San Telmo or Palermo?
 

Hi -- we're a group of four mid-thirties staying for 4 days in Bs As. We like good restaurants, cafes, architecture and history. We are going to a Boca Juniors game and a tango show. Would Palermo or San Telmo be a better fit? I'm a little worried that San Telmo might be unsafe at night but don't want to be too far from the action. Thank you...

I'd say choose Palermo.

Have a great time in our country.

I don't think San Telmo would be unsafe but I do think on your first trip to BA, that you would like Palermo.

Regarding "far from the action"...anywhere in town is near the action :)
Every neighborhood has its own vibe and characteristics, each neighborhood has its own attractions.

San Telmo is wonderful, I love going there on a week day when it is not so crowded..I love wandering the back streets..
Palermo and all the "little" Palermos all have their own character also..but you can walk to other neighborhoods a little easier from Palermo, you will be closer to more tourist sites..

You will find yourselves visiting San Telmo, regardless of where you stay so don't worry about missing out on it :)

When are you going ladybyrd? We're headed down April 18th 7 nights / 8 days. We're splitting stay between San Telmo ( 4 nights at Casa Bolivar ) and Palermo SoHo ( 3 nights at Bobo Hotel ). I'll post when I return.

Hi mjz_kc:

we'll be in Buenos Aires from May 1 - May 5. I would love to read your trip report. I'm having a little trouble finding a hotel in Palermo that has been recommended here and at Trip Advisor, so now I'm looking at short term apartments. I did contact Bobo in January, but they were already booked. Lucky you!

Thanks to everyone for the information!