San Telmo
Buenos Aires' oldest neighborhood. Cobblestone streets, tango dancers, antique markets, and the most authentic character in the city.
Key Areas in San Telmo
Sunday outings, tango watching
- • Antiques market
- • Street performers
- • Outdoor cafes
Walking, exploring, shopping
- • Vintage shops
- • Street art
- • Historic buildings
Food, antiques, local culture
- • Fresh food
- • Antique dealers
- • Cafes
Rent Prices in San Telmo
| Apartment Type | Monthly Rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $350-550 | Often in historic buildings |
| 1 Bedroom | $500-750 | Great value for singles |
| 2 Bedroom | $700-1,000 | Good for sharing |
| 3+ Bedroom | $900-1,400 | Spacious older apartments |
Prices in USD. Most landlords require payment in dollars. Security deposit typically 1-2 months.
Why Expats Love San Telmo
Tango Culture
Street tango performances, milongas, and the heart of Buenos Aires' dance heritage
Antique Shopping
Sunday antiques fair and vintage shops throughout the neighborhood
Historic Architecture
Cobblestone streets and well-preserved 19th-century buildings
Artistic Community
Artists, musicians, and creative expats from around the world
Getting Around
Subte C
Stations: San Juan, Independencia
To Retiro, downtown, Constitución
Subte E
Stations: Independencia
To Plaza de Mayo, Retiro
Bus
Stations: Multiple routes
Good connections to Palermo and Recoleta
Safety in San Telmo
Moderate - Exercise Caution
San Telmo is generally safe during the day, especially around Plaza Dorrego and main tourist areas. Be more cautious at night and on side streets.
Safety Tips
- • Stick to well-lit main streets at night (Defensa, Estados Unidos)
- • Avoid isolated side streets after dark
- • Keep phones and cameras secure in busy tourist areas
- • Use Uber/Cabify for late-night transport
The Honest Truth
San Telmo is authentic but rough around the edges. The cobblestone streets are charming but can be noisy. Buildings are old - character comes with maintenance issues.
It can get loud. Street performers, late-night bars, and thin walls in old buildings mean noise. Light sleepers should look for apartments off the main streets.
Reddit consensus: San Telmo is for people who want the "real" Buenos Aires experience. It's cheaper and more interesting than Palermo, but you trade comfort and convenience for character. Many artists and long-term expats swear by it.
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