Buenos Aires Attractions San Telmo

A visit to Buenos Aires attractions San Telmo is definitely a barrio (neighborhood) not to be missed, a highlight for all visitors to the city, particularly on Sundays.

Just to walk the cobblestone streets of San Telmo is a step back in the history of Argentina and Buenos Aires in particular.

Being one of the oldest districts in Santa Maria del Buen Ayre - the name under which the city was founded on February 2nd, 1536 by Pedro de Mendoza - it has the historic appeal (most evident through the recycled solares and conventillos) and tango traditions that characterize the culture of the Rio de la Plata.

Throughout the Colonial period, the rich and afluent of the time used to dwell there, until 1871, when a yellow fever epidemy forced them to move to Recoleta and what is known as Barrio Norte.

Ignored for decades, San Telmo district finally made its revival in the late 60s, when Edmundo Rivero (famous Argentinian tango singer, now deceased) bought and remodelled "El Viejo Almacen" (the old grocery store) and converted it into the most iconic symbol of Buenos Aires tango ever.

From then on, this old neighborhood reclaimed its place in history and became one of those timeless Buenos Aires sights that will fascinate you. Have no doubts about it, there is an international crowd to prove it.
After many years, I was walking along Defensa street and Plaza Dorrego once again and couldn't believe my eyes, not to mention the number of languages I could hear being spoken around me.

It is on Sundays when San Telmo and Plaza Dorrego (Dorrego square) - considered to be the oldest square in Buenos Aires - gets dressed to its fullest.
This huge arts and antiques fair (Feria de Antiguedades) has grown well beyond its boundaries, reaching almost Plaza de Mayo along Defensa street.

From its lively atmosphere to tango dancing to street performers to the many bohemian cafes, bars and restaurants where to taste a quick empanada or the traditional parrillada, San Pedro Telmo is one of those Buenos Aires places that will cautivate you for its charm and colonial atmosphere.

The following images will give you a hint of what is like to walk around San Telmo on a Sunday afternoon...

Buenos Aires Attractions San Telmo

Hope you've enjoyed Buenos Aires attractions San Telmo!

The quickest way to get there is to take the tube (underground). On the E and C lines, get off at Independencia station and walk along Independencia Avenue towards the river for about six blocks. Then turn right for another four and you'll at the very heart of San Telmo.

Alternatively, E and D lines will land you at Plaza de Mayo (Catedral station). Stroll along Defensa street for about twelve blocks until you reach Plaza Dorrego.
If you fancy a bus ride instead, grab the 152. It goes from Olivos to La Boca and it will drop you about two blocks away.

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