The SUBE card (Sistema Único de Boleto Electrónico) is the rechargeable contactless card you’ll need to ride buses, the subway (Subte), and commuter trains in Buenos Aires. You can buy one at kiosks, subway stations, or the airport, top it up with cash or app, and simply tap it on the reader when boarding. It’s cheaper and easier than paying cash.
1. What is a SUBE card? #
The SUBE card is Buenos Aires’ official public transport payment system. With it, you can travel on:
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Buses (Colectivos)
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Subte (metro / subway)
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Commuter trains (Ferrocarriles)
👉 Cash is not accepted on buses or subways — you must use SUBE.
2. Where to buy a SUBE card #
You can purchase a SUBE card at:
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Ezeiza Airport (EZE): kiosks and official SUBE stands.
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Aeroparque (AEP): selected kiosks.
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Subte stations: ticket booths usually sell them.
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Kiosks & lottery shops: look for a SUBE logo sign outside.
💰 Price (2025): around ARS 1,000–1,500 (card only, no credit). (Check official SUBE site for current price.)
3. How to load (top up) your SUBE card #
You must add credit before you can travel. Options:
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Cash at kiosks, Subte stations, or train stations.
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Automated SUBE machines (Terminal Automática SUBE / TAS).
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Mobile app “Carga SUBE” (credit card or Mercado Pago).
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Online banking or payment apps (need to validate credit at a TAS machine or via NFC on your phone).
💡 Tip: Always load enough for several rides — not every kiosk sells credit, especially late at night.
4. How to use the card #
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On buses: Tell the driver your destination (short vs. long trip fare). Tap your card on the reader next to the driver.
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On the Subte: Tap the reader at the turnstile; gates will open.
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On trains: Tap at station entry and sometimes at exit.
👉 If you don’t have enough credit, the system allows a negative balance up to a few rides (around ARS 100–150 equivalent).
5. Fares & discounts #
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Standard fares (2025):
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Subte (metro): ~ARS 125–175 per ride (cheaper with frequent use).
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Buses: ~ARS 100–150 depending on distance.
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Discounts: If you take multiple rides within 2 hours, transfers are cheaper (Red SUBE discount system).
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Social fare: locals with registered SUBE cards may qualify for discounts (not available to tourists).
6. Tips & FAQs #
Q: Can I share one SUBE card with another person?
A: Yes, you can tap multiple times for group travel, as long as the card has enough balance.
Q: Do I need to register my SUBE card?
A: Registration is optional. It’s useful if you want to recover your balance if you lose it, but tourists often skip this.
Q: What if I lose my SUBE card?
A: You’ll need to buy a new one — the balance is not transferable unless registered.
Q: Can I use SUBE outside Buenos Aires?
A: Yes — SUBE is valid in several Argentine cities (La Plata, Mar del Plata, Córdoba), but fares and availability vary.
7. Quick Resources #
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Official SUBE website (Spanish)
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SUBE App: Carga SUBE (available in Google Play / App Store)
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SUBE Customer Service: Call 0800-777-SUBE (Spanish only)
