San Telmo Antiques Hunting (Self Guided), Buenos Aires

Antique lovers are in for a treat with a visit to San Telmo. There is also much to excite culture vultures and those who want to tap into the heady and eclectic pulse of Buenos Aires. But first to the shopping and one of the main attractions here is Calle Defensa, a long pedestrianized street lined with stores selling a dizzying array of antiques, paintings, clothes and jewelry.

One of the best times to visit is on a Sunday when the popular market takes over, with hundreds of stalls and venders populating the street. As you browse, you'll be entertained by a colorful mix of street performers and tango dancers. There are even more antique buying opportunities in the cobblestone side streets leading off Calle Defensa.

At the heart of San Telmo is Plaza Dorrego, the second oldest plaza in the city. Come here for its restaurants, cafés and tango performers and to rummage through the unique antique stores. The Sunday market also extends to the square. Leave some room in your shopping bags for a visit to San Telmo Market, the neighborhood’s vast indoor market, housed in a wrought iron hall. It's loud and lively and sells everything from fresh fruit, meats and vegetables to antiques, trinkets and handcrafts.