The SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero Hotel is located in one of the best neighbourhoods in the city. Having only opened two years ago, I was looking forward to seeing what the hotel had to offer. But would it be worth the somewhat expensive price tag?

SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero Location

The SLS Buenos Aires is located in the Puerto Madero neighbourhood. It’s one of my favourite places in the city. As Buenos Aires’ financial district, it’s home to modern skyscrapers, some great restaurants and has an international feel. It’s an excellent location if you’re visiting Buenos Aires as a tourist. You’re walking distance from Casa Rosada (the Presidential Palace), and close to other interesting neighbourhoods such as Recoleta. As of March 2024, Uber prices are still very affordable in Buenos Aires. An Uber from the hotel to the Recoleta cemetery cost us around $2.50, for example.

Arrival

We arrived at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero at around 1pm, which is a couple of hours before check-in officially opens. Fortunately, early check-in wasn’t a problem. Reserving hotels in Argentina can be a bit complicated. It’s not uncommon to be quoted a price in USD, but to then settle the bill in Argentinean Peso at the official exchange rate, as determined by the Central Bank. For this stay, we paid approximately $200 USD per night. At this price tag, the SLS is definitely one of the more expensive options in Buenos Aires.

Accor Status Recognition

Accor ALL Platinum status was well recognised. In addition to early check-in, I was advised that my room had been upgraded and I was given a welcome drink voucher.

Usually, I always book the cheapest available room and this stay was no different. My original booking was for a Superior King room, but I was upgraded to a Superior Corner King instead. This was a really nice upgrade, primarily because it comes with great views out onto Puerto Madero from the balcony.

A small welcome gift of some macarons was waiting in the room. This was a nice touch, although at this price level, something a little more imaginative would have been nice.

The Room at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero

As mentioned, I was happy to have been upgraded to the Superior Corner King room, primarily because of the view. All of the rooms at the SLS come with a balcony, but the view will vary depending on how high up your room is, and what side of the hotel you’re staying on. The view from our room was particularly amazing during sunset.

The room itself was nicely designed. As you’d expect from a relatively new property, it was modern, comfortable and well equipped. The bed was extremely comfortable and there was also a small sofa and sitting area. In terms of design, I thought the room was a little similar to the one I had at the Pullman Bali Legian. 

The bathroom was really nicely designed, and I especially liked the shower gel and soaps, which, as you’d expect, were of a very good quality.

Bars and Restaurants at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero

We visited the bar to enjoy our welcome drink, and while the restaurant looked very good, we decided to visit a couple of nearby options in Puerto Madero instead. I really liked the bar though, especially the outside area, which felt very relaxed. The restaurant menu looked interesting, and to be fair, the prices aren’t really any more than you’ll pay at a good quality restaurant nearby.

Breakfast was included in our room rate and was superb. As well as a small buffet, there was an included menu to order from. All of the ingredients were of an excellent quality. It was also possible to order a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, if you wanted to.

Leisure Facilities at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero

It can be difficult finding a city centre hotel with an outdoor pool. Fortunately, this isn’t the case at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero. There are actually two pools. Unfortunately, the nicer looking one (which was visible from our room) was only open to residents (the SLS has two other buildings on its site which are not part of the hotel. Instead, they’re owned apartments and residences).

The pool available to those staying at the hotel was in a slightly less appealing location, with no views out onto Puerto Madero. This said, it was a really nice size. Before entering the pool area, there was a small mini fridge, which offered complimentary soft drinks such as coke and sprite – which was really nice.

The hotel also has a very nice spa area. Unfortunately, we didn’t try this out – but if I was to return, I’d definitely try to.

Recommended?

Overall, I really enjoyed staying at the SLS Buenos Aires Puerto Madero. It’s an expensive option, but it does benefit from one of the best possible locations in Buenos Aires. The hotel has a relaxed vibe, and although you’re surrounded by things to do, it feels like a retreat from the city.

As a relatively new hotel, everything felt very fresh and modern. I really liked our room and the balcony was a particular highlight. While I don’t normally bother with breakfast, I was really impressed by the choice and quality.

Service throughout was excellent. On our last day, I requested a late check-out. Sometimes, this seems like a mission and can be difficult to negotiate. Not here, however, and I was offered a late check-out until 5pm. This was very much appreciated.

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more special to stay in Buenos Aires, the SLS is a good choice.