pesos, or Brazilian reais, but they are not required to do so. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s always a good idea to have Argentine pesos or use an international payment card.

Do foreign credit and debit cards work in Argentina?

Yes. Most major international credit and debit cards are accepted at tourist businesses, supermarkets, restaurants, and wineries throughout the country.

Are coins still used in Argentina?

Yes. Coins are still legal tender, although they are used much less frequently today because of inflation.

How can I tell if a banknote is genuine?

The Central Bank recommends checking three basic security features: the raised printing, the security strip, and the watermark visible when held up to the light. If you’re unsure, don’t accept the banknote and exchange money only through authorized institutions.

Is it safe to exchange money on the street?

It’s not recommended. To reduce the risk of scams or receiving counterfeit banknotes, it’s best to use banks, authorized exchange offices, or electronic payment methods.

How much cash should I carry during my trip?

There isn’t a single right amount. The most practical approach is to carry enough cash for your daily expenses and use an international card for the rest of your purchases.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how money works in Argentina is easier than it might seem. If you travel with an international credit or debit card and carry a small amount of cash for everyday expenses, you’ll have no trouble getting around during your stay.

You now know which banknotes and coins are currently in circulation, how to identify a genuine banknote, where to check the exchange rate, and which payment methods are generally the most convenient for international visitors.

If you’re planning a trip to Argentina, be sure to explore our other travel guides. You’ll find helpful information about staying connected with an eSIM or local SIM card, the types of electrical plugs used in Argentina, and other practical tips to make the most of your visit to Mendoza.