How to get to El Palomar

If you are planning a trip to El Palomar, located in the Buenos Aires province, Argentina, you can look forward to discovering a cozy city renowned for its history and unique "Garden City" architecture. The question of how to reach this destination is easily solved thanks to the region's well-developed transport infrastructure. Travellers can choose the most convenient route using a plane, train, intercity bus, or a rental car.

Although the city has its own airport, El Palomar (EPA), which was previously popular among low-cost airlines, it currently handles almost no regular civil flights. Therefore, for travel to El Palomar, it is most convenient to use the country's main air gateways located in neighbouring Buenos Aires.

The main flow of tourists arrives at the Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza, EZE), which handles long-haul flights, or at the Jorge Newbery Airfield (Aeroparque, AEP), which is convenient for domestic and regional flights. Both aviation hubs are located at a distance of about 20–30 kilometres from the city, allowing you to easily reach your destination by taxi or transfer immediately after landing.

For those who prefer rail transport, El Palomar offers a convenient and direct connection to the capital. The city is served by the San Martín Line (Línea San Martín), which is a vital transport artery of the region.

Trains depart regularly from Retiro Station in Buenos Aires and arrive directly at El Palomar station, located in the very centre of the city. This is an excellent way to avoid traffic jams and quickly reach your destination while watching the changing landscapes from the carriage window.

Bus services connect El Palomar with key locations in the region, offering a budget-friendly and convenient mode of travel. The most popular route leads from the capital, Buenos Aires: a trip of about 25 kilometres usually takes from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic situation. It is also convenient to travel from the neighbouring city of Merlo, located just 15 kilometres to the west, which will take no more than half an hour through the bustling suburbs.

For travellers setting off from deeper within the province, there are regular services from the city of Bragado. Comfortable intercity buses cover the distance of 200 kilometres in approximately 3–4 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy the flat landscapes on the way to their destination. Such a trip across Argentina often becomes a pleasant part of the journey thanks to the generally high standard of service provided by local carriers.

Travelling by car to El Palomar allows you to plan your own schedule and not depend on public transport timetables. The shortest route from neighbouring Merlo will take just about 30 minutes to cover 15 kilometres, while a trip from the centre of Buenos Aires along the busy Acceso Oeste highway, spanning about 25 kilometres, will require from 40 minutes to an hour depending on traffic density.

For travellers heading from the city of Bragado, the route will be longer: the distance of 200 kilometres is usually covered in 2.5–3 hours via national highways. If you do not plan to rent a car, a convenient alternative would be a taxi or the "remis" (private transport services with fixed fares) popular in Argentina, which will ensure a comfortable transfer directly to your hotel door.

A trip to El Palomar promises to be interesting and comfortable if you prepare for the specifics of the local pace of life in advance. Here are several practical tips that will help you feel confident during your visit to this cozy corner of the Buenos Aires province.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. Keep in mind that seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere: summer lasts from December to February and can be hot and humid, so choose light, breathable fabrics. In winter (June–August), the temperature rarely drops below zero, but due to high humidity, it can feel damp, so a windproof jacket and a sweater are essential.
2. Transport. To travel on public transport (buses and trains), you will definitely need a SUBE card. It can be purchased and topped up at kiosks with the corresponding sign or at railway stations. Cash is not accepted on buses.
3. Finances. The national currency is the Peso. Although cards are accepted in many supermarkets and restaurants, cash payment is often required in small shops and kiosks. Try to keep small denominations with you, as vendors often do not have change for large banknotes.
4. Health and Safety. El Palomar is a relatively calm city, but observing basic precautions is necessary: do not display expensive smartphones and cameras on the street and keep an eye on your belongings. Pharmacies here are marked with a green cross and operate on a convenient schedule.
5. Communication. The main language is Spanish. English is not spoken by all locals, especially away from tourist centres. It is recommended to download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases of courtesy—Argentines greatly appreciate attempts to speak their language.
6. Local Etiquette. Greetings in Argentina are very warm: it is customary to kiss each other on the cheek (usually once) even at the first meeting. Locals dine late; restaurants only begin to fill up with people after 21:00 or 22:00.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan important errands during "siesta" time (afternoon rest), as many small shops may be closed from 13:00 to 16:00 or 17:00. Also, avoid walking alone on poorly lit streets late at night.
8. Special Tip: Garden City. Be sure to set aside time for a walking tour of the Ciudad Jardín Lomas del Palomar district. This is a unique zone with a circular street layout and abundant greenery, where it is best to move around on foot so as not to miss the cozy cafes and interesting architecture.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing—getting to know the culture and atmosphere of the city. May your trip leave only the warmest memories!