What's the difference between EZE and AEP? (And how to get from EZE to downtown)

If you're travelling to Argentina, you'll almost certainly pass through Buenos Aires — and probably through both of its airports. Mixing them up is one of the most common mistakes when planning an itinerary, so it's worth understanding the difference.

The two airports at a glance

EZE — Ezeiza International Airport

This is where most international flights land, including long-haul flights from Asia, Europe and North America. It's in the Ezeiza district, about 30–35 km southwest of downtown.

AEP — Aeroparque Jorge Newbery

It sits inside the city, on the Río de la Plata waterfront near Palermo. It handles most domestic flights (Iguazú, El Calafate, Ushuaia, Mendoza, Salta…) and some regional flights to neighbouring countries.

Important: there's no fixed rule. Some domestic flights leave from EZE and some regional ones from AEP. Always check the airport code on your ticket.

Getting from EZE to downtown

By car, the trip usually takes anywhere from 40 minutes to well over an hour, depending on the time of day and traffic. Common options:

• Pre-booked private transfer: a driver meets you in the arrivals hall with your name. The most comfortable option if you're tired, travelling with family or carrying a lot of luggage.
• Airport taxis and remises: booked at the official counters inside the arrivals hall.
• Ride-hailing apps: may be available, but conditions and pick-up points change — check when you land.
• Buses or shuttles to downtown: a mid-priced option; you'll usually need a short extra ride to your hotel.
• Public bus: the cheapest option, but slow and impractical with suitcases.

If you're connecting between EZE and AEP

Many itineraries combine an international flight arriving at EZE with a domestic flight leaving from AEP. In that case:

1. Leave plenty of time between flights. You'll need to clear immigration, collect your bags, cross the city and check in again.
2. Check your airline's minimum connection times and whether both flights are on the same ticket.
3. Book the airport-to-airport transfer in advance, especially if you land early in the morning or at rush hour.

If the connection is very tight, it can be better to spend a night in Buenos Aires and fly the next day.

Practical tips on arrival

• Keep your hotel address written in Spanish.
• If you haven't booked a transfer, only use the official counters and decline offers in the hall.
• Sort out your phone connection (local SIM, eSIM or roaming) before leaving the airport.
• After a long flight, plan an easy first day.

In short

EZE is generally the international airport and is far from downtown; AEP is generally the domestic airport and is in the city. Check your ticket, allow time for connections and arrange your transfer before you travel.