San Telmo Fair: The Sunday Classic You Can’t Miss in Buenos Aires
If you’re planning a trip to Buenos Aires, there’s one experience you simply can’t miss: the San Telmo Fair, one of the city’s most traditional and vibrant street markets. Every Sunday, Plaza Dorrego and the surrounding streets turn into a cultural hotspot where history, art, antiques, and live music come together.
What is the San Telmo Fair?
The San Telmo Fair was born in 1970 and quickly became a Buenos Aires icon. Originally focused on antiques, today it brings together more than 250 stalls offering unique items: from vintage furniture and retro cameras to vinyl records, silverware, books, and local crafts. It’s the perfect place for history lovers and collectors alike.
Where and when does it take place?
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📍 Location: Plaza Dorrego and Defensa Street, in the heart of the San Telmo neighborhood.
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📅 Day: Every Sunday.
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⏰ Hours: Usually from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
In addition to the antique stalls, the fair stretches along several blocks of Defensa Street, where artists and entrepreneurs sell clothing, accessories, design objects, and souvenirs.
The charm of San Telmo neighborhood
Visiting the fair is also the perfect excuse to explore San Telmo, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. With its cobblestone streets, colonial houses, and colorful murals, San Telmo exudes history and bohemian spirit. At Plaza Dorrego, you can even watch live tango performances outdoors—an unmissable scene for anyone looking for an authentic Buenos Aires photo.
Tips for your visit
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Arrive early if you want to stroll around before the crowds.
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Bring cash, as not all stalls accept credit cards.
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Take the opportunity to have lunch at traditional bars and parrillas, offering everything from empanadas to Argentina’s famous grilled meats.
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Don’t miss the San Telmo Market, just a few blocks away, where you’ll find gourmet food stalls and local products.
Why visit the San Telmo Fair?
The San Telmo Fair is more than just a market: it’s a cultural experience that brings together the very best of Buenos Aires in one place. It’s ideal for those who want to take home an authentic souvenir, enjoy street art, listen to live music, and immerse themselves in the local lifestyle.
