Mercado de San Telmo Buenos Aires
A historic market and vibrant street fair, offering food, antiques, crafts, and a lively bohemian atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Street fair in full swing
Mercado de San Telmo Buenos Aires
Best Time
Street fair in full swing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic market and vibrant street fair, offering food, antiques, crafts, and a lively bohemian atmosphere.
"It's a crash course in the spirit of the city, slow, soulful, and unforgettable."
🎯 Embrace the Sunday Fair
Sundays are magical with the street fair, but expect crowds! Go early or late to avoid peak times.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
Many street vendors and smaller stalls prefer cash. Have Argentine Pesos ready for purchases.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mercado de San Telmo Food Stalls
Inside the Mercado
A culinary adventure with everything from empanadas and chorizo sandwiches to international delights.

Sunday Street Fair
Defensa Street and surrounding areas
A vibrant explosion of artisan crafts, antiques, street performers, and tango dancers.

Antique Treasures
Mercado de San Telmo and surrounding shops
Discover unique vintage finds, from old books and records to quirky collectibles and furniture.

Choripán Delights
Various food stalls
Don't miss this iconic Argentine street food: a delicious grilled chorizo sausage in a bun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunday is Fair Day!
Cash is King (Mostly)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Sunday Fair
Sundays are magical with the street fair, but expect crowds! Go early or late to avoid peak times.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
Many street vendors and smaller stalls prefer cash. Have Argentine Pesos ready for purchases.
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
The market is a maze! Get lost in the aisles and discover hidden gems. Don't rush.
🍴 Taste Everything!
From empanadas to choripanes, the food stalls are a must-try. Be adventurous!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Sunday Fair
Sundays are magical with the street fair, but expect crowds! Go early or late to avoid peak times.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
Many street vendors and smaller stalls prefer cash. Have Argentine Pesos ready for purchases.
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
The market is a maze! Get lost in the aisles and discover hidden gems. Don't rush.
🍴 Taste Everything!
From empanadas to choripanes, the food stalls are a must-try. Be adventurous!
🕰️ Weekdays are Quieter
For a more relaxed shopping experience, visit on a weekday. The street fair is only on Sundays.
📸 Capture the Vibe
San Telmo is incredibly photogenic. Look for colorful umbrellas, street art, and tango dancers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mercado de San Telmo's authentic charm and vibrant atmosphere, especially on Sundays with its lively street fair. The diverse food options, from classic choripán to international cuisine, are a major draw, as are the unique antique finds and artisan crafts. While some note it can be a bit chaotic and pricier than expected, the overall sentiment is that it's a must-visit for experiencing the soul of Buenos Aires.
"From the outside, Mercado San Telmo looks like one of those old, forgotten places, but once you step inside, it’s a completely different world. The market feels like a little maze filled with hidden treasures and charm. You’ll find everything from vintage collectibles and antiques to quirky souvenirs and handmade items. It’s not the most polished market, but that’s exactly what gives it character.
One of my favorite parts was the food. There’s a nice variety of stalls offering everything from traditional empanadas and grilled meats to coffee, pastries, and even international bites. It’s a great place to try something new or just sit and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The vibe is relaxed and casual, and it’s very easy to spend an hour or two just browsing, people-watching, and discovering interesting little corners. It’s perfect if you enjoy markets that feel more local and authentic rather than overly commercial.
Don’t be put off by the worn-out exterior. Inside, you’ll find color, culture, and creativity. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the San Telmo neighborhood. A great spot to pick up unique gifts or souvenirs with a bit of soul."
Weinnie Ho
"If you are in Buenos Aires, there is not question that San Telmo is one of the neighbourhood not to be missed , and while you in San Telmo The San Telmo market is with out any dough the place not to be missed, will be honest isn’t the cheapest, but we have the experience just once. So, worth to visit"
Chef Menajem Peretz
"I was at the Mercardo San Telmo just over a year ago. It has some good restaurants inside and also just around the market. You can buy all sorts of high priced things as well as lots of tourist items."
Isabela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mercado de San Telmo via subway (Subte) by taking Line A, C, or D to Plaza de Mayo or Catedral stations, followed by a short walk. Buses are also a convenient option, with many routes stopping nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Parking in the San Telmo neighborhood can be challenging, especially on Sundays due to the street fair. It's recommended to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services for easier access. If driving, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity.
Yes, if you're staying in nearby areas like Montserrat or La Boca, walking to San Telmo Market is feasible. It's a great way to see more of the city, but be mindful of distances and your surroundings.
On Sundays, the streets around the market are closed for the fair, making driving and parking difficult. Public transport (Subte or bus) or ride-sharing services are highly recommended to navigate the area efficiently.
While no subway line stops directly inside the market, Line A, C, and D will get you close. From Plaza de Mayo or Catedral stations, it's a pleasant walk through historic streets to reach the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Mercado de San Telmo itself is free. The Sunday street fair also does not require an entrance fee, allowing you to browse freely.
The Mercado de San Telmo is typically open daily. Weekdays usually see hours from around 9 AM to 7 PM, while Sundays extend later to accommodate the street fair. It's always best to check current hours before your visit.
The Sunday street fair usually runs from morning until early evening, with vendors setting up and packing down throughout the day. The market inside remains open during its regular hours.
Yes, especially on Sundays, you can often find live music, tango dancers, and street performers in the plaza and surrounding streets, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Absolutely! While you won't experience the full street fair, the Mercado de San Telmo is open on Fridays and offers a more relaxed atmosphere to explore the food stalls and antique shops.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide array of souvenirs, including handmade crafts, leather goods, silver jewelry, vintage items, books, and unique art pieces. The Sunday fair is particularly rich in artisan products.
Yes, the Mercado de San Telmo is renowned for its antique stalls, offering everything from furniture and decor to collectibles and vintage clothing. Many shops also line the surrounding streets.
Some vendors, especially within the main market building, accept credit cards. However, many smaller stalls and those at the Sunday street fair prefer or only accept cash. It's advisable to carry both.
The Mercado de San Telmo and the surrounding Defensa Street are prime spots for unique gifts. Look for handmade items, local art, and vintage treasures that reflect Buenos Aires' character.
While the market is a treasure trove, keep an eye out for specialized shops selling items like alfajores (sweet cookies), mate gourds, and local art. TikTok creators often highlight unique finds.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the choripán (grilled chorizo sandwich), empanadas, and various grilled meats. There are also sweet treats like alfajores and pastries.
While the market is known for its meats, you can find some vegetarian options like empanadas with cheese or vegetable fillings, salads, and international cuisine stalls that may cater to dietary needs.
A choripán is a classic Argentine street food consisting of a grilled chorizo sausage served in a bread roll, often with chimichurri sauce. It's a delicious and hearty snack.
Yes, there are several cafes and bakeries within the Mercado de San Telmo offering coffee, medialunas (croissants), alfajores, and other sweet treats.
Prices can vary. While some items are very affordable, especially street food like choripán, some restaurant-style stalls can be pricier. It's generally considered good value for the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the colorful umbrellas, street art, historic architecture, tango dancers on Sundays, and the unique stalls within the market. The French Solar Clock is also a popular photo spot.
It's generally appreciated to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or performers, especially if you plan to use them commercially. A small tip might be appropriate.
The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light. Sundays are vibrant but crowded, so be prepared for busy shots. Weekdays offer softer light and fewer people.
The live tango dancers on Sundays, the bustling food stalls, and the eclectic mix of antiques and crafts create fantastic photographic opportunities. Don't forget to capture the unique character of the market.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the market and details. A prime lens can be good for low-light situations or street portraits. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families: Look for kid-friendly food options like empanadas and choripán. The street fair can get crowded, so keep a close eye on children. Consider visiting on a weekday for a less overwhelming experience. The 'Paseo de la Historieta' (Comic Book Walk) nearby also features characters like Mafalda, which kids might enjoy.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the Sunday street fair can be tempting for shopping, look for smaller artisan crafts or vintage items that might be more budget-friendly. Many of the market's attractions, like street performances and the general atmosphere, are free to enjoy.
couples
On Sundays, the street fair provides a lively backdrop for a date, with street performers and tango dancers adding to the ambiance. Consider enjoying a traditional Argentine meal at one of the many restaurants in the area for a perfect evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of San Telmo: The Market and the Fair
On Sundays, the surrounding streets, particularly Defensa Street, transform into the famous San Telmo Street Fair. This massive outdoor market is a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and smells. Artisans sell handmade crafts, vintage clothing, antiques, and quirky souvenirs. Street performers, musicians, and tango dancers fill the air with energy, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. While it's a must-visit, be prepared for large crowds.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience of the market's food and antique offerings, consider visiting on a weekday. The Sunday fair is a spectacle, but weekdays allow for a more intimate exploration of the market's core offerings.
A Culinary Journey Through San Telmo
Beyond these staples, the market boasts a diverse culinary scene. You can find everything from traditional Argentine parrilla (grilled meats) and stews to international cuisine, gourmet sandwiches, and decadent desserts. Don't miss the chance to try local pastries like medialunas and alfajores, or explore unique offerings like pistachio-infused dulce de leche.
Insider Tip: While the market offers a fantastic dining experience, the surrounding streets of San Telmo also host numerous traditional restaurants and cafes. Exploring these can lead to discovering authentic local flavors and a more intimate dining setting.
The Soul of San Telmo: Antiques, Art, and Tango
Art is woven into the fabric of San Telmo. You'll find street art adorning walls, independent art galleries showcasing local talent, and artisan stalls at the Sunday fair selling handmade crafts and unique pieces. The neighborhood's bohemian vibe attracts artists and creatives, making it a dynamic cultural hub.
On Sundays, Plaza Dorrego and the surrounding streets come alive with impromptu tango performances. Watching skilled dancers move to the passionate music in this historic setting is a quintessential Buenos Aires experience. It's a powerful display of Argentine culture that captivates visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit