Tour To The Fairs Of San Telmo And Mataderos
Duration: 5 Hours
Embark on our tour to the San Telmo Craft Fair and Mataderos Fair to immerse yourself in the authentic Argentine tradition. Led by a knowledgeable guide who will be with you every step of the way, we'll explore these two iconic and culturally rich fairs in the heart of Buenos Aires.
Discover the rich history of each location, admire exquisite crafts, savor regional delicacies, and enjoy mesmerizing folklore and dance performances.
The tour kicks off with a visit to the San Telmo Craft Fair in the morning and continues into the afternoon. Afterwards, we head to the renowned Mataderos Fair, where you'll enjoy a lunch featuring traditional dishes and delight in Art Festivals, the market, equestrian demonstrations, and the allure of regional products available for purchase.
Our tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore the Mataderos neighborhood and experience a distinctive event every Sunday.
From 76.500 ARS
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Tour Description
10:30 am: we will gather at the Tangol Office situated in the vibrant San Telmo neighborhood to explore the well-known San Pedro Telmo Antiques Fair. Established in 1970, this fair takes place every Sunday at Plaza Dorrego and Defensa Street, which are transformed into pedestrian areas for this significant event. The fair attracts over 10,000 visitors, including numerous tourists, who explore its 270 vendor stalls. Here, you'll discover a variety of items, ranging from furniture to regional crafts, antiques, clothing, and leather goods. The atmosphere is enlivened by tango orchestras, dancers, living statues, and other street performances, making this fair a cultural hotspot and a must-visit destination.
We'll also explore the San Telmo Market, a perfect spot for purchasing souvenirs, where you can find unique and original products.
12:30 pm: After immersing ourselves in the charm of the San Telmo Fair, we'll head southwest of Buenos Aires to the famous Mataderos Fair. Established 30 years ago, this fair celebrates the rich "Gaucha Culture" and features three main areas plus a food court: Traditional Crafts, Artistic Festivals, and Gaucho Skills, offering a range of activities like workshops, talks, and exhibitions.
There are over 300 stalls, each managed by local artisans, selling folk products such as mates, llama or alpaca ponchos, blankets, and leather and silver items.
You'll have free time to visit the "Criollo Museum of the Corrales". This museum, styled in a rural theme, provides insights into the life of gauchos in the pampas: their clothing, tools, and everyday objects. It also explores how Argentina evolved into a global leader in the meat industry. The museum displays weapons, knives, vehicles, animals, and rural paintings. (Please note: this activity is optional and the tour does not include museum admission).
Upon arriving at the Fair, you'll be greeted by numerous grills where chefs prepare delectable meats and other traditional dishes. It's the perfect time to enjoy a lunch of savory empanadas, accompanied by a beverage included in the tour.
Next, we'll continue exploring the craft stalls, offering accessories, everyday items, and musical instruments. You'll find both products and regional foods (jams, liqueurs, alfajores, cheeses) available at prices more affordable than in other parts of Buenos Aires.
The Mataderos Fair's gastronomy and crafts are beautifully complemented by the music and folkloric dances featured there. The fair is renowned for its Art festivals and demonstrations of gaucho skills. On special occasions, you might even witness horse races or participate in tango lessons!
05:00 pm: After approximately three hours at the Mataderos Fair, we'll conclude this wonderful day by returning to the Tangol Office in San Telmo.
What’s included:
*Guide in Spanish/English/Portuguese. *Lunch (One dish and one drink per person). *Guided tour of the Mataderos Fair. *Guided tour of the San Telmo Fair (If the option was selected).
What’s NOT included:
*Entrance to the Los Corrales Museum. *Pick-up and drop-off at hotels. *Extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The San Telmo and Mataderos Fairs tour offers a unique cultural experience in Buenos Aires. In San Telmo, visitors can explore the antiques market, enjoy street tango performances, and sample local specialties in cozy bars. The Mataderos Fair stands out for its authentic gaucho atmosphere, with demonstrations of Creole skills, live folk music, and a variety of regional handicrafts. Both destinations provide an unparalleled immersion in Buenos Aires culture and traditions, ideal for those seeking to experience the authentic spirit of Argentina.
The San Telmo and Mataderos Fairs tour lasts approximately 8 hours. It includes round-trip transportation from a central meeting point in Buenos Aires, a Spanish-speaking tour guide, and free time to explore both neighborhoods at your own pace. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to discover the rich local history and culture, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the fairs, and sample typical Argentine cuisine. Personalized recommendations are also provided to help you make the most of each visit. This is a perfect trip for lovers of culture and tradition.
Yes, the San Telmo and Mataderos Fairs tour is suitable for people of all ages. Families with children, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers will find activities tailored to their interests and needs. The fairs feature a variety of entertainment and demonstrations that will capture the attention of the little ones, while adults will enjoy the cultural atmosphere, live music, and shopping for crafts and antiques. This tour is designed so everyone can enjoy an enriching experience in Buenos Aires.
It's recommended to dress comfortably to enjoy the tour of the San Telmo and Mataderos fairs, as you'll be walking through cobblestone streets and open-air markets. Comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather are suggested. If you're visiting during the warmer months, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. In the evenings, a light jacket may be helpful. Following these recommendations will ensure a pleasant and hassle-free experience during the tour.
Yes, it is advisable to carry cash during your tour of the San Telmo and Mataderos fairs. Although some stalls and shops may accept credit cards, many of the small craft, souvenir, and local food stalls prefer cash due to the nature of trade at the fairs. This will also allow visitors to make small or impromptu purchases without inconvenience. Additionally, carrying change in small bills can facilitate transactions and ensure tourists don't miss out on any unique shopping opportunities during their visit to the fairs.