Cultural Etiquette in Argentina
Navigate Argentine social customs like a local. From the famous kiss greeting to conversation taboos, master the unwritten rules of Porteño culture.
Greeting Customs: The Famous Kiss
The single cheek kiss (beso) is the cornerstone of Argentine social interaction. Master this and you're halfway to fitting in.
| Situation | What to Do | Notes | Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meeting someone (informal) | One kiss on the right cheek | Men and women, women and women. Men to men: handshake or hug if close. | Essential |
| Meeting someone (formal/business) | Handshake, possibly with kiss if warm introduction | Let the Argentine lead. When in doubt, wait for them to initiate. | Important |
| Leaving a gathering | Kiss everyone goodbye individually | Don't just wave from the door. Expect this to take 10-15 minutes. | Important |
| Entering a shop/cafe | Say 'Buenos días/tardes' to everyone | Acknowledging people is expected. Ignoring is considered rude. | Essential |
| Addressing strangers | Use 'usted' or 'vos' depending on age/context | 'Che' is very informal. Use 'señor/señora' for older people. | Moderate |
Pro tip: The kiss is on the right cheek (your left). Lean right, touch cheeks, make a light kissing sound. Don't actually kiss the cheek—it's symbolic.
Dining Etiquette
Eating earlier marks you as a tourist. Restaurants open late.
Hiding hands under the table is suspicious. European style.
Don't switch hands. Keep fork in left while eating.
Leaving food suggests you didn't like it. Small portions are okay.
Superstition says 7 years bad sex if you don't. Seriously.
The grill master (asador) is king. Never criticize the meat.
Tipping Culture
Tipping (propina) is less obligatory than in the US but appreciated. Here's what to expect.
| Situation | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% (optional but appreciated) | Leave cash even if paying by card. Not obligatory but expected at nice places. |
| Cafes/Coffee shops | Small change | Round up or leave coins. Not mandatory. |
| Taxis/Uber | Round up | Tipping not expected. Round to nearest convenient amount. |
| Delivery | $1-2 or round up | Appreciated but not required. |
| Hairdresser | 10-15% | Expected for good service. |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2-5/day | Leave daily, not at end. |
| Tour guides | $5-10 | For free tours, tip is expected. For paid tours, optional. |
Punctuality (Or Lack Thereof)
Argentine time is flexible. Arriving exactly on time can be as awkward as being late. Here's the breakdown:
Professional settings expect punctuality, though Argentines may be 5-10 min late.
Arriving exactly on time is awkward. Host may not be ready.
Seriously. Showing up on time to a party is a faux pas.
You should be punctual. They won't be. Bring a book.
The 'hora Argentina': When someone says "I'll be there at 9," they often mean 9:30 or 10. Don't take it personally—it's cultural, not disrespectful.
Conversation Topics: Safe & Taboo
Boca vs River is serious business. Pick a side or stay neutral. Great icebreaker.
Cultural pride. Even if you don't dance, appreciation is welcomed.
Ask about preparation, sharing customs. Shows cultural interest.
Very polarized. Peronism vs anti-Peronism divides families. Listen more than speak.
Inflation is traumatic. Don't brag about dollar strength or cheap prices.
Extremely sensitive national issue. Don't defend British position.
Rivalries exist. Don't suggest other countries are 'better.'
Personal Space & Body Language
Don't back away—it's normal. Standing apart seems cold.
Shows interest and respect. Avoiding eye contact seems shifty.
Arm touches, shoulder pats common among friends.
Animated conversations are normal. Not necessarily anger.
Gift Giving
Wine is safest. Ask if it's for now or later. Flowers: avoid purple (mourning).
Gifts opened when received. Don't be surprised if not reciprocated exactly.
Not obligatory. Avoid overly expensive gifts (looks like bribery).
Handwritten notes are appreciated. Quality over quantity.
- • Say "gracias" when done (passes it on)
- • Drink the full gourd quickly
- • Pass it back to the server (cebador)
- • Ask about the yerba brand—it's conversation
- • Move the bombilla (straw)—it disturbs the yerba
- • Complain if it's too hot or bitter
- • Wipe the spout before drinking (insulting)
- • Say "gracias" unless you're done
What Reddit Says (The Honest Version)
"The goodbye kiss ritual is real. I once spent 20 minutes at a door kissing everyone goodbye. Just embrace it."
- r/argentina expat
"If someone invites you to dinner at 9pm, they expect you at 9:30. If you show up at 9, they'll still be getting ready. I learned this the hard way."
- r/digitalnomad
"Never, ever say the Falklands 'aren't a big deal.' I made this mistake once. The conversation ended immediately. It's a genuine national trauma."
- BA resident, learned the hard way
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